The booklet/pamphlet "Bennett Family Tree" was written by Mrs. Mary Eady in 1964. According to the preface, "Bennett Family Tree" was compiled by Mrs Mary Eady and her elder brother Mr Joseph Bennett in the years 1962-64. Exact sources are not provided. It is not a book per se but a folder containing about 30 typed pages listing members of the Bennett family, going back to when James and Jane Bennett came to Canada from England in 1842. A copy (not sure if only copy) is currently in the possession of [[Bennett-Bose-1|Tuli Bennett-Bose]].

==Timeline== '''1902''' The homestead pictured was built '''2014''' The property was listed for sale by First National Coast wide Real Estate for offers over $1 075 000. The description: This historic homestead built around the turn of the century. Housing the "Stinson family" for many years & capturing a stunning hilltop location with views unimaginable. Extensive use of local timbers throughout. Sitting on 117 acres with aprox 20 acres fenced, 2 dams, irrigation lines to creek, 4 bay machinery shed and multiple paddocks, many bush trails for horse riding and beautiful natural bushland as a backdrop. Good mixture of irrigated stone fruits, exotics and macadamia trees. Beautifully landscaped surrounds and great example of an original pioneering settlement. This property will not last. Inspection will not disappoint .

univhealthcarecantaora originally shared this 19 Nov 2009 Portrait / Family Photo DC Historical society archive photo of Mt. Zion United Church "Community House" -the cottage at 2906 O st. where Booth family spent early years... Şiir abt 1920 Georgetown, Washington DC ShiraDestinie Jones, 6 Jan. 12015 HE

From the book "Robert Livingston, 1654-1728" --- {Reverend} John Livingston, M.A. who at the very outset of his career became involved in a bitter dispute with the Bishop of Glasgow, and from then onward was constantly being censured for insubordination, and was more than once suspended from his holy office. Yet, in spite of all this, "Worthy, famous Mr. John Livingston," as he is affectionately called by contemporary chroniclers, carried more weight with the Scottish people than any churchman of his time. Married: June 13, 1635 at Edinburgh to Janet Fleming who was born in 1613, died Rotterdam, Feb. 1690/1 and was a daughter of Bartholomew Fleming by Marian Hamilton. Note: After graduating, he went to stay with his father at Lanark where he continued to study. Often he would preach in his father`s church and sometimes he would be asked to do likewise in other parishes. Quothquan, near the village of Thankerton, was another. It was while preaching there that he discarded written sermons forever. As he explained, "....more assistance in the enlarging of those points and more motion in my own heart, than I ever had found before, and after that I never wrote all at length, but only in notes." In 1625 he was licensed to preach but because of his strongly held Presbyterian views, the Archbishop of St Andrews refused him a parish and indeed ordered him to desist from preaching altogether. He tried in vain to attract calls from several parishes but each time was thwarted by the Bishops or the General Assembly on the pretext that they were better served by others. In 1626 he was asked by Lord Torphichen to visit him at his house in Calder. The aged minister of Torphichen Church had persuaded the noble lord, patron of the church, to invite Livingston to minister in his place. Livingston preached there for a month and during that time the old minister died. Livingston was asked to take over the ministry in his place, but the Archbishop of St Andrews, John Spottieswood refused to sanction it on the basis of his continuing non-conformity. This would seem to be expected from Spottieswood considering his reputation as a staunch Episcopalian and his more than enthusiastic support for measures designed to curb the spread of Presbyterianism. Despite his continued failure to achieve a permanent parish of his own, Livingston consoled himself with having made the acquaintance of numerous ministers and professors in his travels. These were advantages he had gained, he maintained. One such person was James Hamilton, Viscount Clandeboye. In August, 1630 he invited Livingston to come to Ireland where the parish of Killinchy awaited him. Although the civil war in Ireland had ended in the earlier part of King Henry Vll`s reign, the suppression of the Irish rebels was not completed until Elizabeth l had ascended the throne. All this time the lands of the province had been lying at waste. The English were in possession of a few towns and parcels of land, while the Irish stayed within the woods and other safe hiding places. With the coming of the reign of James l there began the process of encouraging English and Scottish settlers, or planters to the province. Many of these moved from the south west of Ireland to the province of Ulster. The long rested land soon yielded to their labours and bore plentiful harvests. The majority of these persons had opted for the move, being driven by poverty. Others were attracted by the adventure, and others who had lived `scandalous lives`. It was asserted that the scum of both England and Scotland were among the prime movers. No care had been taken to plant any religion. Even some of the preachers at the time were of dubious quality. The land was ripe for such as Livingston to spread the gospel. On reaching Ireland, armed with references from Clandeboye and the Earl of Wigton, he met with the Bishop of Ratho, Andrew Knox.. He explained his failure at not having been ordained. Knox said he had no scruples and that he would arrange for him to receive the `imposition of hands.` He would present him with the Book of Ordination and he could mark anything for deletion that he found disagreeable. On examining later, he had found others before him had so marked the ones he found unacceptable. He was overjoyed at the events for, as he put it, "....the Lord was pleased to carry that business far beyond anything that I had thought or almost ever desyred". Livingston`s first encounter with his new parishioners was when he officiated at a funeral . From the book, `Killinchy: or The Days of Livingston,` by William McComb, it was recorded; "The mourners were soon seen winding their way up the hillside, and approaching with solemn steps and slow. At a little distance from the churchyard the procession was met by a tall thin looking man, well wrapped up in a rough cloak, whose sober walk, and sedate aspect attracted universal attention, and seemed to excite a feeling of agreeable surprise, it was John Livingston." He had been asked by Hamilton to orate at the funeral. His exhorations to the assembled mourners led them all to consider their mortality, and stirred them up to timely preparation for `lying down in the dust`. During the following winter he somewhat despaired of doing his people good. Although they were tractable, they were very ignorant. However in a short time some of them began to understand their condition. The parish had no organised `official court`, Decision was tolerable. He appointed elders from various heads of families to oversee the keeping of it, and deacons were chosen to gather and distribute collections. Each week he met with them and before them were called all who had transgressed. Some were heard in private while others were prevailed to confess their sins before the congregation. Those who failed to turn up suffered the ignominy of having their names, scandals, and inpenitency read out before the congregation. In the summer of 1631, he and his friend Robert Blair, minister of Bangor visited Scotland where he preached at several parishes including Shotts. Archbishop Law of Glasgow got to hear of this He passed the news of Livingston`s unauthorised preachings in Scotland back to Robert Eclun, Bishop of Down. Only by the intervention of Dr James Usher, Primate of Armagh was he saved from deposement. Within the space of six months another threat of deposement arose. He was accused with other ministers of stirring up the people to `extasies and enthusiasms.` One Edward Bryce, an aged parson had some of his congregation `fall upon a high breathing and panting, as those doe who have run long` during his sermons. Livingston thought this was not brought about by the sermon, but rather the people were as likely to react in the same fashion regardless of what was sermonised. In fact, he doubted if they were Christians at all. Despite their pleas, he and Blair were deposed and remained so until May, 1634. Three months before this date he and some others decided to attempt a new life in the Americas seeing there was no end in sight of the prelates` tyranny. Livingston and a Mr William Wallace were delegated to sail to New England and there "...try the condition of the country and to agree for ane place to settle in". They boarded the vessel at Weymouth in England and got as far as Plymouth where the ship was forced to seek anchorage due to storms. Here Mr Wallace fell ill. He was advised by doctors not to continue. Livingston, in turn, was informed by his friends in Ireland to abort the journey because of this. He returned to Ireland and remained there for a further 18 months after the deposement was lifted. During this time he returned to Scotland where he got married in Edinburgh on 23 June 1635 to Janet Fleming. "In June 1635 the Lord was graciously pleased to bless me with a wife, who, how well accomplished every way, and how faithfull an yoke-fellow, desire to leave to the memory of others." Janet Fleming was the eldest daughter of Bartholomew Fleming, an Edinburgh merchant, and her mother was Marion Hamilton. Although brought up in Edinburgjh, Janet moved to Malone in Ireland in 1633 when her mother remarried on the death of Bartholomew. Her new husband was a John Stevenson. Livingston had seen Janet several times in Scotland, and although he was to explain he had been attracted to her, he could never bring himself to approach her. It was only after she had gone to stay in Ireland that he plucked up the courage to approach her. "It is like I might have been longer in that darkness, except the Lord had presented me an occasion of our conferring together: for, in November, 1634 when I was going to the Friday meeting at Antrim, I foregathered with her and some others going thither, and propounded to them, by the way, to confer upon a text whereon I was to preach the day after at Antrim. "I immediately found her conference so just and spiritual, that I took that for some answer to my prayer to have my mind cleared. I could only blame myself for not taking the opportunity of so speaking with her before." Four days later he informed her of his feelings towards her and asked her to consider hers. Two weeks later, when alone with her in her mother`s house, he sought her answer. Janet was as yet undecided. "I went to prayer and desired her to pray, which at last she did: and in that time I got abundant clearness that it was the Lord`s mind that I should marry her, and then propounded the matter more fully to her mother." The wedding took place in St Cuthbert`s Church, Edinburgh on 23 June, 1635. Among those in attendance were the Earl of Wigton and his son Lord Fleming. The ceremony was not received favourably by Archbishop Spottieswood, Chancellor of Scotland, as some days before it he had issued orders for the apprehension of the groom. The seizure did notmaterialise for the couple remained free before returning to Ireland a few months later. Livingston resumed his preaching in Ireland, albeit in a furtive manner, for some months after an aborted sailing to New England. However, he was warned that he was to be apprehended and taken to Dublin. Both he and his friend fled to Scotland in February 1637. He was given shelter and protection in Irvine. Blair remained there while Livingston went on to Lanark to stay with his father for awhile. He returned to Irvine the following month where he was joined by his wife and baby son., John. A shortwhile later they all continued on to Lanark. There they would stay before he took up his first parish in Scotland, Stranraer. Janet was later to return to Malone, Ireland to visit her mother who was dying. She was accompanied by Samuel Livingston, her brother-in-law. All the while at this time, Archbisop Laud was determined to have his liturgy foisted on the populace. On 23 July, 1637 he decreed that the new Service Book be invoked. This resulted in a huge cry of protest from the people, none more so than in St Giles Church, Edinburgh. At the end of May, 1638 he was given the choice of two parishes in Scotland, Stranraer and Straiton in Carrick. He opted for the former in as much it was nearer the port of Portpatrick and so nearer Ireland where his people could travel to meet him more easily. He moved there in July of that year. He was joined there by his family and would remain there for ten years until the harvest of 1648. By November, 1638 the King, Charles l, was at first pleased to yield to some of the demands of the Covenant and allowed the convening of the first free General Assembly in Glasgow, referring all ecclesiastic matters to it, and civil matters would be dealt with by Parliament. The following year, 1639 the King branded the Covenanter rebels and set about to crush them by raising an army of under 12,000 men, horse and foot soldiers, and marching with them to set up camp at York. When news of this development reached Scotland, 30,000 horse and foot soldiers under the leadership of Sir Alexander Leslie advanced soutwards and came to rest at Berwick. Both sides parleyed and reached an amicable agreement with no fighting taking place. The earlier decision to allow ecclesiastic matters to be dealt with by the church and civil matters by Parliament was written into a treaty of disengagement. It was also a condition that both armies be disbanded. On returning to London the King met with the wrath of the Bishops.and was forced to have the articles of the above treaty burned by the hands of the hangman. Immediately the King was promised the support of the clergy if he would break with the treaty and to set about raising another army to invade Scotland and subdue the rebels. This he agreed to do. By August, 1640 Charles had entrenched an army near Newburn on the south side of the River Tyne. He had already fortified Edinburgh Castle with a company of English soldiers under General Ruthven. The Covenanters had been expecting this new venture, and had consequently raised an army in anticipation. This force made its way over the border determined to prevent any incursion onto Scottish soil by the King`s force. John Livingston was appointed to accompany the Earl of Cassilis`s regiment as its chaplain. Following a skirmish between the opposing armies, the Scots took Newcastle. For the third time the King granted a free General Assembly for Scotland. This time the King ratified it by a letter and a personal visit. It was during the King`s presence in Scotland that the Irish rebelled in October 1641. Many religious people had already fled from the north of Ireland when the ministers were deposed. Others later left in 1639 when the `black oath` was forced upon them, this being the abjurance of the National Covenant. Even among those that took the oath there was no escape from the wrath of the rebels, many being murdered. In 1642, an army from Scotland landed in Ireland with the intent to subdue the rebellion. This army was under the command of General-Major Munro. Ironically, members of the liberation army were compared by some of those they were helping as no better than the rebels themselves. Some of the refugees that landed in Scotland swore they thought the oppression and insolencies of the Scots army was worse than the rebels. Many of the refugees that landed in south west Scotland were in such destitute condition that collections were made for them throughout Scotland. Livingston noted; `" hardly observed one person sufficiently sensible of the Lord`s hand in it, or of deserving on their part, so far had the stroak seised on spirits as weel as on bodies". Livingston was sent over to Ireland in April, 1642 to administer to the army, his tenure to last for 12 months. In that time he observed the changes that had taken place in the people. "Many of those who had been civill before, were become many wayes exceeding loose; yes, sundry who, as was conceived, had true grace, were declyned much in their tenderness; so as it would seem the sword opens any gaps". He accompanied the army to Newry and tells of having met a party of rebels on the way. Emerging from the woods, the rebels were immediately killed with Livingston commenting upon their physical condition. "They were so fat one might have his his fingers in the lirks of their breasts". Livingston returned to Scotland after his term of service but was later back over again in 1648 when he was asked to attempt to dissuade the Scots troops there from joining with the army of `Engagement` but this proved to be fruitless. By undertaking this `engagement`, the more moderate Covenanters under the command of Hamilton, the Earl of Lanark promised to restore the now deposed. King Charles l on condition that he would re-affirm presbyterianism in Scotland and to give it a trial in England for three years. Charles had originally been captured by the Scots at Newark in May 1646, but had been handed over to the English Parliament in January 1647. He had escaped temporarily and sought refuge on the Isle of Wight. It was while there that the Army of Engagement took up his cause. In the eyes of the extreme Covenanters, Livingston included, this represented a betrayal of the Solemn League and Covenant. The defeat of the `Engagers` by Cromwell`s new model army at Preston on 17th/19th August 1648 was greeted with delight by some at home and when he arrived in Edinburgh on 4th October, insurance against any resurgence of `engagement sympathisers` was provided. Charles was executed on 30th January 1649. His violent end was greeted with abhorrence by many in Scotland and Cromwell`s cause was not enhanced by it. In the summer of 1648, at the age of 45, he was called to take up the ministry of the parish of Ancrum in the Scottish borders. This new posting appealed to him as he felt that the people to whome he was to minister were generally, " landwart and simple". Later in the autumn of that year, he moved with his family and servants from Stranraer. The journey involved a trek of over 100 miles on terrible roads with "ane numerous family, six children, one of them sucking the breast, four or five servants". Their safe arrival was attributed to the Lord. He was not to be too long in adminstering the affairs of his new church before he was called again to the forefront. The Scottish Parliament and Church representatives had met with the future King Charles ll at The Hague in Holland in 1649. Whilst Cromwell had the overall control in England, the Scots felt they could possibly negotiate with the future King as to him assuming the throne north of the border. This meeting failed to agree terms for his return. However a fresh approach was arranged for the following year. Six people were nominated by Parliament and five were chosen by the Church, Livingston being one of the latter. Only the government representatives were allowed to vote on the issues. Livingston was a reluctant nominee for he felt that ministers should not be involved in such matters He also felt that the majority of the delegation would accept the King on his terms. At the first meeting in Breda, Holland, Livingston was chosen to deliver a speech on behalf of the Church. This required vetting by the other delegates beforehand. It was returned to Livingston severely edited. They had thought it was too harsh in its contents. He told them he thought their decision to alter his speech`s contents unfair, but he was ordered not to show his own mind but theirs. It was with severe reluctance that he delivered it. The negotiations overran their scheduled thirty days limit by a further ten days. In the end Charles was invited to assume the throne in Scotland after assurances that he would acknowledge the Presbyterian system of worship in Scotland. Livingston was not one of those who were in sympathy with it. He always felt the man could not be trusted. Once he felt established in Scotland, Charles eyed the lost kingdom of England. He felt he had to avenge his father`s lost crown and indeed his own. He later led an army into England but was forced back to Dunbar where he was defeated. Livingston had been asked to accompany it but had declined. Cromwell later invaded Scotland and for some time he had soldiers billeted with the Livingstons. John Livingston asserted that all the time they were within his house, he never ate or communicated with them. Cromwell invited him to Edinburgh to speak with him but he declined the opportunity. In 1654 he was called to London along with others to meet with Cromwell. This visit gave him the opportunity of asking the Protector to remove the heavy fines that he had placed on several people in Scotland. Cromwell agreed but his Council, reaping a share of these, thought otherwise. He returned home by himself after receiving no satisfaction to his overtures. In 1657, his fifteenth child Elizabeth was born. She would live for ten years. Trial and Banishment In the summer of 1660, two years after the death of Cromwell, Charles assumed the throne of England, and Livingston foresaw there would be an overturning of all that had been achieved. This proved correct. The first Scottish Parliament to sit after the Restoration was quick to prove its loyalty to the King by placing in his hands the supreme power in all matters civil and ecclesiastical. The Act of Rescissory, by which all precedings for reformation between 1638 and 1650 were declared rebellious and treasonable, was an anthema to the now despised Covenanters. A proclamation was announced that all ministers who had come in since 1649 who had not kept the Holy Day of 29th May ( date of Charles`s crowning at Scone) must acknowledge prelacy or get out. Livingston, like many of his kind, was in despair at this directive and soon spoke out against it. His outspokeness was soon to bring its expected repercussions. On 20 November, 1662 he received letters informing him that on the 18th the Privvy Council had ordered sixteen ministers to be brought before it in Edinburgh. He was on the list. Although he had not received the citation, he went to Edinburgh but kept himself closeted until he could determine what the Council had in mind for him. If it was banishment, as in the case of two the previous year, then he would appear. On the other hand, as he put it, "....if I had found they were on such ane design as against Mr Guthrie, that my life were in hazard, , I was minded to lurk and not appear, seeing I was not cited nor apprehended". He was to appear on 11th December having received the summons. The main reason for coming before the Council was to take the Oath of Allegiance.wherein the King was to be acknowledged supreme governor over all persons, both civil and ecclesiastical. As Livingston thought, this was contrived in so general , ambiguous, and comprehensive terms that it might import receding from the covenant for reformation, and the bringing in of Bishops. He would later assert that the oath was one of supremacy rather than allegiance. Asked if he required time to make up his mind on taking it, he refused believing that this would give the impression that he was unsure of himself, and also it might have left himself open to temptation. Before giving his answer he testified as follows, " My Lord, I doe believe indeed, and confess that Jesus Christ is the only Head of His Church, and that He only hath power to appoint a government and discipline for removing offences in His own house, which is not dependant upon civill powers". This assertion of Christ`s supreme headship was not intelligible to the politicians before whom he stood. The Lord Advocate said it amounted to a claim for a `power to the Presbyteric co-ordinate with that of the King`. The Council then committed Livingston to banishment. Within forty eight hours he was to depart from Edinburgh and take himself to north of the Tay and then within a further two months `depart out of all the King`s dominions`. An appeal to go home to his family before his departure was denied. On 9th April, 1663, he boarded the ship of `old John Allan` in Leith and within eight days arrived in Rotterdam. He was not alone on his journey to exile for he recorded he had the company of many friends in similar plight. Scottish Church of Rotterdam The exile of Livingston and his likes was to rid the Establishment of a thorn in its side. This would be the price of their non-conformity, but the resultant deportation would be a freedom to espouse their religious views without fear of contradiction. The knowledge that they were to be denied the opportunity of influencing events at home, as well as leaving many dear relatives and friends behind, had to be endured. In Livingston`s case, he had the opportunity of pronouncing his stoutly held beliefs, and being prepared for the worse, the banishment would allow him to pursue his writings and studies. His wife, Janet and their two youngest children, Robert and Elizabeth would join him in exile within a few months. But what awaited him there? Early in the 17th Century many Scots traders and merchants settled in Rotterdam and conducted their businesses from there. As well as their business expertise, they brought with them their deep rooted attachment to religious ordinances that manifested itself into a desire for some form of public worship. Until 1640 this was frequently met with the services of chaplains in the army or ministers from other towns. The state government was sympathetic to this desire, and on 19th July, 1642 agreed to appoint a minister with an annual salary of 550 guilders. The city officials agreed to furnish a place of worship, and in a show of magnanimity, granted a further annual stipend of 1,200 guilders. The first minister appointed was Mr Alexander Petrie from Rhynd in Perthshire. The church became soon established and by the time of Livingston`s arrival had a thriving population of ministers and lay people alike. With the presence of so many likeminded ministers of religion about him, Livingston was not short of intellectual and spiritual stimulation. The arrival of his wife and two children in December 1663 made his banishment tolerable. Their five surviving children remained behind in Scotland. These, among others, would often visit him in Holland, and they would fetch and carry his correspondence back and forth. He kept in constant touch with his former parishioners in Ancrum by letter. In fact his letters were his sermons to them `in abstentia`. For some time his health had begun to give cause for concern. ".......whether constant sitting at my studies, or ane time upon bussiness walking long too and again through the town, without rendering urine, so at last my urine was bloody, or any other former infirmity, or age creeping on, may have been the occasion, I cannot determine: but since the year 1667, and therafter, I have such ane constant pain in my bladder, especially when I walk, that I have been forced to take ane house nearer the church. "Yet neither I, nor such doctors as I consult with, can be certain whether it be ane stone, or only ane carnosity in my bladder. Also my hand shakes, so that sometimes I can hardly write with it, it shakes so. Otherwise I bless the Lord, I find hitherto no other great defect of body or minde". On 7th October he wrote his last letter to Ancrum. The final words to them were, "I fear ye shall hardly read my hand, and yet it hath taken near by as many days to write as there are pages; but it was not fitting to make use of any other`s hand", He signed it, `Your loving and lawful Pastor, John Livingston , Rotterdam, 7th December 1671.` He continued to read and study right up to the end. As he lay near death, he exclaimed, "If my heart was lifted up, it was in the preaching of Jesus Christ. I die in the faith that the truth of God, which he hath helped the Church of Scotland to own, shall be owned by him as truths so long as sun and moon endure". Just before his expiry, his wife beseeched him to take leave of his friends. "I dare not," said he, with an affectionate tenderness: "but it is likely our parting will be but for a short time". The Reverend John Livingston of Ancrum died in Rotterdam, the place of his exile, on the 9th August 1672. `Where`er he met a stranger, there he left a friend` Agassiz A sentiment that well have been coined for John Livingston. Footnote On her husband`s death, Janet returned to Scotland accompanied by her youngest son, Robert. Now in his late teens, Robert was soon to take himself to America where he prospered and was to found the dynasty of the Livingstons of Livingston Manor in New York State. This family were to play a great part in the American fight for independance a century later. During her husband`s enforced absence from Scotland, the Church came under increasing pressure from the State with worship being held clandestinely. These conventicles, as they were called, were forever being hounded and those responsible for them, if caught, were severely dealt with. Imprisonment, banishment, and occasionally death were dealt out to them. Janet Livingston would carry on her husband`s fight. A meeting of the Privy Council was to be held in Edinburgh on 4th June, 1674 at which a letter from the King was to be read out. This letter was instructing the councillors to increase their effort in apprehending the field preachers and the ring leaders of the conventicles. Alongwith fourteen likeminded ladies, she drew up a petition asking for the granting of liberty to the threatened ministers throughout the land. This was to be presented to the Lord Chancellor, Lord Rothes. On the day in question, the ladies gathered in Parliament Close and awaited the arrival of Rothes. Soon the coach pulled up and alighted from it came The Lord Chancellor closely followed by Archbishop Sharp. The latter was described `as flyed as a fox........clave close to the Chancellor`s back`. As the ladies approached led by Janet, the Chancellor doffed his hat and listened as the petition was read out by her. At its completion, he dismiised the appeal by jest and insiinuations.then made his entrance. Mrs Livingston suffered six months of chastisement and was in fact banished for a period. It was claimed that `her husband`s heart could trust in her`, and to quote Robert mcWard, "..a mother indeed in Israel". John Livingston was at rest in Holland, but his wife continued his struggle. Following the death of John Livingston in 1672, both Janet, his wife, and his son Robert returned to Scotland. Elizabeth, his youngest daughter had already pre-deceased him. Janet Livingstone was to take up his fight by campaigning and fighting for the rights of ministers who were hounded for their covenanting views at a later date. Robert was now eighteen years old and, within a few months of his arrival back, he set sail for New England, a venture his father had twice attempted and failed to accomplish on each occasion. Robert`s mission was to carve out for himself a career in business rather than the ministry. The time of his arrival was opportune; his command of the Dutch language attained by nine years in Holland was just what was required by the new British administration in the process of replacing that of the Dutch in New York. For the next 175 years, John`s progeny would hold great sway in both state and national governments as well as prominent positions in the army and commerce of the emerging nation, America.

This book is about the migration of the Scots-Irish to America from Ulster. My interest in the McFadden family, but many other families are profiled. They settled in Massachusetts, Maine, Canada and several other places. The link to read and/or download this book is here [https://archive.org/stream/scotchirish00boltrich#page/n3/mode/2up

http://www.emolachance.com/43-38358.html

[[Space:The_Jacksons_of_Salineville|PROJECT:The Jacksons of Salineville]] This is the Family page for The Jacksons of Salineville Project. The parents , [[Jackson-19992|James]] and [[Porter-11153|Hanna( Anna)]] who originated in County Durham, England. == Bibliography == === Immigration === On the manifest of the [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/James_Jackson_Biographies-6 SS Illinois, June 20, 1880] Anna(Hanna), Age 54, Emilan, Age 18, James, Age 16, Moses, Age 14, Rose, Age 10, Mary, Age 8 ,''Who is mistaken for a male and the initial written h where her name should be'', Louisa, Age 5, and Elizabeth, age 2. John T is listed on [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/James_Jackson_Biographies-7 this page] of the same manifest. === Census === [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/James_Jackson_Biographies-9 ''' 1861 Census Details, England]''' [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/James_Jackson_Biographies-8 '''1880 census page 1'''] James, Age 51, Anna(Hanna), Age 54, Emilan, Age 18, James, Age 16, Moses, Age 14, Rose, Age 10, Mary, Age 8, Louisa, Age 5 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/James_Jackson_Biographies-4'''1880 census page 2'''] Elizabeth, Age 3, John T, Age 1 === Family Records === *[[Jackson-1753|'''Emilia Jackson Beadnell]]''' **married Joseph Beadnell, March 22,1881 https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:939L-FC9W-P4?mode=g&i=475&cc=1614804 **Death is given as March 31, 1954, Salineville, Columbiana, Ohio, USA, but no Source has been found as yet *'''[[Jackson-19995|James Jackson]]''' ** {{FindAGrave|79594733}} *'''[[Jackson-19697|Moses Jackson''']] {{FindAGrave|144165853}} *[[Jackson-19996|'''Rose Hannah Jackson Taylor]]''' *[[Jackson-19997|'''Mary Jane Jackson Bailey''']] **[https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/James_Jackson_Biographies-12 Christening Record] **She passed away in 21 May 1954.Title West Virginia, Deaths Index, 1853-1973 Author Ancestry.com Publisher Ancestry.com Operations, Inc. Publisher Date 2011 Publisher Location Provo, UT, USA EDIT REPOSITORY Repository Information Name Ancestry.com *[[Jackson-19998|'''Louisa Jackson Townley''']] **Birth Registration Quarter: Apr-May-Jun, Registration Year-1875 **Jackson-19998|Louisa Jackson, Gender-Female, Christening Date-27 May 1875, Christening Place-Durham, England https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:2X81-MW8 **Married John T Kellogg divorced soon after, 1 child Bella Romane KelloggOn''' John T Kellogg''' page in {{FindAGrave|148367140}}, it is written: **''"Son of David Kellogg and Ellen Niles. '''''Married Louisa Jackson on 19 Jan 1892 in Salineville, Columbania Co., OH. They soon divorced.''''''' ''They had one known child named Bella Romane Kellogg''''."'' **''Although there are no viewable sources available for her next two marriages they are recorded on an Ancestry .com tree with citations'' **''Married to W James Andrus, before 1909 two children died before 1 yers old'' https://www.ancestry.com/family-tree/person/tree/87551688/person/46559406716/facts **''Married 22 Jan 1912 Arthur Charles Townley Sr. (1876–1938) Wellsburg, Brooke Co., WV. ~two children Arthur Charles Townley,JR., b. 06 Apr 1912 , and Eliza Matilda, b. 28 Nov 1913'' https://www.ancestry.com/family-tree/person/tree/87551688/person/46559406716/facts **She passed away in 1944. https://www.ancestry.com/family-tree/person/tree/87551688/person/46559406716/facts Source Citation for H007. Headstone Inscription for Louisa J. Townley, Lot M159, Grave 2, Columbiana Co. Memorial Park, E. Liverpool, OH 43920 No repository specified for this source *[[Jackson-19999|'''Elizabeth Jackson McCoy''']] **Christened Elizabeth Ann Jackson: https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:NB1J-SLF ** In her {{FindAGrave|158171040}} profile it is written: *** She is the ... wife of William Garfield McCoy married 21 Nov 1900. *** She Died Sep. 13, 1930, East Liverpool, Columbiana County, Ohio, USA. *** her Burial was at Riverview Cemetery, East Liverpool, Columbiana County, Ohio, USA{{FindAGrave|158171040}} *[[Jackson-20000|'''John T. Jackson''']] **Potter for McNichol Pottery, Nickname JackD012. Death Certificate for John T. Jackson, 9 SEP 1920 ** Fracture of skull by having head caught in machinery at pottery.D012. Death Certificate for John T. Jackson, 9 SEP 1920 == Sources == == Acknowledgements== A special thanks to [[Woodhouse-314|Ron Woodhouse]] for contributing to This page. He has helped find many of the birth and marriage certificates for Family members. And he has gone above and beyond to find Parents and Grandparents for Hanna and James and some very good detective work in the process. Ron has been a Godsend in this whole project!

The Loghrins came to Canada in 1826. [[Loghrin-8|James Loghrin]] and his father William came first to America in 1826.
They purchased land near Speedside P.O. in Eramosa Township, Wellington Co., Ont.
[[Loghrin-7|William Loghrin]] lived in Clontibert, Monohan Co., Ireland. He had a half brother named Robinson. These two were married in Ireland to two sisters named Cooper.
William Loghrin had three sons and two daughters: James, Thomas & Alexander and Agnes and Martha.
James married Elizabeth Armstrong, daughter of [[Armstrong-2952|William Armstrong]] in 18... .
They had five children: Agnes, Margaret, Lizzie Loghrin, Martha Loghrin and William who died in .... .
[[Loghrin-13|Agnes Loghrin]] married John Hobson. They had one son & one daughter: Joseph and Margaret. Joseph died. [[Hobson-607|Margaret]] married Abert? L. Jones.
[[Loghrin-12|Margaret Loghrin]] married William Bathgate. They had six children: James, Elizabeth, Joseph, Margaret, William and Grace.
[[Loghrin-5|Thomas Loghrin]] married Mary Wilson. They had three sons and five daughters: William, James & Alexander. Eliza, Mary, Martha, Isabel and Agnes.,
[[Loghrin-18|William]] married Sarah McAree. Their family consisted of four daughters and one son: Mary, Louise, Elizabeth, Maude and John.
[[Loghrin-28|James Loghrin]] married Matilda Armstrong. Their family consisted of Martha, Annie, William and Jim
[[Loghrin-10|Agnes Loghrin]] married a man named McCullough. They had four sons and one daughter: Stewart, James, George and Alexander and Nancy. Nancy married a man named Tolbert.
[[Loghrin-11|Martha Loghrin]] married Thomas Armstrong. They are both dead and their only child died young. Mary Wilson - Her father was married to a [[Gibson-3896|Miss Gibson]]. [[Monteith-307|Samuel Monteith’s father]] was married to another sister, a Miss Gibson. == Notes == * This “Historical Tree”, is described by Douglas A. Hill as, “a handwritten list of the descendants of William Loghrin, written by an unknown person and passed down to [[Loghrin-36|Radcliffe Loghrin]], my mother's second husband. Radcliffe is deceased and did not know the source of the list.” The original copy was held by Douglas Hill who is now deceased. It is reproduced here as close as possible to the format of the original. * Information from www.theshipslist.com/ships/passengerlists/1828/wjun02.htm indicates that Agnes and four of the children came over in 1828. * Samuel Monteith’s mother was Elizabeth Gibson; information from the Monteith tree which was posted online at one time.

Medios Los Medios, mejor conocido como HARDWARE, se designa en un sistema informático a los componentes físicos del sistema. Constituido por un conjunto de elementos mecánicos, magnéticos, ópticos, eléctricos y electrónicos que forman parte del sistema informático. "La función de estos componentes suele dividirse en tres categorías principales: entrada, salida y almacenamiento. Los componentes de esas categorías están conectados a través de un conjunto de cables o circuitos llamado bus con la unidad central de proceso (CPU) del ordenador, el microprocesador que controla la computadora y le proporciona capacidad de cálculo" . a) Dispositivos de Entrada Estos dispositivos permiten al usuario del ordenador introducir datos, comandos y programas en la CPU. El dispositivo de entrada más común es un teclado similar al de las máquinas de escribir. La información introducida con el mismo, es transformada por el ordenador en modelos reconocibles. Otros dispositivos de entrada son los lápices ópticos, que transmiten información gráfica desde tabletas electrónicas hasta el ordenador; joysticks y el ratón o mouse, que convierte el movimiento físico en movimiento dentro de una pantalla de ordenador; los escáneres luminosos, que leen palabras o símbolos de una página impresa y los traducen a configuraciones electrónicas que el ordenador puede manipular y almacenar; y los módulos de reconocimiento de voz, que convierten la palabra hablada en señales digitales comprensibles para el ordenador. También es posible utilizar los dispositivos de almacenamiento para introducir datos en la unidad de proceso. El Teclado.- Es el dispositivo estándar de entrada de datos del computador, mediante el cual se ingresan datos u ordenes, esta conectado directamente a la CPU. Ratón o Mouse.- Sirve para moverse sobre la pantalla rápidamente y ejecutar acciones . b) Unidades de Salida La Pantalla.- Es el dispositivo estándar de salida del computador, en el cual se presentan las respuestas del computador y los resultados de un proceso. También muestra la información ingresada mediante el teclado; se le denomina también monitor. Las características son similares a las de una pantalla de televisión. existen monitores monocromáticos (en blanco y negro) y a color. Las imágenes están formadas por puntos llamados píxeles. La nitidez y la calidad de la imagen depende de la cantidad de píxeles que maneja la pantalla, o sea la resolución. La pantalla se conecta a la tarjeta controladora de video ubicada en la CPU. Impresora.- Es el dispositivo de salida mas utilizado. Una impresora imprime series de caracteres, líneas o páginas con base en la información que le envía la CPU a través de un puerto (generalmente paralelo). Si imprime caracter por caracter se denomina impresora de matriz de puntos. Generalmente utiliza 9 o 24 puntos para imprimir cada caracter. Si imprime renglón por renglón se denomina impresora de líneas. Son mas veloces que las de matriz de puntos ya que imprimen una linea de puntos a la vez. Pueden ser de impacto o de chorro de tinta (inkjet), si en lugar de golpear el papel con una cinta entintada la impresora dispara chorros microscópico de tinta que dibujan los caracteres o gráficos sobre el papel. La resolución se mide en puntos por pulgada (dpi:dot per inch), siendo las mas comunes las de 300 dpi y 600 dpi. Existe otra tecnología basada en rayo láser, mas costosa y sofisticada, que imprime páginas completas similar a las fotocopiadoras, con mayor velocidad y resolución que las impresoras de chorro de tinta, llamadas impresoras láser. por luz maría lozano

Name of the property where the home stood, known perhaps as Henry Hill only to the family. Trying to ascertain if anyone outside family called it that. It was always referred to as such as long as I can remember. Railroad tracks ran behind the lot that fronted Telegraph Road. (See photo of my mom, Bonnie Adelle, as an infant of less than a year old, sitting on her father’s lap, Jacob Hamilton Henry’s, in the front yard with a level unpaved road or driveway in the background.) Mom says there was a set of concrete steps built into the hill of the yard, in one place—if not two places, (front and side or back?) indicating a slope of the land that would require such.

This is information by William Benedict who offered clarification of Ruth Stout's wife of Col. Joseph Stout, maiden name--Brinson or Hornor.

=== The Genealogy Buffs: === Laura Ella Crews was born in Illinois where her family stayed for a few years before continuing the journey ever Westwards. My two times great grand aunt, never married. She lived the balance of her very long life in Enid, Oklahoma. Aunt Laura's house was like a mansion! Laura's house had been a nursing home not far from downtown Enid. It was purchased and remodeled with money from oil leases on the land she had staked a claim on during the land rush of 1869. Aunt Laura rode a horse astride during the opening of the Cherokee Strip to any settler willing to stake a claim, live there and do improvements. Those were years doing plenty of hard labor! So the money from oil revenues was a reward well earned. Over the years, Aunt Laura was a regular donor to local projects and charities. She traveled many places and extensively worked on her books of family history, recipes, and genealogy. Laura Ella Crews gave us each a signed copy of her book; "My kinsfolk : a story and genealogy of the Crews, Sampson, Wilber, and Waddel families" The book is available in its entirety at: As well as searchable, the stories are interesting. So my great great grand aunt, Laura Ella Crews was the first family genealogist I knew in person.

'''Requirements and Procedures for Voting in Florida''' In order to register to vote in Florida, one must: Be a citizen of the U.S. Be a Florida resident. Be at least 18 years old. Not be mentally incapacitated with respect to voting in Florida or any other state. Not be convicted of a felony After you have checked to see if you can register to vote you can fill in the voter registration application online. You can also print the application and write in your information. After that, you have to make sure that all the information is correct. Then, sign your application. Mail the application to your county Supervisor of Elections. If your application is complete and you qualify as a voter, the Supervisor of Elections will mail you a voter information card as official notification that you are registered to vote. You must be registered for at least 29 days before you can vote in an election. '''How to Vote''' After you have registered to vote, you can finally vote! Here is how you vote: You have to find out where your polling place is at so that you know where to vote. Obtain a sample ballot so that you know who is running for which office. After that, find out more about the candidates so that you know who to vote for. After that, make your decisions on who to vote. Finally, go to your correct polling place and vote. '''Upcoming Election Dates''' Tuesday May 10, 2011 Vote for: a mayor, council district 1 and 4, and city clerk '''Why Vote?''' Some people believe that it doesn’t make a difference if you vote or not. A lot say “One vote won’t count.” See if everyone has that same mentality all of those lost votes will actually count. It is very important to vote because the elected official will represent you and the nation/community. If you have a complaint or have better decisions they will always be there to listen. Every vote has a significance. '''Here are some links about voting'''''' [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eA_2jr_XGS8] <--Click the number "1" to get people to vote in elections. [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wolG59Y1dIA] <--Click the number "2" How to Register to Vote Online.

WE LOVE TO JERK,DOUGIE,GET CHINESE FOOD,HAVE FUN,GO PLACES,TATOO'S,PERCING'S,CHILLIN

This book is published in two volumes. I am trying to make it available online, so it can reach a much larger audience. I don't have the funds to stockpile volumes for sale. I have only charged for printing and mailing, and do not profit. I just want to share the seven plus years worth of my intense research. I'm hoping it might help many to find their families. This image is found on Harold Colson's website. You will notice six lines up: xAmos Parker, 1 Son Saul....2 This is where I obtained the title for my book. The x , denotes that the tax collector/assessor, has completed his survey of this household, and determined that there are 2 taxable men in the household of 16 years old and upwards, who are eligible to be taxed. The following web address has many valuable Perquimans County, North Carolina tax records. If you have ancestors in this area of North Carolina, please take a look. You just might find your family records! http://perqtax5.homestead.com/files/1765listriddick1.jpg http://perqtax.homestead.com/

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] '''Journal One''' ==1856== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-1 15]

Pinchgut Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-01

Arnaud
Dick
Mrs
Dream
No
1
Journal

Long Gully
{{Image|file=01-1.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-2 16]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-01


M
John H W
J H Watmuff
H Hawkins
C Vickerman
H Vickerman
{{Image|file=01-2.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-3 17]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-01

Beauties in vain their pretty eyes may roll}
Pope}
Charms strike the sight, but merit wins the soul}
Journal Kept by
Jno Hy Watmuff
from the

1st May 1856 to the 11th.July 1859
Bendigo

Donolly

Sandy Creek

Loddon

Ararat

Chinamans Flat

Moonlight Flat

Mt William

Pleasent Creek

Melbourne
{{Image|file=01-3.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-4 18]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-01

Recipe for [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collagenous_colitis C C]
1 drachm of Tannin
mixed with 6 oz Red Wine
Injest 3 times a day
CAP


1887
1811
76
{{Image|file=01-4.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-5 19]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-01

Long Gully, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia 1856
1st May. Formed the idea of keeping a journal to day so lose no time in commencing. I am at present living in Long Gully, Bendigo, with Uncle [[Vickerman-97|Chas. Vickerman]] (my mothers brother, tho in every respect a very different person) I have been with him some two years more or less, working with him, we quarrel very often & leave each other but generally manage to come together again, his great weakness is a fondness for drink, his love for it has distroyed the best part of his nature, there are times when he rises above the surface of his degraded state, then I like him, at other times he is frightfully degraded & low both in his manner & ideas — we are working in a small gully branching off L.G. which we call [[Kett-246|IKs]] Gully tho better known as "[http://www.google.com/maps/?q=-36.736625,144.2816179 Pinch Gut gully]" the day has been a beautiful one, we went to work very early this morning, are obliged to do so for the ground we are working in, yields but little gold. We made between us to day, 9 dwts of gold, better than usual.
2nd Been a fine day, only got 3 dwts to day we intended to go to the races at Epsom to day, but we were sinking a hole & did not like to leave it till we had bottomed. There has only been one lot of races on Bendigo until these — {{Image|file=01-5.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-6 20]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-03

May – 1856
3rd May. Been a warm day. Made 8 dwts to day and knocked off at 3. pm. being Saturday — on weighing up our weeks work, we find we have made 1 oz. 17 dwts about ₤3.10.0 each for the weeks work I took a walk into the township (Sandhurst) distant about 3 miles – received a letter from [[Vickerman-162|Mother]] contg family matters which I shant allude to, things look busy in town as they usually do on Saturday afternoons, gold is ₤3.17.0 per oz got home by dark found Uncle had been busy washing up our dirty clothes. I feel tired having carried from the town a good many stores for the coming week. I'm the caterer but we take day about to cook & keep the tent in order —
4th. May. Sunday. A day of rest, rose about 7 am borrowed a wheelbarrow & went out the ranges & brought home several loads of firewood to last us during the coming week. After dinner I went to the Library, called so because a storekeeper has about 100 novels & lends them out 6d a book Called on an acquaintance, “Ross” & had a time on my old flutina an instrument I sold him – I dont think he'll ever play, on leaving him I went to find Gordon, who borrowed Goldsmiths History of England from me some 4 months ago he has shifted his tent & I could not ascertain where he has gone to. I heard he lived in California Gully. I went there, but could hear no tidings of him. I came home by the {{Image|file=01-6.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-7 21]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-05 Monday

1856
crossing place, got home in time for tea and spent the evening reading
5th.May. very hot to day, but towards evening had a thunder storm & I think its set in for a wet night. We made 10 dwts to day not so bad if we could do so well every day. My old chum Tom Rudd came up from town to day having seen [[Rudd-2445|Mrs Lee]] his sister on board a ship for Tasmania — I ought to write something about Tom, he is about 2 years older than myself, born in Van Diemans Land & like all natives is vastly conceited but very good natured he is a regular devil, never happy but when hes in a row & I dont think he is very particular what he does to gain his own ends tho much younger Ive great influence over him — we have had many a lark together & got into many a scrape & out again, sometimes not very creditable to ourselves —
6. May Been a nice day after the rain, we made 8¼ dwts to day. I went to Charly Watkinsons this evening, he is a chap Ive known many years he is an “experience” having been sent out as he says for the benefit of his country. I was with him about 2 hours & for the first time since I knew him was communicative he told me his life — god forbid mine should resemble his, on my road home I called on T.Rudd but his tent was closed & he was out
[1856-05-07 Wednesday] 7th. As an old mate of mine used to say, we have had a peruvian dew falling all day (I should think a scotch mist) didnt go to work until 11.am, we might as well stopped at {{Image|file=01-7.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-8 22]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-08 Thursday

1856
home for we only made about 1 dwt of gold & worked very hard, there is a great sameness in our life on the diggins, just done supper & tea and now for bed
8th. May. Been another wet miserable day, done about half a days work, sank 2 holes, they are ready to have their bottoms took off them in the morning. We washed 1 tub of dirt about 4 Buckets it yielded nearly 1 dwt. rather poor but we hope it will get better. In the evening I went to Toms had some singing, & we knocked the top of the table off and placed it on the ground to dance a hornpiper upon, there was one or two chaps we knew there, good dancers (hornpipe) kept it up till about 11. Pm when I came home, read a few chapters in Frank Hilton a stunning story & so passed the day & now for the blankets [1856-05-09-Friday] 9th. Been a lovely day, washed the whole of the bottom of one of our holes, nothing in it, about a ½ dwt. We got 6 dwts out of the other, went to Ironbark Gully this evening to the “snobs” to get a pair of Wellingtons soled or ½ soled / 10s/d-/ Im to be charged, to be done on Sunday Im going now to write to mother for I intend going into Sandhurst tomorrow, when I can post it — [1856-05-10-Saturday] 10th May. Cloudy to day. Made 4 dwt, thus making 1 oz 10 dwt in spite of the lost time through bad weather I left work about 4 Pm & went into Sandhurst to get a few necessaries for the tent. I posted a letter to mother in which I enclosed a Pound Stg. I sold some gold rather low this week only ₤3.15.6 per oz I met Tom Rudd hardup lent him a pound which Im sure Ill never see again. I went to his tent in the evening {{Image|file=01-8.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-9 23]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-11 Sunday

took my concertina. C.Watkinson came in he is a good singer we passed a pleasent evening, came home & finished my book [1856-05-11-Sunday] 11th May. Fine day, got up about 7, after breakfast went away for wood, went to California Gully town ship & bought half a sheep & a lot of provisions brought my purchases home in a barrow. Uncle cooking & washing Etc. In the afternoon went to the Library got a book, met Tom Rudd passed the afternoon with him & some other chaps larking about. Some of them got drunk and I left them asleep under a bush. I dont envy them their couch [1856-05-12 Monday] 12th. May Lovely day. Only got 3½ dwt to day & I think if there is such a thing as luck we havent much of it, but never mind as the song says Theres a good time coming so we'll hope on – I went to Pauls for my boots, but like all snobs he is not to his word he's been drunk for several days, my boots are where I left them. Called at Jacks tent stayed about half an hour with him came home, I see we have some neighbours pitched their tent close to ours, the nearest neighbours we've had this 2 years [1856-05-13-Tuesday] 13 Nice day, got 5 dwt to day. Washed 72 Buckets of dirt for that, got my books this evening I went to Toms, Bill Brown a prize fighter was there, he is mates with Tom, Ive known him a long time he is a rank scoundrel but has many times been kind to me, got me, out of more than one scrape, he has been working in One Eye Gully, called after him {{Image|file=01-9.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-10 24]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-14 Wednesday

1856
he lost an eye fighting, he has been very lucky but he's now hardup he spent about ₤100 about 3 weeks ago in 2 days spreeing about
14 May. Beautiful day. We washed 65 buckets to day for 5 dwt of gold. Im afraid we wont make wages this week. I think Ill get a job of old Pigott, he offered me ₤4 aweek to work for him to day. I like being my own master best. Passed the evening at Toms, Brown was there, theyve got a set of gloves, we had a set to with them Bill too much for me I knock Tom about as I like tho he has had a deal of practice. I never did practice much with them, but what I lack in science I make up in activity Bill is very down in the mouth, they cant make a living where they are at work.
[1856-05-15-Thursday] 15th. Nice day, washed 68 Buckets of dirt & got 8 dwts out of it. The ground is very poor but there is a deal of wash dirt & one man can keep another constantly washing, so its quantity and not quality I went to the library for a book this evening for Uncle
[1856-05-16-Friday] 16 May. Lovely day, only 4½ dwts to day very poor but there are many not doing so well so thats consoling, spent the evening at Black Jacks. Tom and Young Merritt was there, had a row about a {{Image|file=01-10.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-11 25]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-17 Sunday

1856
trifle. Black Jack struck me. I returned the compliment. I got a black eye, but I couldnt give him one in return, we were sperated & had a good laugh over the trifling circumstance [1856-05-17-Sunday] 17 May. only made 1 oz 10 dwt this week about £2.15. each, getting worse & worse every week, but I wont work for a master while I can make even that aweek, for a digger always has a chance of getting a good lift at once, dont know the day we may drop onto a nugget as big as my head. I knocked off work & went into Bendigo for some things we needed called at the P.O received couple of Newspapers came home & had tea then went into Bendigo again visited the Theatre saw G.V.Brooke in Richard 3rd, I have been but very seldom to a Theatre & have seen very little acting but his impersonation of the tyrant surpassed anything I could conceive of the sort my attention became so rapt I could not or would not allow my mind to wander on any other subject I saw him once before in Melbourne about four months ago in the play of Brutus —
[1856-05-18] 18th. May Sunday fine day, got in my stock of wood for the coming week. Went to the township for provisions after dinner went to Toms from there we went to his sisters (Mrs Bostocks) she is very pretty {{Image|file=01-11.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-12 26]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-19 Monday

and exactly my age Ive known her a long time, she is married to a man about 40 years of age & one of the ugliest specimens of humanity I ever looked upon, she was 15 years of age when she was married & has two children now. I spent the afternoon there, had tea, returned to Toms tent. I wrote a letter to his father for him he not being able to write Im always ready to oblige my friends & I get lots of such like jobs
[1856-05-19-Monday] 19th. May. Beautiful weather. I wonder whatever mother would say if they had such weather in Adelaide. She is always railing against Australia & talking about English weather Etc. It must be a fine country if it surpasses this for its climate. We washed 60 buckets of dirt, & got 6½ dwts “none so dusty” as Tom says — If we dont do worse I dont care In the evening I went to Toms for some tools he has. Uncle is putting in a tub bottom our old tubs for puddling are worn out in the sides by using the devil against them (a devil is a kind of a shovel with two blades & a set of spikes used for puddling clay in tubs so as to seperate the gold from the dirt, when I got home I found Uncle yarning with one of our neighbours, who turns out to be a Yorkshire man from Holmfirth, not far from where I was born (Halifax) I had a tune on my “Hurdy Gurdy” as I call it & now for bed {{Image|file=01-12.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-13 27]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-20 Tuesday

1856
[1856-05-20 Tuesday] 20th. May Been a wet miserable day rained hard all day could not work. Been hard at work repairing our tools Etc. Its a wretched life is a gold diggers in wet weather, cooped up in a small tent about 8 by 10 ft live & sleep and do everything in it, use is second nature I feel lost when I enter a house I often wonder if I shall always be a digger, our neighbours have been spending the evening with us, their tent is swamped, having no fireplace or stretchers attached to their tent
[1856-05-21 Wednesday] 21st. Been a nice day after the wet, the air is beautiful & clear & mild, we got 5½ dwts out of 80 buckets of dirt, it all came out of about 20 buckets, the rest yielding not the color In the evening I went to Franciss store for some stores, then went to Toms with the tools I borrowed, Brown was there had a set to with the gloves, afterwards read aloud to them. The Farmer of J.Forest.
[1856-05-22 Thursday] 22nd.May. Kind of Scotch mist falling all day cleared up towards evening, but went to work tho far from pleasent, coming home wet through & every thing so wet & wretched the firewood wet couldnt get the Billy to boil till late, washed 64 Buckets of dirt turning out 7¼ dwts, we shall have to look precious sharp to make anything this week In the evening I went to Tom's, for some purpose I was Boxing with Brown without the gloves I struck my hand against the slabs that {{Image|file=01-13.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-14 28]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-23 Friday

1856
form the sides of the hut, a splinter ran into my left hand, I nearly fainted in taking it out they cut my finger open to the bone to get it out. Its frightfully painful. It will be long ere it is well, washed 64 Buckets yield 7½ dwts [1856-05-23-Friday] 23rd. Been showery to day, 64 buckets for 4 dwts, my hand very sore —
[1856-05-24-Saturday] 24 Weather similar to yesterday, couldnt get to work till 8. am. I had to change jobs with Uncle to day owing to my finger being so sore, I dont think all the splinter is out. Uncle puddles & I get the stuff & carry it to the tub. I use snobs wax to my finger, got 4 dwts to day making 1 oz 7 dwts this week the weather has been so against us or else we would have done better. Went into Sandhurst, called at the PO nothing for me, gold £3.16.s0d per oz. horribly dirty & dull everything looked, met Merritt & his Brother, went home with them to their tent, he has just come from town fetched up a wife, but I dont think she is, she is a lovely little girl about 17. I wonder how the deuce he picked up with her. It was late when I got home {{Image|file=01-14.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-15 29]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-25 Sunday

1856
25th.May. Sunday, weather unsettled, rained hard in the night, made it very dirty out to day went to the Library for a Book, been a good boy! stopped at home & read, one of our neighbours dropped in & bored us with his yarns about the Tataara country where he has been living the last 12 years. [1856-05-26 Monday] 26th Weather still the same sometimes fine & at others showery. We sank a hole in the morning & got & washed 50 Buckets of dirt out of it, in the afternoon which yielded 5 dwt, not much for that quantity of dirt as it is very thick On arriving at our hut this evening we found Piggotts pigs had made sad havoc in our tent it was nearly down & blown away, they had knawed all round the bottom, and when they found their way inside they distroyed every thing that came in their path, eat our provisions. Uncle spoke to the owner about it but he took no notice of it, but Ill make it a warning to them if I only catch them about our tent again, my bed is in a nice mess. Our Scotch neighbour spent the evening with us after we had repaired & put our tent into something like order only just got finished in time, for the rain it came down in torrents our tent floor is 6 in deep in water we are compelled to sit on our stretchers which are about 2 ft from the ground, very pleasent I must say, but whats the odds so long as one's happy
27th. Been a lovely day after the rain — we found our holes full of water, took us till dinner time to get things in working order. Washed about 60 Buckets for 3½ dwts in the afternoon, we intend sinking another hole, the ground is very shallow, about 5 ft deep & about 1 ft thick of wash dirt, that is dirt supposed to be auriferous In the evening I went to Toms, read aloud to him for about 3 hours. Brown was there & listened with attention. Its rather cold to night, a little frosty {{Image|file=01-15.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-16 30]
Long Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-05-28 Wednesday

1856
28th.May. Been a lovely day. Washed 66 Buckets for 3 dwts very poor, I would leave & try somewhere else but Uncle dont care so long as he can knock out a living, there is very little enterprise in his nature. He can conceive but seldom executes — the ground is too regular I dont think there are any good deposits in the gully or else we would have come across something ere now, for we have turned over a large piece of ground. Went to the C.G.C. place for stores this evening — then to Toms & read aloud to them, poor devils, neither of them can read, Ive offered to teach Tom, but he seems to have no application —
29th. Been a wretched day, been very showery, couldnt do much work, got about 1 dwt up to 5 pm when I turned in another direction & got 8 Buckets of dirt which yielded 4¼ dwts not so bad, put us in better spirits I hope it is not a patch but will continue. Went to the Blacksmith with some picks to lay & steel — spent the evening in our own tent. Scotchman came in, his tent is blown away, came home from his work & found he had no home we helped him to build it up & lent him a pair of my blankets his own being wet & muddy. I wonder what city bred chaps would say did they have the hardships that we have to contend against in gold digging, it came on to rain hard 30th. Been a nice day, but foggy. In the morning we could scarcely see a yard in front of us, our hole did not turn so well as the sample we washed last night, the ground is very changeable. I washed 6 Buckets & it turned out nearly 7 dwt not so bad — if it will continue. After tea went to Toms, I read for them some two hours. Merritt & him have fell out, Tom & Brown have joined mates —
[1856-05-31-Saturday] 31st Been a nice day, only got 3 dwts making a total for the week 1 oz. 6 dwts about ₤2.10.0 {{Image|file=01-16.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-17 31]

Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-01 Sunday

each, worse & worse. Ill try it another week, & if with no better success Ill leave it & try somewhere else. I went to Bendigo this afternoon to sell some gold £3.16.0 per oz I bought Uncle a pair of Boots, he is afraid to go into the town for he is such a fool, he is sure to get drunk. I purchased a pair of Blankets & some good worsted socks — Went to Toms & finished the Book — he is going to remove his tent in the morning nearer to his work, came home & read a little & now for bed
1st June. A lovely day & being Sunday made it pleasent after breakfast, whilst Uncle was washing a few shirts & things I went to the Crossing place & bought some “tucker” for the coming week. Went to Toms, find he dont shift till tomorrow the drayman that was to remove him got drunk & wouldnt work on Sunday, the first time I ever heard of a man getting moral, when drunk — Tom & I took a strool to Jackass Flat for some things he left there passed a jolly evening together & bid him good luck —
2nd — Been a fine day, but looks cloudy — I went into Sandhurst for Uncle this morning. I was astonished to find all the mechanics knocked off work, having commenced a new era, in their occupations, the 8 hours movement. I like the idea tho I work 12 hours a day & have done for years, but were I a tradesman I should be an advocate for the principle, got home or to work by 9, washed some 35 Buckets of dirt & got 6 dwts — In the evening I went to the library, changed a book for Uncle, our neighbour the Holmfirth man came here drunk, he got the sack from where he was working, he half killed his “boss” for telling him to do something he didnt care about doing , commencing to rain. [1856-06-03 Tuesday] 3rd. Been a dull day. Came on a heavy shower about 11 Am got wet through felt anything but comfortable the rest of the day. Washed 45 buckets & only got 3 dwts. If it dont change or mend, Im afraid my “pile” will be long coming. Holmfirth & [as] we call him came in looking down enough, on losing his billet of £4.10.0 aweek at a puddling mill {{Image|file=01-17.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-18 32
] Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-04 Wednesday

June 1856
4th. June- Been showery, we got sick of the gully we've worked in the last 5 weeks. I came & sunk a hole near our tent (close to where we did so well last year) but it turned out a duffer. I went back to the old place & got 4 dwts out of 22 Buckets, from a hole Uncle sank I sank a hole close to his & out of 6 Buckets got 2½ dwt a better ending to the day than I anticipated from a bad beginning. Went to the store & Butcher shop in the evening our neighbour came in, chatting away as usual — 5th. Been a nice day, but foggy, done very well to day. Washed 50 Buckets turned out 18 dwt of gold Im afraid it wont last, the last tub was very poor, I went to Jessie Silwoods the Blacksmith to get some tools tinkered up our neighbours dropped in as usual I wish they would go. Im going to turn into bed, so they can take the hint if they like 6th Wet day, couldnt do much work in consequence 45 Buckets yielded nearly 6 dwts, our neighbours here again — Ive been busy all the evening mending my shirts & patching my trousers, how theyd laugh at home if they saw me 7th Been a fine day, washed 25 Buckets for 2 dwts very poor, we made 2 oz. 1 dwt this week about ₤4 each, Its best weeks work Ive had since I left Adelaide or since I came back just 9 weeks to day. I went to Sandhurst in the evening got a letter from mother, in which she states that they are thinking of coming to Melbourne. I dont much like the idea of them leaving they are pretty comfortably settled & I fancy may get on in time. In one sense I should like them in this colony we shall be much nearer each other. It costs a deal of money going & coming from Adelaide. Things seem busy in Sandhurst {{Image|file=01-18.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-19 33]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-08 Sunday

gold is the same price as last week. Holmfirth spent the evening with us, he has, got a job for Monday £4 aweek 8th. Been very showery, went to the Crossing place to make some purchases (not the thing exactly dealing on the Sabbath, but is so customary, just like a market on Sunday morning in the gully townships, tho in Sandhurst things are getting more settled Churches & Chapels are getting erected & people begin to wear polished boots & that sort of thing, for years my plan has been to give mine a good coat of grease once aweek. I suppose in a few years things will have a more civilized appearance on the diggins – I wrote a letter to Mother, Scoty posted it for me this afternoon. I have been to Toms, he lives some three miles from here, he hasnt done much as yet been busy erecting his hut & making it comfortable came away about 4 pm & paid his sister a visit, who lives near [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-36.731486,144.290519 Sydenham Gardens], stayed tea & left Tom there, came home early & have been reading ever since — 9th June. Nice day. We sank a hole each this morning, the bottom of Uncles we washed & got 5¼ dwts out of it. My finger is still very bad. I got the splinter out to day (the portion that was left in.) It has began to gather & Im afraid it will turn into a witlow, heaven forbid Ive had one once & I shall never forget the pain I suffered 10th. Cloudy day. My hole was a duffer, but I sank another one & out of 30 Buckets of dirt we got 6 dwts of gold, my finger is worse & is very painful Ive a good mind to knock off work for a short time until it heals up. Ive had a plaster of soap & sugar upon it a diggers usual remedy for anything like a gathering, raining heavy — {{Image|file=01-19.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-20 34]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-11 Wednesday

June 1856
11st. Been a miserable day. Only could work for about an hour, got 1½ dwt out of a tub of dirt. Uncle bet me there was that quantity, on weighing it he was right, so I lost 2/6. My finger is a little easier to day, it rained all night & I think its set in again for another wet night
12th Been a fine day, washed 42 Buckets, got 8 dwts out of the hole I thought was a duffer, we tried it again to day. I commenced another hole just before leaving work. I lost another 1/- over the weight of our gold with Uncle. I shall bet no more with him, he always wins, my finger is a little better. 13th. A nice day, frosty in the morning, washed 48 Buckets for 9 dwts. I would not grumble if we could always do as well — 14th — Fine day, washed 40 Buckets for 4¼ dwts thus making 1 oz 14 dwt this week, if it had been fine weather we should have done pretty well this week better than ₤3 each. This evening our neighbours & myself walked into Bendigo, visited the Shamrock Concert Room, heard splendid singers, Md Sara Flowers & several others, no charge for admittance. I believe such places are called Free & Easys in England, the proprietor always procures the best talent he can get in the colony Melbourne never could boast of such singers in one company as is to be found on Bendigo at the Shamrock I liked Rohler on his Concertina, Cornopean & flageolet is about 2 am Sunday morning now, walked home beautiful moonlight night [1856-06-15-Sunday] 15th. June. Cloudy day, got in a stock of firewood for the week. After dinner went to Ross's & took him his book back, & borrowed another. In the afternoon I helped our neighbours to put up their hut {{Image|file=01-20.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-21 35]
Pinch Gut Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-16-Monday

June 1856 16th June — Lovely day, sank a hole each, neither much a/c, washed 36 Buckets for 3½ dwts. In the evening I went to the store & to the blacksmiths – My finger nail came off to day but being a little one it dont much matter [1856-06-17-Tuesday] 17 June. Weather unsettled, cold & showery, washed 50 Buckets for 3¼ dwt, wretchedly poor work this, we have got off the run. We intend sinking to morrow & try & get onto it again, spent the evening reading James “Whim & its consequences” [1856-06-18-Wednesday] 18th Nice day, 36 buckets we washed for 2½ dwts finished reading my book like it much. Holmfirth called in to night says there is some rushes in the neighbourhood of Eaglehawk. I think Ill go & have a look at them [1856-06-19-Thursday] 19th Been a miserable wet day, didnt get to work till late, bottomed a hole, but like all the dirt we have washed lately not much account, washed 35 Buckets for 3 dwts. There is a little rush to some ground near our tent some parties I heard were doing well I took up a claim near to them & sank a hole about 5 ft deep & very hard. I shall know to morrow whether its any good or not. After dinner I went to the library to get another book for Uncle & in the evening we had both our old neighbours in here, they are thinking of going to a new rush at Sydney Flat. Two friends of mine made £200 each last week, they are the lucky ones.! [1856-06-20-Friday] 20th Been a lovely day. Uncle has been working in the same place, got & washed 24 Buckets for 1½ dwts. I bottomed my hole this morning a rank shicer. I didnt feel satisfied but turned to & sank another about 8 ft deep, just bottomed it by sun- down & tried a dish of dirt out of it, it yielded ¼ dwt {{Image|file=01-21.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-22 36]
Near Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-21-Saturday

June 1856
which is considered a payable prospect. Ill give it a good trial in the morning — Ive been reading one of Shakespeares plays, the first I ever read “Hamlet” [1856-06-21-Saturday] 21st Been a fine day, my yesterdays prospect looks cloudy, to day I washed 30 Buckets out of it turned out only 1½ dwts — I intend trying another hole, the claim bordering mine is paying well I cant see why some portion of my ground should not turn out well, we only made 15¼ dwts this week between us very poor, the poorest week Ive had since Ive been up this time, I went into the town this afternoon, got some newspapers but no letters, the rain has made the streets fearfully dirty & miserable [1856-06-22-Sunday] 22nd Cloudy day. This day Ive spent in roaming about visited two new rushes but dont think much of them, feel tired, went to the library got a Book & spent the evening reading [1856-06-23-Monday] 23rd Been a nice day. My hole like the others was a shicer or a duffer. I dont know but what Ill try another in the morning, there are some doing well alongside of the same ground. Been spending the evening playing my Concertina & reading Dr Warrens “Diary of a Physician” a work that has made a great impression on my mind, & trust I will profit by it. There is one portion relating to the fast life of a young nobleman that shocked me, but Ive witnessed scenes ten times worse on the diggins but amongst a different class — [1856-06-24-Tuesday] 24 Been foggy but fine. Uncle & I sank a hole each his was a duffer mine I think will pay us to work, we have gone back to {{Image|file=01-22.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-23 37]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-25-Wednesday

PinchGut Gully again. Im sorry we left it — we have sank 6 holes between us at the other places & didnt get 2 dwts. out of the lot. I left work early & went to the Library. Spent the evening in reading the “Comedy of Errors” — [1856-06-25-Wednesday] 25th Nice day but cloudy, washed 40 Buckets & got 4½ dwts. Went to the store & Blacksmiths our neighbours dropped in & spent the evening with us, after they left I read two acts of King Lear. A friend made me a present of 22 plays mostly Shakespeares, quite novelties to me, who has read so little & heard so much about them. I cannot conceive anything more beautiful & pathetic than some portions of his plays that Ive read — [1856-06-26-Thursday] 26th Cloudy day. I went into Uncles hole this morning, he being disgusted with it. I tried 50 Buckets of dirt & they turned out 8 dwt not so bad. Uncle has been clearing ground in front of the tent for a start, went to the library for Uncle — I finished King Lear tonight [1856-06-27-Friday] 27th Been a lovely day washed 4 tubs out of which we got 4 dwt. Our neighbours came in in a great state, they have had there tent robbed, 2 other tents ditto, lost their blankets & clothes & a little money, very pleasent! I suppose ours will be the next — wont be the first time — Jim Hall an acquaintance came in to say he has been struck up & robbed of a watch & clothes — he was in bed & was awoke by feeling something cool in his ear that turned out to be the muzzle of a pistol poor Jim he is a new chum & seems terribly frightened {{Image|file=01-23.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-24 38]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-28-Saturday

Uncle is thinking of going to Adelaide he went into Sandhurst for some things he requires he sank a hole to day, dont know what its like, we have a tub full in soak. Ive been reading Henry 8th tonight [1856-06-28-Saturday] 28th Lovely day, washed 42 Buckets, turned out 5½ dwts, making 1 oz 3 dwts for the weeks work. In the afternoon I went into Bendigo no letters at the P.O for Im surprised, I expected one to day, things look lively gold ₤3.15.3 oz I came home with Holmfirth he has got the sack dont suit, I think he is a lazy devil. I remaind at the Shamrock, they have a new comic singer called Thatcher a great favourite with the public about 2. am Sunday rather early. [1856-06-29-Sunday] 29th Lovely day didnt get up till late spent the best of the day at Gypsy Polls a woman that lives opposite, sometimes does little jobs for me, she is about 30 years old but has led a very dissolute life, she must have been a beautiful girl, her life is a strange one such scenes, she commenced life, as a draw in a hell in London & owing to a murder being committed in the place she got mixed up in it & was sent out to Australia for the benefit of her health, she led a fast life on arriving here & sunk very low, fond of drink & gambling – Ive known her win sometimes more than £100 on a Sunday afternoon & near starving ere the week was over she is always borrowing 2/6d from me. I get her to make me my flannel shirts Etc. on leaving her I went {{Image|file=01-24.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-25 39]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-06-30-Monday

to Ike Kets he was falling a tree close to his tent the fool let it fall on it & crushed it & distroyd nearly everything in it. I helped him an hour or two in putting things square again, in the evening I read another play [1856-06-30-Monday] 30th Wet day Couldnt work, wretched life. [1856-07-01-Tuesday] 1st Scotch mist all day. I was in the hole driving underground so did not feel it much Uncle got the benefit of it, washing at the tub, washed 9 tubs or 60 Buckets turned out 9 dwts one of our neighbours came bothering us he was drunk on the strength of a job he has got at £4.15.0 aweek & the 8 hours dodge I wished him to the devil, went to the store, after work, been reading a novel — [1856-07-02-Wednesday] 2nd July. Nice day, but we had one or two smart showers — washed about 10 tubs of dirt turning out 12 dwt, not so bad if it will con- -tinue, reading the “Stepmother” by James [1856-07-03-Thursday] 3rd Lovely day, washed 50 Buckets — turned out 15 dwt not so dusty. After work went to the store & blacksmiths — finished my Book [1856-07-04-Friday] 4th Weather unsettled, washed 60 Buckets yielded 6 dwts, a falling off since yesterday Several people imagine we are doing well, so this morning there was quite a rush near us but none of them struck any gold so I dont think they will bother any more about us. Scoty dropped in yarning about the old story, of his wife leaving him {{Image|file=01-25.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-26 40]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-05 Saturday

July 1856
5th. Fine day but very cold — washed 24 Buckets for 1¼ dwts, made £4.9S0d each this week — In the afternoon I went to Sandhurst, received no letter, things are busy, streets are dirty, what a disgrace to the corporation (for they have one now) I bought some clothing, called at the P O got a letter for Scoty, he is going shearing in the Portland Bay district, wants me to go with him. Bought a paper with the account of peace with Russia & so ends the Crimean War [1856-07-06-Sunday] 6th Very windy day. Been helping Uncle to pack up his swag, he leaves me, for Adelaide in the morning, settled up & find that Ive better than 5 oz gold in hand & a few pounds, so I shall be a hatter, as a digger is called that is without a mate, I dont suppose he will be away more than two months. I have been helping Jim Hall to rig up his tent, he lives near us now he is a jolly little fellow. [1856-07-07-Monday] 7th A nice day, but frosty in the morning ¼ of an inch of ice on the water I have been in the colony nearly 7 years & never saw the like before. Uncle started early this morning. Scoty our neighbour, Ive allowed to sleep in our tent he will be company for me but I dont much like him. I went to work & washed 24 dwts & got nearly 4 dwts not so bad for me, Ive no one to share it with — [1856-07-08-Tuesday] 8th Lovely day — Washed 25 Buckets & got 3 dwt I must sink a hole tomorrow. I passed a pleasent evening, reading {{Image|file=01-26.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/26}}
[https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-27 41]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-09 Wednesday

Ive been a great reader lately, Ive took quite a fancy for reading a short time ago I could not read anything but novels & very seldom even them [1856-07-09-Wednesday] 9 July — Lovely weather. I bottomed a hole to day & washed 2 tubs out of it, no gold at all in it – I went into an old hole in the afternoon & tried 4 Buckets which turned out 1½ dwts of gold not so bad, I will try it again tomorrow. In the evening I went to the store & blacksmiths had a yarn with the Gypsy [1856-07-10-Thursday] 10th Been a nice day — washed 30 Buckets & it turned out 2½ dwts. In the evening Scoty & I went to Toms, spent a jolly time of it, he is not doing much [1856-07-11-Friday] 11th Wet & miserable washed 25 Buckets & got 4½ dwts out of it. I was annoyed to find that, somebody this morning had stolen my pick & shovel. I had paid 3/- to get it steeled the night before. Curse them I wish it was down their throats who ever stole them — I paid 7/6 for the shovel but a week ago [1856-07-12-Saturday] 12th Been a nice day, drove out & washed 4 Tubs of dirt, got 2½ dwts of gold, this making about £3.5.0 this week, not so bad considering how Im situated. Scoty left to day for the Tataara country, somewhere on the overland route to Adelaide, he made me a present of his tent and tools so Im alone, Tom called this evening & is going to stop all night with me, after spending the evening pleasently together, my reading aloud to him — {{Image|file=01-27.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-28 42]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-13 Sunday

[1856-07-13-Sunday] 14th [13th] I find Ive taken a day in my date too much for last month.No! On 1 July he wrote 31 June but the 2 July entry was correct, so today, the 13th he wrongly changed the date to the 14th and continued the error to the 29th actual. On 30 July (actual), the error ended because he has two days as 30 July. Been cloudy & windy this morning, I went with Tom to the P O to post a letter, took a long strool together about the White Hills, called at his sisters then, went to his tent had a late dinner. Tom came home with me & helped me to put a fly over my tent. J.Hall called & spent the evening with us. Jim is staying the night with me [1856-07-14-Monday] 15th Nice day, sank a hole 5 ft deep this morning washed the bottom turned out 3 dwt I think Ill do better tomorrow. I went to Toms but he was out, called into C.Watkinsons hut his mate Harry Hawkins is a nice chap stayed there 2 hours came home, found Tom at my tent very comfortably asleep on my bed, I soon roused him up — [1856-07-15-Tuesday] 16th Lovely day drove out & washed 4 tubs turned out 7¼ dwts not so bad nearly 27s/d- a lot of acquaintances called in, this evening had some music & singing, tho I was hard at work making a pick handle [1856-07-16-Wednesday] 17th Been a nice day, didnt feel well to day left work at 4. pm & washed 20 Buckets turned out 5¼ dwt, nothing to grumble at £1 day not so bad, its raining, I dont think Tom will come to night [1856-07-17-Thursday] 18th Been a lovely day. Ive done very well to day I washed 24 Buckets got 6½ dwt. {{Image|file=01-28.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-29 43]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-18-Friday

July 1856
Ive been very busy, since I came home, been putting up a brush fence round the tent to break the wind. Charly Watkinson came in with his concertina, spent a pleasent evening [1856-07-18-Friday] 19th Lovely day, done first rate to day got 12¼ dwts out of 3 tubs, 8 of which I got out of 1 tub. Tom came to night & is going to stop all night. I have been working at the Breakwind nearly finished [1856-07-19-Saturday] 20th Been a nice day. Ive been lucky again to day washed 2 tubs of dirt which realized 12½ dwts, making for the week 2 oz 7 dwts, the best weeks work Ive had for a long time. I hope Ill do as well next week. Tom stayed & helped me a little this morning, went into Ben in the afternoon. In the evening Tom & I went to Mrs Bostocks. Tom left early. I remained till about daylight, keeping her company her husband being away. Tom has left Brown & is going to work by himself. Ive allowed him to grub along with me, until he gets onto something [1856-07-20-Sunday] Sunday 21st Cloudy day, didnt get up till 10 am Borrowed a crosscut saw & sawed up a tree near my tent for firewood cleaned ourselves & went to Bostocks had dinner, after which came home & made a table, better than the old box have had so long, went to Charlies in the evening, very jolly {{Image|file=01-29.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-30 44]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-21-Monday

July 1856
[1856-07-21-Monday] 22nd Cloudy day. I bottomed my hole towards evening & had time to wash a tub. I got 2 dwts out of it, a good prospect. The men in the next claim are driving onto my ground so I went this evening & worked very hard till after 10 pm to cut them off If I didnt I might lose a portion of my ground & I may be a long time before I get such another piece of ground. I feel very tired, just been writing a letter for Tom to his other sister. [1856-07-22-Tuesday] 23rd Nice day, but looks rainy just now I washed 30 Buckets & got 8 dwts, not so bad In the evening I went with Tom to his sisters calling at Charlies on our way. I bought his concertina. Late when I got home [1856-07-23-Wednesday] 24th Been a lovely day, washed 4 tubs out of which I got 3 dwts, rather poor but Ive better stuff in the hole that I know of. Went to Toms sisters stayed with her till near 10 a.m called at Charlies on my way home, playing & Boxing [1856-07-24-Thursday] 25th Been a lovely day, washed 4 tubs of dirt turned out 4 dwts, a little better – Tom got a little gold to day, he wants to join me but I cant see the force of it, he is too lazy. I like a good working chap for a mate. Im one that works hard & sticks to it, the ground that Im in, has {{Image|file=01-30.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-31 45]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-25 Friday

July 1856
been tried & left many times, all complaining it was too hard to pay. There are two men in the next claim & they can only get 5 & sometimes 4 tubs that quantity between them while I alone get out & wash 4 tubs & never less than 3 – I went to Bostocks stayed there about 2 hours & called at Charlies on my way home. Ive been think very seriously to day of going to New England there is a great rush there, many acquaintances of mine have gone & many are going, its on the Sydney side some 1200 miles from here. If I was doing nothing I would not hesitate a day Ive had a longing for a ramble for some time [1856-07-25-Friday] 26. The weather very unsettled. I sank a hole to day & got 2 tubs of the bottom which turned me out 8¼ dwts. Tom got a nugget out of the ground I gave him weighing 3 dwts. I bought it off him — we remained at home to night wrote a letter for Tom & another for a neighbour [1856-07-26-Saturday] 27th Nice day. Washed 3 tubs of which I got 5¼ dwts, making this week 1 oz 10 dwts very good. I went into Bendigo, received a letter from mother, from Melbourne, they have all come over from Adelaide & are living in Wellington St. Collingwood. I got two letters for Uncle & shall keep them until he returns or I hear from him. I put my gold into the Bank for safety to day (9 oz). I bought some clothes for Sunday. Im getting ashamed to {{Image|file=01-31.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/31}}
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Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-27 Sunday

July 1856
wear my dirty muleskin trousers on a Sabbath day people are throwing off their old notions & are beginning to get more refined in their ideas of dress & manners than formerly. I bought some medicine for Mrs Bostock, she is very ill, I went to see her this evening, there is a girl living in the next tent to her Ive met her very often she is very pretty, we took a walk together on the ranges to night [1856-07-27-Sunday] 28th Nice day. After breakfast H.Hawkins came in & Tom Seymour, stayed till noon I went to Bostocks she is much better I stayed dinner, afterwards went to some friends that live in the White Hills, (Sullivans) his wife has come back & is keeping very steady I could never imagine she was such a character as I hear she is I trust she is quite reformed had tea with them, came home early, met T Seymour, lent him a pound, I dont suppose Ill get it back in a hurry [1856-07-28-Monday] 29th Beautiful day. I wish it would rain for Ive a long way to carry my dirt to wash, washed 24 Buckets or 4 tubs out of which I got 13½ dwts the best days work Ive done for many a day. J.Hall called in the evening, He is a jolly chap. Ive been busy sewing a piece of calico all round the bottom of my tent {{Image|file=01-32.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-33 47]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-07-29 Tuesday

[1856-07-29-Tuesday] 30th Nice day, but cold, washed 5 tubs out of which I got 6½ dwts, considerably less than yesterday, left work at 5 pm & went into Sandhurst with Tom, poor fellow he has suffered from a bad tooth. I went with him to get it pulled out, it was fun to hear him hollow — & in coming home I think he got cold in it for he is in an awful way about it, spent the evening reading [1856-07-30-Wednesday] 30st Weather unsettled, washed 4 tubs & got 7 dwts out of it, not so bad, I got one bit, 1 dwt. I gave it this evening to Mrs. Bostock Tom & I went down there, & from there to Dennys rather late when I got home, & turned to & made a new slide for my cradle. Very late now 31st Lovely day, done firstrate to day, washed 18 Buckets & got 14 dwts; I didnt feel very well to day got a bad cold Etc. I sent Tom into Sandhurst to see if there were any letters for me I fully expected to hear from Uncle, he has been gone nearly a month now. In the evening Tom & I went to Bostocks. Roby lives next tent to them I always pay her a visit. I forgot to mention a surprise I got the other day, I was under the impression she lived with her brother I found out he is no relative but a man who seduced her in town & she left home to come on the diggins with him, living as {{Image|file=01-33.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-34 48]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-01 Friday

August 1856
man & wife. He is very unprincipled, & wants her to prostitute herself & give him the proceeds. I nevr could understand his plausible manner to me, she told me all this herself I believe she likes me, but my money shall never benifit him by such means. I offered her a present the other day but she refused it 1st August. Cloudy day. I hope we may have rain, we are getting short of water only got 3½ dwts to day. In the evening I went to the store for vituals. stayed at home & passed the rest of the evening reading 2nd Nice day, but cold. Im afraid my claim is worked out, got very little to day, only got about 1 dwt, making for the weeks work 2 oz 5 dwt. nearly £9.0.0 not bad Ill try it again on Monday but Im afraid its done — I went into Sandhurst & sold all my gold for £40.0.0 deposited it in the bank for safety, met Bostock went home with him, met Tom, had tea, after which we went to Sydnam gds there is a small Theatre in the centre & every Saturday night great numbers meet there & drink, & very few women are found there, we had a dance & got into a row about a girl (Roby). I fought a fellow till we got seperated, came home with her, but after seeing her home, I left & got to my own tent {{Image|file=01-34.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-35 49]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-03 Sunday

3rd A miserable day, windy & showery. After breakfast Tom & I went to his sisters, & we all went according to promise to D.Sullivan (7th White Hill) to dinner we spent the afternoon with them, & after tea all returned to Bostocks — got home by 8.Pm been reading the last two hours 4th Just such weather as yesterday but more raining, couldnt go to work till 4 pm too late to do any good, been very unwell got a stomach ache I went to a new rush along with Tom, sank a hole each, I got down 7 ft, I think it will go about 14ft to the bottom, too deep for one man to work alone so if it is any good we shall have to go mates together, There are a lot of Chinese who have got the ground around us, & I believe are doing well Remained at home to night, reading aloud for Tom, a tale called “Jack Bragg” — 5th Beautiful day, but came on wet at 4 pm had to leave work in consequence I bottomed my hole & washed 2 tubs of the bottom & didnt get the color of gold out of it, we left it, & now we are going to bottom Toms hole. C.W. & his mate Harry Hawkins spent the evening with us, went home with them & passed a jolly night in their hut, its near 1 oclock 6th Fine day, bottomed our hole 14 ft deep, a regular duffer like the other one left it & cleaned out an old hole & washed 3 tubs out of it, no good. I go to my old {{Image|file=01-35.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-36 50]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-07 Thursday

August 1856
hole again in the morning. In the evening I went down to, see Roby, H. was away we took a walk among the hills for about two hours – then called at Bostocks for my washing — 7th Very cold day, washed 5 tubs & got 2 dwts out of it. I took a walk in the afternoon to Tarry Bills Shiars Gully. Im thinking of trying some ground there. Spent the evening at Tom Doboys hut he is an old playmate of mine years ago in Adelaide, he sings, & plays the flutina very well, we spent a very pleasent evening with him came home & have been reading a little since 8th Miserable day. We went to the hole we were in yesterday & got out 4 tubs turnd out but 1½ dwt. We left it & began to sink a new hole higher up the gully. Some man, a Scotchman, wanted to bounc us out of the ground but we wouldnt have his cheek at any price but intend to stick to it. Ive been busy making an axe handle & another handle for a pick, finished the evening reading the "White Slave" 9th Been a wet day, couldnt go to work, managed between the showers to get 4 Barrows of wood. I also went to the store for some necessarys & sold the gold we got this week, 7/. apiece a smart weeks work for two men. After tea I went to Sandhurst no letters. When I came home I wrote a letter to mother. Went to Bostocks in the evening, didnt stay long, Roby walking a piece of the way back with me. Called at Charlies met Tom {{Image|file=01-36.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-37 51]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-10 Sunday

August 1856
came home, have been reading since. — [1856-08-10-Sunday] 10th Nice day but cold. After breakfast Tom & I went to Bostocks & helped him to shift his tent, near us, had dinner with them in my tent. Charlie & Harry was here also, I roasted ½ a sheep & boiled nearly a Bucket of potatoes so we had plenty to eat after, putting up their tent, which took us till dark. I then went to see Roby stopped with her till 9 pm. came home called at J.Halls, met several I knew at his tent, spent a jolly night, .11 pm 11th Unsettled weather., found on going to our claim this morning that a Cornishman had jumped it, or taken possession of it. I went to the commissioner & laid a charge against him, which cost me £2.0.0 on my return I found him willing to leave it if I would forgo the charge & he would pay half the expense of fetching the Comms, (who always has £2 quartered him before he will settle any dispute). The claim is not much a/c but still we know there is good ground near by, he had sunk a hole — we have been driving it along the boundary line so has to stop the man in the next claim who is encroaching After we went to work, Jim Hall lent us a hand we drove about 15ft altogether. I guess our neighbour will stare in the morning, when he comes to work 12th Cloudy day. Went to work early hoping to do well to day, having so much wash dirt stripped, but we were doomed to disappointment we washed several tubs & got about 11 dwts. Our {{Image|file=01-37.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-38 52]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-13 Wednesday

August 1856
neighbour was in a passion this morning on finding how we had cut him off, greedy beggar he holds 4 mens ground to his own cheek more than he is legally entitled too, he swears he'll fetch the commissioner (or warden) to us, I think he wont this afternoon, but he has a great many cases on hand & cant come to settle our dispute for a few days. If the ground dont turn out better tomorrow than to day he can have the lot. Been reading all the evening 13th, Been a lovely day, washed 6 tubs for 2 dwts, so we left the claim & went to a rush at the bottom of Eagle Hawk gully, near the Iron Stone Hills & marked out a claim, its 3 miles from here a long way to go to work, called at Charlies & had tea with him, Doby came in & he sang a few songs, he has a splendid voice Ive heard several good judges say, he has an extraordinary organ 14th Lovely day. went to Ironstone & began our hole its frightfully hard, being cement, we shall have to blast every inch of it, some people are doing very well, our claim is situated in a favourite spot, the lead of gold is supposed to come near by our claim, if it does I shall make my fortune, we called at Bostocks on our way home from work & had tea, I was surpid on getting home to hear that the person who has the next claim to us, where we worked before we went to Ironstone, had kept his word & had brought the warden out, we not being present (as we had no notice of his arriving {{Image|file=01-38.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-39 53]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-15 Friday

and didnt think anything more of the ground after abandoning it) of course was misconstrued, & the Warden without a hearing, settled the case against us, the man had to pay the £2 & he called on us to recover it (as is the custom) we wouldnt give it to him, he threatens to summons us, on us refusing to recognise the case — the opinion is that we left the ground on purpose, (what an absurdity) to avoid the trial 15th Nice day, left the tent at break of day for work, it is a good hours walk — 8 miles a day is no joke & have to do a days work, when we bottom & find it will pay We will shift our tent there, spent the evening reading — 16th Lovely day, rather warm, left work early about noon, having used all our powder (had dinner at Bostocks, where we are partially boarding) & went into Bendigo with Tom, got a letter from mother. In the evening Jim Hall called in & we went into town visited the Theatre, then went to the “Shamrock” heard some splendid singing & music, rather late when we got home — 17th A miserable day, reading in the morning in the afternoon went to Charlies, had tea & spent the evening at Bostocks 18th Another wet day, couldnt go to work — I went in Sandhurst & drew ₤30 out of the bank which I sent to Mr Hall in Adelaide to invest for me, he is the Mayor there {{Image|file=01-39.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-40 54]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-19 Tuesday

and a very old friend of the family. He has now ₤50.0.0 of mine in hand. I recd a letter from mother, all well — Came home & helpd Bostock to do some jobs. Denny Sullivan had been here during my absence, & him & Tom have gone to Piggotts Hotel drinking he shant live with me if he carries on so – Im a staunch teatoteller myself & never drink, our friend the Scotchman called for his £2 I did not give it to him — [1856-08-19-Tuesday] 19th Nice day, very late when we got to work through Tom getting drunk last night found our hole full of water, ran in during the night, bailed it out we made a windlass, which took up the whole of the day so our hole is no deeper, we will get at it in good earnest, tomorrow passed a pleasent evening reading & playing my Concertina till Denny came in drunk, poor fellow, his wife has turned out again & run away, he found one of his children at a strange place, he brought it to Bostocks, [[Rudd-2331|Faith]] ) Mrs B is taking care of it, got him to Bostocks & they made him a shakedown on the floor [1856-08-22-Friday] 22nd Some days since I continued my journal owing to some unpleasent events that have transpired
Wednesday evening on our return from work we found Mr Gillies, the man that we had the dispute with, had got a warrant out for us, & that he with two policemen had been to our tent & not finding us had gone, we spent the evening at Bostocks & was just leaving them, when in walked 2 {{Image|file=01-40.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-41 55]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-22

policemen, who read out a warrant to us, for using abusive language & maliciously injuring his claim by driving upon it, (whilst he actually had no right to) however we couldnt get out of it, Tom, he sat down on the floor & Said hed be d — d if he would walk to the watchhouse that night. I couldnt help laughing at Tom coolness, they lifted him on his feet but down he dropped again, they thought theyd get a cart but it was no use; they put the handcuffs on him at last & on promise of a drink on passing the hotel, they got him started. I was spared the indignity of being hand cuffed — we were taken to the E.Hawk watch- house, a place some 12 ft square made of rough IronBark logs, the spaces being wide enough to pass an arm through, there was a pool of water in the centre, & around the sides, a log to sit upon, rose from the ground about a foot, we had not been long there when a drunken man & woman was pushed in, they were disgusting, I tried to sleep on one of the logs, but it was so cold, I couldnt (the wind was rushing in through the gaps) — Tom & the woman kicked up an awful row, he insisted upon her undressing & going to bed like a Christian, until she pulled off her dress which he took possession of & wrapped himself up in & was soon asleep. I was amused, however day broke at last & I was agreeably surprised to hear H.Hawkins voice outside the Logs, "Holloa my hearty how are you" (he has been a sailor) he had brought a billy of coffee (which he had warmed at a diggers fire in the neighbourhood) & some sandwiches, he pushed them through the chinks to us the sentry saying nothing. I shant forget Harrys kindness, about 8.am two policemen took us out & marched us into Bendigo like two criminals {{Image|file=01-41.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-42 56]
Harry Hawkins, “Bendigo Mack” Sandhurst Logs, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-22-Friday

a distance of four miles I never felt so ashamed in my life. On our arrival in Sandhurst we were put into the “Logs” again (a similar place to the one we spent the night in but larger & surrounded by a very high palisading. About 12 am we were ushered into the courthouse (saw many faces I knew.) before the Magistrate “Old Mac” as he is called (McLauglin) & in his stern manner inquired our names. I told him mine & answered some other questions relating to my family, he did the same to Tommy who was very impertinent to him, “Mac” got into a passion & said we were two young vagabonds, he had no doubt & remanded us till the following day before ever he heard what we were indicted for, on entering the Pigsty (on a large scale) we found ourselves in the company of the most wretched looking specimens of humanity I ever looked upon, 18 in all, crowded in a place measg 14 x 20 ft. in one corner was a bucket of water & a shelf, in another corner a tub for the convenience of the prisoners, we had a pair of Blankets given us each & a loaf of bread between us for the day. I thought it was best to put a good face on the matter & soon got to know my associates there were four Chinamen for petty thieving, 1 man for a rape on his step daughter, the fellow told me all about it, said he was drunk & went into what he thought his wifes bed, & remembers no more there was also a gang of cattle stealers, one of them I knew years ago, saw him steal a horse very cleverly about 3 years ago or better. There was a nice young fellow, for murdering a Chinese at the Back creek. Towards evening Mrs Bostock fetched us a meat pie & some biscuits, whilst I {{Image|file=01-42.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-43 57]
Sandhurst Logs, Harry Hawkins, “Bendigo Mack”, 1856-08-22-Friday

was looking for a chip of wood to spread some butter on one, the other prisoners rushed my pie. Tom had a piece of it, but I didnt get a smell of it. Old Piggott came to bail me out but because he wouldnt bail Tom out, I would not agree — At 8. pm we were told to retire to our bed, the floor of the place was made of rough logs & it was like sleeping on a gridiron, however I slept very soundly, Tom on one side & a Chinaman on the other, the following morning at 10. am we were marched up to the Courthouse, when Mr. Gilles gave his evidence, which amused the court The Magistrate jumped up & said it was not a criminal case & should not have been brought before him, but to the Wardens court, he stated that Gilles had made himself liable for a charge against him for false imprisonment. The Warden (on our [http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article88052335 acquittal)] & a lawyer that we engaged [[Cutten-39|(Cutten)]] at once came out of Sandhurst to Long Gully to go over the case again on the ground, a jury was selected from the crowd & on going into the case it was proved that we had not encroached on his ground at all. A great many were present & gave such a cheer, & then hisses for the other party & to serve him out, some men took from him the ground which he held too much — The lawyer wouldnt take his fee from me, but he advised us to prosecute for false imprisonment & he conduct the case. The case wont come off for some two months & God knows where we may be or Gilles by that time). We all adjourned to Piggotts & had something to drink, had dinner at Bostocks nearly all our acquaintance made it a holiday & more than one got drunk in consequence spent the evening at Charlies very pleasently came home early, & so passed two of the most momentous days of my life in one sense — as yet {{Image|file=01-43.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-44 58]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-23 Saturday

August 1856
[1856-08-23-Saturday] 22nd Lovely day. Found 5ft of water in our hole this morning. I had to leave work early having to go into Bendigo, on coming home I cut my heel on a piece of quartz, its very sore, spent the night at Bostocks, the usual lot of neighbours being there [1856-08-24-Sunday] 23rd Very windy. Been busy during the morning in doing up our tent. We went to Charlies & had dinner, Denny & J.Hall was there. In the afternoon we went to Sydnam Gardens, it is a regular rendezvous for friends to meet on a Sunday plenty of sport, swings & gymnastic arrangements all over the grounds, and nice little summer houses & waiters running about, spent the evening at Bostocks, just been doctoring up my heel, very sore [1856-08-25-Monday] 24th Warm day, went to work early, we expect to bottom our hole in a day or two, the men in the next claim bottomed & got 5 dwts to the dish of dirt, the lead runs through their claim & I am afraid we shant be on the run, feel very tired, shall go to bed [1856-08-26-Tuesday] 25 Lovely day, work early, found our hole a little softer, got down quicker than we thought & bottomed just before we left work. I tried a dish full & didnt get the “color” of gold out of it, makes me feel very downhearted. Im having bad luck, this is the hardest hole I ever sank in my life, spent the evening at Bostocks, several there — [1856-08-28-Thursday] 27 Weather very unsettled rained in the morning couldnt get to work till late, 10. am. I left Tom at home he promised to come in 1/2 an hour but after waiting 2 hours & no signs of him I came home & found he had just gone. I wasnt {{Image|file=01-44.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-45 59]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-08-29-Friday

going after him, I went into Sandhurst, knocking about, passed the Courthouse & stayed there some time hearing the trial of the young chap that was in for murdering the Chinaman, of course I felt interested in him & stayed till dark the case being remanded, found Tom at home ill pleased at my not coming after him to work, we had some words, but I soon shut him up, been reading all the evening, didnt write yesterday log [1856-08-29-Friday] 29th Beautiful day. Went to our claim & drove it for 10 ft, couldnt find anything to pay us my heel is very sore, having to walk so far every day keeps it from healing. Tom & Denny have been away to the White Hills, looking for the latters wife, she took all Dennys money with her, & he is out of work, poor devil I pity him [1856-08-30-Saturday] 29th Warm day. Came home from work at noon, as usual on a Saturday, did not go to Sandhurst to day, feeling very tired. been busy clearing up the tent & repairing our tools, In the evening J.Hall came in for a while. Been reading since he left I intend writing to mother [1856-08-31-Sunday] 30 Lovely day, cleaned myself early & read during the morning, being alone, I was just commencing dinner when Dennys wife made her appearance looking most dissolute & half drunk, she wanted her children, I sent [[Rudd-2331|Faith ]] away with them to a neighbours, & she abused me & the rest of us shamefully. Denny came up at the time & there was such a row, he would have killed her if I hadnt stopped him, she went away at last. Denny is in an awful way, poor fellow he has had a deal to {{Image|file=01-45.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-46 60]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-09-01-Monday

put up with her, she was very young when he married her, (in Sydney) he had plenty of money at the time he owned an hotel on Bathurst & a Bakers shop & was clearing £100 per week, she acquired a taste for drink, & used to be very extravagant he sent her to Sydney, but there she was worse than ever squandering money like smoke – at length she ruined him, but he is one of those chaps that could do well anywhere, he came to Bendigo & began business & was doing well when she broke out worse than ever, drinking & prostituting herself seemed to satisfy her. Denny is only a wreck of what he was when I knew him first, he was always very steady, but having no home, he is sinking very low, he is to be pitied. Passed the evening reading — [1856-09-01-Monday] 31st Weather unsettled, drove our hole in another direction, but no use cant find anything to pay I dont think Ill try it again, left work early & went into Sandhurst, posted a letter to mother, spent the evening reading — [1856-09-02 Tuesday] 1st Sept Cloudy day, went to work with the determination if we could not get any gold to do no more in the hole tried 3 tubs & didnt get 3d of gold out of them In the evening had a look round for a place to set in tomorrow, didnt decide on any place, reading during the evening — Im half asleep. [1856-09-03-Wednesday] 2nd Went down an old hole near our tent, & tried 7 tubs out of it, got 19 dwts, very good. I hope it may continue so for a while. I want to get a few pounds Im getting very short of money, having sent {{Image|file=01-46.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-47 61]
Pinch Gut Gully, Bendigo, Campbell’s Creek (now Marong), Victoria Australia, 1856-09-04-Thursday

September 1856
my money to Mr Hall. There is a large rush at a place called Donolly about 40 miles in a N W direction from Bendigo. I know several that have gone & Ive heard since are doing very well, it is one of the largest rushes ever took place I have quite made up my mind to go and see the place, it wont cost me more than £2 to go up and down, I can walk it in a day & a half, carry my blankets, spent the evening at Bostocks [1856-09-04-Thursday] 3rd [4th] Been a nice day, 7 tubs for 4 dwts very poor, got disgusted with it so we intend to start for the new rush in the morning we can only muster £2.2s.6d between us, we intend only taking our blankets & a pick & shovel & if we think anything of the place to return & shift the tent & tools etc, who knows! , we may be lucky, faint heart never won a fair lady, I wrote a letter to Mother, Been to see Charlies & Hall, bid them goodbye. [1856-09-11-Thursday; Pinchgut Gully-Bendigo]
11th Better than a week since I last wrote, have seen a deal during that time. I kept a journal in pencil in my Pocket Book, I got home last night [1856-09-11-Thursday?] about 9 oclock after walking 40 miles in one day, & carrying a swag, something to boast about, we left here on Friday [1856-09-05] morning & thought of taking a near cut from Myers Flat to Campbells Creek. I had the direction but Tom who professed to know all about the road persisted in saying we were wrong. I, like a {{Image|file=01-47.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-48 62]
Campbell’s Creek (now Marong), Jones’s Creek, Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1856-09-07 Sunday

fool allowed myself to be led by him, after losing our selves & wandering in a forest till near 3 pm we found ourselves close to where we started from. I insisted on having my way & after an hours walk made Campbells Creek. Tom wanted to camp but I would go on to the [http://goo.gl/maps/JrsZizhkiMG2 Lagoon] about 4 miles further, it was quite dark when we camped, we had a small calico tent with us, which we soon pitched, boiled our billy, & cooked our supper, there were hundreds of people on the road all bound for the new rush, every discription of vehicle, men with their families tramping along, I pitied many. What an infatuation there is in gold digging, when men will sacrifice everything & all thats dear to them, position friends & the comforts of civilized life in the pursuit, we gathered some dry leaves to sleep upon & slept soundly, [1856-09-06-Saturday] rose at break of day, had breakfast & was soon on the road again the road laid over about 15 miles of stony plain & hardly a drop of water to be found, then made the Loddon, called a river, surprised to find a fine Bridge over it camped & had dinner, after it was over, we walked for about 8 miles further over a low rough hilly country, till we came to the [http://goo.gl/maps/Fs9RtrK5GWN2 Jones Creek] diggings where we camped felt very tired & footsore, some fellows camped near us who were returning from the rush they told us they thought it was a good rush but it was very deep sinking, & cost some money to sink. [1856-09-07-Sunday-Dunolly] We walked into Donolly rush at the [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-36.828389,143.735556 head] of the lead the next {{Image|file=01-48.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-49 63]
Dunolly, Sandy Creek (now Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1856-09-08

Sept 1856
morning (Sunday) found hundreds of tents in every direction & thousands of men knocking about, we pitched our tent the first thing, & walked down the lead, (which commences in a narrow gully then widens out onto a flat) until we came to a large calico township with stores & public houses & Restaurants on each side of a street near a mile in length I never saw such a scene in my life, thousands knocking about, I saw many I knew, we went to a Restaurant & paid 2/. for a dinner the best I ever had on the diggins & the cheapest for a Restaurant, not four weeks ago all the place had been a forest with hardly a soul for miles & now there is a lead averaging 6 claims wide for nearly 2 miles in length, to the uninitiated it must appear wonderful I was soon convinced it was no place for a man without money all the shallow ground was taken up, the lead is now in deep wet sinking & requires a lot of money. I wish Id gone when I first heard of it – 3 weeks ago — we packed up our tent on Monday [1856-09-08] morning & startd home but hearing of a rush near [http://goo.gl/maps/TKqx6feDsjm Sandy Creek] & being but a few miles out of the road we thought we would go & see it, found the place about dinner time, camped & began to sink a hole but it struck a spring of water & couldnt bottom it. There were nearly 8000 people on the ground. I could hear of no body {{Image|file=01-49.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-50 64]
Dunolly, Old Dunolly (now Goldsborough), Victoria Australia, 1856-9-10-Wednesday

getting any gold, so we, next morning [1856-09-09] Tuesday, packed up & started again for Bendigo after walking about 4 miles, being then 10 from Donolly, I thought we had better go back again & give it a trial, (I mean to Donolly) Tom wasnt agreeable for a time, but I thought it looked so foolish after coming such a distance & never trying the place — He at length agreed made there about dark the same night – pitched our tent, in the evening, we went to the township, found everything very busy, public houses, free & easys & lots dancing rooms crowded. We went into several places, visited Tom Currans Boxing Saloon put on the gloves with some fellow who got very quarrelsome, had to leave quick or we would have been half murdered. We had a dance & left about 12 oclock missed our way & got somewhere about 4 miles from our tent wandering about near [https://maps.google.com/maps?q=-36.8219956,143.6562737 old Donolly]. We lit a fire & got a few bushes together & made a Break- wind & slept out for the night. [1856-9-10-Wednesday; Goldsborough & Dunolly] At break of day, we woke up perishing with cold & quite wet with dew. On looking round we found that in the dark we had come up a wrong gully, however we soon made for our tent & cooked some breakfast felt all right — we started away to look at the digging went down several deserted holes (shallow ones) but couldnt find anything to pay, we bought a rope & went down a 50 foot hole & drove a few feet putting our mullock into an old drive. We washed a good prospect out of one or two dishes of dirt, but not having a windlass to work it, or tub & cradle to wash the stuff & no money to buy them {{Image|file=01-50.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-51 65],
Dunolly, Pinch Gut Gully, Victoria Australia, 1856-09-11-Thursday

& we couldnt borrow any, we were compelled to make up our minds to return to Bendigo, so the next morning [1856-09-11-Thursday; Dunolly] at peep o day we made a start, being a lovely morning we enjoyed the first few miles, it was really beautiful, to see the dew on the ground like diamonds & hear the birds chirping & singing in every direction but when we got onto the plains in the middle of the day & got tired & thirsty, every thing like pleasurable emotions vanished – two poor miserable wretches we appeared to be on our arrival here last night. [1856-09-11-Thursday — continued.] To day we have been making arrangements to go to the rush again Bostock, Charlie Watkinson, & H. Hawkins, & a man that works with Bostock, called Mucksom & myself are all going mates. We intend hiring a dray to take up our tools Mrs B & family, she is to cook for us, we purpose leaving here on Monday. Ive sold my tent for £2, & Tom Seymour promised to give me the £1 he borrowed & I have about ₤1 by me so I shall manage. Im as well off as the rest of my mates – Tom Rudd not having any money took a job this morning at a puddling mill for a fortnight till he gets a few pounds & then he will follow us. I went to the Post Of recd a letter from mother. I knocked about a great deal to day, bidding people good bye, saw Roby, she swears she'll come after me, she is leading a miserable life, I advised her to go to Melbourne & offered to pay her fare she got into an awful way at the idea, said shed sooner die than disgrace her family by her presence, poor thing – what a good wife she would have made, if she hadnt commited herself, very warmhearted & affectionate & very industrious, she makes a deal of money working with her needle {{Image|file=01-51.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-52 66]
Pinch Gut Gully: Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1856-09-12 Friday

12th.Sept 1856. Very warm day, went & got my tools done up at the Blacksmith & went fossicking about went into an old hole & took out a pillar, 2 tubs & got 1½ dwts out of them. Knocked off early & made 2 pickhandles, Jim Hall came in the evening I gave him several Books & things that I cant sell or take with me. I wrote a letter to Mother — [1856-09-13-Saturday] 13 Beautiful day. I went & got 2 tubs & washed ½ dwt out of it, got disgusted, took my Boots to mend & went into Sandhurst, wrote a note to Uncle, Bought a few things I require, came home early saw Seymour he cant pay me the pound, but let me have a watch for the money. I would rather have the money just now It was 12 oclock when I left Bostocks to night several acquaintances was there – I dont think I will write my journal until I arrive at our journeys end – wherever I may be. "Sandy Creek" [1856-09-16-Tuesday; Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla)] 15th. We left Bendigo on [1856-09-14] Sunday about dinner time & made the “Log Inn” the first night, where we camped came on wet, made it very miserable, sleeping out Mrs B & youngsters slept under the cart with a tarpaulin over them, we made a large fire – we made Sandy Creek last night, 9 miles from Donolly, & hearing that its not turning out very well & not being very flush of money, we thought we had better settle down here & try the summer, its a very central place & we shall always be within a convenient distance if any rush that may break out, we have been very busy to day, getting poles out of the bush for our tents & to erect Bunks to sleep upon, very primitive arrangements they are. It appears to be a very quiet place not many people, there are two public houses {{Image|file=01-52.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-53 67]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1856-09-17 Wednesday

one called the Rising Sun, the other the Sandy Creek hotel & some three or four stores. We are told the ground in the neighbourhood is very patchy, they think nothing of working weeks after weeks in a hole for nothing, but then they may come upon a nugget that will pay them for a 12 months bad luck, a man told me this afternoon he worked for 6 months & didnt make half enough to keep him, was in debt everywhere, but at last he came on a piece 12 lbs weight, worth between 500 & 600 pounds Stg. I hope we may fall on such a piece [1856-09-17-Wednesday] 16th. Nice day. First thing this morning Jim & I went about to find a place to set into work, left the others at home, making a windlasses & doing jobs about our encampment, we tried a place called Doctors Creek but could get nothing to pay. In the evening I wrote to Tom & informed him of our change of plans [1856-09-18-Thursday] 17th. Been a wet day. Tried several old holes but could get nothing to pay. I suppose we shall in time I & Harry have been reading aloud to the rest of the party, now for Bed [1856-09-19-Friday] 18th. Been a nice day, working very hard, got no gold. Spent the evening reading – [1856-09-20-Saturday] 19th. Been very hot, we all took a walk this morn to Donolly to have a look at the place, a great many have left it, we saw no inducement to go there, it is astonishing the change that has taken place, arrived home tired enough, about 5.pm spent the evening reading & playing my concertina. [1856-09-21-Sunday] 19th. Sultry day, Sunday, Charlie & I took a long walk in the Bush. Killed a large black snake, we saw plenty of Kangaroos & K.rats, but not having any dogs or guns, we {{Image|file=01-53.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-54 68]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1856-09-22 Monday

could not catch them, spent the evening reading [1856-09-22-Monday] 20th. Warm day, sunk 2 holes one of them was a duffer the other we washed 6 tubs out of it & got 6 dwts, not much between 5 of us. Spent the evening reading [1856-09-23-Tuesday] 21st. Wet day, miserable working, found 6 ft of water in our hole, bailed it out & got 14 dwts of gold out of it, a little better, there was 1 piece 2½ dwts amongst it. In the evening Tom Doboy & his father called on us, there are going to Donolly, but will stop the night — with us, we felled a tree close to our tent after leaving work, & split a lot of props & caps for our hole, spent the evening pleasently singing & playing Etc [1856-09-24-Wednesday] 22 Warm day, we all set to & sank a paddock or a hole on a large scale about 10 ft x 12 – bottomed it about 4 pm & washed 3½ dwts out of it I think it will pay us, been learning a game called Cribbage this evening, the only game of cards that I fancy is worth learning, making a good counter [1856-09-25-Thursday] 23rd. Windy day. Washed 20 tubs & got 19 dwts out of them, amongst it was a nugget weighing 4 dwts. Spent my evening as usual [1856-09-26-Friday] 24 Warm day. We made 10 dwt to day, making for the week 2 oz 12 dwt between us. Tom Doby returned from Donolly to night, going back to Bendg Charlie & I intend returning with him for some things we left behind us. We start in the morning — [1856-09-29-Monday-written Sandy Creek] 27th. Back home again. I left here last Saturday [1856-09-27] morning & got into Bendigo by 2 pm 30 miles in 8½ hours is not bad walking, had dinner at Tom Dobys tent. Jim & I went into Sandhurst, {{Image|file=01-54.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-55 69]
Bendigo, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1856-10-01 Wednesday

called at the P.O. no letters. I met Tom Rudd & Denny I wanted them to return back with me, but they dont feel inclined, things seems very busy. I had tea in a Restaurant & meeting some folks I know we all agred to go to the Shamrock Concert Hall. We enjoyed ourselves very well, they have some fresh singers since I left Mdm Carandina, Sara Flowers, Mrs & Mr Hancock, Howson & Thatcher the comic singer, after it was over we went to a pie shop and eat an anormous quantity of pies it got late, we went to the hotel they wanted 4/. each for a bed, wouldnt give it, went to another place & got one for 2/6 — & better bed into the bargain. Sunday [1856-09-28-Long Gully] morning I went to Long gully & spent the day in Halls hut, Doboy was playing his flutina & we read & sang & altogether passed a jolly day In the evening I went to see Roby she was so glad to see me. I stayed with her about two hours, she wanted me to take her back with me. I slept at Halls all night. This morning, Monday, we left Bendigo about 8. am, got home about 8 P.m very tired and fatigued, for I had to carry a good load up with me [1856-10-01-Wednesday] 28th. Cold day, got 12½ dwts to day spent the evening as usual [1856-10-02-Wednesday; Sandy Creek] 29th. Been a hot day. Commenced another big hole to day, not bottomed yet, we got 3 dwts to day out of some stuff left from yesterday. Been reading [1856-10-03-Friday; Sandy Creek] 30th Sept 1856. Nice day, bottomed our hole, & got 12 dwts. & a nugget 3½ dwts. Tom & Denny arrived from Bendigo this evening, they are going to Donolly will take a spell for a day or two with us, before they go [1856-10-04-Saturday; Sandy Creek] 1st October Nice day. Harry & I are the washers the next week in the claim, we washed 21 tubs of dirt which realized 12 dwts, poor work for 5 men, but this place is not like Bendigo for {{Image|file=01-55.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-56 70]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1856-10-05 Sunday

October 1856
there it runs regular, but here it lies in patches for instance to day we washed nearly 21 tubs & hardly got 1 dwts out of them, then the last tub turned out more than 10 dwts or ½ oz. Went to the Frenchmans store at dinner time found he has a library, got a Book from him. Been reading during the evening & playing cribbage Been a miserable day, couldnt get to work, we made 2 oz between us for the week, only just enough to pay for our Board & washing, we bought a Weekly Herald & paid 2/6 for it, an awful price for a paper, we could get the same on Bendigo for 1/. spent the day in reading Etc I went to the store for Faithey, Tom & Denny dont go till tomorrow [1856-10-05-Sunday] Beautiful day, Sunday. we spent the day running & jumping, wrestling & other gymnastic sports, went out shooting in the woods, for a few hours in the afternoon In the evening I wrote to Mother, informing where I was & what I was doing. I went to the Frenchmans store, the P.O. is attached to it, I posted my letter. I was playing cricket for a a short time & fell & hurt myself nearly put my wrist out, served me right for breaking the Sabbath. Tom & Denny are still here [1856-10-06-Monday] 6th. Warm day, my wrist pained me very much. I sunk a hole but was a long while about it, the others have been sinking but got on to nothing – Tom & Denny left us this morning, spent the evening reading {{Image|file=01-56.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-57 71]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla) & somewhere in the bush, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-08 Wednesday

7th. Warm day, worked hard but got no gold — Tom Doboy & his father returned from Donolly they are going back to Bendigo to work in Epson near Sandhurst, passed the evening reading aloud 8th. Nice day, didnt bottom our paddock, Tom & Denny returned from Donolly to day having got sick of it. Tom intends going to Bendigo with Doby Denny has a sore foot & will remain with us for a spell, till its better, they say that while in Donolly they heard there was a letter there for me at the P.O. I suppose mother thinking I was on Donolly sent it there — the worst of it, the P.O. is 5 miles from the township nearly 15 miles from here to go across the Bush — Ill go go on Sunday for it if its fine 9th. Nice day, bottomed our paddock washed 20 tubs & only got 10 dwts out of it. Bad work – Ive been reading "Euguen Aram" this evening 10th. Warm day, washed 17 tubs for 12 dwts left work early, passed the evening as usual 11th. Nice day, worked very hard, but couldnt get anything till Harry went into an old hole & knocked out a few tubs, out of which we got 17 dwts, but unfortunately there is no more left, making for the week 2 oz 7 dwts, which just cleared our expenses In the evening sold our gold & bought stores for the coming week [1856-10-12-Sunday; Sandy Creek & somewhere in the bush] 12th. Nice day cleaned myself early – Charlie & I took a strool on a voyage of {{Image|file=01-57.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-58 72]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla) and somewhere in the bush, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-13 Monday

discovery, to try & find some better place to set into work – met a man with whom we got into conversation with, he told us of a place some miles in the bush, where he heard some men where working on the quiet, he was going & we went with him, found the place after a deal of trouble, liked the look of it I think will try a hole there to morrow spent the evening as usual [1856-10-13-Monday-somewhere in the bush] 13th. Sultry day. We all went to the place we visited yesterday, I sank 3 holes, it was late when we got to the bottom of them, & Im sorry to say they were all duffers, how very mortifying, got home late & felt tired, spent the evening reading [1856-10-14-Tuesday; Sandy Creek] 14th. Cloudy. scatterd about, trying different places, got 3 dwts between us, passed the evening as usual [1856-10-15-Wednesday] 15. Cold windy day. Worked very hard got no gold, intend to try the old spot in the morning but the other 3 got 7 dwt, how unfortunate we are. I never had such bad luck in my life before. Been reading one of Bulwers novels, he is a favourite author of mine [1856-10-16-Thursday] 16th. Unsettled weather. sank a hole each to day., only bottomed one, a duffer. In the evening I wrote a long letter for Charlie to his mother in England, he left home 12 years ago, & has never heard a word of them since nor has he ever wrote to them. [1856-10-17-Friday] 17th. Lovely day. bottomed our hole, got about 1 dwt amongst us, we shall have to get credit from the storekeeper if we dont {{Image|file=01-58.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-59 73]
Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-18-Saturday

do better, & I dont like the idea. Been reading & writing all the evening [1856-10-18-Saturday; Sandy Creek] 18th. Windy day. we got out of a hole Bostock sank. About 1 oz of gold, the rest of us got nothing making for the weeks work 1 oz 17 dwts or ₤1.6.6 each just enough to pay our expenses I went to the P.O. & got a letter from mother, in- forming me that Uncle had returnd from Adelaide & intended coming to Bendigo, his son my couzin Henry is with him, I went to the Library & got a Book called the “Prime Minister” which I like exceedingly [1856-10-19-Sunday; Sandy Creek] 19th. Sultry day. I left here early this morning for Donolly, cut across the Bush, went there & Back in 8 hours, 30 miles, got the letter I alluded to last week, found my last one from mother of a later date, it was frightfully hot in the bush, I found the sandflies & mosquitoes very troublesome my face is like a person that has had the small pox. I came through Jones Creek I feel very tired, shall soon get to bed (Sunday) [1856-10-20-Monday; Sandy Creek] 20th Nice day. bad luck again, got 1½ dwts between us, spent the evening playing the Concertina & reading. I went to the Store & posted a letter to mother, had a yarn with Jim by the fire [1856-10-21-Tuesday] 21st Very hot day. got 5 dwts between us. In the evening I went to see a little rush near the store there is only one hole bottomed & it is paying I marked out a claim, & intend to sink a hole upon it in the morning [1856-10-22-Wednesday; Sandy Creek] 22nd. Windy day. went to the rush, it was very shallow ground sunk several holes, got about 1 dwts. Charlie & Jim went down to the Rising Sun & got drunk I carried Charlie home on my back & got him to bed, but {{Image|file=01-59.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-60 74]
Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-23-Thursday

Jim began to kick up a row, we left him in his tent & went to the store Harry & Bostock having gone to a neighbours Faithey was left alone & the infernal sweep during our absence tried to take libertys with Faith. I got home just in time to catch him insulting her. I hit him between the eyes which rather astonished him, he got up bullying & rushed me, but I was too smart for him & didnt I walk into him, the wretch, to think how we took him in & helped him when he was starving. It was one day on Bendigo. Faith saw a man sitting under a Bush, she took him food & allowed him to stay in the tent, & got him a job so that he got a few pounds together. I never liked the fellow, he was transported (for killing a man in a fight at Plymouth) for 14 years he & I are tent mates, he is in bed just opposite me not 2 foot, he is asleep now & a more hidious face I never looked upon, covered with blood from my blow. Im afraid Ill have a Black eye in the morning where he managed to hit me, I dont like the idea of sleeping in the same tent with him he is such a nasty treacherous fellow, well God forgive him if he injures me [1856-10-23-Thursday; Sandy Creek] 23rd Been a wet day. Could not work, stayed in the tent nearly all day, its miserable being in a tent during wet weather [1856-10-24-Friday; Sandy Creek] 24th Nice day. bottomed one hole & got 3 dwts we have another nearly down, we are in great hopes /, it is between 2 others claims that are paying well, spent the evening read aloud one of Coopers novels — {{Image|file=01-60.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-61 75]
Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-25-Saturday

October 1856 Sandy Creek
[1856-10-25-Saturday; Sandy Creek] 25th. Warm day. Our hole was a duffer but we intend to drive it, we got 1½ dwts to day making for the week 19 dwt, worse & worse – Bostock & I left work early felled a large tree got about 4 loads of firewood to the tent. went to the P.O this evening. Borrowed Volney "Rise & fall of Empires". I have read a little of it & am greatly interested Im very partial to history — [1856-10-26-Sunday; Sandy Creek] 26th. Hot day. After Breakfast I took a bag & went into the bush & cut a lot of grass to make a mattress with, cleaned out my tent & other little jobs Etc. took a strool in the afternoon among the hills Im fond of going out alone climbing over hills & drag ging opossom out of hollow trees & looking for snakes, this neighbourhood is the worst place I ever was in Australia for snakes & lizards of every variety There is a strange old fellow lives near us, who has a very large collection of such like, he cures & stuffs them, & then sends them home to England I often go to see him, he is a Christian & I believe an excellent scholar, & from some remarks he made to me, has {{Red|*}}for some portion of his life mixed in first class society he got quite excited on my asking him to relate some portion of his history, he stopped me at once by the most chilling reserve & didnt speak to me for some days, I was very sorry for I always feel improved after being in his company – I spent the rest of the day in reading, Volney – [1856-10-27-Monday; Sandy Creek] 27th. Lovely day. got about 1½ dwts to day drove our hole some 15 ft, havn't knocked down our wash dirt. We are getting downhearted on our luck if I had £2 I would put my swag on my back & take to the roads & try my fortune in some other neighbourhood {{Image|file=01-61.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-62 76]
Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-28-Tuesday

October 1856. Sandy Creek
[1856-10-28-Tuesday; Sandy Creek] 28th. Sultry day. drove our hole 6 ft further, could not get the color of gold, out of several tubs we washed, the other 3 got 5 dwt out of another hole. Charlie & I began 2 holes among the old ground in the gully, one of them went through into an old drive, so that was a call – spent the night as usual [1856-10-29-Wednesday; Sandy Creek] 29th. Very hot, sank 2 duffers to day 10 ft deep each, we got between us about 4 dwts. I think we are going to have a thunder storm to night the wind is howling through the trees. I hope our tent wont be blown away. [1856-10-30-Thursday; Sandy Creek] 30th. Been a beautiful day, but last night was awful, Bostock tent being the largest was blown down Faith & the children were in the rain which fell in torrents, nearly naked, we arose & dressed ourselves & they spent the rest of the night in my tent whilst us men put up their tent again, miserable work, drenched to the skin & the wind howling, we could scarcely see what we were doing it was so dark, we had to take advantag of the flashes of lightning, however the storm blew over by daylight & we soon got things to right the bedding we got dried to day. there was a large gum tree about 5 ft in diameter about 100 yards from the tent was struck with the lightning & shivered into splinters & scattered some pieces 200 yards away. I never heard such a noise in my life & or witnessed such a scene — it was late when we got to work, got 6 dwts between us, I received a letter from mother with a deal of consolation in it Etc which was very acceptable, she dont know what gold digging is, she informed me that Uncle had left town & had gone to Bendigo — I suppose he is there now. {{Image|file=01-62.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-63 77]
Sandy Creek, Nuggety or near Nuggety Gully and Half Way Diggins, Victoria Australia, 1856-10-31-Friday

31st Oct. 1856. Hot day, a friend of ours told us this morning of some men at work on the sly in the Bush I accompanied him & after a deal of trouble came upon a nice little likely looking gully in which we found 8 men at work, of course they looked surprised on seeing us, were anything but civil, however I sank 2 holes, being very shallow but couldnt get anything to pay out of them I tried another & got a payable prospect from a dish of dirt, so Ill try it again to morrow 1st November 1856. Sultry day, went out with Jim to the place we where [sic] at yesterday. Jim sank a duffer I tried my hole & washed 1 dwt out of 4 dishes of dirt, it would pay us well if there was any water but there is none so we were compelled to abandon it — unfortunately the road is too rough to cart the stuff could not get a horse within miles of the place. I found a lot of {{Red|*}}muscisa & eat a lot of native cherries made us both sick, we made 1 oz of gold this week, sick of commenting upon our bad luck — Been reading ''Night & Morning'' one of Bulwers work — 2nd. Hot day. cleaned my tent & greased my Boots Etc, then took a long strool with the others to look at some gullies in the ranges where some men are at work on the sly, we took a dish with us & tried several places but could find nothing to pay, we struck across the Bush & came on to another gully, being Sunday nobody was there, we went down the holes found the tools, also a tub of dirt in soak which we washed & found 1 dwts of gold, we filled the tub with some stuff that was lying near & put the gold back again so the men that belongs to it will not be any the wiser for our searching We intend to return in the morning & try the place, its half way between Sandy Creek & Newbridge on the Loddon. {{Image|file=01-63.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-64 78]
Sandy Creek, Nuggety or near Nuggety Gully and Half Way Diggins, 1856-11-03-Monday

November 1856. Sandy Creek-
3rd Warm day. rose early Jim & I getting our things ready, while the others got the tools done up, got to the place which we call the Half way diggins, we took a tent & blankets & tossed up who should remain out there it fell on Jim Mucksom & I, we got here by 8 oclock put up the tent & got everything ready for work, in about an hours time, we sank one or two holes bottomed rather late in the afternoon, we washed 5½ dwts, not so bad a beginning considering the last time {{Red|*}}we {{Red|*}}had I like remaining here, for its a long way to walk nights & morning from Sandy Creek. Jim & I cut a lot of grass & spread it over the floor of our tent to sleep upon, we eat outside in the open air. The others are to fetch our vituals to us every morning. In the evening we took a strool in the Bush, caught an opossum we found we had brought no candles, but finding an old sardine Box by the road side, I converted it into what a Bushman calls a slush lamp, filled it half full with clay, & filled it up with grease & stuck a wick into it made of a bit of calico twisted round a bit of stick, to keep it perpendicular — not a very pleasent smell attached to it, but having long used them I am accustomed to it.
4th Warm day. this is a fearful place for mosquitoes never saw any thing to equal it they are in myriads we had to gather cattle dung this morning & burn it in the tent when having filled with smoke we intend to turn into Bed, anything but agreeable, we workd very hard to day, got 11 dwts to day, a good many diggers paid us a visit some stopped & sunk hole but I dont know they were much account so they left – left work early, spent the evening reading a Book Harry got for me from the Library, Homers Iliad Ive taken quite a liking for poetry since I read Shakespeares plays. I can scarcely comprehend this work, having no knowledge of mythology & knowing very little of ancient history, but what gathered from Volneys work {{Image|file=01-64.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-65 79]
Half Way Diggins, Blackfellow’s Camp Newbridge, Victoria Australia, 1856-11-05-Wednesday

5th Windy day. got 8½ dwts between us. In the evening Jim & I took a long strool in the Bush didnt get Back till late visited a Blackfellows encampment, found them by a little creek that runs in to the Loddon, their cursed dogs bit my leg. We caught a young possum but it got away again — 6th Lovely day. got 15 dwts to day, sank several holes & worked very hard. In the evening Jim & I went into the Bush — for some long poles to make whips for hoisting up the dirt out of our holes 7th Hot day. hard work working in the boiling sun, the thermometer at about 100^º in the shade I am sure — we got 12 dwts to day, the ground is very poor, but we wash a great quantity of dirt In the evening we gathered a lot of firewood — its very lonely being stuck out here we dont see a soul scarcely from morning till night, but our selves, sometimes an odd traveller going along the road
8th Cloudy day, but Sultry we got 9 dwts to day left work at dinner time, being Saturday. Jim & I went to Sandy Creek along with the rest making about 3 oz for the week, I shall stay on Sandy Creek to night. I want to write a letter & one for Faithey, I do the writing for all hands Harry is the only other mate I have that can read & write — so as to be under -stood. I took a walk about the quartz ranges & fancy there will be some rich reefs discovered here sometime, but it will take some Capital to work it — [1856-11-09-Sunday] 9th Been raining nearly all day, not sorry for we are beginning to be very short of water. I went to the P.O. this morning & received a letter from Mother in which was enclosed ₤3 for me In my last to her I begged she would send me {{Image|file=01-65.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-66 80]
Half Way Diggins, Newbridge, Victoria Australia, 1856-11-10-Tuesday

money for I was very short. It is the first time I ever received money from other sources than my own, I got a letter from Uncle saying he was hardup, I wrote to him & sent him ₤l
I got a Book from the Library this afternoon after which Jim & I started for the Halfway – found our tent & tools all right. We had two very unpleasent visitors towards evening, on horseback they were half drunk or pretended to be there has been several highway robberies on the roads in this neighbourhood, & I was sure from the discription I have heard of the robbers that these fellows are the identicals, they lit their pipes & asked us a number of questions, & begged some tea from us to which we gave them. I had been cleaning my gun which is a very good one & it was loaded one of the chaps wanted to see it, but I excused & after some banter they rode away, much to our relief, for one of them Gypsy Smith, as he is called is a bloodthirsty wretch & thinks no more of shooting a man than I would of a possum If I was positive of them I could have brought him down nicely, as he was riding away There is ₤200 reward for him & ₤100 for his mate — my mate Jim knew the other fellow, was in the same gang of convicts once with him in Tasmania, but he didnt recognise him. I fancy he is an awful coward, what strange companions one gets on the diggins [1856-11-10-Monday; Half Way Diggins] 10th Nice day, got 4 dwts, very poor, passed the evening reading. Harry brought my concertina down this morning, so it helps to murder time [1856-11-11-Tuesday; Half Way Diggins] 11th Lovely day. got 4 dwts to day, heard of a rush in the hills so 3 went away to find the place returned in the evening without finding it, their clothes torn & as black as sweeps through pushing their way through the scrub {{Image|file=01-66.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-67 81]
Half Way Diggins Tarnagulla and rush near Nuggety 1856-11-12 Wednesday

Nov 1856 Sandy Creek
12th Nice day, but a poor one for us, only got 7 dwts, we could do better but we are short of water for washing — Lovely evening, our tent is under a large shady tree in such a pretty, spot, I like to lay full length on the grass after supper & listen to Birds singing & whistling away, before returning to rest, what a lesson we may learn from them. I wonder how people could live in a town, where they are no Forests & Birds, where you can roam about at will & none to control you, perfectly independent, as regards appearance I fancy I should feel lost were I ever to live in a town, Im sure I should always be pining for the Bush again — Been reading Homer under difficulties, swarms of sandflies in the tent. [1856-11-13-Thursday] 13th Nice day. got about 12 dwts to day Spent my evening as usual reading [1856-11-14-Friday; Half Way Diggins] 14 Hot day, got 5 dwt very poor, spent the evening playing cribbage with Jim he beat me hollow he is a very good player – I would sooner have read, but it looks so bad, Jim cant read & he sits with no one to yarn with while Im enjoying myself & he dont understand or care what I like in the shape of literature. [1856-11-15-Saturday; Half Way Diggins & rush near Nuggety] 15th Frightfully hot, working in the sun, Im covered with sun burns, if Ive a little hole in my flannel Im sure to be burnt — got no gold to day. Some Germans told us of a rush near Nuggety Gully some 3 miles from this, near to where Jim & I went to a fortnight ago we went to see the place found a large number of people there there are some doing very well. I receivd a letter from Tom Rudd, he is still on Bendigo doing very badly, he tells me Uncle is at work in Pinch Gut again, & thinks he is doing well {{Image|file=01-67.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-68 82]
Half Way Diggins; Sandy Creek, Nuggety & Jim Crow, 1856-11-16

Nov 1856. Sandy Creek
some more news of no importance — spent the evening reading & playing crib, we made 1 oz 13 dwts this week, wretched work 16th Hot Sultry day, Jim & I went to the tents on our camp at Sandy Creek this morning, had Breakfast. I went to the P.O. got a long affectionate letter from Mother, which I answered, we all took a walk to [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-36.8104227,143.847894 Nuggety Gully] & from there to [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-36.7670095,143.8521365 Jim Crow gully], saw two men I used to know in Bendigo, they have done very well in the place but not lately, they are thinking of leaving spent the afternoon with Faith, wrote a letter for her to her father in Tasmania, poor Faith this hard life is making changes in her, when I knew her first some 4 years ago she was just married & about 15 years old, a lovely girl but quite uncul tivated having been born in the Bush & never lived in a town, she is the best tempered & good natured creature that ever lived, she thinks she can never do enough for one, her husband is nearly 40 & so different from her, she & I are the same age born on the same day. After tea Jim & I returned home — I fancy there is no sleep for us to night the mosquitoes are keeping up such a row. 17th Another smoker, had a thunder storm in the afternoon that cleared the atmosphere very little rain, the lightning was fearful it struck a tree near our tent & shivered off the limbs as neat as possible. 2 of our party went to Nuggety this morning, the 3 of us got 5½ dwts — in the evening Jim & I collected some dung to smoke mosquitoes out of our tent {{Image|file=01-68.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-69 83]
Half Way Diggins, Victoria Australia, 1856-11-18 Tuesday

18th Lovely day. lost 2 hours through another thunder storm, but no rain unfortunately. We are getting very short of water, got 12½ dwts to day just after dark 2 men called at our tent, I suppose the light attracted them, they were drunk having been to Sandy Creek & losing their way in the dark couldnt find their tent which is situated about a mile from here, in some thick scrub they are splitters & have a saw pit in the Bush we allowed them to sleep with us on the ground under the shelter of our tent, they didnt require Blankets being so warm — I hate drunken men, being a teatotellar from principle 19th Nice day. our tent mates left us this morning after Breakfast, they were very grateful to us, got 10 dwts to day, sank 2 holes no good — passed the evening as usual — 20th Nice day. sunk 2 duffers to day — we managed to get 7½ dwts out of another hole — 21st Beautiful day. we got 15¼ dwts to day, our water is nearly done, if we have no rain will have to try some other place where there is some — spent the evening as usual [Saturday] 22nd Nice day. worked until 12 oclock went into Sandy Creek, & squared up our week work which amounted to ₤2.3.0. a man, owing to some dispute arising about our Board, we have been paying 3/- per week to Mrs Bostock, & we think we can board ourselves more reasonably, so Harry & Charlie as they have a tent to themselves will board together. Jim & I will do the same. I wouldnt have left her, but we are doing so poorly that we sometimes cant pay our Board, & we know she has to get {{Image|file=01-69.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-70 84]
Half Way Diggins, Tarnagulla, 1856-11-23-Sunday

things on credit so, it would not be fair to let her be liable for our sakes. In the evening I went to the store for rations, & got a Book at the time 23rd Warm day. I went up to Sandy Creek early this morning. Tom Rudd came here from Bendigo this morning, he is going to work along with us, he states that Uncle has been doing very well lately, but he has been drinking & spreeing awfully, he wants me to keep him in order, my tent mate Jim met an acquaintance & they went to the public house I suppose they will get drunk, what a fool he has but £1 in the world. I swear I wont keep him if he spends it. I returned home alone — 24th Hot day. my mates came to work this morning without Jim, He had just come to the tent when they left, drunk! we got 11¼ dwt to day. Im left alone to night again, rather lonely, it is a very solitary place. I took a strool in the Bush & visited the blacks to night 25th Another hot day. we got 14½ dwts to day. Jim is not going to work any more with us, Im very glad. Harry is going to stay with me to night, we played cribbage & read, I like him better than any of my other mates. Ive taken quite a dislike to Tom he is so low. Im afraid he will never be anything, he got mixed up with a bad lot on Bendigo & I dont think he left it very honorably. Im trying to change my opinions about a good many {{Image|file=01-70.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-71 85]
Half Way Diggins, Tarnagulla, Victoria Australia, 1856-11-26 Wednesday

Nov 1856 Sandy Creek
old acquaintances, & my ideas on many different subjects than I formerly had — Ive read a deal lately a different class of works than I used to be fond of — 26th Hot day, we made 13½ dwts, Tom is going to stay to night with me Harry couldnt stand the mosquitoes. In the evening Tom & I went on to the road & had a foot race, he used to be a good runner, but Im as good, my other mate Charlie used to be a professional runner, & he has given me good practice lately. I can beat every one I tried yet in walking, but Ive no taste for running. We afterwards went into the Bush & caught Opossums. 27th Warm day, had a shower about 4 Pm that gave us a little water, we only got 2 dwt to day Jim Mucksom called this evening for his Blankets he is going on the tramp, he is hard-up hasnt a penny or a crust. I gave him 5/. all the money I was possessed of In the evening Tom & I went out pigeon shooting got a nice couple, lit a fire & cooked them “a la black fellows” on the coals they were firstrate, read a little aloud 28th Nice day, got 2 dwts. In the evening Tom & I went out shooting but it was too late spent the evening reading the “Last of the Barons” all about Kings & Queens, Dukes & Lords Etc I like it the least of any I have read of Bulwers — [Saturday] 29th Fine day, we got about 8 dwts, making for the week 2 oz 14 dwt left work at 12 came to Sandy Creek through the scrub saw 3 kangaroos & a little joey, sold our gold my mates except Bostock & I got drunk at Stubbs “Rising Sun”. I slept all night at Bs {{Image|file=01-71.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-72 86]
Sandy Creek Half Way Diggins, Victoria Australia, 1856-11-30 Sunday

Nov 1856 Sandy Creek
30th Cold miserable day. in the morning 3 of us went to the new rush at the bottom of Sandy Creek – I like the look of the place — we found 2 possum in a hollow tree, which I sold to a Chinaman for 3/. on passing Stubbs we went in to spend the morning, & found Charley there drunk Bostock & I carried him home But Harry remained & he got drunk, He came home & fell asleep & after an hour or so got up all right Tom & I went to the P.O. I got a letter from Mother & one from my sister Mary the first ever she wrote me, they want me to come home at X mas, but Im afraid if I do no better than I am at present, I shant. Tom & I went this evening & helped ourselves to a Bucket & a shovel out of a hole, we were in want of them & couldnt buy any — [1856-12-01-Monday; Half Way Diggins] 1st December 1856. Nice day. got 4½ dwts I wrote a letter to my brother Edward who lives on a station at [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-37.3411947,142.1920439 Fiery Creek], some 40 or 50 miles from here. We went out opossum hunting. Been reading a little 2nd Cloudy day. got 10 dwts, Harry stayd here to night. We went out possum hunting got two. I wrote to Mother this evening — 3rd Pleasent day, got 2½ dwts, very poor but at the close of the day we dropped onto a little patch of 14¼ dwts out of 1 tubs, not a bad days work for 3 men & our other two mates got disgusted with the hole they sank on Sandy Creek & came & joined us at the close of the day, they are going to look for another place in the morning for water is nearly done here. If no rain falls we {{Image|file=01-72.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-73 87]
Half Way Diggins, Tarnagulla/Newbridge, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-04-Thursday

shall have to leave this next week. Harry has gone home, we spent the evening as usual 4th Very hot day, got 3 dwts — I came home to night, left Harry in my place (Bostock & Charley, have set in at Jim Crow Gully not bottomed yet In the evening I went to the store for rations with Charlie — I spent the rest of the evening reading the Insurgent Chief aloud [1856-12-05-Friday; Half Way Diggins (packing up) & Sandy Creek] 5th Sultry day thunder storm this afternoon but very little rain, got 1 dwt of gold, where disgusted with the place & have agreed to leave it altogether, we brought home a load of things intend fetching the rest in the morning passed the evening reading — [1856-12-06-Saturday; left Half Way] 6th Hot day, we made 1 oz 13 dwts this week. Went down & brought up the rest of our things, got a lift in a Bullock dray. sold our gold just 25/. each. In the afternoon I went to store for rations for next week, then felled a tree & got a lot of firewood to the tent passed the evening reading. [1856-12-07-Sunday; Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla)] 7th Nice day went to the P.O. no letters. I went to the store & bought a pair of Boots & a handkerchief, just spent a guinea -, we went for a walk to see where to set in to tomorrow, we are thinking of going to Nuggety Flat & some of us are going to start in Mother Chisholm Gully, (what a name) if Bostock dont get onto anything, passed the evening reading — I forgot to mention that on our road home we met a man named Hammersly a friend of Bostocks he has a broken arm, he is going to live at Bostocks, Charley got on the spree Tom & I went down to fetch him home, but he was so stubborn we were obliged to leave him there — curse the drink I say {{Image|file=01-73.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-74 88]
Mother Chisholm’s, Spain and Stubb’s Gullies, Tarnagulla. 1856-12-08-Monday

[1856-12-08-Monday; Mother Chisholms Flat] 8th Cloudy day. Been sinking holes all day didnt bottom any. Charley has been lushing all day, he came home looking very seedy. Been reading all the evening — [1856-12-09-Tuesday; Mother Chisholms Flat] 9th Windy day. bottomed one of our holes, no good, we intend driving it tomorrow. Been reading & playing cribbage Etc [1856-12-10; Mother Chisholms Flat] 10th Nice day, worked very hard, but couldnt get any gold, driving the holes we bottomed yesterday [1856-12-11-Thursday; Mother Chisholms Gully] 11th Cold windy day. Been driving our holes but could not get onto anything, we intend to cart a load down to the creek & try it tomorrow [1856-12-12-Friday; Mother Chisholms Flat] 12th Nice day. got to work early, & paid 5/- for the cartage of a load of dirt, which turned out 4½ dwts, which so disgusted us of the "Flat" that we dont intend to try it again, we took a strool round in the afternoon, on the lookout for a place to set in we intend trying a gully near the tent, called Spain Gully, spent the evening as usual [1856-12-13-Saturday; Stubbs Gully] 13th Sank 2 holes to day but didnt bottom, left early, as usual on Saturday. I received a letter from mother, all well, informs me of the departure for England of Mrs & Miss Hall of Adelaide. the Boys, Joe & Willy went home sometime ago. Mr H. will feel lonely. I wish my mother could go home, she cant reconcile herself to this colony [1856-12-14-Sunday; Sandy Creek] 14th Sultry day. Never left the tent to day until evening when I went to Kennedys the storekeeper to ask him to give us credit next week. I have no money & heavens only knows when I shall have any. Its the first time I ever got credit from a storekeeper. I remember some years ago on Fryers Creek living a week on dry Biscuit & water. I couldnt get {{Image|file=01-74.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-75 89]
Stubb’s Gully, Doctor’s Creek, Tarnagulla, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-15-Monday

get trust those days) A week afterwards I made more than £30 & I was only 13 years of age such is the uncertainty of gold digging. Ive read a great deal to day – Sunday — [1856-12-15-Monday; Stubbs Gully] 15th Been very hot — we got 6 dwts to day after doing an unusually hard days work sunk a hole each about 9 ft deep & washed nearly 20 tubs of dirt, we are all very downhearted at our ill-luck & wish ourselves away I posted a letter to day for Faith & one for myself spent the evening as usual [1856-12-16-Tuesday; Stubbs Gully] 16th Very hot, got 2 dwt between us – we left Stubbs Gully, we are going to try Doctors Creek tomorrow, our mate Charlie got sick of Sandy Creek, he intends going to Bendigo again in a day or two. Im sorry he is going but I dont blame him, Been reading “Susan Hoply or the Adventures of a Servant Girl” [1856-12-17-Wednesday; Doctors Creek] 17th Little cooler to day, Bostock & I sank a hole in Doctors Creek 10 ft deep not the color of gold in it Harry & Tom sank one 9 ft deep, no better — another profitless day — spent the evening reading [1856-12-18-Thursday; Doctors Creek (gully)] 18th Cloudy & windy — Charlie left us this morning for Bendigo I accompanied him a short distance on the road, I wish Id gone with him — B & I sank a hole 10 ft deep no good Harry & Tom sank another & dropped through into an old drive, he (Tom) was nearly drowned — I went to the store (Browns) & got some stores on "tick," came home & played cards & read a little [1856-12-19-Friday; Doctors Creek then Stubbs Gully?] 19th Hot sultry day. we sank 2 more holes this morning, no good so we left Doctors & set into the spot we began first at in the gully {{Image|file=01-75.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-76 90]
Stubb’s Gully, Tarnagulla, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-20-Saturday

Been busy clearing off the ground, got 2 holes nearly down, In the evening I took a strool with Jack Hammersly. Ive been reading since. Its very sultry I think we are going to have a thunder storm, the mosquitoes are in myriads, we call them the beauties of Sandy Creek [1856-12-20-Saturday; Stubbs Gully?] 20th Little cooler to day, we got 1 dwt to day making for the week about 10½ dwts or 10/. a man there is only four of us now left work early & went to the P.O. & also to the store payed what I owed & got a few things for next week. I wrote a note to Uncle this evening, Bostock is going to leave us in the morning, he is a stonemason by trade & thinks it best to try & get work at his trade we have promised to look after his wife & little ones until he sends for them — I think it is the best thing he could do for its very untow[ard] to see young children & a woman only half fed & just existing — we have been unlucky poor Faith, she is the gayest of the lot to all appearances [1856-12-21-Sunday; Sandy Creek] 21st Very hot to day. Bostock left this morn In the morning I went & got in a lot of wood & carried up to the tent nearly a load of water (water is very scarce). I spent the afternoon in a neighbours tent there are three of them, decent young fellows, but hardup like our- selves. In the evening I went to the store & got some Bread & Butter on "tick" for Faith I suppose theyll be paid for some time {{Image|file=01-76.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-77 91]
Stubb’s Gully,Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-22 Monday

December 1856. Sandy Creek
22nd Been very hot. We worked in Stubbs Gully to day washed about 8 tubs & got 1 dwt enough to break a mans heart, toiling away, & living as we do for such poor pay — Spent the evening reading one of Marryats Novels “Percival Keene”, a lively story [1856-12-23-Tuesday] 23rd Still hot, I sunk a hole 6ft deep & washed several tubs & got ¼ dwt so I left it, my other mates got about 1 dwt. Been reading my Book aloud this evening, for the benefit of the others — [1856-12-24-Wednesday] 24th Been very hot. got a few pennyweights of gold sufficient to clear off our account at the store Spent the evening in reading — [1856-12-25-Thursday] 25th Christmas day. Went to the hole I sunk yesterday in the hope of getting a bit of gold to spend at the sports tomorrow, got about 5 dwts about 7/- each — left work early & went to the store for some rations Faithey made a fine pudding. Our neighbours, Bill Nuttal & Dick Yoe found a nugget they sold for £6. to day the[y] insisted upon sharing it, as we were helping another at work, they are bent upon having as much fun as possible during the X mas — We all went to Stubbs, & have been dancing & singing & playing Skittles Its now about 1 oclock I left them there about 10 pm & came home & sat with Faithey — [1856-12-26-Friday] 26 Been very hot to day or yesterday I should say for its about 4. am. After Breakfast we all went down to Stubbs, to witness & take part in sports, the large room was cleared & made into a dancing saloon, so we had plenty of dancing, the most amusing thing was to see so few women. I only saw four. I stuck to Miss {{Image|file=01-77.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-78 92]
Tarnagulla, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-27 Saturday

Stubbs all day. I think she got too much wine to drink or I got too much ginger beer into my head, for we've agreed to bolt away together next week, she got quite spoony. I won a pound & a bottle of gin climbing the greasy pole Dick Yoa won £2 a second prize in a wrestling match, he also won ₤1 for being the best hornpipe dancer, that com- -peted for the prize. Tom Rudd won 12/. came in 2nd in a running match — I met an old playmate of mine that hasnt seen me for 5 years, J.Pascoe, he heard my name & accosted me, I was glad to see him, we spent a good deal of time together talking about old times Etc. My mates, of course, got drunk & between us we spent all our money. [1856-12-27-Saturday] 27th Very late when I got up, I found my mates had got a 30 oz Cask of B.Beer by the tent, I dont know where they got it from, but Im under the impression they stole it, for they burnt the cask. We spent the day at Stubbs rose the wind by Jack Hammersly borrowing £2 on his watch which we spent, I sticking to my Ginger Beer but I lost a few games of skittles & cards & of course had to stump up. I won at one time £6 but managed to lose it again. I left my mates at Stubbs, & came home by 7 pm had a good wash & have been reading to Faithey since. [1856-12-28-Sunday] 28th Been cold & windy. late when we rose after Breakfast. Harry & I went to the hills & brought in a lot of firewood. Our neighbours came in with a Bottle of Brandy. Tom drank the most of it, got quarrelsome & gave me a bit of his mind as he calls it, accused me of cohabiting with his sister Faith. I soon shut {{Image|file=01-78.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-79 93]
Jim Crow & Nuggety Gullies, Tarnagulla, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-29 Monday

him up, by a smack in the mouth which he attempted to return, but he is a rank coward & funked on it. they got him to bed, he rose a little while since & came into me palavering & wishing to make it up — I know him to be very treacherous so Ill be on my guard with him for the future. [1856-12-29-Monday; Sandy Creek] 29th Hot wind blowing to day, far from being agreeable. Not having any place to go to work in took a cruise about the hills & gullies on the look, about, Jim Crow, Nuggety Gully & Stony Creek, there are plenty of places that would pay us to work if there was only water, but it is scarce this time of the year, we worked in the afternoon in a gully near the tent, got 1 dwt. Spent the evening as usual yarning & reading Etc [1856-12-30-Tuesday; Sandy Creek] 30th Just such another day as yesterday — I find Ive got a severe cold & sore throat, the effects of X mas work. Our neighbours came in this morning. We joined mates with them, thus making our party 6 in all, they are a good sort of a set. Bill Nuttal came from Manchester D.Yoe is a Plymouth chap, Been a Man of Wars man, was in the China War, & has a medal for gallant conduct there & one for saving a ships passengers & crew on the coast of Africa, by swimming from the shore with a line to the vesel whilst on the rocks, he has been captain of a smuggler in the East Indies, & came here 2 years ago as 1st mate of a large ship & was induced to leave by the alluring prospect of making a fortune by gold digging, he is a reckless dare devil sort of a chap, fond of his grog & fond of {{Image|file=01-79.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-80 94]
Prospecting, Tarnagulla, Victoria Australia, 1856-12-31-Wednesday

everything in the way of athletic sports the other chap, Jack (I dont know his other name) is a simple kind of a slow coach (for a native) but a good workman — I hope they may change our luck. We set in this afternoon together & sank three holes & took out some old pillars but got no gold. Spent the evening reading — [1856-12-31-Wednesday; Sandy Creek] 31st Cloudy day, with a few light showers – Harry & Dick heard of a new rush in the bush & spent nearly all day looking for it, but came back knocked up, nearly dead for a drink of water, & could not find the place. I think its a hoax. The rest of us got 12 dwts to day, not before it was wanted for the storekeeper has determined to give us no more credit, some man left the place yesterday in his debt — In the evening we went to the P.O. no letter for me we sold our gold for £2.10.0 Faith got a letter from her husband, contg a ₤1.0.0. he hasnt got into constant work yet, but hopes to do so next week, when he will send for her, he stated in his letter he often sees my Uncle, who is shocked to hear that I have become such a drunkard, me that has never tasted anythg stronger than water, this last 6 years & dont know the taste of Ale or spirits. I wonder who could have been so kind as to spread such a report about me — We paid our debts at the store to day. Been reading Paradise Lost. {{Image|file=01-80.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-81 95]
Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-01-Thursday

==1857== 1st.January 1857. Sandy Creek -
News years day, but we have been compelled to work upon it. I trust I shall have better luck this year than last, tho I didnt do so bad for the first nine months of it. I went to Adelaide which cost me over ₤25. & left 20 pounds with Mr Hall & have since sent home £30, making ₤50 to my credit now in his hands — We got 14 dwts to day, 4 of us the other 2 went to the halfway diggins & sank a hole but not having a tub were unable to try it they got a good prospect out of a dish of dirt 1 dwts, theyll try it tomorrow. Bill & I went to the Store and sold our gold in the evening 2nd Nice day. We worked very hard to day but got something for it, made 1 oz 6 dwt the best six days work weve had since we came onto Sandy Creek. Tom had a row with his sister Faith, about a trifle, was going to strike her but Harry stopped him, he packed up his swag & came to me for his share of the days work (Im cashier) which I gave him, I dont think he went far for he came back about 9. pm looking black as thunder, he wanted to quarrel with me. Harry & Dick got up this morning about 4 am & went to Catos Station to find another rush, another hoax they came back about 3 pm tired enough having walked better than 30 miles 3rd Cloudy day, but we had a slight thunder storm in the evening, but unfortunately no rain, we got 16 dwts to day, making for the week 3 oz. 10 dwts the best week work {{Image|file=01-81.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-82 96]
Stubb’s Gully, Tarnagulla, Mt. Hope Rumours, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-04-Sunday

weve had since we came on the cursed place – We left work early & did a lot of jobs about the place. I went to the Snobs for a pair of Boots, not done of course, no dependence to be placed in them. My mates brought a bottle of Cognac in this evening, been playing cards Etc & been pretty jolly [1857-01-04-Sunday; Sandy Creek] 4th Warm day. Johnnie Pascoe came here to see me before I was up, he stayed with me all day In the afternoon Tom & he & I went to Stubbs had some Ginger Beer (he is a tetoteller) & sigars went to see a lot of other young chaps, a regular rowdy lot, spent the afternoon playing single stick & Boxing, running & jumping Etc. Tom & I saw Johnni home he lives more than 2 miles from here. I went to the store on my return home for rations We heard of a rush to a place called Mount Hope, about 100 miles from here, where they are digging out gold like potatoes of course its exaggerated, Its in a locality where no gold has been found before a great many have passed through this way from the Western diggins to it I was speaking to some men this evening that are camped by us, they are from Chinamans Flat. They dont know where the place is, but that its somewhere near the junction of the Loddon & Murray Rivers we are thinking of letting 2 of our lot go to see the place & if its any good to send {{Image|file=01-82.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-83 97]
Stubb’s Gully, Tarnagulla, Newbridge, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-05-Monday

for the rest, but none of them like the idea of going £1 is all the money we have & its fearful work travelling over plains this time of the year, no water, & the weather so scorching hot. Ive been about the track some years ago in search of horses, & know the kind of country it is, large level plains, about 10 miles across & then a belt of timber & so on & very little water Ive offered to go if one of the others will start – well see what morning will bring forth — [1857-01-05-Monday; Sandy Creek] Monday morning 5.am. 5th Jan. Bill Nuttal & I are going to Mount Hope, we start directly [1857-01-11; Sunday; back at Sandy Creek] 11th Jany 1857 A week since I continued my journal — I will try & remember how the time was spent, though there are portions that can never be blotted from memory [1857-01-05-Monday-Continued; Sandy Creek, Newbridge, Cato’s Station] [The following narative appears to be 7 days, but it was only 5 days] We left Sandy Creek last Monday morning following in the wake of some others, bound like ourselves to Mount Hope. After a sharp walk of better than an hour, we made Newbridge (Loddon) where we found some 3000 people — all bound for the rush, on making enquiries, nobody appeared to have any idea which way to go, no one had heard any positive news concerning the place, with the exception of those from Chinamans Flat, who stated that a Storekeeper called Page, spread the {{Image|file=01-83.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-84 98]
Newbridge; Cato's Station; Serpentine, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-06-Tuesday

report that he had received a letter from an old friend stating that he had found gold in great quantities near Mount Hope, & begged him to go up at once & take with him, as many stores as he could, he pulled down his store & hired 6 Bullock Teams & loaded them with stores & grog.- well! We didnt leave Newbridge till about 3.Pm, when Pages son came up, & read to us the direction, we [were] to follow the Loddon for about 30 miles until we came to the Serpentine Hotel (a small bush inn on the road from Bendigo to Mount Kerang) from there to strike across the plains to Mount Hope. well! On the strength of this nearly all made a move — Bill & I pushed on for about 10 miles as far as Catos Station – where we camped amidst about 200 others, several of whom we knew, we passed a merry night, being moonlight we hunted possums, [1857-01-06-Tuesday; Serpentine] we started first thing next morning, being frightfully hot, one blessing there was not want of water. We reached the Serpentine by about 4 pm, found by night a vast assemblage of people — Bill & I camped & made enquiries about continuing our journey, but found that every body was beginning to think it was a [https://trove.nla.gov.au/list/100744 hoax]. Page came up at dark & camped & began to sell his stores at a most exorbitant rate, flour 2/6 lb & a nobbler 1/6. I bought 4 lb of flour of him though we had bread in our swag to last us another day, but nothing else, we bought ½ lb of Butter which was like oil, through the heat & put it in a Bottle, had nothing to eat but Bread & Butter that day & was sparing with it {{Image|file=01-84.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-85 99]
Serpentine, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-07-Wednesday

next morning Wednesday, we thought of starting on the plains in the direction we were told Mt Hope was situated, when just as we were starting a party that had gone the day before returned with the body of a man that had perished for want of water, the weather being so hot, it made us reflect, so we remained all day at our camp, living on Bread about 1 lb between us, we bought a small Box of Sardines for which we paid Mr Page 3/. & 5/. for 2 lb or pannikins of flour. We made up our minds to start in the morning, & chance it at daybreak. [1857-01-08-Thursday?; Serpentine] We folded up our swag, leaving our tent & some other things we thought we could do without, buried under some stones while Bill was engaged in the task I turned tea & mixing some of our flour with water, baked some cakes on the ashes, filled our “Billy” with water & started, we were afraid to drink any of it till noon, we found it half empty & the rest was so hot, it made me sick to drink it. We saw some timber a few miles ahead, where we thought we’d find some water but we were doomed to disappointment, it was nearly dark when we camped having walked we supposed 25 miles, tired & footsore & fearfully thirsty. Bill chews tobacco, which excites the saliva for a while. I was bad enough but Im sure he was worse, however we slept soundly but Bill said his throat was on fire. [1857-01-09-Friday?] In the morning we started again but couldnt eat anything, we found after {{Image|file=01-85.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-86 100]
Attempted Trek to Mt. Hope, via Serpentine, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-08 Circa

walking till 10. am a distance of about 7 or 8 miles a dry creek, but not a drop of water to be seen, the creek didnt run in the direction we were going, but we had abandoned our intention of going forward & only wished to get back poor Bill sat down & cried, it was the first time he ever was in such a strait & had never been much left to his own resources — All his fortitude deserted him, I felt strong in his weakness & after a deal of persuading I got him up again we followed the creek further down some 2 more miles & found no water, I felt ready to drop it was so hot But Bill sat down & I couldnt get him up. I lost my temper & kicked him till I got him up again it was now about 3.Pm we pushed on down the creek. I at last saw a kangaroo track. It put new life in me, for I was sure there must be water about. We walked on (Bill half dead) & at length saw some recent kangaroo steps followed them a short distance, they led us to what had once been a water hole, but owing to the heat of the weather & long drought, there was scarcely any left in it, not above 6 Buckets full, & such water!, quite blue, through the gum leaves that was in it, however we drank it, as if t'were nectar. We met several others like ourselves, but had not been so long without water we had been 30 hours & not tasted water walking over plains under a broiling sun (about 100º in the shade). We got a handkerchief & strained some of the water into our "Billy" & made a little tea & camped for the night. I fell asleep as soon as I had {{Image|file=01-86.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-87 101]
Plains of Serpentine, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-09Circa

finished feeling hot & feverish. [1857-01-10 Saturday?] I awoke & found the sun about an hour high, & regular hot day it turned out to be. Bill & I felt very weak & faint, tho we had slept sound we hadnt taken of our clothes but laid down on the grass with our heads on our swags We didnt know where we were but I was sure the creek must lead into the Loddon, so we followed it & found my conjecture right, reached the [https://earth.google.com/web/@-36.30993025,143.88153992,112.62693799a,1759.50019854d,35y,0h,60t,0r River] by about 1 Pm & oh! didnt we feel the blessing of good water we had a bath, which refreshed us, for the skin on our arms, faces & necks was all in ridges, where the sun had scorched us, we soon found the road to the Serpentine Hotel, we arrived there about 4 pm. found a great number of people still there. We noticed a great crowd of people together, on nearing them, we found the crowd in a very excited state, they had erected a stage on a Bullock dray, under the limb of a tree & upon it was Mr Page, he had been found guilty by judge Lynch, & a jury of everybody, of grossly deceiving the public, by spreading a report that had no foundation & had led to most disastrous consequences (3 Bodies had been brought in from the plains dead.). I saw 1 swollen up an awful size) he was sentenced to be hung & while the mob were fixing the rope Young Page rushed through the crowd with a revolver in his hand & leading a horse, which his father lost no time in mounting & riding aft upon. It saved his life for the mob were in an awful state, however everything he left behind became public property, & then ensued such a scene as I never witnessed before nor do I hope to see again, everybody wanted the drink & such fighting & scrambling. I saw a man hit another {{Image|file=01-87.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-88 102]
Serpentine; Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1857-01-09

on the head with a bottle, he dropped insensible with a piece of glass sticking in his head (I heard this evening that the man died) numbers got drunk others running about with Butter on shovels & some trying on Boots & trousers. I found a revolver which I stuck to & 2 or 3 pairs of socks. Bill got a bottle of
of gin & along with some other fellow got pretty drunk nearly every body packed up & started homewards or backwards for 9/l0ths had their homes on their backs All our provisions were done & we 30 miles from home & half dead from exhaustion the effects of the last 2 days exertions, the night was fine, and after getting our things we had planted I insisted upon starting on our road home. Bill wouldnt budge, but I threatened to leave him, which had the effect of getting him up we left the place about 8 pm & trudged on till about 11. Pm when we laid down on the grass making our swags into a pillow & slept soundly till about 6 Friday morning, went to the river & had a bath & continued our journey, there were hundreds of people returning we gave our last shilling to a man for a biscuit which we divided, that only whet our appetites, we reached Newbridge about noon, & got home about 2 pm & so passed five of the most trying days in my life we hadnt tasted anything but Bread since we left & the last 3 days, not 3 lb between us. Bill weighed himself to day, he has lost 20 lb in weight & I have lost 14 lb. I was 10 stone last Sunday & to day I could hardly draw 9- didnt we eat! when we got back yesterday & to day, we didnt go to work to day, but in the afternoon I went with Jack Hammersly to Nuggety Gully, where his wife is living, she ran away from him about 2 months ago & has been living with a mulatto, she took a lot of money & some other {{Image|file=01-88.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-89 103]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1857-01-11 (written)

valuables with her, which he wanted to recover — we had such fun (or I had) we hid ourselves in the Bushes near their hut & ascertained that the "darkie" wasnt home. I went up to the hut & told her a person wanted to see her, & pointed out the place where Jack was, she went to see him, & I popped into the hut & knowing what things were Jacks I soon wrapped them up, a gold watch & chain & a broach & several other nick knacks. I wasnt 5 minutes in the place, before I was out again & by going a round in the bush she didnt observe me. I soon met Jack & gave him the things he didnt remain long but packed up his swag & started for Bendigo this evening taking, with him a letter for Bostock from Faith stating her desire to join him as soon as possible — My mates got 4 oz 3 dwt for the week which they divided of course — I am going to continue my journal from this date weekly, for the future — 1857-01-18-Sunday; Sandy Creek] 18th Weather very hot. Been at work at the same place my mates were at last week, but only got 2 oz. 19 dwts between us, not much for 6 men – There has been a rush on the Flat near the place we were at before X mas. We sank a hole, but no good – Mrs. B. got a letter from her husband. Charlie & him are working in a quarry on Bendigo, he is going to send for her next week — J.Pascoe called to day staid tea. Tom & I went home with him, & on our way home Tom met an old lady that he knew & I left him with her. Spent the evening reading — [1857-01-23-Friday; Sandy Creek; the Flat] 23rd Weather very warm. My reason in writing my log to night, Friday) is that I am going to Bendigo in the morning. Tom went there on Wednesday & returned with a dray he'd borrowed to take his sister & her traps down — Bostock is in a job £4.10.0 aweek, which is better than digging {{Image|file=01-89.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-90 104]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla); Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1857-02-01

Jany 1857. Sandy Creek Harry & I are going with them & help him as much as possible, we will get down in a day. We have been working on the Flat this week, but only got 14 dwts. But Harry hurt his hand & was not able to work, he was taking a walk yesterday & looking over a heap of dirt he found a nugget, weighing 1 oz 16 dwts — lucky- it helped to make up the weeks work, water is very scarce, I wish we had some rain — [1857-02-01-Sunday; Sandy Creek, Ironbark (Bendigo)] 1st February. 9 days since I continued my journal we left here for Bendigo yesterday week & got there the same night. We camped in Ironbark Gully where we met Bostock, (he was very Cool to me. It appears Jack Hammersly who we kept for 2 months told him, a pack of lies concerning Faith & I. If I see the fellow again Ill give him something to talk about) we helped them to put up their tent for the night. I went into Sandhurst, about 9.Pm visited the Concert Room, heard some good singing met many old friends. I got a bed in the Shamrock Hotel (4/-) got out to Bostocks next morning for Breakfast, spent the forenoon in erecting their tent In the afternoon Harry & I went over to Long Gully saw J.Hall, & Grundy, & several others old friends they were very glad to see us, we called to see my Uncle, found him half drunk & my cousin Harry (the lame boy) very miserable on his account they told me they had been very lucky, But Uncle spent it as fast as they got it, he gave me the £1.0.0 back I sent to him some weeks back — I didnt remain long with them, had tea at Bostocks, after which we went back to Piggotts Cambridgeshire Arms & stayed there all night In the morning [1857-01-26-Monday ] I went to see Uncle again {{Image|file=01-90.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-91 105]
Bendigo; Sandy Creek, Victoria Australia, 1857-01-26-Monday

Feby 1857 Sandy Creek
he told me about Mary Ann eloping with Pete & a lot more of his affairs not worth alluding too On leaving them I met Harry, we thought of starting for home, but as we wanted a few things we went into Sandhurst, bought some Boots, met Tom Doby & being very hot we made up our minds not to return until Tuesday, we spent the day playing Billiards & lounging about smoking Etc In the afternoon we went to see D.Sullivan, his wife has returned to him again & they are living very comfortable together. We promised to spend the evening with them , we left & had tea at Bostocks, after which we left the night was fearfully dark & in crossing IronBark Gully Harry fell into a sludge hole, up to his neck. I in trying to get him out fell in also & if it had not been for a man passing & hearing us, who ran at once to some tents close by we would have lost our lives, sludge is not like water you cant keep yourself afloat, but it seems to suck one down — Nice objects we appeared on going back to Bostocks, we had to strip off everything & wash our clothes, we made a large fire & by about 2 am next morning had them dry again we left about 7.Pm, & got back here by dark without meeting anything to interest us much on the road, a few miles the other side of Newbridge there are two graves in the bush, near the road side, I always thought they belonged to some one that had died on a station near by, but on having some conversation with a Shephard (we met near the spot) he told us a long story, about them. It appears they Sheppard & his wife that were murdered by the Blacks many years ago — In my rambles through Australia Ive often come across the graves of many that have died, a few logs thrown up in the form of a fence, to mark the spot, many {{Image|file=01-91.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-92 106]
Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Victoria Australia, 1857-02-07 Saturday

whose names are not known. We found our mates all right, glad to see us back got to work next morning, made 21 dwts, Thursday 17 dwts, Friday 1 oz Saturday we only worked about 2 hours & got 2 dwts or about 10 dwt each for the 4 days we worked better than nothing, for we had spent what little money we had on Bendigo. I received a letter from Mother yesterday, she advises me to join Uncle on Bendigo, but I saw enough of him when there I wrote to Mother to day, & also to Faith — [1857-02-07-Saturday; Sandy Creek] 7th Feby 1857. Been very hot. I was 18 years of age on the 2nd of this month – Tom & Big Jack left us last Monday for Daisy Hill, reducing our party to four — we made 2 oz between us, which has disgusted us with the place, so we have made up our minds to leave Sandy Creek for good. Two friends of Nuttals called to day to see him, they live at Donolly & have been doing pretty well, they are staying with us all night & are going to help to carry some of our things for us, in the morning, so to day we have been making & mending our tents, & doing up our tools & a variety of little jobs. Im not sorry we going for Im heartily sick of the place. Went to see Miss Stubbs to day, she hadnt spoke to me for a long time because I didnt keep my word with her at X mas, after a good laugh, we parted good friends — went to bid goodbye to several others during the evening — {{Image|file=01-92.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-93 107]
Dunolly (moved to), Victoria Australia, 1857-02-15 Sunday

Donolly. Feby 1857-
15th February — We left Sandy Creek last Sunday each carrying a swag weighing nearly 100 wt a good swag to carry 12 miles in the broiling sun it took us all day. We are camped on the bank of the creek near the Township of Donolly we stayed in Old Sam & Little Jacks tent (the 2 men we came with) the first night — the next day we pitched our tents & rigged up our stretchers & made our camp all snug on Wednesday morning, a young chap named Maguire (an old mate of Bill Nuttals) called & persuaded Bill to join him in sinking a hole at Chinamans Flat — 10 miles from here — he has not left us for good, we are still [mates] & share whatever we get. Yoa joined a man to sink a hole, a very wet one it will be, they got 11 dwts out of it Dick getting 5½ dwts for his share which of course we’ll share. Harry & I went up the old lead & got out a load of dirt, it only turned out 3 dwt & it cost us 3/- to cart it to the creek (The ground here is very different to work than Sandy Creek & Bendigo, Being very hard & deep.) we left it & have gone into another hole – I shall write to mother to night — 3 men I hear found a nugget on Burnt Creek 3 miles from here last week, nice lift – Donolly is a very different place to what it was when I visited it last, not one quarter of the people here. [1857-02-22-Sunday] 22 Feby. Worked very hard this week. Dick left the man he went with, they couldnt agree so we worked together, drove on to hole we went into & got 3 oz out of it, for {{Image|file=01-93.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-94 108]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-03-01 Sunday

for the weeks work. Last Saturday night (last night) we went down the town, spent the evening very pleasently — visited the concert rooms & Dancing Saloons, didnt get home till 2 am this morning we were expecting Bill up to day, but no sign of him [1857-03-01-Sunday] 27th. Been hot this week. We have been working in the same hole this as last week, but we only got 1 oz, very poor, & we went to the trouble of cutting a lot of timber & propping it — I dont think we'll do any more in it — I was greatly shocked last Monday. Dick & I went to the P.O. found it closed (being 12 oclock) we went into a Public House to wait, & I took up the Argus & seeing a column in mourning, made me look I found it contained the account of the death of our friend [Hall-56542|Mr. Hall], late Mayor of Adelaide he appears to have fell over a balcony & broke his neck. Im very sorry for he had been a good friend to our family, his wife & family are in England, only left a short time before his death, they will hear of his death as soon as they land. I must see I get my money back I wrote at once to mother & begged her to send for it, she has his receipt for it I enclosed a pound in the letter, We went down the street this evening & when we got home we found Bill Nuttall & Tom Maguire, they have bottomed one hole no good. Bill joined some other party & is making another hole it is down 98 feet & very wet, has to be slabbed all the way down, they expect to {{Image|file=01-94.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-95 109]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-03-08

bottom next week. Maguire is going to stay with us, & try Donolly, he is a nice young chap, been well brought up March 8th Weather still hot. we went into several holes the first 3 days of the week, but only got about 5 dwts of gold. A rush took place on Thursday at a place called Inkerman Nr.Mount Moligul, Dick & I went to see it & sunk 2 holes, 1 of them we couldnt bottom being so wet, the other was dry, but its not much good, go about ½ dwt to the tub, they are getting plenty of gold alongside of us We got into a nice row on Friday with a lot of Tipperary men, Id marked out a claim on Thursday night & sank it about 2 feet & stuck my pegs in, on Friday {{Red|*}}morn we found a party of Irishmen had taken possession of it, on my remonstrating with them they were very insulting & threatened to brain me with a pick. I would have my claim, & I began to shovel dirt onto them, they all 4 set on me Dick was away at the time, I challenged to fight any one of them fairly, so I rolled into one, & was giving him a good licking when I got a crack on the head from one of the others, they all fell on me & kicked me most unmercifully, two of my teeth they loosened, & my face is covered with bruises & my body is blue with the ill usage I got it all happened in about 10 minutes. Dick came up in time (or they would have killed me.) with one & two others who very quickly drove them off, Ive not been able to work since, Tom left us on Friday, His brother came from Chinamans Flat for him, he is a {{Image|file=01-95.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-96 110]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-03-15

fine handsome fellow, keeps a store there. Happens he has a share in the claim Bill is in & they have bottomed & believe it will pay. Tom is to go & work in it. Harry, Dick & I took a ramble across the street last night, we went to Tom Currans Saloon saw 2 or 3 prize fighters, Boxing. I wrote to Uncle to day 15th March. Fine weather. Harry heard of a rush about 6 miles from here on the Bet Bet Creek (40 feet deep) last Sunday night, he went to see it, got back by day light, having marked out a claim. We went out carrying a tent & a pair of Blankets with us, we had no money & only had 2 loaves of Bread between 3 of us, we sank our hole & bottomed on Thursday night, having had nothing to eat since Wednesday night, no joke, to do a days work like ours on an empty belly — our hole was a duffer & so was every ones else, we got home late next morning, got some vituals on credit I dont know what we should do if we hadnt We went on Friday & Saturday to Inkerman & sank 2 duffers. It was very unfortunate us going & leaving the claim I sank last week for some party went into & drove it 2 feet further when they got a nugget 11 lbs weight about £500 — our usual luck! we didnt get any gold & the storekeepers wont trust us any longer. Old Sam lent us 10/. last night – We expect Bill & Tom to day. I went down the street last night — not a 6d about me, but I visited the Dancing Saloons & danced away till 10 pm left & went to the Pick & Shovel Concert Hall, heard Miss Chalker & Mrs Ellis {{Image|file=01-96.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-97 111]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-03-22

& Madame Vitelli singing; the 2 latter are beautiful singers. I dont much like the former, Hackett the Bass has a good voice & Cox is a good comic singer. I got into a row after leaving. I saw an old chum of mine getting his pockets picked he was a little the worse for drink — It was only after a few hard blows we got away clear 22nd Cloudy weather. The first three days of the week we tried several holes, & by Wednesday night we only had got 2 dwts, lived on Bread & water, on Thursday morning we went into an old hole & we'd not been in it an hour when we found two bits of gold weighing 12½ dwts, which we sold & bought some meat & Tea & sugar we drove a load out & washed it yesterday got 18 dwts out of it, which cleared our account at the Store, (so if we get short next week our credit is good then). I received a letter from Mother all well, she is going to lend my money to a person named Delbridge, he is to allow me 12½ Per cent for it, better than letting it lay idle Bill & Tom have never been up yet, they have quite forgotten us, in their prosperity very shabby of them!. Its raining very hard the water is rising in the creek. If it rises much more we shall have to shift our tent 29th The weather has been very unsettled, we worked very hard this week & drove out & washed 2 loads of dirt which only turned out 17 dwts but we intend to try the same hole again next week. We are very downhearted at our continued ill fortune, We went down the street last night & enjoyed ourselves in the most reckless manner we hadnt 6d between us, yet we visited every place of amusement. I have read a great deal this week, Vicar of Wakefield, & a History of Cathagena {{Image|file=01-97.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-98 112]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-04-05

April 1857. Donolly
5th.April 1857. Lovely weather, getting cold in the morning Monday we went into our hole & got out a load, it only turned out 2½ dwts, left it, & tried several other holes but no good — On Thursday we set to & bailed out a wet hole, it was Friday night when we got all the water out. Saturday we got 4 dwts out of it, not earned half of our expenses this fortnight passed, so we are in debt at the Store I got a letter from Mother, she hasnt got my money yet. I have to send an order to Mr Waterhouse, Mr Halls Executor. We went down the township last night. Ive finished my history — & I am now reading Byrons Works, some parts are beautiful. I never read anything I liked better. my mates abuse me jocuely on being taken up with reading so much lately 12th April — Weather unsettled. A little more fortunate this week, we got 2 oz 10 dwts — It took the lot to pay what we owed & get a few necessaries we required. I got a pound of it & bought a pair of Blankets with it, winter is coming on & I shall require them. Nuttall & Maguire came up last night, the hole they sank pay’d them well, but unfortunately a flood came after they had bottomed about a week & swamped them out, so they had to sink a new shaft — they have been 3 weeks sinking it & are now down 96 ft — they expect to bottom next week. We all went down the street last night & knocked about. — To day we took a walk to Inkerman, from there we went to Jordan & Jericho about 15 miles from here {{Image|file=01-98.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/98}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-99 113]
Dunolly, Chinaman’s Flat, Victoria Australia, 1857-04-19

It was nice walking through the bush, the rain had made everything look green & fresh, we took the dogs with us & killed a fine kangaroo, we didnt think much of the rush on the Jordan It was late when we arrived here, & we were very tired. Tom & Bill are going to stay to night – Been reading during the week, Abercrombies Intellectual Powers, there is a very good library here. I got acquainted with man that owns it – & seeing I have a taste for reading, he does not charge me anything, knowing how Im situated, pecuniary 19th The weather is still unsettled Harry & I accompanied Bill & Tom to Chinamans Flat, a miserable looking place, we went to the Theatre, saw Clarence Holt in the Corsican Brothers. The moon rising when it was over, Harry & I left for here again (as we wanted to see the prize fight that took place, on Tuesday between Bill Melody & Joe Kitchen) we lost our way in the bush & after walking till daylight we found ourselves near the Ring we slept under a bush till near 9 am, when the people began to muster. There was supposed to be Ten thousand present, there was a Grand Stand erected all round the Ring, 2/6 ahead was charged for a seat the fight commenced at 1 Pm & lasted 40 minutes. Kitchen being the victor, tho the smallest man It was 4 pm when we arrived home feeling anything but comfortable, we spent our last shilling to go to the Theatre with the night before so we had nothing to eat, since 5 pm Monday until Tuesday 5 pm we worked hard the {{Image|file=01-99.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/99}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-100 114]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-04-26

rest of the week but didnt get the color of gold so we had nothing left but to get tick again I went to the township last night, knocked about the place of amusement & mixed with a variety of company 26th April 1857. Worked very hard this week cleaned out several old holes & sank a deep one about 30 ft & all we got was 4½ dwt that between 3 men is good work. I dont know what we are going to do for food next week, the storekeepers have refused us credit But I fancy the Baker will let us have bread so we wont starve, if he will — I recd a letter from Fred & one from Mother which I cannot afford to answer. We have lived upon Bread & Tea (without sugar) the last 2 days. If I get fat on such fare, it will be from the intellectual food Ive swallowed Ive read a great deal during the week 3rd May. Rough weather during the week wet & cold. We went up the old lead on Monday morning & sank 2 holes bottomed on Thursday night & didnt get the color of gold. We had been living on Bread & water & were very downhearted working hard & half-starved in the bargain. Dick funked on it, & what I called sneaked off, on Friday at daylight, for Chinamans Flat, thinks he'll get a belly full at Maguires – As luck would have it, Harry & I went into an old hole on Friday morning, & found a drive that the wash dirt had not been stripped [from] {{Image|file=01-100.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/100}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-101 115]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-05-09

May 1857. Donolly
on knocking it down, we found ½ dwt — by dinner time, which we sold, & got some tea & sugar, which we enjoyed, In the afternoon we got 1 oz of gold picked it out of the stuff, we worked nearly all night & got out a load of dirt which we washed yesterday, it turned out 2 oz so we made 3 oz for the two days work never was anything more acceptable, we first paid our debts, & bought some Boots & a new pair of trousers each, which we wanted very badly In the evening we went down the street & enjoyed ourselves very well visited the Concert Room & heard some good singing We dont intend to share with Dick tho we have paid his share of the money owing There is a large rush at a place called Jordan Harry & I started at daylight this morning kangarooing, we had several hunts but did not catch any, our dogs not being the sort — we enjoyed ourselves very well but we are very tired, we must have travelled 40 miles to day 9th May 1857. Weather very cloudy, Dick came back on Tuesday night, made an excuse that he had left something he required, but when he found we had got a little gold he stay’d altogether, we got 2 loads out, they only turned out 1 oz 16 dwt we are not going to do any more in the hole, being worked out. On Tuesday I received a letter from Charlie Watkinson, he & {{Image|file=01-101.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/101}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-102 116]
Dunolly, Half Way, Diggins - Tarnagulla; Newbridge, Victoria Australia, 1857-05-17 Sunday

Tom Rudd & Big Jack are mates, it appears the two latter after rambling about the country & not finding anything to suit them, they found their way to Bendigo, where they joined Charlies & they made up a party to prospect in the neigbourhood of Sandy Creek, they are living at the Half Way Diggings. We are going to see them in the morning. This evening Harry & I went to hear Little Barlow the vocal & instrumentalist, he is without exception the cleverest fellow in his line that ever appd in Australia. [Sunday, 17 May 1857] 15th May 1857. Lovely weather, but cold & frosty in the morning — Harry & I went to Sandy Creek last Sunday, after a sharp walk of 14 miles we got there. Found Charlie, we were very glad to see each other. We were disappointed at not finding Tom, he left about ½ an hour before our arrival, for Bendigo. Charlie ran as far as Newbridge but couldnt o’ertake him – they are camped in a pretty little gully near where we used to live — they have found a little gold, but nothing extra, but enough to keep them in vituals, He told us the Bendigo news, Mr & Mrs Bostock are well, my old flame Roby S. is dead, poor Roby, she was very fond of me, & I liked her very well, we liked each other too well & there was the crime that led to a most shocking termination. S. used to illuse her, & she ran away from him & took a situation at Kynton, S. found her & stabbed her in one of his brutal passions – she lingered a few days & died, poor Roby may she rest in peace. Her life was a {{Image|file=01-102.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/102}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-104 117]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-05-24

Donolly 1857. May short one & a wretched one. I shall never forgive myself for being the first cause of his jealousy He got away, but the police are sure to get on his track — I had a miniature of hers but I lost it, on my first trip from Bendigo here it was so like her. I feel very sad in thinking upon the subject, since I heard about it I have thought of nothing else, night & day, her spirit seems ever present — (I forgot to state that Dick left us last week for Chinamans Flat, but not agreeing with Bill he returned this week to us, he tells us they are hard up down there, we sent them a pound Stg on Thursday.) Harry & I got back on Monday, & went to work on Tuesday morning in the hole we worked before & took a pillar out which turned us out 1 oz 5 dwt & amongst it was a nugget 14 dwt. I received a letter from Mother this week, all well, she got my money all right & has invested it – We went to Jim Hughes Benifit last night Been reading some Essays by various authors — May 24th 1857 The weather has been very un settled — We knocked about the old lead on Monday but could find no gold, so we com menced a hole on Tuesday which we bot- tomed on Friday 30 ft deep & 4 ft of cement to go through, it was no good, didnt get the colour of gold out of it. We tryd some old holes on the Hard Hills but could get no gold we got a lot of firewood yesterday. Being very stormy & wet we were compelled to remain home. I spent the time in reading & crib playing {{Image|file=01-104.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/103}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-105 118]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-05-31

May 1857. (Donolly
31st Beautiful weather. We went into our old hole again on Monday, & drove it all day, but couldnt get any gold, so we left it. Tuesday we went into an old hole & drove it all day, but couldnt get the color of gold out of it. Wednesday, we tried it again but with the same success. Thursday we went into it again. I hardly know what induced us to go into it again, but in the evening, on leaving it we had our tools all ready to send up when it came on to rain & we returned into the drive again when Harry knocked out a large stone for fun, when just at the back of it he saw a bit of gold, which, on pulling it out, turned out to be an 8 oz nugget, we sold it for better than £30 we worked in the hole up to late last night without getting any more, when just at the last minute we got another nugget 1 oz 16 dwt, making a good weeks work, after paying our debts we had £10 each left — so we are quite well off – We all went down the street last night & bought some clothing we required, & visited the Concert Room & the Dancing Saloon spent a pleasent evening, but my mates got drunk & I had an awful job to look after them & get them home 7th June 1857. Fine weather. Last Monday I went to see the prize fight between Bourke & F.Smith — they only fought one round; Bourke giving Smith a foul blow;- so it was not worth going to see, they fought at the Bet Bet Creek about halfway between Donolly & Chinamans Flat. It was nearly dark when I got home, found my mates both on {{Image|file=01-105.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/104}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-106 119]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-06-14

the spree at Lucy Wilsons, they didnt get to work until Wedy tho I went into the hole on Tuesday to keep it from being jumped. We got to work at last, but to no purpose, we didnt get the color of gold. Last night we went to hear Rayners Serenaders, they are very good, one of them W.White — is the best tenor I ever heard, I received an affectionate letter from my brother Fred all well at home, My mates have turned Teetotallers, (for a short time, they have spent every fraction of their money) [Sunday, 14 June 1857] 13th June 1857. Lovely weather. Im afraid we are going to have a very dry winter we have not had a good shower as yet. We went into our hole & drove it nearly 50 ft. up to Friday night – without seeing the color of gold we left the hole in disgust & tried another, but could get no gold so on Saturday we went into the old one to finish the week. we had not drove it a foot further when I found a nugget 4 oz. 1 dwt which we sold for £15.13.0. It is the strangest ground ever I worked in, there is no fine gold so we intend to give it another weeks trial for the sake of the nuggets which are like Angels visits, few & far between. I received a letter from Mother, wants me to come home next month, my Brother Edward who is working on a Station at Fiery Creek will be down. If Ive any luck Ill go. We spent a pleasent evening, hearing Barlow, have just returned — I wrote a letter last night to Mother & another to day to Fred. {{Image|file=01-106.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/105}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-107 120]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-06-21

June 1857. Donolly
21st June — The weather has been very unsettled, but no rain of any consequence. Last Sunday, Harry & I went to Sandy Creek to see Charlie, found him well, he had found a little gold & asked us to try the gully for a week on speck We returned the same night & on Monday, Harry & I packed up our swags & some tools, & have spent the week at the Halfway but we only got about 3 dwts between us, the ground would pay wages, if there was plenty of water, we returned this evening, found Dick during our absence had done no better than us two There is a new rush about 90 miles from here near Mount Ararat, a great number of diggers have gone the reports from there are very encouraging. I want my mates to start away at once, while we have the means of going, but no, they must wait until they hear further. I believe in going to a rush at the first, then one has a chance of getting on the best ground.
[Sunday, 28 June 1857]
27th Unsettled weather. Monday we got in a stock of firewood from the bush. Big Jack an old mate of ours paid us a visit, he was hard up, I gave him a pound, he left us on Tuesday. I recevd a long affectionate letter from Mother, they have had a letter from England, informing them that my Uncle Joseph has met with an accident & is not expected to live. We worked in several holes during the week but could get no gold. There has been some large meetings held this week, to consider the New Bill, that compels a man to take out a License, for erecting a tent, falling timber or drawing water on Crown Lands. Its preposterous A petition has gone in to the Assembly, & Im sure if the Bill passes there will be some riots on the diggins {{Image|file=01-107.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/106}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-108 121]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-07-05 Sunday

July 1857. Donolly.
[Sunday, 5 July 1857] 4th [5th] Wet & cold all the week. We went into an old hole, it was very hard driving, we couldnt get more than 4 tubs a day out of it, & it went about 1 dwt to the tub, on Friday night we only had 17 dwt, yesterday we went at it again & dropped on to a bit weighing 1 oz. 12 dwts that set us up again, we had been a fortnight without getting any gold to speak about, we made 2 oz. 10 dwt for the week. Charlie & his mate paid us a visit on Saturday night, we all went down the town & had some fun, visited the dance Rooms, Charlie is a Ventriloquist, he frightened several in places we visited, he & Harry got drunk & on our way home, they would go into the National Hotel, which on entering we found to be in a frightful uproar, fighting every part of the house, we saw several we knew getting murdered, we helped them of course & very soon I found myself kicked into the street by a mob of wretches, my clothes in ribbons. Dick & Charlie got away somehow the latter came home this morning in a way that was highly amusing, there was a dense fog, & I got up & was lighting the fire in front of the tent, I could only see a few yards, when I saw something I couldnt make out, it appeared to be a woman for whoever it was had a parasol over them, I gradually came nearer & turned out to be Charlie, but such an object, it appears, in the row last night, he was kicked & robbed of everything but his shirt & trousers, & seeing a tent, he entered it, its occupant being, Ive learnt {{Image|file=01-108.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/107}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-109 122]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-07-05 cont.

since, a prostitute, but absent at the time, he at once set too & put on a flannel petticoat & an old stuff dress, in the pockets of which was a bundle of letters written in French & dated some 7 years ago, a Frenchman that lives in the next tent has been translating them for us they are most beautiful compositions, & appear love letters, from their contents, we learnt that a girl had been seduced & to hide her shame had fled her home & came to Australia & was now on the Turf — we soon stripped Charlie of his finery & to night, I intend, if possible to slip them into the womans tent again if I can get the opportunity without being observed I know the woman well, have met her in places Dick got nearly killed in the fight, his head is covered with bruises, he passed the night in a Chemist shop, he pushed his way through the door (calico) & slept on the counter, the owner on finding him there this morning was very wrath & had an idea of sending for the police. But Dick explained matters to him, & he like a good Samaritan bound up his wounds & gave him a dose of physic. Dick is fond of Cognac – they are all sound asleep, so now for my little job — I left here two hours ago & with my bundle I set out, the place is not 5 minutes walk from this, found the woman at home, however I didnt hesitate but telling her I found the Bundle I gave it up, she was so overjoyed at getting them back (the letters) on finding all right, she put very care- fully in her breast, & thanked me. I had some supper with her {{Image|file=01-109.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/108}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-110 123]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-07-12

July 1857 Donelly
[Sunday, 12 July 1857] 11th [12th] The weather still unsettled, the fore part being most wretched, continually drizzling & damp. Monday we spent in erecting a sod chimney against the tent, that makes it more comfortable, it is miserable work cooking our vituals in the open air, during the wet weather. Dick & I went to work on Tuesday Harry going away to see a rush at a place near Cochranes Station on the Avoca road, 12 miles from here, he returned the next day not thinking much of the place. I sent £6 at the beginning of the week to Mother & after buying myself a pair of Boots I found I had only by me £1. We only made 4 dwts all the week, so my pound had to go for my weeks vituals. Im sorry now I left myself so short, for the accounts from Ararat are so encouraging, that I am induced to think seriously of going, tho rather late my mates, like myself have no money It costs us 30/ aweek each to live & that on the very commonest fare we pay 3/. & 3/6 for the 4 lb loaf, 6d & 8d for potatoes I rcvd a letter from Uncle, quite well but not doing much. Harry & I & the Slaughter house man Joe. Holmes went out kangarooing at daylight this morning, we caught a little one near Mount Ugly they took to the ranges – & the dogs had no chance — {{Image|file=01-110.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/109}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-111 124]
Dunolly, Victoria Australia, 1857-07-19 Sunday

July 1857. Donelly
[1857-07-19 Sunday] 18th.[19th] Weather still miserable. We worked very hard from Monday until Thursday, without getting any gold, so we jibbed at it & swore we wouldnt work any more on Donelly, but pack up our swags & tramp to Ararat, we hadnt a shilling between us, so on Friday I walked down to see Charlie to tell him we were off. I tried hard to induce him to come with us, but he thinks hes had enough of roughing it on short allowance he wished us every success & gave me all the money he had 10/. I came home last night (we'll have it on our backs tomorrow) I sold my concertina for 2/6, so to day we got everything ready for a start our swags will be heavy ones. The Butcher is going up with his cart & has promised to take up our tub & cradle, so if we can manage to live on the road we shall be alright on our arrival I received a letter from Mother, all well, she got the £6, I wish I had a couple of it, I spent the afternoon bidding acquaintances good bye Etc & Im looking for a man that owes me a pound I found him at last in Whites Gambling Hell I never witnessed such a scene as met my eyes there was about 30 people present among the numbers a lot of women all gambling, there was a roulette table over which Ive lost money more than once. My friend told me if Id come an hour sooner he would have given me £20. but since that time he had lost every halfpenny he possessed. I saw him stake his watch, & lost a ring belonging to his wife what a cursed fatality there is in the passion {{Image|file=01-111.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/110}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-112 125]
Crabb’s Station; Avoca Cemetary; Amphitheatre. 1857-08-02

{{Image|file=Aae-81.jpg|align=r|size=400|caption=Hard up Diggers on the Tramp}}
Hard up Diggers on the
Tramp to a New Rush
From Dunolly to Ararat

[Sunday, 2 August 1857] August 1st [2nd] Nr Mount Ararat It is a fortnight since I continued my journal I must try & remember how I spent the time – we left Dunolly on the morning of the [1857-07-20] 19th ultimo with very heavy swags on our backs, & 1/6 in our pockets between 3 of us, we had 2 loaves of Bread & a small piece of Beef, however we were in excellent spirits & trudged along merrily, beguiling the time by relating past adventures to each other, until dinner time when we camped (and polished 1 of the loaves) at Crabtree Station, after travelling over a nice tract of country we made the Avoca township about dark, having walked about 25 miles for the day, we might have come a nearer way, by coming through the Alma diggins but we didnt know until it was too late, we were very tired when we camped, the best place was the Cemetary situated in a very pretty spot, we pitched our tent between two gravestones, or head boards for they were merely rough slabs, with the name daubed on by some amateur painter, after finishing the rest of our vituals, we turned in & slept as sound as if we were on feathers, without being disturbed by anything in the shape of spirits (tho my mates wished they could make the acquaintance of some in the shape of Bdy). We arose early & proceeded on our journey, having only a small crust of Bread between us for Breakfast, crossed the Avoca River, & walked on for some 10 miles, our swags began to feel heavy & we were hungry. I went into a little refreshment tent, & asked the price of a loaf, 5/. I had only 1/6 & after a deal of per -suasion she cut off a slice & gave it for my money. It only was a mouthful each & just served to whet our appetites. We reached a place called the Amphitheatre, a small diggins, {{Image|file=01-112.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/111}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-113 126]
Hard up Diggers on the Road, Amphitheatre, Victoria 1857-07-dd

where we camped supperless for the night we pitched our tent by a creek & in the night it came on to rain very hard, our tent was flooded, we rolled up our blankets about 2 Am stood up the rest of the night to keep them dry, towards morning the storm passed over, & we got started about 8 on Wednesday morning, feeling wretched after our nights entertainment, our swags were much heavier the tent being soaking wet we trudged along hungry enough, till we came to a place where we found a man yoking up his bullocks we gave him a help with them, & asked him for a piece of damper which he said he couldnt give for he had none made, his wife was sitting by the camp fire & we asked her but she was so deaf she didnt understand us. I saw a Billy of Tea standing by the fire, which I helped myself to, my mates making a finish of its contents, after some banter such as being called loafers, frying pan, bushrangers etc, we left them, the first time I was ever refused a bit of Bread in the Bush in my life, after another walk of a couple of hours, we fell in with a party of chaps just camped for dinner, we tossed up who should cadge it fell to Dick. On asking them for some damper, they told him to be off, there were too many of his sort on the road — they were New Chums, so we pitied them, & left them but not before Dick took a chew of tobacco out of his mouth & shied it at the fellows face. Dick threatened to give him something else that he wouldnt relish so well if he wasnt satisfied, we had a shower of imprecations sent after us — about 4 oclock we fell in with some chaps to whom Dick sold his jumper, or thick outside shirt to for 5/., we bought a small loaf of Bread for which we paid 4/. for {{Image|file=01-113.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/112}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-114 127]
Hard up Diggers on the Road, Pyrenees, 1857-07-06

it was the sweetest morsel I ever tasted, we hadnt a crumb of it left in 10 minutes, we camped at the River Wimmera that night, the road was in an awful state mud up to the knees, drays bogged, dead horses & bullocks lying along the road in every direction I never saw such queer ground in my life as about that neighbourhood, the surface appears quite hard but it is a thin crust, which upon breaking you sink down into, quicksand, we passed lots of horses dying that couldnt be got out. In the night Harry took very ill with cramps in his stomach he suffered fearful agony. Dick, with the 1/. got up & walked back to where we bought the bread, & after a deal of trouble roused the people up, to give him some Brandy. I got up & lit a fire, & burnt the Bdy, it did him a deal of good. I think it was from the effects of our last nights rest that caused it, we remained all day there. Harry not been able to travel & of course we wasnt going to leave him. Dick & I walked about the road in hopes of seeing some body we knew but no such luck, about dinner time, a dray got bogged, Dick & I got out our shovels & went to the mans assistance, & in an hours time got him all his team all right; he gave us 2 pounds of flour, which we soon cooked on the coals, we were very hungry not having eat anything like a meal for more than two or three days. Friday morning we got under weigh again & after travelling over a very rough hilly country, called the Pynnies until 4 Pm without tasting food, we noticed a man by the roadside resting, we were walking one behind the other, he looked very hard at me on passing, Harry was some distance behind, the man stopped him & enquired if we came from Bendigo. Harry told him we used to live there {{Image|file=01-114.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/113}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-115 128]
Blue Peter, a Debt Repaid, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-07-24

He called out to me, upon my returning, he asked if I didnt remember him. I really did not at the time, he turned out to be a man that once called at my tent in Long Gully, hard up. I allowed him to sleep in my tent & on his departure in the morning I gave him 10s/-d this was two years ago, & I had forgotten the circumstance until he recalled it to memory since that time he had been fortunate on the “Alma” & had been to look at Ararat, & was returning. Upon my informing him that we were starving, he gave us all the vituals he had, (a damper & some mutton) my word! didnt we walk into it! we camped there for the night, along with him, his horse, was lame & he had been giving him a spell for a day or two. In the morning he gave me a £1 note & told me if ever I was short I could come to the “Alma” & enquire for “Blue Peter” the only name I knew him by, he would always share what he had with me. Who says there is no such thing as providence we cast our Bread upon the waters Etc — after a pleasent adieu with our purple friend we tramped along in better spirits — there we had been for some time. we arrived within a few miles of Ararat that night could see the Mount in the distance. I dont know if it bears any resemblance to its namesake of Sacred Memory. It appears a fine neighbourhood good land & well watered. The next day Sunday we made the outskirts of the diggings, camped & in the morning (Monday) entered them, found the diggings extended over a large space of ground being principally on a level plain with small gullys running into it, from some very high ranges that surrounds the place, gives it the appearance of a horse-shoe. We pitched our tent & {{Image|file=01-115.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/114}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-116 129]
[http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-37.2956337,142.8578499 Ararat]], Victoria Australia, 1857-08-02

Ararat. August 1st.[2nd] 1857
took a look around, saw a few faces we knew, spoke to some, I never witnessed anything like it before the sinking is deep, the bottom is pipeclay & the whole place looks like a field of snow with the white heaps around, there seems to be no regularity in the leads, patches of holes in every direction — We did nothing the first day, the next however we spent in trying to find out if McKensie had arrived for we could not get to work without our tub & cradle, it was like looking for a needle in a haystack for it is supposed there are 50,000 people on the ground tents are as thick as possible, life & bustle in every direction, we had a job to find our tent again I heard our old mates Nuttal & Maguires are here but could find nothing of them, until two days afterwards, I spent two or three evenings visiting the places of amusement (on the cheap) thinking I should see them. We fell in with McKensie the next day & got our things, we are to give him 30/. for fetching them up (when we get it.) We helped them to put up their tent. Mrs Mc giving us a good dinner & tea. We met a man in the evening that told us where to find our old mates, we found their tent at last, they were glad to see us & so were we for our money was done & didnt know where to get the next meal from we shifted our tent on Saturday (yesterday) alongside of theirs, they have had one good hole but there were 11 of them in the party so it did not amount to much among so many, their party has been broken up — We are living with them after a manner, so muddled, & miserable – I trust we wont be long before we get some gold, for Im one that dont care about being under a compliment to anyone, tho' I oughtnt to feel it one from them {{Image|file=01-116.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/115}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-117 130]
Petticoat, Black Horse, Petticoat, Victoria Australia 1857-08-09 Sunday

8th [9th] August 1857 Fine weather, water is very scarce we pay 6d & sometimes 1/. for a Bucket of drinking water. Monday we tried an old hole in Petticoat Gully drove it 'till Tuesday night but could get no gold Wednesday a rush took place near the tent, called Black horse Lead, we sank a hole bottomed on Friday night — a rank duffer (No 1 for Ararat) Saturday we went back to Petticoat Gully & tried an old hole got 3 tubs out of it that yielded us 3 dwts so we shall try it again on Monday. We went down the town last night, the excitement surpassed anything ever has been seen on the diggins before places of amusement in every direction Concert Rooms, Dancing Rooms, of course nothing but prostitutes, in the shape of women visit them Billiard Rooms & Gambling houses seem to be the favourite places, drunken men in every direction, fighting, swearing, & drinking pervade everywhere, nearly all the fighting men Victoria can boast of are here, some of them have got what is termed a "Gymnasium" or a place for Boxing Tom Curran, & Joe Kitchens are the favourite place I wrote to Charlie to day & also to Joe Holms Spent to day reading, jumping, running, & Boxing & playing single stick, there is a fellow named Ned Hopkins working with Bill, we call him the possum, he was educated at Oxford College, but has been a sad reprobate & left home in disgrace, he can lick-us all at athletic sports at least Boxing & fencing But Dick is the best general man among the lot, he can do anything in Gymnastics {{Image|file=01-117.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/116}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-118 131]
Ararat, Petticoat, Victoria Australia, 1857-08-16 Sunday

Ararat August 1857 16th The weather has been very miserable this week, kind of Scotch mist falling We went into our hole on Monday, & got & washed 4 tubs out of it which yielded us 1 oz of gold very good, we set to & drove out two loads about (90 Buckets), which we washed yesterday, turning out 2 oz. 15 dwts making 3 oz 14 dwts for the weeks work, giving us quite a start, we paid what we owed. We took in another mate on Friday a friend of Dicks, we call him George, he is a married man & a good working chap, of course he dont live with us. We went down the town last night, visited what is called a Theatre & I saw a little girl performing, at least reading from Shakespeare, [[Matthews-15517|Julia Matthews]], she seems quite at home either in Tragedy or Comedy but I think the latter will be her forte I enjoyed myself very much, late when I got to the tent I wrote to Mother this afternoon I feel very anxious to hear about those at home – we worked hard to day, washing our clothes & getting in a stock of firewood Etc — 23rd Weather unsettled but no rain. We went into our hole on Monday, drove it till Wednesday & only got 10 dwts so we left it, went into another hole, got 1 dwt out of a dish of dirt thought we were going to get something drove a load out, it only turned out 7 dwts, & we had to pay 5/. for the carting of it. Harry & Dick tried another hole on Friday they got a load out they intend washing it on Monday. Harry & I went last night to a {{Image|file=01-119.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/117}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-120 132]
Ararat, Petticoat, Victoria Australia, 1857-08-30 Sunday

New Theatre, to see “William Tell” play’d, such a farce I never witnessed, the principal actor Cox, after playing two acts refused to appear again unless the manager paid him his salary that was due, we waited half an hour between the acts, when Cox was introduced to our notice in a new character. The manager & him quarrelled & came to blows on the stage & “William Tell” came bounding off the stage with a knockdown blow given him by the Manager, how I laughed & the audience hooted, when the manager appeared & explained how things stood, they gave us back our tickets (but no money,) & invited us to be present on Monday night to see it out. I think I'll go for fun 30th Weather cold & wretched living in a tent. George & I went into our old hole & got out a load which we washed on Wednesday, turned out 6 dwts, too poor for a 50 ft hole. Harry & Dick got 13 dwt out of their lead, but there was no more ground in the hole, so they went prospecting, got about 3 dwts. George & I, the latter part of the week tried some old holes, the last we went into yesterday we got 1½ dwts out of 4 Buckets so we intend trying it next week. On Friday night Louis Weller, a young Polish chap, & I went down the street, went into a place next door to the “National Theatre” kept by a young lady an old acquaintance of mine she had a slit cut in the side of her tent through which there was free access into {{Image|file=01-120.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/118}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-121 133]
[https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/196856241/21374185 Ararat], Victoria Australia, 1857-08-30 Sunday

into the Theatre, of course we took advantage of it, & went in, saw Kate O.Reilly & Cox in the Stranger, they playd it well (the place where the occurrence happened I alluded to a fortnight ago was closed from that date) I went to see Nelly again last night & through her means got into the Theatre free, saw the “Lady of Lyons” for the first time, it is a splendid piece & suits Kate O.R. she is considered the best Melo Dramatic actress ever appeared in the colonies — after yarning with Nelly for a while (who I became acquainted with on Bendigo 18 months ago through poor Roby) she is very kind to me Louis is in love with her, but she is fooling him, he has a few pounds & thinks of winning her by spending it on her. (Nellys father was well off in Melbourne but speculated & lost all his wealth, he died shortly after, & she had to turn to & work, she chose a strange life keeping a Restaurant — I dont know how she preserves her reputation. Ive heard her spoken lightly of but I never saw anything wrong about her, she is very beautiful which makes her place very attractive — I received a long epistle from Charlie, he is still at Sandy Creek not doing much, but like ourselves living in hopes of getting into a rich hole that will pay for all our trial & hardships Spent a very intellectual afternoon, J.Maguire & Ned commenced an argument which brought out their knowledge. They are both clever the former finished at Dublin University & the latter at Oxford {{Image|file=01-121.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/119}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-122 134]
Ararat, Buried Old Sam, Victoria Australia, 1857-09-06 Sunday

— Ararat Sept 1857. – 7th [6th] Sept. Weather unsettled, mud & dirt everywhere George & I went into our hole on Monday, & after working very hard & only getting 3 dwt we left it, we tried several other holes during the week but only got 5 dwt., Harry & Dick got 1 oz. 15 dwt between them so it helped to make up — I was barefoot & nearly naked, we want a new tent ours is very old & during the late heavy weather in rags, Louis, Nuttal, Tom & I have knocked about the town nearly every night the former playing Billiards, I in visiting the Concert Rooms & other free places of amusement learning several new accomplishments, such as Boxing & Dancing, last night I & Tom went to see the Play of the "Hunchback" I liked it well, Kate O.R. was glorious as Julia — Poor old Sam died yesterday, he was living near us on Donelly & also here, he was too old for the rough life of a digger, we dug a grave for him to day, in a nice little gully up in the ranges, after a deal of bother we got a Wesleyan parson to pray over his grave, we buried him this afternoon, no one knowing his name or his connections, it seems very melancholy to die & be buried by strangers His mate Joe died in “Delirium Tremens” the week before we left Donelly, he was raving mad & hid into the Bush, he was found under a Bush quite dead, the Coroners Verdict was, died of Exhaustion — so ends two more mortals {{Image|file=01-122.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/120}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-123 135]
Buried Alive, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-09-13 Sunday

14th [13th] Weather very changeable, George & I went to work where my other mates are at work, we worked very hard & made between us 4 oz 10 dwts, not so bad if we could always do as well, the ground is very dangerous, we are taking out props & pillars we have to use a deal of timber, & I have had many narrow escapes, I was at the far end of a drive on Thursday when the hole fell in my candle went out, my mates made sure I was killed, but they got assistance & by 10pm after being in the drive upwards of eight hours they got me out, I was nearly exhausted, for want of air. It was a good job I blew my candle out for it must have consumed some of the air. I soon got round & went to work as usual next morning – We pay’d off our debts, some that we contracted on Donolly. I went to the Theatre last night its the only place of amusement I care or in fact that is worth frequenting here – the other places, being the resort of the vilest of characters — Ive been very unwell during the week, had a severe cold accompanied by a dreadful headache — 20th Beautiful weather, We are in great need of water, all of the creeks are dried up, & summer will be soon here. we got & washed 10 loads of dirt this week, that turned out 7 oz 5 dwt or about £7.0.0 a man, not so bad when compared with the ill luck we have had lately, the ground we are working in is what has been left by parties either frightened or unable to timber it, what is commonly called Block & pillaring, we put in {{Image|file=01-123.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/121}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-124 136]
Prospecting near Grampians, Blackstone Lead Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-09-27 Sunday

nearly 100 props averaging 9 in in diameter, we get the timber from the bush, two of us go out for a couple of days & fall trees & split them up, pay 2/6 a load for bringing them to the workings. Ive been in the township nearly every night during the week, went to see the Poses Plastiques twice & once to hear Tottens Serenaders. My mates Harry & Dick got on the spree last night, Harry is all right, But Dick is still away, he has broken the pledge he made on Donelly to abstain from drink for 12 months, there are some people if they have a pound it burns a hole in their pockets until its spent, he is one of that sort – I recd a long kind letter from mother only such a one as a mother can write, no news of any importance, all well 27th Sept. Nice weather, only made 25/. aman this week. I've been away prospecting about 30 miles from here, came home about noon yesterday. I left on Tuesday in the direction of the Grampians, camped on a creek near some natives, they were very kind to me. I sank 2 holes next day but could find no indications of gold. I left the following day in company with a little half caste native girl about 16 years of age, walked through a lovely country, like a gentlemans park in England. I camped in a beautiful gully somewhere near Sir John Mitchells track where he first traversed through Victoria from Swan Hill on his memorable expedition. I sank a hole the same day about 4 ft deep, no gold, the next day I tried several [likely] looking surface hills & sank another {{Image|file=01-124.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/122}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-125 137]
Prospecting with a Native Girl, Victoria Australia, 1857-09-27

hole, but I could not find anything to pay, tho Im perfectly convinced there will be found payable ground in the neighbourhood, my companion in the meantime spent her time hunting Birds & possums, & Bathing. Friday night I packed my swag as my provisions were done & started by moonlight back made our old camp about 12 oclock, felt very tired, I boiled my Billy on a Blackfellows fire & made some tea, & eat a piece of an opossum for the first time in my life. I didnt much care about it, being very strong & had a gummy taste. One of the Blacks an old sour looking savage who turned out to be the betrothed of my companion, was very wrath with me. I felt very timid at remaining all night with them, so while his back was turned I wrapped my Blanket round me & walked into the scrub, Nelly following. I had a job to get rid of her. I had a copy of Moores Lalla Rook with me & it had a frontispiece which I gave her, & she plastered it on her breast. I laid down under a bush for the rest of the night, & started about 6 am yesterday morning, got home in the afternoon, very tired & weary after my journey. I felt all right after 3 hours rest & went to the Duchess of Kent Theatre in the evening & saw the German brothers (2 acrobats) go through their wonderful performances, there was also some good singers Kate Ward, Hackett & one or two others {{Image|file=01-125.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/123}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-126 138]
Gypsy SmithArarat, Bill Gray, Victoria Australia, 1857-10-04 Sunday

My mates are rather “down in the mouth” on there bad luck, there has been several good holes bottomed near the tent during the week the ground is very hard, being 20 ft of cement to go through so it takes a deal of time & money to sink one — I met an old Bendigo friend of mine, its over 2 years since I saw him last “Cockney Bill” I dont know his right name, he used to live next tent to me in Pegleg Gully, when I worked with Stevens & Symonds at the Puddling Mill there – “ah those were the times for gold diggers” — Oct 4th 1857. Weather hot & sultry, sure sign of the coming summer. We joined 2 more mates last Monday, both married men, W.Gray, & A.Alexander, 2 old mates of Harrys in days gone by the former is a smart young chap, he has been very un lucky lately, about 3 months ago he was living on the Adelaide Lead & going up a deserted gully, he saw a man washing him self on going up to him without being observed he recognised him as being the noted bushranger & murderer, that had defied all laws human & divine “Gypsy Smith” there was £400 reward for his capture Gray didnt show any mistrust but got into conversation with the fellow got him to give him a light of his pipe Etc. {{Image|file=01-126.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/124}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-127 139]
Capture of Gypsy Smith (October 1856), Ararat Victoria Australia, 1857-10-04

he sauntered back home after hiding & seeing him go into a little hut among some scrub he at once started for Maryborough some 10 miles, & getting a pistol & the assistance of 2 troopers returned, & bursting in the hut after a desperate resistance captured him, but not before he fired a shot at Bill which went through his hat & grazed his head (rather a narrow escape) Bill, of course wanted his money, he was referred to Melbourne & had to employ a lawyer, he was humbugged for upwards of 2 months & at length got £130, 70 of which he had to pay his lawyer then he had his own expenses to meet & his family had to get their necessaries on credit so after all was settled he found he was in debt £10.0.0. what a disgrace to the Government to give a poor man such bother after risking his life in the capture of one of the greatest wretches that ever existed. We have been sinking holes this week near our tent, at the rush we bottomed 3 but they were duffers, we have 2 more holes nearly down. I trust they will turn out something, for we havent got 10/. between the 3 of us. I dont think our other mates are any better off & they have young children to support. I like a fool lent Dick £4.0.0 last week to pay some debts he owed, but he told me a falsehood to get {{Image|file=01-127.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/125}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-128 140]
Near Blackhorse? Lead Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-October-dd

it, there was a share in a claim for sale & he thought we'd buy it for £5.0.0. Dick knew the party & I gave him the money on {{Red|*}}a/c of the company, & it appears Dick went to the men & they wouldnt sell, instead of him returning with my money, he went away & paid some drinking debts, & came home drunk with £1.0.0 left, he says he'll pay me it me back, but a man so totally destitute of principle as he is, there is no dependence to be placed upon. Ive hardly been civil to him since. I received a letter from Mother she has not been well. Ned is in town he cannot get employment. Father is sinking into his usual lethargic habits, & appears to care very little whether his family lives or starves, he goes away with the idea that because he is a Christian, the Lord will provide for his family. God helps them that helps themselves in this world – I often think we are an unlucky family none of us ever seem to be successful in any thing we undertake. I wish I knew the secret of our failure in my case 11th October Nice weather, we bottomed our holes on Tuesday one of them was a rank duffer the other one we washed one load of it which yielded 1 oz. 3 dwts. so we intend to try it further, we washed another {{Image|file=01-128.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/126}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-129 141]

Ararat – October 1857 -
load out of a hole we went into it turned out 6 dwts wont pay after paying 2/6 for the carting & burning a pound of Candles in getting it out There has been a large rush at Campbells Stationprobably Lexington Station, belonging to Magistrate Campbell, about 16km west of Ararat, North of Moyston, see [https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/196856241/21374184 Leader (Melbourne, Vic.) Sat 20 Jan 1894 Page 31 ARARAT AND DISTRICT] and [https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/66044894 The Star (Ballarat, Vic.) Tue 27 Oct 1857 Page 2 ARARAT MINING] some 15 miles from here, not having any money we could not go to try it. I hear its no great thing, Ive read a great deal this week. History of the Roman Republic. Spent to day in anything but a proper manner, gymnastics, & washing our clothes & mending Etc 18th Heavy rains this week, no scarcity of water now, we all worked in the hole we got the gold out of last week, we got 3 oz. 10 dwts between us poor work for 6 men, however it paid off all the debts we had contracted during the past week at the store. I went down town last night, met an old acquaintance, Bill Merrit that once was mates with Brown & Rudd in Long Gully he informs me that Tom is on Pleasent Creek, some diggins about 25 miles further Westward than these — I should like to see him again, he was within a few miles of Ararat on Friday. It appears he never rejoined Charlie at Sandy Creek, but went to Bendigo & got into a scrape & had to hook it, he has not been very fortunate I knocked about with Merrit till 12 oclock I think Ill write to Mother this evening {{Image|file=01-129.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/127}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-130 142]
Moonlight Gully, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-10-26

27th [26th] Oct 1857. Weather very unsettled, we have shifted our quarters since I last wrote The brothers Maguires & Nuttall & their party came here a fortnight ago & are getting a little gold, the ground is shallow & there is plenty of water & one of the prettiest places ever I was camped at so we thought we'd follow suit, we packed up our traps & came here last Tuesday — its [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-37.342242,142.844455 7 miles from Ararat], in the direction of Mount William, the highest hill in Victoria, forming the S end of the Grampian the gully we commenced work in seems a likely one for gold, we sank 3 hole 15 feet deep 2 of them were duffers, mine is payable we washed 2 loads out of it that yielded 2 oz. 5 dwts, amongst it a nugget weighing 1 oz. Its very lonely out here, no company but my mates & the Maguires party however we are all very jolly, we hunt opossum & kangaroo & emus during our spare time & fish for crayfish in the Creek, they are very good eating, but small - we shoot a good many Cockatoos & pigeons there are thousands of the former located on the trees around the tent. I killed a Carpet Snake on Saturday that measured 5 ft 6 ins in length, they are very dangerous {{Image|file=01-130.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/128}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-131 143]
Moonlight Gully, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-11-02

being certain death if bit by one, they are the only things Im afraid of. I once witnessed the death of a friend of mine many years ago in the Bush that was bitten by one I shall never forget the sight he presented, he only lived 10 hours afterwards, & was fearfully swollen & turned nearly black poor Morris — I went into Ararat yesterday (Sunday) staid all night at Nellys Restaurant, she was glad to see me we had a long yarn, about poor Roby I got home this morning after a delightful walk over the ranges – We have Christened the place we are living at [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-37.342242,142.844455 Moonlight Gully] — 2nd [1st] November.- Been a wretched week nothing but rain & wind, the consequence being that we have done very poor, not been able to do a fair days work for the week, we sank several holes but nothing in them to pay we only got 18 dwts between us. Bad luck its hard enough for us single chaps, but what must our married mates think they come out here from Ararat on Monday morning & go home on Saturday night, I pity a married digger with a family, if he’s getting no gold, its hard work for a woman to live on the diggins while they are in such an {{Image|file=01-131.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/129}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-132 144]
1857-11-01

Moonlight Gully Nov 1857
unsettled state, they have so many hard ships to contend with — I took a long walk on the ranges to day & nearly met with a mishap. I was walking along a little pathway when I saw a lizard it seemed rooted to the spot. Knowing them to be, very timid & generally on ones approach to run away, I thought it very strange. I had a stick in my hand & touchd it, when I, heard a hissing noise & before I could see what it was, a large Carpet Snake sprang at the lizard. I never jumped so far before, but on recovering my presence of mind, I got a small stick & flung it at the reptile & before it could recover itself I st[r]uck it on the head with my stick & killed it It gave me a start I feel now, on finding myself so near the thing. I brought it home & laid it just at the tent door, my mates were out. Jacob Maguire was the first to come to the tent & nearly trod upon it & not knowing it was dead, gave a yell & tumbled backward, he was a long time before he recovered from his fright. It was very wrong I must say to have done such a trick. I did it for fun, for he is always boasting of his nerve & presence of mind It measd 5 ft 3 in. the one I killed the other day {{Image|file=01-132.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/130}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-133 145]
Moonlight Gully, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-11-08

I found asleep or basking in the sun on a rock & had no difficulty in killing Ive killed a good many in Australia but was never being so nearly bitten before Ive read 2 Books through this week that I borrowed while on Ararat, Last of the Tribes & a fine story by Disraeli called Sybil – quite an intellectual treat — 8th Nov Been very hot. There was quite a rush set in at a small in gully half a mile from here, we sank 5 holes, 2 of them turned out a little gold 11 dwts out of 5 loads of dirt- wretchedly poor, our married mates dont intend coming out again, they can do as well on Ararat as here, & not be compelled to be absent from their family, so we have dissolved partnerships & think we will do better by ourselves. I dont believe in large parties except in deep wet ground. I went to Ararat yesterday, & received a long letter from Mother all well, she informs me that Ned has left home & taken to the Bush, she thinks he has gone to Bendigo, I hope he will find Uncle & set in mates along him & Henry — 15th Weather very hot. We have been at work in the same gully as last week & Im happy to state with better success, we sank 3 paddocks & got out 5 loads of dirt that turned us out 2 oz 15 dwts, quite put us on our feet again. Harry went into the township on Saturday to sell the gold & get some things we required he saw our old mates, they have not {{Image|file=01-133.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/131}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-134 146]
Moonlight Gully, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-11-22

earned a shilling since they left us. Harry got a glass too much & didnt leave the town until late & when about halfway home on the high range 2 men rushed upon him & knocked him on the head with a stick, he laid insensible for two hours & when he came all right he found he hadnt a penny left they had robbed him of better than £7.10.0 he had spent nearly his own share of the gold on some clothes which he had put on so he is no loser, Dick & I are the suffererss. Im very annoyed he ought to have left earlier, the crack on his head will teach him a lesson nothing but ill luck seems to attend me I was doubtful about the story at first, but I found out to day that an acquaintance of mine who met Harry & seeing him rather full, accompanied him some two miles on the road past any place where he could have spent the money, we have been living on short allowance the past week & I suppose will have to do so the next week the only thing he brought Back was a Book he got cheap for me, an edition of Byrons Works 22nd Very indifferent weather, but hot & sultry generally attended by several thunder storms we worked very hard this week, & only got 9 dwts, not enough to keep us in flour A rush took place a mile from here, we got a claim next to the prospectors which we intend to sink a hole in next week if we can get tick {{Image|file=01-134.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/132}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-135 147]
Moonlight Gully, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-11-22

for vituals, the ground is very hard being all cement I went into Ararat yesterday & borrowed a pair of gads & a hammer, to work with, we shall commence it to morrow I hope it will pay us but Im not sanguine about it — I received a letter from Mother yesterday, she has recd a long letter from [[Vickerman-168|Aunt Hartley]] (Halifax) who informs us that J. & W. Hall have had to leave school in consequence of their fathers death who it appears died in anything but independent circumstances as was supposed. Joe is coming to Adelaide & Bill is going to be a middy. There is also an allusion to my lamentable ignorance. I think it very wrong & it galls me much, to have reflection cast upon me for what I cannot avoid, leaving home so young & never mixing in society & having no one that could take an interest in me, living with the very vilest characters at times in my occupation as a gold digger, however I intend to improve myself in the future & endeavour to make myself passible in society should I ever be thrown in any, my mates & companions say that Im greatly changed the last 12 months since I took to studying as they call it. On Donolly I bought a grammer & an arithmetic which I have studied since. I understand "Practice" & "Rule of Three" well so Im getting on. Jacob Maguire & Hopkin who live in the next tent are both good scholars & have mixed in good society, & are well bred Etc. I endeavour to make examples of {{Image|file=01-135.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/133}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-136 148]
1857-11-29

Moonlight Gully. Nov 1857-
them, & light my candle from their lamp, they are very kind & always appear to give me any information I require willingly Edward is once more in Melbourne having travelled some hundreds of miles in the bush without finding employment, except a few days work he got on the Mount Alexr Road, poor fellow he is beginning to have his troubles. My father is greatly to blame for the paltry proud spirit he has shown in bringing up his boys without trades or educations. It was always my wish for Edward to be educated. I once sent mother ₤5.0.0. for the purpose & would have offered to pay his school fees & his clothes — which I would endeavoured to have done, but its useless regretting now the money was put to another purpose & there it ended 30th [29th] Last Monday it rained so hard that we could not work. passed the day reading & writing Tuesday there was a prize fight, at the back of Mount Ararat some 5 miles from here, between Joe Kitchen & Bob Fee for £200.0.0 aside It was a fine fight lasted over 2 hours, Kitchen coming off the victor. I never saw so much ill feeling displayed by the spectators in my life. I saw 20 fights during the day. It was like a fair Booths & Grandstands forming a Circus of the place we were very hungry when we got home, not had a 1/. between us. Wednesday we commenced {{Image|file=01-136.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/134}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-137 149]
Moonlight Gully & Emu Creek, Victoria Australia, 1857-11-29

our hole & bottomed it on Saturday a duffer like every other hole turned out on the hill, the prospectors are the only ones that can get any gold, they bottomed on a gutter where a little gold lodged Dick worked in a little gully near the tent we call Emu Creek, because we killed one there during the week, he got 5 dwts of gold, so we had to go into debt for Grub, we have had some fearful fires in the neighbourhood owing to the heat of the weather the grass & trees are very dry & the least thing set it on fire. We burnt the grass on Wednesday for 100 yards round the tent, a most fortunate thing for a fire occurred the following day that consumed everything it met with. We were coming home from work & had to run for our lives, in crossing a flat where the grass was up to our knees, kangaroos & Emus, lizards & snakes, wild cattle Etc rushed by in great numbers — & took to the waterhole A sad calamity nearly happened, being my day to cook I left work earlier than the others to get tea ready. I found Mrs Howard (a person that lived about a quarter of a mile from our tent) trying to beat out the flames that were raging around her tent with a large green bush, poor woman! she was nearly exhausted. I rushed to help her when the flames caught the tent, her Baby she had left on the bed & a little Boy was clinging to his mothers dress which was pretty well scorched. I pushed my way with an old sack around my head & got hold of the Baby, & dragged it out & got it into {{Image|file=01-137.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/135}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-138 150]
Moonlight Gully & Emu Creek, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-12-06

into a place of safety behind the fire, Mrs H fainted, but soon came round, she was sure her baby was burnt, but the little beggar began to cry which soon relieved her of her fears — the fire was far away in a few minutes, but they were without a home, her husband was at work at the time but seeing the fire at a distance came home but he was too late to be of any assistance, my mates & the others turned to & got a lot of Bushes & erected a large Mia Mia & spreading a lot of dry leaves left them. Ive not been able to work since, from the burns I received in saving the child, my hair is all singed & being only in my flannel shirt at the time my neck & shoulders are burnt, my left shoulder is very bad & sore, all the skin being off. I got some Emu fat & rubbed on it so I dont think it will be long before its well Howard was very profuse in the acknowledgement of his gratitude, he has a little money in the Bank at Ararat & has purchased another tent Mrs. H. is very ill, poor woman she has been well brought up & not accustomed to a hard life, they intend leaving the diggins for good the end of the summer. December 6th 1857. Fine weather but very hot Been at work in Emu Gully & Im happy to state with better success than last week we made 3 oz between us, sufficient to pay our debts & leave us a pound or two which I consider mine, my mates being in my debt. I Went {{Image|file=01-138.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/136}} AAD [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-1 151] 1857-12-20

Moonlight. Dec 1857 -
into Ararat yesterday & bought a pick & shovel & also some clothing I required, for I was nearly naked. I went to see Old George, he is at work on [https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/66044737 Campbells], doing very poorly. I called on Bill Greys, he is hard-up, his wife & 2 children look miserable. I gave him a pound Stg. which he spent at once on food. I told him to come out to us next week & try a hole near our claim he can live with us for the week. I trust he will do something, he is a steady chap & works hard but is very unfortunate. Ararat looks miserable I dont think there are 4,000 people on it & not 4 months ago there were 50,000, nearly everyone has left this place. If I can save £5 the next fortnight Ill go to town & see all at home its nearly two years since I saw them last in Adelaide 13th. Weather dreadfully hot. Worked in Emu Gully this week, made 2 oz 10 dwt, better than nothing. Bill Gray poor devil only made 3 dwts not enough to pay his share of the rations, but we would not take it from him. Dick & I went into Ararat. I called at the P.O. no letters I dont think Uncle could have received the letter I wrote to him, I fancy the letter I sent to mother never was posted, I gave it a man & I hear he got drunk on the road & has never been near the township since 20th Fearfully hot all the week, could not work the first 2 days of the week in consequence. The Bush having been on fire again, we killed {{Image|file=Aad-1.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/137}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-5 152]
Moonlight Gully & Emu Creek, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1857-12-24

two fine kangaroos that were fleeing from the fire & caught a beautiful Bird called a Native Companion. Harry & Dick got on the spree last Monday & Tuesday, got to work on Wednesday made nearly 2 oz for the week. I went into Ararat yesterday, no letters, on my way home I made up my mind to go to Melbourne for a change I should have started to day, but Bill Nuttall is going in a few days so I shall wait until he's ready. I think we'll start on X mas day. 24th Dec 1857. I intend starting for town in the morning. The weather is very hot, the bush was on fire at the beginning of the week, burnt several tents in the neighbouring gullies — we have made 1 oz for the 4 days work. I think I shall return to this place in about a month Nuttall has a little money in Geelong & I think Ill draw mine, & we intend purchasing a puddling mill in Opossum Gully about 3 miles from this, I think when winter sets in it will pay us very well, it will cost us about £100.0.0 I leave my share of the tent & tools to Harry & Dick until my return — Ive washed & mended my clothes this afternoon so I am quite ready. My mates & Maguires & their party are all merry (drunk) being X mas eve. I hope Nuttall wont take too much for I want to push along pretty smart tomorrow {{Image|file=Aad-5.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/138}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-6 153]
1857-12-13

Melbourne Jany 1858
We left Moonlight Gully, Christmas morning, about 10 am. reached Ararat at 12, had our dinner (the best Ive had for years) got onto the road struck across the plain & made the Ballarat road made a Public House with a most unpronounceable native name, it might be a Gailic one for it was kept by an Highlander, we had a good supper & bed & by daylight we got onto the road again, our journey took us through the finest country Ive travelled for many years, we passed through [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-37.3411947,142.1920439 Fiery Creek] (Raglan) about 10. am, made Lake [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-37.472480,143.641900 Burrumbeet] about 6 pm where we had tea it is the most beautiful neighbourhood I traveled in Australia fine land & a deal of it under cultivation, near the Lake, which is about 10 miles long & in some places 1 mile broad so I was informed, there is a small township that contains a store & two Public Houses, Nuttall wanted to remain there all night, but I was determined to reach Ballarat some 12 miles further after some remonstrance I got him to try it. I was sorry I did not remain, it came on dark & the road was a lonely one & having walked better than 30 miles we were completely knocked up, when we reached Ballarat we could not find a place where we could get a bed, however we managed by paying 2/- each at a place called the Bridge Hotel26thDec. Bridge Hotel, somewhere near the bridge on Bridge St to get a shakedown on the table of a Taproom, there were about 20 others to sleep in the room mostly drunk, the landlord took the candle out about 1 oclock, but one fellow had a {{Image|file=Aad-6.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/139}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-7 154]
Bridge Hotel Ballarat; Stony Rises; Meredith; Muddy Water Holes; Geelong; Melbourne, Victoria Australia, 1857-12-26 to 28

piece in his swag which he lit, to my annoyance for I wanted to get asleep. I blew it out as soon as he lit, he kicked up a row & swore he had been robbed of 2 £l notes, & he accused me of taking them & in the dark got hold of me, with a deal of trouble I got rid of him by hitting him the landlord hearing the disturbance came in & throw a light on the subject, it appeared he was one of a gang of blaguards that had been hanging about the place all day, a policeman at last came in (drunk) I showed him my money all new notes, the man descrbd his as being old ones, him & his mates got kicked out by the other occupants of the room. I soon fell asleep & the first thing in the morning [27th] we got started again, had breakfast at a decent place just outside the town, on the Geelong Road, we made a place called the Stony Rises where we had dinner, our road from this place took us through a pretty place called Meredith, we soon began to get tired, having over exerted ourselves the day before (walked 47 miles) we camped for the night at an Hotel, near a place called the Muddy Water holes, where we spent a different night than the one before, we rose early [28th] & got into Geelong by dinner time (15 miles) after a Bath & a good dinner, I started by the Railway to Melbourne, leaving Bill behind he wanted to find out his brother who lives there. I got home all right on Monday [28th] night the 28th. I found my Father & mother quite well my sister Mary is growing a nice little {{Image|file=Aad-7.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/140}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-8 155]

Wellinton St. Collingwood, Victoria Australia, 1858-01-03 Sunday

girl, Bessie, Charlie & Fred are all well & were very glad to see me.
Jany 3rd 1858. A new year, I wonder what its going to produce. It has been the hardest (the past one) that ever I experienced, earned but little money & suffered a great many hardships & privations – last Tuesday [29th] I rambled about town I saw a great deal to amuse & interest me I bought some decent clothes, & went out with mother. Wednesday, Nuttall made his appearance & we made up our minds to enjoy ourselves as much as possible for we didnt know when we should be in town again, we walked to a place about 3 miles from here called Prahran, to deliver a letter to a young man named Burchell, a couzin of Maguires, he made us very welcome, & promised to meet us again. In the evening we went to the Theatre to see the Pantomime of Whittingtons & Cat staid out all night knocking about the town met several Ararat chaps — we went on Thursday [31st] morn to St. Kilda, had a bathe in the sea took a boat & went out into the Bay, came home early, Father looked blue at me at not being home since the day before — but Ive been my own master & had to rely on my own resources so many years, that I never think of being controlled in my actions, so I was rather astonished but soon got amused when he made his enquiries I wouldnt like to have told him where I had been — we went to the Princess Theatre in the evening & saw the Miss Gougenheims in the Extravaganza of Fortunia. I liked it well we went home all right that night — {{Image|file=Aad-8.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/141}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-9 156]
26 Wellington St. Collingwood, Victoria Australia, ~1858-01-01

& the next morning Bill & I took mother & the children down to St Kilda, made quite a little picnic of it — & I think we all enjoyed our selves very [well], got home early & after tea Bill & I went to the [http://www.google.com/maps?q=-37.8320402,144.9910364 Cremorne Gardens], the finest place in the colony for a nights amusement & being New Years night,(This account has 8 day week) it was extra grand all sorts being [there] the most respectable & the most abandoned, there was dancing & music tight rope dancing, gymnastics & acrobats, fire works, & various other display Bill & I paired up with 2 girls, had a little flirtation with them, they seemed like decent girls that had stole from home for fun, they had been dancing & had got some wine in them, we left them at last quarrelling & met Burchell with a young lady a Miss Marie Willis to whom he introduced us, after a dance with her & a long pleasent chat with them we parted but not before promising to see us again- I never spent such a night before or ever had so much rollicking fun — nearly daylight when we got home tired enough, Bill went back to Geelong yesterday I stayd home all day till evening, went to the Theatre with Fred. I went to Prahran to day, had dinner with Burchell, after which we went for Miss Willis (she is a pretty young lady a housekeeper to some gentleman) she introduced me to a pretty girl, who Im sure had many a quiet laugh at my manner, but few think, that dont know me, that Im a digger I appear to throw off that rough manner {{Image|file=Aad-9.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/142}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-10 157]
1857-12-13
26 Wellington St. Collingwood, Moonlight Gully Ararat Victoria Australia, 1859-01-11

that a Bushman has, I feel a kind of intuitive instinct that refines me at once when I enter ladies society that often amazes myself how it was acquired I fancy its in some natures — We enjoyed ourselves well, went to St. Kilda, the beach is quite a fasionable resort. B & I had a Bathe left the ladies with some friends of theirs we called upon we returned in the evening to Miss W. place her master is out of Melbourne she served up a beautiful tea, took possession of the best drawing Room where there was a piano Miss W. & Miss Mace (my young lady) both play the latter sings well, after an hour or two we adjourned into the garden one of the finest round Melbourne. We had raspberries & grapes in abundance, sat in a summer house till near 12 oclock, when we went inside & had a nice supper. B & I left at 1 oclock, walked into Prahran, there fell in with a cab & rode into Melbourne nearly daylight this morning when I got home & so passed one of the pleasentest week of my existence — ==1858== 11th Once more at Moonlight Gully — we arrived here this afternoon. I will endeavour to continue my journal from where I left off before. Last Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday I spent in town knocking about pleasuring & enjoying myself. Nuttall came for me on Wednesday. I drew £6.0.0 to take me up so on Thursday morning we rolled {{Image|file=Aad-10.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/143}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-11 158]
[Melb, Geelong, Muddy W. H. Ballarat, Trawalla, a Rush, Waterloo Flat Fiery Creek (Raglan) 1858-01-11

Moonlight Gully Jany 1858
up our swags & after an affectionate adieu from those at home, we started got to Geelong in the train by dinner time, we at once commenced our journey, made the Muddy Water holes where we passed the night. In the morning the coach came by we got 2 seats 30/. each to take us to Ballarat where we arrived by 12 oclock, we reached a place called Trawalla by night — 20 miles from Ballarat near Simpsons Station when there we heard there was a rush about 8 miles away in the Bush, so we thought we would go & see it, we struck across the Bush & after walking about 20 miles we found the place — it is about halfway between Fiery Creek & Burn Bank, 2 holes had been bottomed & not much account, & we did not like the look of the place so we did not remain but started at once for Ararat again, we made a place called Waterloo Flat, where we camped rose early in the morning & got into the township of Fiery Creek (Raglan) where we had Breakfast. I was astonished at the quantity of parrots we saw where we camped, there was one tree close to our camp we saw literally green with them we killed 60 in 5 shots, they were small & close together. We gave them to the {{Image|file=Aad-11.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/144}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-12 159]
Fiery Creek, Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1858-01-11

people we breakfasted with, we tramped along the day being hot, & were knocked up by 4 oclock when we camped near a pretty creek about 9 miles from Ararat, having only walked about 27 miles for the day, the next day we reached Ararat early, this morning, found nearly everybody packing up & bound for the great Rush at Pleasent Creek — we met Harry Hawkins & Jacob Maguire in the township, they returned with us here, my mates are thinking of going to the rush, they have done nothing since I left them nor do they think there is any prospect of doing any thing. The mill that Bill & I thought about buying is sold Im blessed if I would have ever come in this neighbourhood again if I had known of it before I left Melbourne. I have not much money left, some £2.0.0 & my mates have not £1.0.0. so there is not a very pleasent prospect before us & going onto a strange place where the ground is deep & hard, but I hear there are a great number of good holes bottomed during the last week the rush is only 20 miles from here, there is a man that has a team of Bullocks & is going to take all our things for a pound, he will start in a day or two. Nuttalls party is going also, so we are thinking of throwing in together. They were very glad to see us back, had any amount of questions to answer {{Image|file=Aad-12.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/145}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-13 160]
Ararat, Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Victoria Australia, 1858-01-17

17th Jany 1858 Pleasent Creek — The weather has been fearful hot. We did not leave M.G. until Friday the man lost his bullocks & we would not start without our tools & it was impossible to carry them along with our tent and Blankets we got up here yesterday and pitched our tent on a Flat, what little Ive seen of the place does not please me. I never saw such a wretched scraggy looking country in all my travels, the ground is composed of granite sand, the hills are covered with short thick scrub & stunted timber, the leads where the gold is supposed to run dont lie as most leads Eastward do they here run in any diretn which makes it difficult to trace the ground the holes are sunk in, is very hard, being cement, & requires blasting. I dont know how we are going to get on we havnt the price of powder it will take to sink a hole, however lucks all — theres many a silver lining to a dark cloud or, dark cloud with a silver lining — 24th. The weather has been very hot. Monday morning we held a meeting to decide on what course to adopt in our present circumstances we agreed that 4 of us should try the old ground & endeavour to make enough to keep us in vituals while the others are to prospect & sink holes on the rush, we {{Image|file=Aad-13.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/146}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-14 161]
Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Victoria Australia, 1858-01-24

first had a look around & marked out two holes – which we intend to shepherd, (that is to remain on the ground and do as little as possible while the next claim is bottomed & if its any good to sink ours, if a duffer to give it up) for we are not in a position to sink a hole – We found there are not many holes bottomed & what is are very much exaggerated with regards to the yields, there are supposed to be 20,000 people on the rush, there is a township formed, full of life & bustle & the street crowded with loafers & newcomers, being a kind of rendezvous for them, the public houses and Restaurant & Billiard Rooms being full. – The party that went prospecting didnt do much, only got 2 dwts for their weeks work, the shepherds, did nothing of course, the next party not being bottomed yet. There is a deal of timber around the claims so we felled some trees & made a pit & burnt a lot of charcoal thinking of making some money by selling it to the Blacksmiths, but we only sold £1 worth, there are too many at the game the supply is greater than the demand. It takes a deal of money to keep us in vituals. {{Image|file=Aad-14.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/147}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-15 162]
Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Victoria Australia, 1858-01-31

Bread is 4/. a four lb loaf, and its principaly bread a digger lives upon. Mutton tea & damper is the usual fare from year end to year end, never dream of vegetables I dont think much of this rush tho I dare say if a man had capital to hang out he might drop across a good hole in the long run but its a place I would never expend much upon. I should have written to mother to day but I couldnt for a good reason, why I havnt got a shilling to pay the postage 31st. The hottest weather I ever experienced in Victoria, the thermometer being 110^º in the shade nearly every day at 1 pm, we arranged our work as last week, several of us fossicking they got 10 dwts not enough to keep 2 us in Bread, (we tasted nothing else this week) & tea without sugar, hard times — Harry & I sank a hole, it was very hard, turned out a duffer. Dick funked on the approach of hard times & packed up his swag & left us to our fate. I think he has gone to “Moonlight" I wish Id the money he owes me. Ive been down the township several times in hopes of meeting some old friends, there has been another rush about a mile from here called 50 ft hill we marked out a claim which we intend to shepherd next week on spec Ive been reading two Books I brought from Melbourne in my swag Michelets History of Rome & Ovids Metamorphorses, the latter amuses us amazingly {{Image|file=Aad-15.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/148}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-16 163]
1858-02-07

Pleasent Creek Feby 1858
7th February Still very hot. We sank two holes this week, both duffers, we got 19 dwt out of an old hole that helped to keep us alive we bought a Bullocks head to day & had a good feed, its the first meat we have tasted for a fortnight — we are running in debt fast with the Baker he is the only one that will give us credit, he wont trust us any longer, he is afraid we are an unlucky set & wont see his money again, the way we manage for powder & fuse is, we get it from a store on credit & he charges us 50 per cent above the usual price & if we dont get gold out of the hole, he has little chance of being paid, if the hole is a duffer Ive visited the township very often during the week, in the evenings, visited the free Concert Rooms & Dancing Saloons Etc cheap pleasuring, & I believe I enjoy my- self as well as those that spend money My Birthday was last Monday, I am 19 years of age now, & look 26 so every one says — the hard life Ive led would age anybody. Ive not posted my letter yet cant spare a shilling for the postage 14 Feby Been very warm all the week. I shepherded our claim two days, when Jacob M. & I commenced to sink it, we worked very hard sometimes till 10 pm, being anxious to bottom which we did yesterday, a pure duffer, we were greatly disappointed & very much disheartened {{Image|file=Aad-16.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/149}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-17 164]
Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Victoria Australia, 1858-02-21

at our ill success living on dry Bread & not enough of that, is sufficient to dishearten anybody Harry & Jim Massey bottomed another hole, no good, our other mates have been prospecting & trying about, but with the like results – Thursday we had nothing to eat at all, the Baker not coming his usual round, & yesterday all we had was a loaf between the 8 of us, a stranger would have laughed to have seen us divide it, we were each afraid to be thought greedy & had some fun about the affair It was amusing to witness us playing cards last night who should pay for a good meal for the lot of us. We all adjourned to an intellectual treat instead, a public meeting something about the Monarchy Clause Politics, didnt interest me much, a good meal would be more in my line at present I met a man I knew last night in the township, he insisted upon me having a drink for which he had to pay a 1/- I would liked to have had the money, it would pay the postage of my letter that has been written nearly 3 weeks — 21st Feby 1858, We had nothing but thunder storms the past week, it has made the weather more pleasent Harry & his mate have been driving the hole they sank last week but could get onto nothing payable. Jacob & I have been at work in the hole we sank, we {{Image|file=Aad-17.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/150}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-19 165]
1858-02-28

Pleasent Creek Feby 1858 -
_ could get no gold until Friday when I picked out a nugget 5 dwts & 6 dwts of fine gold out of 4 tubs so we intend trying it again next week. I posted my letter yesterday. Ive been suffering severely from a bad headache, caused by the want of proper food Etc. my mates are similarly affected, from the same cause. There has been several holes bottomed during the week, very good, but I think they are only patches, they have caused a rush a great many have arrived from other diggings heaven help them, if they are unlucky like our selves — Dick Yoa & his mate came to see us last Tuesday, they are working on Moonlight but only making "Tucker" they returned the next day. 28th Fine weather during the week. Monday Tom Maguire & I drove out a load of washdirt & only got 3½ dwt out of it. Thursday, Harry & I went into it & drove it & found 2 bits that weighed 11 dwts, we could not get the colour out of the hole afterwards so we have left it – I marked out a claim on a new rush at a place called 90 ft hill, there is one good hole bottomed. I intend to shepherd it next week I received a letter from Mother yesterday they are all well at home but like my self are very short of money & are in want of common necessaries. I wrote to her to day & told her to draw £5.0.0 of my money. Its no use in laying idle or nearly {{Image|file=Aad-19.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/151}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-20 166]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-02-07

so & they perhaps going with hungry bellies though I wouldnt draw any for myself. I think if my mates can knock along I can. Edward has left his situation at Castlemaine, that he went to at X mas, I should not be surprised to see him up here on the look out for me. I dont want him to come on the diggins, I would sooner he tried anything else than digging. I have had quite enough of it, to do for all our family — 7th March The weather has been beautiful, my mates have been sinking & driving holes all the week, but could get no gold Ned Hopkin & I have been at work in the hole we were at last week the washdirt is very thin however we got out a load & washed it yesterday, it turned out 1 oz 5 dwts which we gave to our Baker, so will be all right for Bread next week & perhaps we may get another load as good, & our mates may drop into a golden hole. We bought a Bullocks head to day & made a splendid dinner, the best Ive had for some time Harry marked out a claim yesterday on 90 ft hill, it stands a good show, being in a direct line with several golden holes. It will take a fortnight to sink it. I hope it wont deceive us. Bob Maguire (the younger Brother) has been very ill with dysentry, poor fellow he has only been in the colony a few months, he is commencing his fortune under anything but favorable auspices he has received a good education & been brought {{Image|file=Aad-20.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/152}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-21 167]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-03-14

up in the midst of luxury, he must feel his present life a wretched one, laid up unable to move from exhaustion & without the very com- monest necessaries of life, there is a doctor located here that was acquainted with the family at home who sometimes visits him & there is a poor woman that lives near us that sometimes brings him a basin of soup or gruel. God bless her. I went down the township last night, visited nearly every place of amusement of course free from all charge. I had several dances, met many acquaintances, went into the Gymnasium kept by a fighting man, had the Gloves on with Hardy & also with Joe Kitchen who nearly broke my neck, he struck me & I staggered back against a post. It was only in fun, Im paying for my learning by such practices – I had a long walk in the Bush to day went to Mount William, saw Sir T.Mitchells old encampment, when on his road to Portland 20 years ago, if he could see things now in Victoria, he would be surprised at the changes that have taken place 14th March 1858 Weather very unsettled we had a fearful storm on Friday night, scores of tents blown away, trees uprooted Etc. & the rain, in the course of my life I never witnessed anything to equal it, it came down like a sheet of water & lasted about an hour, the place looked like a large lake, our tents were flooded, the {{Image|file=Aad-21.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/153}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-22 168]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-03-14

Blankets got drenched and every rag of clothes we had. Ive not had a dry thing on since until this evening, we made an immense fire & erected a rail all round it to hang our clothes to dry It looked like a laundry. Harry & his mate are about 30 ft deep with their hole. Ned Hopkins & I worked hard & only got 7 dwts between us, so we are still on short allowance as usual. I hardly know how we keep our health under such circumstances. Bob is much better I am happy to state & will be able to get to work next week. Bill & Jacob are sinking I think its very foolish in our position to go sinking deep, hard holes on speculation, getting into debt & seeing no prospect of ever being able to pay If Harrys hole is a duffer. I dont think Ill stay long on this place, Pleasent Creek, as it is called. We were offered £25.0.0 for the claim, but we would not sell it, it wouldnt be much divided among 7 of us, & perhaps may be a golden hole that will turn us out a few hundreds each. Castles in the air, says Bob - I received an affectionate letter from Mother, containing advice & bidding me hope on & quoting several old proverbs, very good in their way mother, but hard pills to swallow on an empty stomach like mine is at times {{Image|file=Aad-22.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/154}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-23 169]
1858-03-21

March 1858 Pleasent Creek 21st. Lovely weather, but rather cold in the night & living in a tent without a fly one feels it, our tent is only 8 ft x 9 & 3 of us live in it so we have no room to erect stretchers, we sleep together on the ground, at least on some leaves spread for a floor, commonly called Bush feathers Nothing but disappointment & ill luck on this accursed place. Harrys hole we bottomed on Wednesday night, after working at it night & day shifts, the last fortnight, we could not get the color of gold off the bottom we drove it in the pipeclay, two ways 20 ft without seeing gold, it appears we bottomed on a rise the gutter where the lead of gold is in, runs just outside our claim, the people that own the next claim sank it in poor spirits they had made up their minds it was to be a duffer they have had two golden holes since they have been here cleared about £400.0.0 aman out of them, its purely a matter of chance is gold digging. Im getting very careless now & dis- heartened working hard & half starved in the bargain is enough to break a mans heart Im sure this week Ive not had 2 meals a day & that only of dry bread one of my mates has an awful amount of "cheek" or confidence he went into every Butchers shop on the place {{Image|file=Aad-23.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/155}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-24 170]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-03-21

to try & get some mutton on credit. If I can get any powder & lead Ill get the loan of Sams gun & if I dont shoot a bullock or a sheep next week Ill suffer hanging. I know a place about 15 miles from here where there is a lot of wild cattle not branded. Harry is the only one that has any pluck Jacob Maguire dont live with his brothers & us, he used to have a store & is well known by the business men here, he lives with some friends we quite envy him, he comes to work & we enquire what he's had for Breakfast Etc. & have quite a treat in listening to his bill of fare There is another rush beyond 90 ft hill, where the sinking is only about 30 ft but very hard we have a claim that stands a good show I think we'll shepherd it, perhaps sink it – we intend shifting our tent to the place on Monday. Bob Maguire is ill again with dysentry. I advise him to cut the diggins if he ever gets better, poor fellow he little thought on leaving Britain, what a life was before him he thought he was coming to a land flowing with milk & honey, never imagined there was such a thing as hunger known in Australia where the trees are evergreen, where life is ever young, a kind of Eden, as it is discribed by the Emigration Agents & Lecturers in Europe {{Image|file=Aad-24.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/156}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-25 171]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-03-28

Though after all is said & done its a fine country if it was only better governed, the great curse of Victoria has been the want of a liberal land bill, there is too much Monopoly in it for a young Country ever to be prosperous. Ive known many men that have made a few hundred Stg that actually did not know what to do with it, possessing no knowledge of business, no education they knew not how to invest it, land they could not buy at any thing like a reasonable price the consequence was they spent it in debauchery I have known thousands of instances of the case, & people that know no better cry them down, call diggers, extravagant, fools Etc for spending their hard earned money foolishly Im sure they never gave the question any thing like fair consideration or they would not form such erroneous conclusions — 28th Weather fine — We broke up our party last Monday Harry & I of course sticking to – -gether, for better or worse, the Maguires & Nuttall with Hopkins are still mates, the latter has been on the spree all the week, he is the only son of a rich Welsh gentleman that possesses an income from property of about £5000.0.0 a year. Ned was sent to College & a deal of money spent upon him, when he was 18 years of age his mother died & left him £16000, of which he spent before he was 22 years of age {{Image|file=Aad-25.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/157}} 01 158 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-26 172]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-03-28

he married a young lady in Bristol, she had £5,000. for a dowry, he gambled & squandered the whole of it away, his father cut him, & Ned went to London where he forged his fathers name for £200. which money he spent, his father would have punished him could he have been caught, he was nearly at his wits ends, nearly starving in London having actually at one time pawned his coat & bought a guitar & sang songs in the streets of London in the evening under the very windows of houses where he had formerly visited) for a living, he at length got a passage on a ship for Australia working as a supernumerary, on his arrival he tried to get employment in Melbourne but there were too many of his sort there to be successful, he was not fit for it, so he came on the diggins, & when first I met him he was working in a quarry near Donelly – There are a great many Welsh men here who knew his father at home, some of whom were born on his estates, they treat Ned as if he was a Lord, & if he wasnt, too proud (he is not in one sense, or he wouldnt lessen his dignity by the life he leads here, drink is his ruling passion) they would, in fact have offered to send him to England, his father has adver tised for him in every paper in Australia he could get a £1000 if he wanted it by {{Image|file=Aad-26.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/158}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-27 173]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-03-28

applying at some Bank in Melbourne, Im afraid he has sunk too low, ever to be reclaimed its a great pity for he is still very young not more than 28 years of age, his father allows his wife £300.0.0 a year to live upon, she has 2 children by him, she is to be pitied — Bill Merritt & a mate of his came up from Ararat last Tuesday, they are like ourselves hardup we have joined mates, & are living to- -gether, we have partly joined another man a Yankee named Alick Alexander, he had a claim that stood a good show, he couldnt sink it him self so Harry is helping him for a share in it. I have been working in an old hole, my mates washing & hauling up the dirt, we only got 5 dwt. not enough to supply one in Bread I wrote to Mother to day. Ive been down the township several times, there are still great numbers arriving attracted here by the exaggerated reports — the township looks busy tho I dont think there is much doing in the way of business the storekeepers have to give so much credit. The Maguires bottomed a hole last night, they only washed one bucket which turned out 10 dwts. I trust its not a patch, but that the rest of the claim will turn out as good, poor devils they want some gold bad enough {{Image|file=Aad-27.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/159}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-28 174]
1858-04-04

Pleasent Creek, April 1858
April 4th Lovely weather during the week Im regularly sick & weary at our ill luck. I feel disgusted at having to relate our continued mis- -fortunes. The Maguires wanted one of us to help them fence in their claim, that is to take a {{Red|*}}claim round the boundary of their ground, we were to have a share of the proceeds. So Harry went, on Monday, I taking his place in Alicks claim which we bottomed, another duffer, Harry met with an accident on Thursday Jacob Maguire was at the Windlass, & Harry was below sending up stuff, when through some carelessness Jacob let a Bucket fall down the hole which struck Harry upon the head cutting the scull open some 5 inches in length it paralized one side for several hours rendering him insensible, with a deal of trouble they hauled him out of the hole & took him to the doctors, & got him round they shaved his head & patched the wound, through the kindness of a drayman he was brought to the tent, he has not been out of bed since until this evening he is very weak, but having a good hardy Constitution I dont think hell be long ere he is at work again It is very unfortunate this should happen in our circumstances. I bought a shin of Beef yesterday & made some stew or {{Image|file=Aad-28.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/160}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-29 175]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-04-04

broth. Bill Merritt marked out a claim next to a golden hole on Friday, we intend to sink it tomorrow. Ive been doomed to so much disapointment lately that I am not at all sanguine about it — Alick & I left the tent last night, took with us a pair of Blankets each & a gun, it was a fine night & we had made up our minds to make for a station & try & find a stray sheep or a Bullock without a brand, (or without, we didnt much care) we walked about 10 miles & camped under some rocks & prowled about a sheep pen or fold for hours but no stray one made its appearance they are guarded too well, by dogs & 2 shepherds. I found I was observed having gone too close, so I walked up to the men & told them I was looking for stray horses & had lost my way, they believed my story & insisted upon me going to their hut which I did & finding a lot of cooked meat I eat of it pretty freely & managed to slip a piece into my jumper & also a piece of damper. I wished them good by, or good morning, for it was 2 am this morning one of them showed me a path that would lead me within a short distance of where we lived, after he left me I had to march back to where I had left Alick, had a good laugh & fell asleep {{Image|file=Aad-29.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/161}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-30 176]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-04-11

for a few hours, we started at daylight & hunted through a tract of rough bush & scrub, but could find nothing like what we were in search off, came back here by about 4 pm tired & weary after our beef -less adventure. I know another neighbourhood near the Black Ranges where I intend going some day next week 11th April. Weather fine but cold. Harry a good deal better, he tried to work on Friday hoisting up stuff. Our baker refused to give us any more credit on Thursday. But fortunately we went into an old hole & got about 12s/.d. worth of gold out of it. We commenced our hole last Tuesday, got it down about 10 ft in the cement, we intend to double back next week, 2 of us work by day & the other 2 by night so as to bottom quickly Bill & I went out kangarooing Friday night did not get home until this morning, we did not catch any, but I managed to shoot my dog through the head. I aimed at the kangaroo the dog was running alongside not having been broke in for the work. I was very sorry for the dog was one of a rare breed & I could have disposed of him for a good sum. We managed by a little stratagem to get hold of a sheep, nearly 20 miles from here {{Image|file=Aad-30.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/162}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-31 177]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-04-18

we found 2 or 3 stragglers I suppose had got seperated from the flock they belonged to, we soon killed it & hid the skin & the offal in some scrub, we cooked a portion of the loin on the ashes, & brought away about the best half of it home, we gave Alick some of it, we had a regular blue out this afternoon, invited the Maguires & their mates, a neighbour brought a bottle a scnaps in, I dont drink, but my share was drunk to my health by the rest that did. 18th The weather getting very cold especially in the evening & mornings. Harry & I took the night shift, that is sleep in the day & work at night, we all worked very hard & bottomed our hole by Friday morning 80 feet deep (we got through the cement last week) we did not get the color of gold on the bottom, at night Harry & I drove it in the pipeclay about 10 feet, but could see no gold we tried several tubs next morning but could find nothing to pay us, our other mates drove it 12 feet in another direction but with no better success we got out a load of dirt & washed it in the afternoon it turned out 3½ dwts & so finishes another hopeful hole, what {{Image|file=Aad-31.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/163}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-32 178]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia, 1858-06 April-May-June

the deuce we shall do unless, to use the words of poor Micawber, something turns up, I know not. I received a long affectionate letter from mother & enclosed in it was a £1. I bought a pair of boots with the money being barefooted the last month or next thing to it. I also received a letter from my sister Mary, very affectionate & sisterly. Its the only pleasure I enjoy here is the letters I receive from home, tho they dont always contain the most pleasent news 178b
{{Image|file=Aae-82.jpg|align=r|size=400|caption=last days at “Pleasent Creek"}} The last days at “Pleasent Creek”, my departure for Melb’ & adventures on the Road
[178 continued]

[Saturday, 12 June 1858] June 19th 1858. It is better than 2 months since I continued my journal, that I hardly know how to arrange my subject so as to be a continuation of where I left of however I’ll make the attempt. My reason firstly for not writing was that I got quite sick of continually compiling a catalogue of miseries I got disgusted with the weekly ritual. For about a month after I last wrote we did nothing but fossick about on the 90 foot hill scarcely earning sufficient to keep us alive Bill Merritt & his mate left us along with Ned Hopkins we had a loaf of Bread which we divided, I believe they went to a place called Anustary Ive not seen or heard anything of them since, but I trust they will be more for tunate there than they were here, the {{Image|file=Aad-32.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/164}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-33 179]
1858-06 May, June

Pleasent Creek June 1858
week after they left, we went into an old hole & drove out some old blocks rather dangerous work, we got about 30/. each out of it. I went down the township & called at Samuels Agency Office where the P.O. is & I saw a notice stuck up that stated if this should meet the eyes of J H Watmuff he will hear of his brother Edward by enquiring inside, whilst perusing it who should come up but Ned he hardly knew me I was so wretched & ragged looking I was glad to see him in one sense, he has grown very tall, he is only 16 years old I had a poor place to offer him to come to, he had but a few shillings after his journey from Castlemaine, where he had [been] at work, his master failed & left him in for 4 months salary, he has been at work since along with Harry & I, it is his first attempt at gold digging, so he is not much of a hand at it yet, but will be a good workman soon, being very willing to do his best, we have been at work near the tent in some ground about 20 feet deep since, getting a little gold just enough to keep us in vituals. I received a long letter from mother about a week ago in which she states that {{Image|file=Aad-33.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/165}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-34 180]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia 1858 May, June

the railway from Melbourne to Bendigo is to commence on the 1st July & she thinks it would be better if we were to come down & endeavour to get employment on the line a great many labourers being required So I made up my mind that if I could raise money enough to pay my way down I would go. Fortune seemed to approve of my determination, but only under great difficulties, we went into an old hole last Monday that we knew had some good ground left in it but no body would venture into, being so very dangerous in consequence of the rottenness of the ground, my mates advised me not to attempt it, but circumstances & the life Ive led lately had rendered me callous & reckless & I was determined to get a load out. I inspected it minutely & got Ned to keep a lookout & let me know if any of the cracks in the ground opened, he was out of danger of course, being fastened by a rope while I went into the drive & got out the block & carried the dirt out into the shaft. Harry & Alick was on top hoisting it up I managed to get a load out & send it up & had my foot in the rope & was just at the top when the ground gave way scores of tons of earth falling in, filling {{Image|file=Aad-34.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/166}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-35 181]
1858 May, June

Pleasent Creek June 1858
up the shaft nearly half way, the narrowest escape I ever had in my life, what a death if I had remained in the hole another minute I saw the cracks opening & has it was we lost a pick & shovel, they could never have got my body out, the load turned out better than 2 oz & altogether we made nearly £4.0.0 each I bought myself a new rough woolen shirt & a pair of moleskin trousers, washed up things (Ive not many) yesterday so Im already now to start my journey to town nearly 200 miles. I leave in the morning thank God, I could cry for joy, for God knows Ive known but the most miserable & hard times that ever fell to my lot to bear. Ive not known what a good meal was since I came here, there was nearly 4 months that I only tasted Butchers meat but 4 times. I never heard of a party of men so unfortunate since I came on the diggings for so long a spell. If we had not striven & worked hard there would have been an excuse, but there has not been a rush or a chance that we have neglected since we came here — I went to bid the Maguires good bye to day, poor Bob, I fear his goose is cooked! He is very ill, quite frightened me, he looks {{Image|file=Aad-35.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/167}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-36 182]
Pleasant Creek, Victoria Australia 1858 May, June

looks so miserably thin and attenuated so very different from the stout fresh looking young chap he was 6 months ago. I hope he will recover, but there is little chance, what with bad food & want of medical attendance Burchell (his couzin) sent him a few pounds a little while ago or Im sure he would be in his grave ere now, how thankful I ought to be that I possess such a fine constitution that has carried me through so many hardships & privations & yet Im the first a stranger would say would sink being very slightly formed, but Im very strong & wiry for my size. Ive seen many fine strong looking chaps fag & weary alongside of me, both at work & on the tramp I think it is owing to my having com menced a hard life when young, that my system has become enured to such a life, whereas a man brought up amidst luxury & always enjoyed the comforts of a house & all that sort of thing, on the approach of hardship soon sink & their constitution soon breaks up. Ned is going to remain with Harry & Alick until I write & let him know if there is a chance of him getting on in Melbourne Im sorry at parting with him & Harry, the latter I like well, I suppose its being so much together {{Image|file=Aad-36.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/168}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-37 183]
Pleasant Creek; Armstrong Diggings Ararat, Victoria Australia, 1858-06-20 Sunday

21st. [20th] June 1858. — Melbourne —
Once more at home, after nearly 6 months absence. I left Pleasent Creek (heaven forgive the man that called it so) last Sunday. Harry & Ned accompanied me for a mile or so on my journey. I sat down & gazed back on the spot where I had known so much misery. In looking over my journal I find that I have not alluded to many painful circumstances that happened to me there, such as the scheming, dodging & the petty shifts we were so often put to Etc. I was half inclined to knock the dust from my boots on leaving the place. I walked until dinner time when I made "Armstrongs" diggings & met an old mate of mine Bill Gray, he had been living there some time, not doing much, & was on the point of leaving it for Melbourne on the same footing as myself to get work on the Railroad, he had everything packed up I remained in his place all night & in the morning I helped to get his things on a waggon bound for town it was dinner time when we got started. I accompanied them some 12 miles where we camped for the night, 5 miles this side of Ararat It caused me some delay, however I wanted to push on so Tuesday morning at daylight I did up my swag & bid Mrs G. & Bill adieu {{Image|file=Aad-37.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/169}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-38 184]
Ararat, Fiery Creek, Trawalla, Victoria Australia, 1858-06-15

& left them promising to meet him in town & try & get a contract or something on the Rly works to do. (he told me Dick Yeo had been to see him some 3 weeks ago he was enroute for the Goulbourn diggings, as far East as he was West before) the morning was lovely I left them, the dew on the leaves & every blade of grass sparkled in the sun like glistening diamonds. Birds in thousands in most beautiful plumage whistled & chirped in every direction. I reached Fiery Creek about 5.pm & bought some food there, fell in with another traveller bound like myself for town I wanted to reach “Trawalla” that night but he got footsore & stayed all night at a refreshment tent on the way. I pushed on & camped on a hill side, where there wasn't much wood, nothing but green sheoak, with a deal of trouble I lit a fire & boiled my billy I was very tired having walked nearly 40 miles I laid down with my clothes on, just wrapped my blanket round me. I slept with my boots on & on awaking next morning & looking round a strange sight presented itself as far as the eye could see everything was white with a hoar frost. I found myself benumbed & stiff with the cold & on trying to rise I found I couldnt stand, my feet had swollen in my boots & I was compelled to cut them off with a knife. I with {{Image|file=Aad-38.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/170}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-39 185]
Burrumbeet Lake, Ballarat, Geelong,, Victoria Australia, 1858-06-16

great difficulty crawled on my hands & knees to the creek where I gathered some dry leaves & twigs & managed to light a fire & get some water in a similar manner & boiled it, & after bathing my feet with it I felt a little easier & was able to crawl along, & by dinner time I reached Burrumbeet Lake when a man with an empty cart gave me a lift into Ballarat. I was too late for the coach so I remained all night there, went to the Theatre & heard the Opera of “La Sonambula” Julia Harland & Sherwin with Jno Craig being the principal vocalists they didnt please me at all. I heard K.Hayes in the same Opera with Langlaise some time back in Melbourne & ! oh how different. I chose my quarters with more discretion for the night than I did on my last visit, had a good nights rest, applied some lotion to my feet, felt all right in the morning. Took my passage in the coach for Geelong the fare being only s5/-d cheap travelling the distance being 52 miles. I happened to be there during an opposition, or else the usual fare is £2.0.0. we should have arrived in town (Geelong) by 2pm & so caught the 2.30. train, but owing to the horses jibbing & the roads being bad, we {{Image|file=Aad-39.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/171}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-40 186]
Geelong, Victoria Australia, 1858-06-18

had to get out and walk for 5 miles it was 5 pm when we got into town too late to think of going to Melbourne so I took up my quarters in a cheap lodging house near the water side & after a bathe & a decent tea I thought I'd visit the Theatre which I did, the price being a shilling in the pit. I never was so astonished & pleased in my life than what I witnessed there An actress had arrived that day, something out of the common Miss Emma Stanley her entertainment is a wonderful one her versatility is surprising. She is a beautiful singer, a charming actress & an accomplished musician, I never witnessed such enthusiasm as was displayed by the audience. I got back to my quarters about 11 pm & found the place in an uproar, it appeared some lucky digger was living & spending his money freely, he & I had gone out to gether but had parted company near the Theatre, just before, I came back the fellow was found nearly strangled, insensible, alongside of the fence & every shilling with his watch, ring & some other things of value taken from him, no one had observed him & I go out together & I {{Image|file=Aad-40.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/172}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-41 187]
Geelong, 117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Victoria Australia, 1858-06-19

was not fool enough to say we had done so for it would have been hard work for me to have sworn an "alibi", appearances looked so bad against me, he was taken to the hospital, I dont think he will die. I believe it is some of the lodgers doings, it appears to be a very low place. I arose early & took a strool about the town, its a dull place grass actually growing in the market place & in some of the principal streets, I left by the 9.30 am train & arrived here in Melbourne all right, safe & sound on Friday noon. My mother & father & family were glad to see me. Ive not had time to look around me yet, scarcely been out of the house (117 Kerr St., Fitzroy) I intend trying to get some employment tomorrow if possible, Im not particular what it is in an office, or driving a dray, sinking a well, or a cellar Etc. I went to chapel to day the first Ive been in for years I feel very strange in town, at least in the house Ive got to behave myself be more particular in my language & manners
28th [Sunday 27th] June 1858. The weather has been very disagreable during the week, making the streets dirty & any thing but pleasent {{Image|file=Aad-41.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/173}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-42 188]
1858-06-21

Melbourne June 1858
Last Monday and Tuesday I went to the works at Footscray, found several thousand men looking for employment, the wages are very low but I think they have an object in it, for there are so many men that dont know what work is, in fact that never had a tool in their hands & they cannot make a distinction. I was offered work but I would not take it at the wage 7/. a day, it is too far to walk to work & on making enquiries I found I could not get board under 30/ aweek and at this time of the year a man couldnt average more than four or five days work a week, so it would only be like working for ones vituals. I could not board myself for the work is situated on the Keilor Plains there being not a stick of wood growing within miles of the place, the people that are located there pay £2.0.0 a load for firewood I think in a few weeks time things will get more settled & there will be a better chance so I shall endeavour to get a job in town in the meantime. Wednesday I went to Prahran with a letter I had for Burchell from his couzin Bob Maguire. I did not {{Image|file=Aad-42.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/174}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-43 189]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Victoria Australia, 1858-06-24

find him at home so I left the letter promising to call again Thursday I went to see my old friend Nelly whom I knew on Bendigo & Ararat, she is as beautiful as ever, but so changed — I never alluded to the change in her circumstances before It appears her mother had some wealthy relations in England & dying left them a considerable income. Nelly left her Restaurant & came at once to Melbourne & has been at a Boarding School at St Kilda she has greatly improved, but is very grand they were very kind to me (they could not be otherwise for what I had done for them) but there was a certain something in their manner that didnt please me, something I cant discribe, it seemed as if they did not care about encouraging the acquaintance when I called upon them they were on the point of dressing for the dress circle of the Theatre. I did not remain long they thought if I would call again they might hear of something for me to do, talked about their interest Etc. I told them I know nothing of mercentile habits, thanked them & left feeling as proud of my dignity as if I was in the possession of £1,000 a year {{Image|file=Aad-43.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/175}} 01 176 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-44 190]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Victoria Australia, 1858-07-04

I dont think Ill trouble them again. I have not wrote to Ned or to any of my old mates yet nor do I intend until I have something interesting to write about July 4th 1858. Weather fine all the week, but it has been raining very hard to day. I intended paying Burchell a visit to day but owing to the rain I defered doing so until next week I paid him a visit last Tuesday, he was very glad to see me. Thursday I went to the Grand Temperance Soiree, it was crowded to excess. I managed to enjoy myself — there was some good singing Miss [[Scrivenor-26|O.Hamilton]] & Mons Coulan being the principal vocalists. Saturday night I went to the Princess Theatre to see Miss Provost in the play of “Camilla”, she is a fine actress, I never witnessed such emotion displayed by an audience before, many being in tears during the dying scenes I have answered several advertisements for billet, but was not fortunate enough to get any thing, there are great numbers in town like myself out of employment, however I dont intend to be disheartened. Ill try a few weeks longer & if I'm not fortunate in getting a job I can but try the diggings again, tho I have no desire to do so if I can avoid it {{Image|file=Aad-44.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/176}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-45 191]
1858-08-08 July-August

Melbourne August 1858
August 8th It is five weeks since I last continued my journal so I must tax my memory & endeavour to recollect how time has passed by. Ive been living at home of course, very comfortably & I had fondly hoped I should not be under the necessity of leaving it again. I have answered scores of advertise- -ments but without success. I went after several jobs in Grocers & Drapers. I know nothing of the trade & was told they did not want apprentices. I tried several wholesale places, but I had no references, at some places I was not old enough, or big enough, or too old, & too big, — I got a job to drive a dray but the man sold it next day I helped to discharge a lime lighter 2 days, it was fearful hard work carrying bags of lime from a ships hold, I could fill a volume with an account of the adventures I met with in search after work. I'm fairly sick & disheartened with it. Bill Gray I could hear nothing about, I dont think he ever reached town or I would have heard about him, I have made up my mind if nothing turns up in a few days to roll up my blankets & take to the bush again, I think Ill go {{Image|file=Aad-45.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/177}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-46 192]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Victoria Australia, 1858-08-15

try old Bendigo again, I met an old acquaintance the other day from there who states that Uncle has been doing well lately & several others I know. Im very loath to leave for I have made several pleasent acquaintances here, among the number a very beautiful girl a Miss Somers, an orphan, her father (tho I dont think it is) has a contract on the railway Mary & [[Summers-6236|Jane]] & I went to the waxworks last night, we have been out to places very often & enjoyed ourselves well. My father is not doing much in the way of business, nor do I ever think he will, he appears to have no energy, being anything but pushing - 15th August 1858. The weather has been very unsettled during the week. Im still in Melbourne. Mr Somers (Janes father) has a contract on the Railway. I saw him on Monday morning & he asked to work for him at 10/ aday, he has about 30 men at work & only 1 or 2 that know how to blast he only gave the others 9/. aday, well I thought Id try it, so I went to the place it was on the Keilor Plains 14 miles from home. I got up there by 12 & commenced work by 1 Pm, came on to rain, no place to shelter, not a tree or bush for miles {{Image|file=Aad-46.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/178}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-47 193]
Keilor Plains Railroad, Victoria Australia, 1858-08-15

was wet through by knock off time, we all boarded in a large calico tent kept by a a Jew. We had to pay 30/- aweek for our board & had the privilege of sleeping in the place. I & the rest were wet through, after supper we made our beds on the floor or ground, it was quite muddy & wet. I laid my coat under me for a mattress. I wrapped myself up in my blankets & was soon asleep, but in the morning I was so stiff, I could hardly rise, four of the others were unable to rise, if a man had an iron constitution it would break in no time. I would not have cared if I could have got some leaves or straw to lie upon however next morning I went to work most of the men left, couldnt stand it the weather was against us, nothing but showers, got wet through & dry again two or three times during the day, on knocking off & swallowing my tea I went to bed, it was too soft to please me, next day it rained hard couldnt go to work at all, so on Thursday morning I cut it altogether, about 4 days in the week seem to be a good average for a weeks work. I would have remained {{Image|file=Aad-47.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/179}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-48 194]
Keilor Plains Railroad, 117 Kerr St. Fitzroy,, Victoria Australia, 1858-08-15

longer if I could have been better lodged Somers took up a stretcher & a mattress along with him, but I didnt think it worth while for the job would only last about 3 weeks. I never saw men working under so much difficulty in my life before, in the depth of a wet winter & on plains cold & miserable at anytime, without fire wood & sleeping on damp marshy ground is too much for any man to stand -. I arrived home about dinner time not a penny the better for 3½ days misery but a severe cold that I wont get rid of for some time & stiff bones from my soft couch, Friday I knocked about answered two advertisements for a steady responsible young man Etc. but no luck. In the evening [[Summers-6236|Jane]] & I took a pleasent walk together, went to the Theatre, but came out after the first act, & walked until near 12 oclock. Saturday I spent similar to the day before in the evening I went to the Theatre Royal took my sister & Jane to see the Unequal Match. I would have prefered a nice strool with Jane instead Went to church (St. Peters) to day, & spent {{Image|file=Aad-48.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/180}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-49 195]
1858-08-15

Melbourne August 1858
a portion of the day reading one of Dickens work, father objects to such Sunday lit- -erature, I had quite a job to get him to allow Mary to go to the Theatre, he gives me long lectures, but I feel that they dont do me much good. I intend leaving this for Bendigo next week. I ordered a pair of heavy boots yesterday, & I drew from Mr Delbridge £15.0.0 I shall require to get a few necessaries. I feel rather low spirited at the idea of leaving. I have formed so many nice acquaintances, & I had fondly hoped I should have been able to have got something like a decent job of some sort, & perhaps in time when I had improved myself sufficiently, to have made an effort for position, however the dream is over for a while but if Im any way fortunate I have made up my mind to return & go to school for a while, for Im quite sick of the life Ive led the last 7 or 8 years. I feel very bitterly the neglect my father has brought us up in not one of us boys with a trade, or an education, but I intend to study hard for the future {{Image|file=Aad-49.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/181}} ==Bendigo== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-50 196]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy; Pinch Gut Gully, Victoria Australia, 1858-08-22

Long Gully Bendigo 1858
22nd August Once more at the old spot being very methodical both in my ideas & habits, I shall commence by continuing from where I last left off. Last Monday, Mother & I went to town purchased some things I needed, & visited the Eldreds, spent the rest of the day with them, there are two Miss E very beautiful girls. It was 10 pm when we left & very loath I was to leave them, I dont much care about the old folks, they are too sanctimonious for my taste, I was introduced to a Mr & Mrs White, another saint is Mr W- Mrs W told me very confidentially she quite longed to have a dance, but she couldnt think of such a thing now. Tuesday, Fred Mary & I went to see Anderson (the Wizard of the North) play RobRoy. The house was crowded to excess, he plays the part of the outlaw well, Fanny Young & Madam Carandina played well, their singing was beautiful. I gave my Brother & sister the slip on our way home & I went to see a girl, a companion to an old lady, who allows no followers, we have met {{Image|file=Aad-50.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/182}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-51 197]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy; Diggers Rest, 1858-08-22

several times secretly after the old lady has gone to bed. I was getting in the house in the parlour window & was caught by a policeman in the act, who suspecting I had burglarious intentions was going to walk me off to the station, but the girl with my own assistance convinced him he was mistaken, so with a deal of trouble I managed to get away, a good job too a pretty kettle of fish I was near into – Wednesday I made my adieus & in the evening we had quite a party at our house Mrs & the two Miss Eldreds, a Mr Lincoln & one or two others, we had singing Etc & we managed to spend a very pleasent evening I went home with them they live in Russell St. Thursday morning about 11.am I bid farewell to all at home, once again & started for Bendigo, my swag was rather heavy, having 2 pairs of Blankets & a suit of clothes, also a few books, altogether 45 pounds weight, a good swag to carry 100 miles I crossed the plains the first day, & camped for the night at the Diggers Rest an hotel 20 miles from Melbourne, where I got a good supper & bed for 5/. Friday morning rising {{Image|file=Aad-51.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/183}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-52 198]
Gap Inn, Ravenswood, Ironbark Gully, 1858-08-22

early I walked to the Gap Inn where I had my Breakfast, the weather was lovely & I enjoyed my walk until dinner time when I began to get weary, however I made Kyneton where I remained for the night, having walked 35 miles for the day, the next day (yesterday) I made Ravenswood where I stopped for the night. I started early this morning & was in Bostocks tent Iron Bark Gully by 10.am, so I did my journey in about 3 days not bad work for 100 miles & carrying a swag in the bargain, Mr & Mrs B were very glad to see me, they have had an addition to their family since I saw them last, they have been very unfortunate Bostock has been ill & what with doctors Bills & being out of employment has reduced them very much. I stayd dinner with them, after which I came over to Long Gully found Uncle & Harry well, they have not been doing very well lately, they inform me that Mary Ann is living in Launceston Lizzie is with her, & Martha was married on the 11 inst to a man named Smith – I intend joining Uncle & Harry in the morning, & I trust we may be fortunate the old gully looks the same as ever, very little change having taken place. It was an unlucky day when I left it, just 2 years & not a penny the better, perhaps a shade wiser {{Image|file=Aad-52.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/184}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-53 199]
1858-08-29

Bendigo Long Gully 1858 29th Lovely weather Commenced work last Monday morning with a good will, along with Uncle & Harry, we made £3 each for the weeks work, not so bad for a start, a little better than the Railway. I wrote to Mother yesterday & sent her a pound for Marys schooling. Thursday night I went to Bostocks all well, found Tom there he has had some knocking about like my -self since we last saw each other, he left Pleasent Creek the same day I went onto it he has grown a great drunkard lately & is mixed up with the same bad lot as usual he had a week in jail for something very dishonorable. Im very sorry for him but I think he’s too far gone to think of reclaiming him. I shall avoid him as much as possible & he can see by my manner that Im altered since the old days we used to knock about together Ive mixed with a different set since & Im beginning to have a little more self respect than formerly. Ive met a great many old friends & acquaintances since my arrival Jim Hall is the only one that Ive visited Ive been to his tent several times during the week my leisure hours Ive spent in reading. {{Image|file=Aad-53.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/185}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aad-54 200]
1858-09-05

Bendigo. Sept 1858. 5th Sept The weather has been very unsettled during the week a deal of rain, affecting us in our work, & to make things worse my Uncle went on the spree for 4 days. I gave him to understand that I would not stand it & in squaring up our accounts for the week I deducted the gold Harry & I got the time he was away, nothing but right, but still rather unusual amongst diggers, but I have suffered so much from drunken mates that I dont intend submitting to it any longer. I feel perfectly justified in doing what I did. I made for my own share £3.1s.0d not so bad, I received a letter from Mother yesterday all well, [[Summers-6236|Jane]] is living with her, having given up the store on Sunbury, they had, she had a letter from Ned, he is living in Opossum Gully near Ararat along with Harry Hawkins, they are just making a living. Nuttall has left the Maguires. Bob has quite recovered from his illness Im glad to state. I went into Sandhurst yesterday, bought a concertina much to Uncles annoyance. Went to the Shamrock Concert Room heard some good singing met several I knew, didnt get home until about 1.pm {{Image|file=Aad-54.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/186}} AAE 01 187 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae 201]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-09-27

12th Sept, Weather very beautiful, We have been at work in Pinch Gut Gully (the old spot) we have got it to ourselves. We made £3.0.0 each pretty regular work. I dont care if we never do worse I received a long letter from mother, all well, enclosed was the one Ned sent her, I wrote to him & Harry to day giving them everything in the shape of news I thought would interest them. Tom Rudd paid me a visit yesterday, he wanted to borrow some money, but he owes me too much on old scores for to lend him anymore, he seemed very annoyed, & left me in anything but an amicable manner. I heard to day he has run away to Donolly taking with him another mans wife, a young woman Ive known for years, but never dreamt she was one that could have committed such a thing, I believe it was amusing to witness them taking their departure, Tom & his mate with the lady carrying their swags his mate returned this evening having quarrelled on the road, at Charlės Watkinson tent, Sandy Creek. Charlie sent a note by him to me he is still living on the Halfway diggins but up to this time has only been able to make a living, he had just bottomed a hole & got 5 dwts out of 9 Buckets {{Image|file=Aae.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/187}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-1 202]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-09-19

a good prospect I trust poor fellow he may do well, the letter contained an account of the death of an old mate of ours Big Jack we used to call him, he died in the bush with brain fever our other old mate Jack is at work with Charlie. I went to Bostocks on Wednesday night, spent my leisure time in improving my mind, reading & arithmetic. I got a volume of Macauleys Essays, also Popes Homers Odyssey. 19th Sept 1858 Fine weather, We did very poor this week only made 2 oz between us, Ive been out every night this week either at Bostocks or Halls tent, the latter place being a kind of rendezvous for several young men, Lachlan Frazer (or Lockey) we call him & Jim & I went last night to see Mary Provost & Neil Warner in Macbeth they are fine actors, but the piece was spoilt through the wretched scenery – Ive read very little this week, I took a long walk to day, in the morning I went to Cape Clear (the head of Long gully) some 3 miles from here. In the afternoon I went to [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-36.731486,144.290519 Sydenham Gardens] in company with Hall & Frazer, how different they are now to what they used to be {{Image|file=Aae-1.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/188}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-2 203]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1859-09-26

Long Gully 25th [26th] Sept 1858
Wretched weather hardly a day without rain tending seriously to affect our work we only made £1.0.0 each for the week. Harry & I have been humbugged considerably by Uncle, he has been on the spree again what a shame for a man like him to debase himself by such practices. Ive been to Halls several times met several acquaints some of whom are strange characters, there is a fine young fellow named D.Anderson well educated & well connected, he was in a large mercantile house in Glasgow got into a scrape & was sent to their branch house in Canada, didnt like the place & did not like to return to Britain, so he chose Australia for his goal, attracted by the brilliant accounts of its richness, a delusion as many more have found it, he has a splendid tenor voice that has been Cultivated by the best masters at home, he has one great failing, he worships the rosy god too much, & Im afraid he is past redemption There is another rowdy reckless devil, an Irishman named Hy.Innes, his father is a barrister & well to do but this fellow is {{Image|file=Aae-2.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/189}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-3 204]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-09-26

the black sheep of the family, a genius in his way, but a most perverted one he is never happy but when in a row, he is the terror of every one in the shape of a bully his weakness seems to be continually quoting Latin & passages from Shakespeare, he can recite the language of the principal characters of all his plays, there is another young man a mate of his named W.Donovan an intelligent well-informed man. It seems a pity that such beings should waste their existence in such an occupation as they now follow, what a number of young men will have cause to curse the diggins hereafter, what with deceased bodies & demoralised minds, its shocking to contemplate, it is a life that a few years quite unfits one, unless possessed of a strong energetic mind, for anything like social conformity [[Fraser-9757|Locky Frazer]] & I went into Sandhurst yesterday afternoon, he introduced me to his [[Fraser-8297|Uncle]] & Aunt (a well to do Baker,) a very respectable family they have a son named [[Fraser-8298|Locky]], rather a nice young fellow we had tea with them, & a pleasent chat afterwards, on leaving we took {{Image|file=Aae-3.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/190}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-83 205]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-03

a strool about “Pall Mall” the only part of Sandhurst at all lively, its nearly impassable on a Saturday night, crowds of people frequent it from all the surrounding gullies, we met several acquaintances, but at length went into the New Theatre called the Lyceum a neat pretty little place. Thatcher, Mad Vitelli, & Mrs Oakey were the vocalists, we spent a very pleasent night there, arrived home about 1.am this morning, late when I rose, after dinner I took a long walk to the Cemetary, from there visited [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-36.731486,144.290519 Sydenham Gardens], called at Bostock I received two letters yesterday one from Fred & the other from mother, Mrs Harken just been confined of a little girl. Old Somers got his hand nearly blown off by powder while blasting very unfortunate
[1858-10-03 Sunday]
October 2nd [3rd] Fine weather, We made about £2.10.0 each this week, we should have done better but I met with a misfortune on Thursday night, that has rendered me unable to work since I went up to Halls tent, several were there, as usual we commenced to have some fun. Jim & I a set too with our open hands, there was a double edged dagger on the table & he in fun, though some think he meant it because he couldnt hit me as often as I did him {{Image|file=Aae-83.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/191}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-4 206]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-03

(however I'll be charitable I think he did not mean it) took it up & in rather an impulsive manner cried stand back I thought he was joking I was poking him in the belly with the points of my finger & in drawing back my hand the point of the dagger struck my finger ripping off all the flesh along with it, the pain was fearful. I did not feel it at the time, but rather maddened by the circumstance I rushed upon him & if we had not been seperated Im sure I would have strangled him, however I fainted afterwards through pain & loss of blood I got home & had it doctored up, very fortunately its my left hand, so I will soon be at work again. I wrote a letter to Mother on Tuesday & enclosed a pound for my sisters schooling I went to the Theatre last night to see Warner in Hamlet, my favourite play of Shakespeare & to day Lockey called for me to go with to Church a place that I have not been in for many years except on one or two occasions while in Melbourne, we went but the sermon was nearly over, but we got a long one from Lockeys Uncle who is a member of Mr Nishs Presbyterian Church. I told him candidly It was the first place of worship Id been in since I lived on Bendigo nearly 8 years, he was {{Image|file=Aae-4.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/192}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-5 207]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-03

rather surprised & made me promise to come oftener. There is great excitement just now in Victoria, in consequence of the report of a New Rush, some 600 miles North of Sydney near "Port Curtis" a great many vessels are laid on for there in Melbourne thousands are going, but I can hear nothing definate about the yields from there, so I'll be cautious ere I move a step. Ill wait until I hear some authentic report before I go, Ive had quite enough of rushes the last 2 years – I went to see some men this afternoon that are going to start for there in the morning
[Sunday, 10 October 1858]
October 9th [10th] 1858, The weather is very hot. Owing to my bad hand I was unable to get to work. I tried to do some on Friday, but had to give up the attempt I went to Bendigo on Tuesday, met Mrs Bostock went home & spent the day with her, I visited Sandhurst also on Friday received a long letter from mother, informing me that my Father & Fred are thinking of going to Port Curtis a bright pair heaven help them. I wonder how he thinks his family are to live during his absence a consideration that dont affect him {{Image|file=Aae-5.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/193}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-6 208]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-03

much, having left them on more occasions than one, in the hands of providence — as he terms it, enclosed in the letter was a nice little note from my sister Mary, she is greatly improving in her writing & dictation she is on a visit with [[Summers-6236|Jane Somers]] at Sunbury 24 miles from Melbourne, I went to Lockey Frazers, sisters wedding on Friday, they had a grand party for the diggins, any amount of good things, there was upwards of 40 folks there & amongst the number a very pretty girl Ive long wish to be introduced to, a [[Hooper-10509|Miss Hooper]],) she lives about 200 yards from my tent. I have seen her daily but have never been able to make her acquaintance she seldom goes out & I fancy the young chaps about the gully & not the sort she cares about, she is very cool & distant in her manner, to strangers, but Im sure from what Ive seen of her she is very impetuous & impassioned in her nature to those she takes an interest in,) there was several young girls there, very envious of the the attention that was paid her, one or two of them sang & were very importunate for Miss H. to sing also, thinking she {{Image|file=Aae-6.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/194}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-7 209]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-03

could not, they pressed her very much, I was seated next to her & could see she was annoyed I offered to sing for her instead, she seemed very grateful — I did so, sang “Remember me”. "Then You’ll Remember Me" from the opera ‘Bohemian Girl’ I was in excellent voice & rather astonished the company, who did not know that singing was one of mine accomplishments (the only natural one I am endowed with) I got no rest afterwards, but had to sing repeatedly until there mirth got too boisterous to please, that is the old folks got rather noisy over their glasses, so a lot of us went outside & being a lovely moonlight night, we enjoyed ourselves, playing Kiss in the Ring & dancing Etc, Miss H – thanked me for my attention, & a good understanding soon sprang up between us – about 3.am the bride left us an hour or so afterwards Lockey & I took the groom home to his cottage across the gully, we found the place locked however we got in at the window & struck a light & went into the Bedroom & were rather astonished on finding 3 girls in the room they had put Mrs Duncan to bed & she was rolled up, the girls, Lockey & I marched off with, & so left them, Willie Duncan I think would have a job to undress himself {{Image|file=Aae-7.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/195}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-8 210]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-03

he had imbibed a little too much for a bridegroom I saw Miss Hooper home, & returned & with Lockey we took Miss Bella Bryce home – the sun was up by this time, & wretched beings we must have looked, after our nights pleasure, I went to bed & did not rise until 1.pm. I went over to Bostocks yesterday afternoon, was surprised to hear that Tom Rudd had returned from Donolly with his lady love, I dont care about him. I hope he will never thrust himself in my way. Ive turned over a new leaf lately & intend to be very particular who I for the future associate with or make companions of — Lockey & I went into Church last night, heard Mr Nish preach an excellent sermon, on what seemed to me a popular lecture “On Ninevah”, I derived a deal of information & many good ideas from it. On leaving, Lockey & I went to see his [[Grant-17666|Grandmother]] who lives in a little cottage next to her [[Fraser-8297|son]] the Baker, she is very old but a very intelligent nice old woman – we chatted together for about an hour & after a pleasent walk arrived here by about 10.pm. Ive read a great deal lately. {{Image|file=Aae-8.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/196}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-9 211]
1858-10-17

Long Gully Oct 1858
16th Oct [17th] Beautiful weather but very hot in the middle of the day — Uncle took a sudden fit, last Monday morning & made up his mind to go to Adelaide, he had not money enough to pay his passage to Melbourne so he borrowed £7.10s.0d from me. We have agreed to meet him in Melbourne in three weeks from this date (that is Harry & I) if the news are favorable from Port Curtis, when we intend going, great numbers still continue to leave here, I think it very foolish to go to such an outlandish place, where no inhabitants are, until some definate news comes to hand, for up to this time I can hear of no actual “finds” being made, nothing but rumours of a most fabulous description Im glad to state my finger has healed up, rather too quickly some think, it is very tender & I think will never be as strong as it was, Harry & I are mates, we didnt begin work until Wednesday & for the 3 days we worked we got 17 dwt — we have set into some outside ground in the main gully, it is poor ground but easily worked we can get over a deal of ground in the course of the week. Ive spent nearly {{Image|file=Aae-9.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/197}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-10 212]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-24

every evening of this week at home reading & endeavouring to improve myself. I purchased a spelling book & grammar & also an English History. Ive read a portion of Dickens, N.Nicolby I went into Sandhurst yesterday, things are lively as ever, met several acquaintances spent the evening at Halls, the first time Ive been there since I had my finger hurt, I think he is very sorry, he was pleased to hear I bore him no malice, how little he knows me, a feeling I never had for those that have most injured me, I went this evening with Lockey into Sandhurst, heard Mr Nish preach an excellent sermon, we had tea at Lockeys Mothers before going – some time since I had a meal cooked by a woman before except at a hotel, or at my mothers how I long to know the pleasures of a home & to be settled into something permanent - 23 [24th] Oct 1858 — Beautiful weather — Been at work in the same spot, but with poor success, only made £2.0.0 each for the week, I received a letter from mother yesterday, all well, she informs me that Uncle arrived in town on Thursday & started for Adelaide the following morning I answered it to day & enclosed £l.0.0 for {{Image|file=Aae-10.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/198}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-11 213]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1859-10-24

my sisters schooling, though I think it goes for other purposes, on Tuesday evening Mr Frazer (baker) gave a party at his house on Sandhurst — I was invited, there were 8 of us from the Gully, Miss Hooper was invited & I was requested to bring her. I did so, so we made a party in ourselves 4 girls & 4 boys, we spent a very pleasent jolly night nearly 3.am Wednesday when we arrived home. I enjoyed my tete tete with Miss H & got very familiar, Ive met her several times since I was introduced, but have scarcely spoken however we are on a good footing now, tho not a very enviable one, she has a very melancholy manner, which I couldnt account for, until last night (I was at her mothers, a nice old lady, but rather strange & very proud but Im sure is very good natured they have been in very good circumstances & feel rather acutely their present condition) when she told me she was engaged to be married to a man named Hickey, a man she could never love, he is in a tolerable good position for a digger & her father & mother intend she shall marry him & she poor girl is too obedient or too weak minded to resist, its a great pity for she is a dear nice girl & has such winning manners {{Image|file=Aae-11.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/199}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-12 214]
Pinchgut Gully Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-10-31

everybody likes & not a young man in the gully but not in love with her, she is the first respectable girl ever I was connected with except when in town & there is none there I ever was intimate with, & I fancy from her manner towards me last night Im not indifferent to her, what a contrast is a nice pure minded innocent girl to the vile polluted beings its been my lot, so far, to be thrown amongst. This afternoon I went to Frazers, had tea there, afterwards Lockey & I went to Church, heard a continuation of last Sunday nights sermon by Nish.
30th [31] Oct 1858. Weather very unsettled, a deal of rain having fallen, not been able to do much work in consequence, made about £l.2s.0d for my week works. I intend trying some other place next week. I received a letter from Uncle on Tuesday he had just arrived in Adelaide when he wrote (no particulars I was in Sandhurst on Tuesday with L Frazer we met an acquaintance [[Hamilton-27562|James Hamilton]] a nice young fellow, a regular wild merry dare devil, but possessing none of the vices peculiar to such characters. We knocked about the town until late, had tea at the Bakers) left there early, & had some fine fun, did not get home until 2.am Wednesday {{Image|file=Aae-12.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/200}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-13 215]

- Long Gully Oct 1858 -
I went into Sandhurst yesterday met a great many people I knew, had tea at a Restaurant & went to the Theatre in the evening got up very late this morning did not go to Church this evening, as usual. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & Frazer called & spent the afternoon & night with me, the former lent me some books which I have been reading with pleasure during my spare hours, among them was Scotts Lady of the lake, a beautiful poem, I like it as well as any of Byrons Jim has read a great deal & is well informed I enjoy his company very much – I have seen Minnie Hooper several times in the evening, she goes to the Crossing place in the evening for things & I generally manage to meet her & we usually extend our rambles, I expect I will get into a row about it. I think Im falling in love I know I feel a sensation towards her I never experienced for a girl before Im sure she likes me or she would never permit me to be so constantly in her company — but she is a being anyone would like & love, she has such a nice quiet way with her, & is well-informed & right minded {{Image|file=Aae-13.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/201}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-14 216]

Long Gully Nov. 1858 –
Nov 7th Been beautiful weather; we set into the old gully on Monday & met with better success than we lately have done, my share for the week being £3.5s.0d, I received a letter from Mother yesterday, Father is still at home dawdling away his time as usual, mother states that they are greatly in debt, owe the landlord for some weeks rent, from the tenor of her letter she expects or my father does that I will pay it, but I shall not do any such thing. I intend sending for my money, if I dont it will vanish — It is a shame he dont exert himself more & endeavour to support his family properly but he has grown so very proud & reserved in his nature lately that I fancy he thinks it would be a degradation to accept a situation & I think it all humbug with his talents & knowledge of business to be situated as he is – No news of my brother Ned, mother is very uneasy about him — I had a letter from Fred the other day full of an account about a concert & tea meeting & news about some lady acquaintances. Ive not been {{Image|file=Aae-14.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/202}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-15 217]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-11-07

very well during the week had a severe cold attended with a violent headache. Im much better Im happy to state, Ive seen my dear little Minnie several times clandestinely of course, I never spent such happy hours in my life as when Im with her, but on leaving her I feel certain qualms of conscience concerning my conduct towards her. I feel at times, sorry, I ever knew her, but there is something so very irresistible about her that I cannot forego the pleasure I enjoy in her society. We take such delightful walks on the hills & when we sit down, she seems to have so much confidence in me, that she quite abandons herself to anything like restraint, her parents dont know of our going on, they are very kind to me, that I feel ashamed of my weakness in continuing to encourage a feeling that can lead to anything but pleasent results. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] who is a very honourable fellow advises me to knock it off, but Im so irresolute on the subject. I hear Port Curtis is turning out a regular hoax, thousands that are able are returning, I hear the Government intends bringing back those that are unable to do so themselves {{Image|file=Aae-15.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/203}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-16 218]

Nov 1858
Nov 14th. Been very hot this week, we are still at work in the same place as last week but better luck than usual my share for the week was £5.5s.0d not so bad as times are I hope I may do the same for a few weeks I could save some money. I received a short note from my brother Edward on Friday he is doing nothing on Ararat, he has left my old mate Hawkins & is working for himself. I wrote to him to day & wished him to leave that neighbourhood & come to Bendigo I went into Sandhurst yesterday, to be in the fashion met L.Frazer & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] we went to Old Mrs Frazers & had tea with her, after which we adjourned to the Shamrock Concert Room & passed a pleasent evening listening to the San Francisco Minstrels, I spent the fore part of to day reading In the evening I went to hear Mr Nish preach, I met Mr F. (Baker) went home with him & had supper, got home here by 11.pm, time now for bed – Ive seen Minnie but twice this week but I sure we enjoyed each others company the more, I have to be very cautious — Nov 21st Still very hot, Done very poorly this week, only made £1.15.0 for my share {{Image|file=Aae-16.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/204}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-17 219]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-11-21

but we only worked about 4 days, the place we were living in when Uncle left us, was like a Natives Mia Mia, half built with Bark & Bushes & when it rained we used to be flooded so on Monday Harry & I agreed to put up a good tent. I went into Sandhurst & bought a lot of Calico & some soft pine, & commenced & by Tuesday night, we had it up & everything snug & comfortable. Im quite proud of our new home it has cost us about £7.0s.0d — I used to be ashamed of our old place, it was a disgrace to see young men living in such a hovel – I received a long letter from Mother full of grievances, they are lingering on in same style Father doing less than ever. Mary has been promoted at school, she is a pupil teacher & in the receipt of 5/. weekly — I wrote to Mother to day & sent her a Pound Stg — I joined a singing class at the School Room of the Presbyterian church on Friday night, the precentor Mr Hardy is our instructor he wishes to get up a choir & will teach us gratis I dont intend to neglect the opportunity. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & Lockey joined also, I did not feel well to day so remained at home reading until the evening I went to Hoopers to see what kind of a chap Hickey is (Minnies future husband) I dont much like him, he has a miserable mean look with him, he would have stared if he had seen Minnie & I making our adieus {{Image|file=Aae-17.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/205}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-18 220]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia

28th November, Weather very hot, we had a change to day in the shape of a thunder storm accompanied by plenty of rain. We did very bad this week only made £1.1.0 hardly enough to pay for our vituals, I was getting short of money But on Thursday I received a letter from my Uncle enclosed in it was a cheque for £10.0.0 which I gave to Harry, he was instructed to pay me the money his father owed me which he did, so it put me on my feet again. I bought some things in the way of clothing I required that made a Considerable hole in the amount, we bought a bolt of Calico to make an outside covering or fly for our tent, which we put up yesterday Wednesday night, Harry & I went to the Circus (a travelling one) in California Gully. Friday night went to the singing class, after it was over we had some fine fun with a lot of girls that are members of the choir, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & 1 or 2 more of us went to the Sandhurst Hotel where a Quadrille party is held every Friday they were principally Germans there, but being known by most of them we got admittance & my word Im sure they thought us mad {{Image|file=Aae-18.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/206}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-19 221]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1858-12-05

we went on at such a rate, one German got awful jealous of me, & on leaving the place at 1.am he waylaid me in the passage & thought of giving me a hit on the sly, but I was put up to it, I saw him coming, he tried to lay hold of me but I was too smart for him & gave him a hit in the face that sent him sprawling. We had to slope in a hurry or we would have had the lot upon us, the police were not about, or else Im thinking we should have had a lodging in the watch house for that night, Ive seen Minnie several times, I cannot give her up — in fact, she wont let me. 5th December 1858 — The weather very unsettled had several storms during the week a job we had a good tent, the old one would have been blown away — Done very poor again this week only made about £1.0.0 – Ill try somewhere else next week. Ive been into Sandhurst three times this week. Bought a suit of Sunday clothes cost me about £5.10.0 – Friday I went to the Singing Class took Miss Hooper with me, but I had only just left them with her, when Belle Bryce came running after us, bother her. I didnt bargain for her, I dont like her, tho' Im obliged to be civil, for she is a companion of Minnies & is very useful at times, she is the only one that is aware of our amour, it came on to rain {{Image|file=Aae-19.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/207}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-20 222]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo. 1859-month-dd

on our return home, making it anything but pleasent, on leaving Minnie I had to see Belle home, a mile further, Mrs H has taken quite a fancy to see, she is always inviting me up & is very kind to me, she takes no notice of Minnie & I going out into the garden & sitting in the summer house Etc for an hour or two but she is continually harping about the wedding & is making preparations for it. Mr. H. is very deaf & takes no notice of us, poor girl she is very miserable at the idea of her marriage I wish my mother & family were better sit- uated, I would not hesitate about bringing matters to a close — I feel Im acting anything but an honorable part, I like her very well but I think it arises more from our peculiar position than anything else, for I dont feel that deep passion I fancy Im capable of entertaining for one I could love with my whole heart & soul — there are times when I am as cold & distant towards her that she sometimes accuses me of being cruel, I was up at her place to night, Hickey was there he has taken quite an antipathy against me, & not without cause, if he knew all – Bella was there to tea I have just returned from seeing her home, she is to be Minnies brides- -maid but she hopes Ill run away with her before the time comes- {{Image|file=Aae-20.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/208}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-21 223]

Long Gully 1858
6th Decr. Nice day, washed 20 Buckets for 3 dwts of gold. I went up to Hoopers at Dinner time, hearing they were in difficulties & had appealed to Hickey in vain, he is very parsimonious – I offered Mrs Hooper £5.0.0 which after many scruples she accepted — In the evening I met Minnie going to the Crossing Place I joined & have just returned from taking a nice walk together 7th Lovely day. We got 4 dwts to day. In the evening McCaffrey (Hoopers mate) & I went to look at a quartz claim on Windmill Hill that tenders are invited to sink a shaft upon it — we put saw the specifications & put in a tender but it wasnt accepted — so we had our work for nothing, had several visitors at our tent, they have just gone 8th Nice day. Only got 2 dwts to day, we are working some old ground in the gully, very dangerous work & not very profitable, half the week gone & not earned our food. I went into Sandhurst towards evening, received a long letter from mother, she will send my money up next week. Lockey called in the evening didnt remain long. I went up to Hoopers & took Mrs & Miss out for a walk visited Bella Bryces parents. Bella is a dressmaker & has a large tent to herself a little distance from the fathers, many a bit of fun Ive had there when they are all in bed, they {{Image|file=Aae-21.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/209}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-22 224]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo. 1858-12-09

allow her to go where she likes & she is very gay. I dont much like her as a companion for Minnie, but the latter is one that could never be led into anything like gay company she dont care for places of amusements such as dance rooms, Theatres Etc, she is more inclined to be serious & is not far from being in my opinion a good Christian) I returned home with them had a long chat, 12 oclock now time for bed Im thinking — [1858-12-09] 9th Lovely day. Sank a hole 12 ft deep first thing this morning, came onto some solid ground got 12 Buckets out, turned us in 17 dwts not a bad days work. Harry gets what is called 2/3d of a share, or I have £4 out of every £7. we made, he is only a boy, but a very hard working one, he is lame been so from his infancy. I like him very well, he is a great reader & has excellent judgement but he has one fault, he is terribly sarcastic & bitter to everybody, that makes him anything but popular — I went up to Hoopers to night & arrange with Minnie how we are to get rid of Bella to morrow, we couldnt hit upon anything feasible so we intend taking our chance — 10th Beautiful day, but very hot working in the sun, Im burnt nearly black — {{Image|file=Aae-22.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/210}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-23 225]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-11

done very well to day, washed 8 tubs of dirt that turned us out 1 oz 12 dwts about £6.0.0 worth not so bad for one days work, in fact its the best Ive had this year I went this evening to the Singing Class took Minnie, met (Bella bother her) in Iron- Bark Gully, she turned & went with us I in- -troduced her to a friend of mine & he taking the hint marched her ahead, but I had to bring her home, after leaving Minnie, I stayd with her till near 12 oclock, so now for Morpheus’s acquaintance [1858-12-11 Saturday] 11th Very hot but I fancy there is going to be a change to night, we got 5 dwt to day making 3 oz 2 dwts for the weeks work not so bad, I went into Sandhurst this afternoon sold our gold came home & squared up our accounts for the week. After tea I went out again visited the Haymarket Theatre to hear the Opera of the “Bohemian Girl” Ive heard very few Operas but this is one of the most charming Ive heard, there is some beautiful Music in it, Sherwin, Greg Harland, Hancock, & Coulon were the principal vocalists, there was one Act of Norma also Harry & Lockey came home with me – I was up the hill for a short time this afternoon — [1858-12-12] 12th Dec Sunday. Nice day, havnt felt {{Image|file=Aae-23.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/211}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-24 226]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-13

Long Gully 1858
felt well, been reading a great deal, I wrote to mother during the afternoon & enclosed a pound Stg in the letter, Mrs Hooper sent Bob (her son a lad about 15) down to ask me to tea, I went tho' against my inclination Hickey was there it is the only day he ever calls to see her living 5 miles from here in Myers Flat. I have just come home, he wat[ched] us like a lynx, hadnt a chance for a parting kiss as usual. I heard him telling her he wished she payd as much attention to him as she did to me, & she answered him in a manner, that if he had the spirit of a mouse he would have ceased his visits for the future, the man knows her worth & thinks when he gets her hell make her please him — [Monday, 13 December 1858] 14th [13th] Dec Miserable day, hot winds blowing We made 1 oz 2 dwts to day, not a bad beginning for the week. Spent a jolly evening at Hoopers. Bella & Jim Hall was there we had some fun & a lot of singing. Minnie & I saw Bella home & had such a delightful walk home together, talking all manner of nonsense, 12 oclock [Tuesday, 14 December 1858] 15th [14th] Hot winds again. We made 1 oz 3 dwts to day, very good nearly £3 for my share, McCaffrey or Scoty he is {{Image|file=Aae-24.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/212}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-25 227]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-15

more generally called & Lockey spent the evening with us reading & playing cards. Im suffering from a severe cold [Wednesday, 15 December 1858] 16th. [15th] Lovely day, got 15 dwts to day, but Im sorry to state that our ground is done shall have to look out for some other place After tea I met Minnie we took a long walk together, the night was beautiful & we en- joyed ourselves — near 12 oclock now time for bed — [1858-12-16 Thursday] 17th. Very warm day. Sank a hole to day & got 4 dwts out of it. I went to Sandhurst this afternoon, no letters. Harry & I went to Hoopers this evening, spent 2 pleasent hours [1858-12-17 Friday] 18th. Very sultry during the day, but had a change towards evening, raining just now, got 5 dwts to day. I had quite a treat to day or night, I took Minnie & Bella to hear the Opera of Norma, some part of it was beautifully rendered, it came on to Thunder & lightning on its conclusion, but no rain fortunately for the ladies until I had got them home. I sat with Bella for the last two hours — [1858-12-18 Saturday] 19th. Been cold, wet & miserable to day unable to do any work in Consequence we made 3 oz 8 dwts for the week not so bad about £7.10.0 for my share — I went {{Image|file=Aae-25.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/213}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-26 228]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-19

into Sandhurst with Harry this afternoon, had tea at a Restaurant, & in the evening, we went to hear the Opera of the Daughter of the Regiment & also the Beggars Opera. I liked the former very well, there are so many beautiful airs in it — [Sunday, 19 December 1858] 20th.[19th] Another wet day. Spent the morning reading & writing. In the afternoon we had our usual visitor Lockey. Scoty & Bob Hooper, passed it in anything but a proper manner. In the evening I went to Hoopers. Mrs H. was very cool towards me & didnt forget to remind me that a wedding was coming off soon & that it didnt look well for engaged young ladies to be continually walking out together Etc but I fancy what riled her most, was us going to the Theatre the other night, contrary to her knowledge, she was under the impression that we were at the Singing Class — People are beginning to talk a great deal about us, I must give it up. I have a good mind to go to Melbourne next week for a while so as to break it off [Monday, 20 December 1858] 21st.[20th] Rained nearly all day, could not go to work turned out a lovely night. I went to Sandhurst in the afternoon, no letters. In the evening I met Minny, took a long walk together visited Bellas 21 Wet again could not work I never saw Long Gully in such a state before, literally swamped, & it will be some time before its fit to work. Went to Bellas this afternoon. Minnie {{Image|file=Aae-26.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/214}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-27 229]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-22

was there, passed a very pleasent afternoon to gether, I read a portion of “Lallah Rook” to them, “The Fire Worshippers” stayd tea with them & then brought Minnie home. Im very undecided about going to Melbourne I think Ill start in the morning 22nd Very hot to day, we set into work the first thing this morning sank a hole 9 ft deep & washed 8 tubs & got 8 dwts out of them. Up the hill a little while 23rd Been very hot, we went to work in the morning but not getting any gold, we dont intend doing anymore till X mas is over. I went into Sandhurst this afternoon & received a long letter from Father, the first I ever recvd from him. I can scarcely understand it, at least some portions, he informs me that he has £400.0.0 coming to him, through the death of his brother, & if I want to buy land or anything, he will endorse Bills for the amount of £200.0.0 very kind rather unusually so of him, I dont care about trying the experiment, however, if I see a chance Ill embrace it. I wish he had the money in reality, it would be a Godsend for the family my mother & sisters have to put up with {{Image|file=Aae-27.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/215}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-28 230]

Long Gully Decr.1858
many privations, & if I was making money & could send some to mother, my father would not work at all, had several visitors this after[noon,] Dave Anderson, & Lockey. We went into a raffle this evening for some geese at Mrs. Knights – neither of us were fortunate enough to win one I fancy we were geese to imagine we should 24th Very hot to day, but we are going to have a thunder storm to night, spent the morning along with Harry Ennis & Donovan & Dave larking, Boxing Etc — In the afternoon I read In the evening Miss Hooper & I took a walk about Sandhurst. I never saw so many people there in my life before, being X mas eve nearly everybody came into the township, public houses teemed with drunken men, the stores were crowded, we got home about 11 pm, met Mrs Hooper on Sandhurst came home together 25th Dec 1858. Christmas Day. Been a wet wretched day. Read a little in the morning, had dinner at Hoopers, Hickey was there with a spring cart & horse. Minnie & I with Mrs. Hooper & him went to Myers Flat to see the cottage he has built. We adjourned to a Mrs Kidminsters store, where a fine desert & afterwards tea {{Image|file=Aae-28.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/216}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-29 231]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-26

provided, we enjoyed ourselves very much, tho Im sure Minnies hilarity was forced, & Im sure Hickey observed it. I was compelled to be cheerful we got back about 7.pm & found a deal of rain had fallen during our absence, there was one shower we were told by several very old colonists to be the heaviest that had ever fell! the gully had the appearance of a vast Lake — very strange we were only 5 miles away, & with the exception of a slight shower, had no rain I remained at Hoopers ‘till 10 pm. I shall be glad when Minnie is married. Im getting sick of the underhand manner we have been acting lately. It was very wrong of me encouraging or commencing an amour like what ours is 26th Been a nice day. Lockey & Anderson called in the morning. I got some dinner ready & told them I was invited to Hoopers for dinner they went away offended. Im sorry they were so foolish, for I like them very well — I had dinner & tea at Hoopers & spent the day very pleasently came home early & have been reading for about two hours 27th Very hot, to day has been kept by the pleasure seekers as Boxing Day, Sports of all sorts being the order of the day everywhere Lockey & I, in the morning, went into Sandhurst & called at his Uncles, had some {{Image|file=Aae-29.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/217}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-30 232]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-28

lunch there saw some running & jumping in the Camp Reserve, the sports being too slow for us, we left & went to [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-36.731486,144.290519 Sydenham Gardens] the principal place of attraction. We met numbers of acquaintances, saw some fine Athletic Sports in the shape of Running, Jumping Wrestling, Boxing Etc, had plenty to eat & drink on the ground for which we had to pay rather high — we returned into Sandhurst, went to the Theatre, & saw a boy named Pole (a youthful prodigy) playing "Hamlet", he is a good reader, for one so young & I should imagine is the makings of a good actor. I got home about 11.p.m. its very late now – 28th Very warm day. I went into Bendigo this morning & had my likeness taken, Knocked about the rest of the day. In the evening I went up to Hoopers, Hickey was there, he & I had a few words, some kind friend has been stuffing his head with a pack of lies, however, he is very jealous. I left early. If I find out the author of the base calumny on Minnies fair name (for mine I care not) Ill give them something to speak about Minnie is the purest minded girl I ever met with, & the only fault I know her ever commit, was her affection for me, & Im {{Image|file=Aae-30.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/218}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-31 233]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-29

quite unworthy of it. If I could like her with the intensity she loves me, Hickey should never have her, whatever the consequences may be. Minnie accuses me often with coldness Etc 29th Been very hot. Went to work to day I had begun to forget there was such a thing, we sank 2 holes in the Gully 10 ft deep both duffers — I wrote a letter & a enclosed a pound Stg in it, to Mother this afternoon. In the evening I went to Hoopers, Minnie was just going out. I didnt like to offer my escort I am, or was, determined to cut her, her mother asked me, so I couldnt refuse Im sorry I went, we took a walk about the ranges (after doing her business) sat down, we spoke about her approaching wedding, she got very excited & cried in my arms, I was very much affected, she thinks shell go mad if she marries Hickey — I told her how I was situated & that it was impossible for me to think of marrying her in my present position, its very cruel of her father to force her to the step — I had some high words with him on the subject reasoned with him, but to no purpose I have been sorely tempted to run away with her, the only thing that deters me is the unsettled state of my family affairs {{Image|file=Aae-31.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/219}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-32 234]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1858-12-30

I will do the best can in a fair & honourable manner, to stop the marriage Im sorry I ever saw her, been the cause of much anxiety on my part. 30th Hot day. Worked hard to day, got 2 dwts, miserable work. Went to Hoopers in the evening, talked to old Mrs H. like a father, discovered she has no love for her future soninlaw, soon got her my way of thinking, the father is an obstinate selfwilled man, is very deaf & converses but little, one may as well speak to a stone- 31st Last day of the year 1858. I like to refer to the various events occurring in my life during it. Ive read the whole of my journal for 1858, & find Ive had some hard times both mental & physical to contend with, especially the first 6 months, the memory of which will never be effaced. I took a walk this afternoon with some stranger evidently a gentleman I fancy from the enquiries he made that he is an author in search of material I went to his Hotel (The Shamrock) & had tea with him, he gave me his card, Mr Southwith) I fancy it is a ficticious patronym {{Image|file=Aae-32.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/220}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-33 235]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, Victoria Australia, 1859-01-01

On leaving him I returned to the gully & met Minnie, went into a raffle at Mrs Sanders, did not win, took a quiet walk together. I left her at 9.pm met Anderson went with him to Rileys plenty of company there, had some fun singing, dancing Etc lots of girls there, a row got up at last between some jealous swains, I left early ==1859== 1st January 1859. News Years Day. The hottest day Ive experienced this summer. No work again to day, every body pleasure seeking. In the morning I went to Halls tent met several young men there, we had plenty of gymnastics, Boxing, Running Jumping Etc. Hall & I were invited to Dinner at Hoopers spent the afternoon with them. I We left about 6 pm & went into Sandhurst, visited the Shamrock Concert Room, heard some good singing left about 11.pm, time now for bed — 2nd Sunday. Very hot 110^º in the shade havnt been away from home to day spent the morning reading. In the afternoon about the most intellectual of my friends called, in, spent a few hours very rationally together, after tea a different set dropped in & so passed the day, in a varied style {{Image|file=Aae-33.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/221}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-34 236]

Long Gully Jany 1859
3rd January. Very hot. Sank a hole 10 ft deep & very hard, got 1½ dwts out of 6 tubs, so we left it. In the evening I met Minnie took a long walk, got home by 10 pm, been reading since 4th Another smoker, a good job Im thin I dont know what fat people do with themselves We started in Pinch Gut Gully again this morning, sank 2 holes, got 3½ dwts, poor work. Went to Hoopers for an hour in the evening spent the last few hours reading a work – Cassells "Pathway" there are some excellent articles in it 5th Very hot, 100^º in the shade, we got & washed 9 tubs for 8 dwts. Recd a letter from Uncle he is still very unsettled with regard to the future, he cannot get settled up with his tenants I took a long walk with Minnie & Belle Bryce. I got a blowing up from the latter, through not paying my promised visit to her last week. I soon got her in good spirits again, saw her home Minnie & I spent a pleasent hour alone, together I had a visit from Piggott, he thinks Ive been encroaching on his roadway & threatened to bring the Warden, however I settled matters at last, but not before a deal of abuse had passed between us — 6th 1859. Another scorcher, 105^º in the shade We got 5 dwts to day. I went into Sandhurst {{Image|file=Aae-34.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/222}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-35 237]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-01-07

this afternoon, had my likeness taken by Gladstone, remained at home during the evening reading, Lockey here as usual 7th Hot day, got 4 dwts, went to Hoopers for a short time, been reading the last few hours 8th A change in the weather at last, we have had a most terrific thunder storm, couldnt go to work in consequence, spent the evening at Hoopers, Bella there saw her home, near midnight now Ive made about £2.5.0. for my weeks work. 9th Sunday. Weather very unsettled. I went to the P.0. this morning, & recd a long letter from Mother & enclosed in it was my money. Lockey called & stayd dinner, we took a long walk in the afternoon to [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-36.731486,144.290519 Sydenham Gardens], had tea at his Mothers, called at I.Kets on our way home, stayd till 10 pm there – yarning about old times 10th Monday. Very disagreeable weather didnt do much work, sank a hole 7 ft deep, not bottomed yet. I went into Sandhurst in the evening to execute a commission for a connection of ours in Melbourne it was to recover a debt. I was not fortunate enough to get it — {{Image|file=Aae-35.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/223}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-36 238]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-01-11

I called at Bostocks on my road home Ive not been there for 7 weeks, they thought Id forgotten them. B is out of work & they are hard up as usual — I lent them a trifle, which Ill never get again Im sure, they owe me a deal of money – I went to Hoopers for a short time 11th Tuesday. Weather improving. We bottomed our hole this morning & got & washed 5 tubs out of it, for 10 dwts not so bad if it will continue. In the evening I went to a Soiree paid 3/. for a ticket & got no tea for it. Dave & I sang 2 pieces of music we adjourned to the New Scotch Church, the finest specimen of Ecclesiastical architecture in Bendigo Its not quite finished yet, but will be when they can raise the funds 12th Very hot, got & washed 12 tubs for 11 dwts. I wrote to mother to day & posted it. I also put my money in the Bank. I took a long walk with Minnie in the evening, it was a lovely night & we enjoyed ourselves. I got home by 10.pm & spent an hour in reading 13th Very hot, got & washed 9 tubs of dirt turned out 12 dwts {{Image|file=Aae-36.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/224}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-37 239]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-01-14

I met Minnie by chance, took a long walk with her. I did not go home with her. I (or we) have to be very cautious in our arrangements, what cursed folly on my part to carry on in this manner Im disgusted with myself at my weakness Im sure its not love. Ive analysed my feelings on the subject. Im bewitched with her when in her company. 14th Still very hot, got 12½ dwts to day not a bad days work. I went to Hoopers stayd there till 9 pm, on leaving there I paid a visit to Halls & Gregorys place didnt stop long long, met Lockey, got here by 11 pm, now for bed 15th January 1859. Change in the weather been very close, but cloudy, worked for a short time, got 2 dwts making for the weeks work 2 oz. 7 dwts. £8.15.0. worth, nearly £5.0.0. for my share. Harry & I went into Sandhurst in the afternoon, had our portraits exchanged didnt suit us, had tea, & met Lockey, we went to the Theatre, to see the play of the Serious Family, after seeing the first 2 acts, we then adjourned to the Shamrock heard Thatcher sing some local comic songs paid the Waterloo Dance Room [a visit], had a a dance after 12 when I got home – got wet through coming home {{Image|file=Aae-37.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/225}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-38 240]

Long Gully Jany 1859
16th Sunday. Miserable wet day, didnt go out, but for a little while in the afternoon to Hoopers. Had several visitors who remained to tea & spent the evening with us. I have read a great deal to day, I subscribe to 2 libraries 17th Wet in the morning, cleared up in the afternoon. Been cleaning out an old hole to day, not had time to try it yet. I went to Bendigo for a while in the afternoon In the evening I went to Hoopers for a short time. 18th Lovely day, washed 9 tubs of dirt & got 8 dwts. After tea I paid D.Anderson a visit, he is a nice chap but Colonial Beer is playing the deuce with, he sang several beautiful songs, & whistled some overture of an Opera, he is a fine whistler, quite a treat to listen to him, home by 9.30 pm been reading Cassells Pathway. Its rather a religious work, but contains a deal of useful Scriptural & religious subjects 19th Nice day, got 5¼ dwts. to day I went to Bendigo in the afternoon got a letter from mother, all well, but still knocking on in the same miserable way Father doing nothing to speak of no news from Ned. I must write to him {{Image|file=Aae-38.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/226}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-39 241]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-01-20

I took a long walk with Minnie & Bella saw the latter [home], met a Miss Scott had a chat with her, saw Minnie home, we are getting cooler towards each other, she is to be married on the 10th February 20th Been a lovely day, got 5 dwts to day Lockey came in after tea, been playing cards & reading during the evening - 21st Been very hot, got 6 dwts to day I accompanied Mrs & Miss Hooper to Long Gully Township this evening, had a nice walk, 10 pm when I got home, they paid me a visit & remained to coffee – I intend to drop the daily journal for the future & keep a weekly one instead, too much sameness about it, not like when I used to be travelling about & meeting with continual adventure 22th Been very hot, 110^º in the shade Being Saturday we only worked half the day we got 7½ dwts out of 4 tubs, making for the week 1oz. 12 dwts. I wrote to mother this afternoon & enclosed £1.0.0 in it, went into Sandhurst & took a strool about the Mall had a Galvanic shock, what a strange sensation my first experience — I came home & had tea afterwards fell in with several neighbours & went to the Theatre. Lockey & I between the Acts {{Image|file=Aae-39.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/227}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-40 242]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-01-23

went into the Lyceum Concert Room, heard Madame Vitelli sing several songs, she has a lovely voice I must spend an evening there next week 1 oclock when we arrived home — 23rd Sunday. Thunder storm in the forenoon & very sultry the rest of the day. Went to Frazers for a little while in the afternoon, came home at 4 pm found several friends here, passed the evening reading & writing — 24th Very hot. Washed 9 tubs for 4 dwts very poor. We commenced to sink another hole In the evening Bella & Minnie called at my tent on their way to the formers home, I accompanied them, after leaving Bella, we took a pleasent walk until 11 pm. Mrs Hooper looked blue at us just civil & that was all. 25th Wet day, no work, turned out fine at sundown. Harry & I went to the Lyceum heard a band of seranaders. I was disappointed Vitelli & Thatcher having left for a while — 26th Raining all day, cleared up in the evening Spent my time my time in learning my lessons, reading Etc. I spent the evening with Bella Bryce very pleasently, carrying on a conversation in whispers, she has a large tent of her own but if we speak out very loud, her parents can hear us & they object to any young {{Image|file=Aae-40.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/228}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-41 243]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-01-27

gentlemen paying nocturnal visits. I dont much care for her, being very light & frivolous in her manner & has a great weakness for male society. I wonder Minnie associates with her. 27. Lovely day. Bottomed our hole & got 9 dwts out of it. I went to Hoopers after tea. Minnie & I spent a couple of hours in their summer house together, the father went to bed early, the mother made no objections, in fact I fancy lately she encourages me. I know Hickey is no favorite of hers, rather dangerous for a young man of a susceptible nature that I like Minnie I must admit, & if I had not formed a resolution some time back not to fall in love I should have been deep enough in it now 28 Fine day. we made 13 dwts to day not so bad, I was agreeably surprised this evening by a visit from my friend [[Hamilton-27562|Jms. Hamilton]], he informs me that since he came up from town, he has called 3 times & I have been out, poor chap he has been very unwell had to undergo an operation, his mates have struck the reef (Sophia) & I hear its very {{Image|file=Aae-41.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/229}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-42 244]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-01-29

rich. Im glad for he is deserving of being fortunate, being a jolly good fellow & one of the very few men I ever took a sincere liking for, a feeling I think Ill ever entertain for him. I accompanied him home after spending the evening together 29th Lovely day. worked only half the day got 3 dwts, making for the week 1 oz 10 dwts not bad for 4 days work. In the afternoon I went to the P.O. no letters, in the evening I accompanied Mrs & Miss H into Sandhurst assisted them in their shopping, on our arrival home, we made a nice supper left them about 11 pm — 30th Very hot. Rose at 7 am, spent the forenoon reading the Corsair, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] called for me & I accompanied him to his brother in laws, a Mr Bruce, a well to do Quartz Crusher, very nice people had dinner & tea there, on leaving there we called at Bostocks, stayd a short time, went to see one of Jims mates, who showed us some fine golden specimens out of their claim — here I left him when I called at Halls met Lockey, who came home with me he has just left I intend reading for an hour & then to bed {{Image|file=Aae-42.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/230}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-43 245]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-01-31

31st Lovely day, got 6 dwts to day. Lockey called in the evening, but Minnie passing by at the time as per agreement, I left him in charge, while I took a long walk, left their place after seeing her home, at 10 pm came home & found Lockey asleep in my bed, I soon roused him up & started him home February 1st 1859. Very warm, 100^º in the shade at 1.pm., got 8 dwts out of 9 tubs In the afternoon I went to Sandhurst, no letters, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] came in the evening, we went to California Crossing place, had a few games of Bagatelle, bought some fruit, met several acquaintances, we went down to Harry Inniss with a letter then accompanied Jim home, borrowed a Book from him 2nd Very hot, My birthday, 20 to day Im getting on. We got 9 dwts out of 10 tubs to day. I went to Hoopers in the evening Mrs & Miss & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] with self took a walk to Bellas, she wasnt at home so after seeing them home, I went a little way home with Jim — 3rd Very warm day. Been hard at work, a hole burst into the one we are {{Aae-43.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/231}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-44 246]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-month-dd

working, & it took us nearly all day to clean it out & get it into working order again – [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], Lockey & I went to C G township Jim playd Billiards, Lockey & I being but spectators, bought fruit, cigars & lemonade & spent a jolly night together, saw Jim home, so now for bed 4th Very hot, got 4½ dwts to day. M just at twilight came by the tent & giving the usual signal I soon joined her. Being the last time I suppose we shall ever meet again alone, we did not part until very late. On reaching her place, we found Bella there, I saw her home. I was not in very good spirits Bella teased & annoyed me, by her frivolity she hoped Id run away with Minnie & what a lark there would be, she says. Mr & Mrs H. would break their hearts. Hickey is vindictive enough to "cook my goose," along with Minnie Etc Etc — comforting sympathy. I trust she’ll soon forget me, tho I shall always remember Minnie, with lively interest, for she is a good pure minded virtuous girl — 5th Very hot. got 3 dwts to day, making for the week 1 oz. 9 dwts. went into Sandhurst this afternoon, recvd a letter from Mother, all well, Father not doing much, or ever will in my {{Image|file=Aae-44.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/232}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-45 247]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-02-03

opinion. In the evening I met Minnie, & once more we took a long walk in our favorite neighbourhood for the last time Im thinking she is to be married on the 9th inst. 6th Sunday. fearful hot weather 100 in the shade did not leave the tent, spent the day reading 7th Nice day. 8 dwts out of 11 tubs, was up at Hoopers this evening looking over the wedding things. Hickey was there looking as malignant as possible. I saw Bella Bryce home, spent 2 hours with her — 8th Nice day, got 4 dwts, This evening I went to Hoopers, did not go inside but hid in the fence, (our trysting place). Minnie joined me she was very frightened, at being seen however we spent an hour together anything but pleasently, we parted & from this out we are to be as strangers. Im never to allude to our acquaintance or “amour” under any circumstance — poor Minnie, I wish Id known you under more favourable auspices, she is to be married to morrow 9th I did not go work to day, strange to state I accepted an invitation to spend the day & join in the festivities attending Mrs Hickeys wedding, for so she is now, they were married this morning {{Image|file=Aae-45.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/233}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-46 248]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-02-10

by Mr Croxon of Sandhurst. I had dinner with them & there is a large party assembled. I have just left (11 pm) but intend returning in a few minutes. Minnie hasnt spoke scarcely since her return from Church, on one occasion she addressed me & called me Mr W- in such a cold icy manner that seem to chill me, I am sorry I went, but yesterday she begged me to come so that I could see how she would conduct herself I thought it a strange whim, but she thought me an eyesore to day, poor girl I trust she is [going] to [be] happy, her father seems pleased — they are calling out for me I must go I suppose. Im sure they think me mad. Bella swears she thought I would have run away with her, (Minnie). 10th Arrived home about 6.am after seeing Bella home. I feel very seedy, I only rose about 6.pm. Lockey called & made some tea & then we went to find [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], we heard he was ill, we found he had shifted his tent Im very sorry 11th Been very hot Got 10 tubs, turned out 6 dwts. Had several visitors this evening, been reading 12th Been cloudy & showery, got 3 dwts for the day, making for the week 1 oz. 1 dwt only worked 3½ days. This evening Lockey & I went to see [[Hamilton-27562|J.Hamilton]], he met with an accident the other day, while working in their claim a lot of rock fell, nearly killing {{Image|file=Aae-46.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/234}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-47 249]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-02-15

him, more with fright than anything else I think he will soon recover. They had 17 tons of quartz crushed yesterday turned out 97 oz something like gold digging for one week {{Red|*}}worth On leaving him we fell in with an acquaintance named Howard (a clever young fellow) went to the Theatre, saw Devany & Professor Risley & his son going through their gymnastic per- -formance, 1.am, Sunday now time for bed 13th Sunday Lovely day. I & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] took a long walk this morning being a good deal better. In the afternoon I went to Hoopers to tea, found Mr & Mrs Hickey there, Im sure she felt anything but comfortable though she was as cool & betrayed not the slightest emotion Ive pretty good command over my own feelings but hers surpass everything I ever witnessed Im glad she is settled if things had gone on much longer, I might have been tempted to do something that could have embittered my future life — 21st Began a weekly journal again Fine weather during the past few days, we got 1 oz during the past week, poor work. I spent 3 evenings at H. Enniss, as usual larking, 2 nights with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] Harry met an accident, he had the Boxing gloves on with Bob Hooper, & being lame he is not very active, he fell & broke his arm, this occurred on Thursday night, he {{Image|file=Aae-47.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/235}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-48 250]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-02-22

thought it was only a sprain & treated it accordingly, he could not go to work, so to day (Monday) I took him into Sandhurst to consult a doctor, who informed him that his arm was broke, poor lad he is cut up about it, he wont be able to work for some time I recvd a letter from Mother on Saturday & enclosed in it was one from Mary, all well, Mary is a pupil teacher at a school but it was burnt down some days back – I wrote to Mother yesterday & enclosed £1.0.0 in the letter. I went to Hoopers this evening Mrs Hickey was there, she accompanied me down to see Harry, addressed me by my old name, she informed me she is as happy as ever she expected to be, it is the last time she will be familiar with me, under any circumstance I was surprised to see her melt once more [1859-02-22] 22 February 1859 Nice day, I worked alone to day, it will be some time before Harry is all right. Sank a hole & drove out of it a load of dirt. Ive not washed it yet. Spent the evening reading Moores Life of Byron in several volumes I borrowed them from a Mr Anderson of California Gully. [1859-02-23]23rd Rather squally I washed my load, it turned out 10 dwts. not so bad for 2 days work, but of course I shall divide what I get with my couzin until he is better. Dave Anderson is going to work with me in the morning, the ground {{Image|file=Aae-48.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/236}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-49 251]

Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-02-24
being too deep for one man, alone — Dave spent the evening with me [1859-02-24] 24th Nice day Dave & I drove out a load of dirt, which we intend washing tomorrow, we went into Sandhurst at 4 pm, & I bought some clothes I was in need off, we called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] spent an hour with him, then came to my tent together & spent an agreeable evening together [1859-02-25] 25 Beautiful day, got out another load to day which we intend washing tomorrow. I had promised to go & see Bella this evening but on my way I called into some friends place & I heard she has been causing a deal of mischief in reference to my amour with Mrs. Hickey — so I didnt go, she must accept my apology as she has done before. I went to Daves tent, quite a crowd of young men there, we had some singing Harry Enniss recited Shakespeare — & being moonlight we had some fun playing at single stick, & the Boxing Gloves. Eniss is the best in the gully at the latter, but I can beat them all at the former — [1859-02-26] 26th Been a lovely day, we washed our dirt & Im sorry to state it only turned out 10 dwts half of which was my share, & I had again with Harry, we went to Brophys tent (a young Catholic that was educated for a priest) but turning out rather wild, did not like to disgrace the cloth by becoming one we all adjourned to Piggotts, & danced & sang till 12 oClock, when we had to make for home {{Image|file=Aae-49.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/237}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-50 252]

Bendigo. Long Gully February 1859
[1859-02-27] 27th Nice day. Spent the day in reading a variety of literature from the most sacred & the most profane authors, had our usual visitors L.Frazer Etc. In the evening I went to Hoopers Mr & Mrs Hickey had just left. Mrs H. informs me that Hickey has heard about Minnie & I going so much together & is very cross Etc [1859-03-06] March 6th 1859 A week since I last wrote up my journal, a very poor one for me been very unlucky didnt make £1.0.0 each my evenings have been passed between [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]], Brophys & Hoopers places. I went into Sandhurst last night, alone & saw the Fat Boy (Abernathy) he is 10 years old & weighs 19 stone, & I believe is very healthy On leaving there I went to the Shamrock saw the Ballet Dances, adjourned to Browns & had a dance. I met Tom Rudd, poor devil he is looking so very low & miserable that woman he had been cohabiting with, has quite ruined him. I came home with Eniss I recvd a letter from Mother, all well. Mary is on a visit at Sunbury with [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] Father is going on as usual [1859-03-13] 13th March 1859 Nice weather during the week, did very poorly only made 16/. each. Dave got on the spree at the beginning {{Image|file=Aae-50.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/238}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-51 253]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo 1859-03-13

of the week, so I got another mate, I received a letter from Mother yesterday that has caused me much anxiety & surprise, she informs me that my Father has left home & has gone to England, went away without bidding them good bye. It appears, he borrowed the money from his religious friends, he went on board at night the ship was to sail at daylight his conscience, if he has one, smote him & he returned on the night & bade farewell, but Mother thinks his object in returning was to get the copy of his fathers will he had left behind him, however it was a paltry way of deserting his wife & family, it is not the first time he has done it, & he a pious professing Christian. I cannot think of it – my mother is in an awful way about it, she has no means of supporting her family Fred only earns what keeps him Mary & Bessie & Charlie are but children while I am only earning a precarious existence gold digging, unfitted for anything else thanks to my father, not one of us know a trade or have received an education that would fit us for an office. Its cruel in a head of a family to bring us children in such a manner, we are what I call outsides of society — Ive not courage to try & look for employment in Melbourne I wont forget the 3 months I spent there {{Image|file=Aae-51.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/239}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-52 254]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-month-dd

in making the attempt before — Im fairly bewildered, theres nearly £18.0.0 owing for rent & also other debts, mother is afraid the creditors will sell her off unless its paid Friday night Dave & I went into Sandhurst I got him to sign the pledge, but he is so weak minded Ive little hope of him keeping it long. We adjourned to several places of amusement didnt get home until very late, we fell in with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] at Frazers, who came home with us – I met Mrs Hickey on Monday in town had a long walk with her to her mothers I was at Hoopers to day, had tea, they were there H was gloomy & sullen as usual to me. I would not have gone if I had known they were there. [1859-03-21 Monday] 23 [21] March 1859 8 days since I continued my journal. Last Monday I drew £20.0.0 out of the Bank & sent mother £15.0.0 of it — that will keep them going for a while, until something turns up. Ive suffered severely from a toothache, I had one stuffed last Tuesday, & it was badly done & ached worse than ever, could not work so I went on Thursday & paid another man to unstuff it, it still ached, so I at last on Friday had the tooth drawn after costing me more than 30/. altogether I hope I wont suffer so again, in a hurry {{Image|file=Aae-52.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/240}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-53 255]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-03-27

I was four nights & never closed my eyes We got 3/. each this week (poor work) But 3 days we spent at a rush in the Camp Reserve. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] joined us & we sank 3 holes (all duffers so we returned to the old gully again. We made about £1.0.0 each. Sunday I remaind at home reading until 6 pm then went to Church, heard Mr Nish preach an excellent sermon, at the close of the service I met the Frazers went home with them & left about 10 pm in company with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] Last Thursday night I went to a concert given by Pollards, Amateur singers, some of them very good. To day (Monday) Anderson, Barkley, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & I went to the rush in the Camp Reserve to give the place another trial, we sank a large paddock & got 7 dwts out of it, so we intend [to stay.] [1859-03-27] 27 March 1859 Lovely weather. Been hard at work in the Reserve, only made £2.0.0 apiece, we feel very tired after our work, being 3 miles from the tent & to walk that distance morning & night is no joke & do a hard days work in the bargain. I recvd a letter from Mother thanking me for the money I sent her they intend shifting into a smaller house I recvd a letter from Uncle quite well, but cannot get his business settled for some time I went to Hoopers last night, Minnie was there. I remained until 10 p.m on leaving I went to Piggots, spent 2 hours dancing {{Image|file=Aae-53.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/241}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-54 256]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-04-03

early this morning when I got home very late when I arose this day, had our usual visitors this afternoon. In the evening my couzin Harry & I went to Church met Dave Anderson, came home together [1859-04-03] April 3, 1859 Fine weather during the week. We made £3.3.0 aman this week [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] is going to leave us, for the Rush at Daisy Hill. Im very sorry for we are much attached to each other. Spent last night together larking & dancing about one place & another. Spent to day reading Homers Odyssey. I like it better than the Iliad Went to Church this evening, met Lockey & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], came home together [1859-04-10] 10 April 1859 Nice weather, still at work in the Reserve, only made £2.10.0 each for the week, Monday night I spent at Hoopers Minnie there. Wednesday morning, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] went to Daisy Hill I hope he will do well he still keeps his share in the quartz claim by paying a man to work in his place, it is paying very well, he came back to day, for his things, he has joined a photographer there he learnt the art in England — Barkly is going along with him, intends working at his trade being a carpenter. Last night, Dave & I with others wild young chaps, visited several {{Image|file=Aae-54.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/242}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-55 257]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-04-17

places of amusement, some of which are any- -thing but respectable, more to our disgrace for having visited such places I made some purchases, bought a Concertina & some clothing I went into Sandhurst early this morning & brought them home, it being 12 when I got home last night. Been raining nearly all day couldnt go out, read a great deal. [1859-04-17]17th April 1859. Cold miserable weather could not do much work & the consequence was or is that we got very little gold made £1.8 0 each. Monday night I went to Frazers (Sandhurst) & had some fine fun with a lot of girls there [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] is still in Sandhurst, we spent a jolly day yesterday had tea at Frazers, got a long lecture from Old Frazer about our wild capers Etc we adjourned from there to a Dancing Room amongst some vile company late when we got home — I recvd a letter from Mother on Friday, all well, I wrote to her to day & enclosed £3.0.0 in the letter. I went to Church this evening, met a stranger on the way home, had a long argument with him on a variety of questions, or subjects he had some strange notions, but I found him well informed & apparently had read a great deal, we did not part until late {{Image|file=Aae-55.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/243}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-56 258]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-04-24

Long Gully April 1859
[1859-04-24] 24th Nice weather during the week. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] went away on Monday. Barkley returned on Friday, couldnt do anything up there. Dave & I have been filling up the ground (as per agreement) so we did not make much gold only 13/. aman, very poor, I would not return to work in Long Gully if we had some rain so has to fill the waterholes. Im sick of the Camp Reserve Monday night I went to hear a T. Lecture Tuesday night went to Pollards Sg Class did a little bawling in the Messiah, Friday night I joined Mr Hardy's singing class he will teach us gratuitously, if we will sing in the choir of the Church (Mr Nishs I thought it too good an opportunity to neglect it, for Im very fond of music — I visited Sandhurst as usual last night, entered several places of amusement, but did not stay long. I went to Church this evening. Read a great deal in the morn & afternoon
[1859-05-01]
:May 1st Weather very unsettled, but no rain. Barkley is working with us again. Still in the Reserve, we made £2.5.0. each. I went to my singing Tuesday & Friday night, got Dave to join — Monday I heard one of Goughs lectures read (on Temperance), I was much {{Image|file=Aae-56.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/244}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-57 259]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-05-08

pleased with it, so different from some of the trash Ive heard on the subject, hitherto. I received a long letter from Mother, all well thank God, I went with Barkly & Lockey to Browns Casino. Im getting sick of the place, nothing but a resort for the vilest characters. Im getting too well known through frequenting such places. I dont intend visiting it again, we were in the Victoria Concert Room for an hour, heard some tolerable songs sung. Been reading this afternoon. Went to church this morn Lockey & I went in the evening, Its a long way to there, nearly 3 miles, so Ive walked nearly 12 miles to day. I went to the funeral of Lockeys sister one day during the week — I wrote a letter to day to Mother & sent her all the money I had which was only £1.0.0 — [1859-05-08] May 8th Nice weather, done very poorly only made 19/. each, we dont intend working in the Reserve any more, it will take us two days of next week to fill up. Monday night Dave & I went to Ballantynes, house (Schoolmaster in company with several others acquaintances to rehearse our pieces for the Soiree given in honor of Mr Vallentine (Manager of the Bank of Victoria, Sandhurst) which came off on Wednesday night, it was well attended & passed off firstrate {{Image|file=Aae-57.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/245}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-58 260]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-05-08

our vocalization was considered very creditable Dave sang his solo well & was encored, the presentation of a Gold Watch & Chain to Mr V – was held in the church where the meeting adjournd several gentlemen spoke or addressed the meeting I fancy there has been some ill feeling created by a remark the Revd Mr Fletcher made, to the effect that he had had a peep behind the curtain of many families in Sandhurst, but found very few where private life would bear comparison with Mr. V.'s. Shakespeare says suspicion haunts the guilty mind so in this case, the remark of Mr F's told upon some present, & the consequence is several letters have appeared in the “Advertiser” abusing Mr F shamefully, however he has many friends who have taken up his cause in earnest. Thursday I was very ill, Id bought some acid drops the night before & I believe they contained poison for they nearly killed me. I was not the only sufferer by them. I was all right next day but very weak. I remained at home last night reading. Went to Church this morning & heard a Missionary preach (Mr Buzzocott) who has been engaged in his “Masters” work for 30 years among the Islands of Oceania — he gave a very animated description of the places he had visited manners & customs of the people Etc – & the gradual spread of Christianity since his sojourn there. I have spent the rest of the day reading {{Image|file=Aae-58.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/246}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-59 261]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1858-05-15

15th Weather very unsettled, was blessed by a heavy fall of rain on Thursday, did not come before it was wanted by us poor diggers – We left the Reserve on Wednesday, been knocking about since looking out for a place to set in to work, have [not] settled anywhere yet. Monday night I went to hear Mr Buzacott lecture on the South Seas Islands & its Inhabitants, very inter- - esting, after it was over I adjourned to the Shamrock & heard some singing & saw some good dancing — Tuesday I went to my singing Class, had some fine fun with the girls, came home with one [[Mollison-45|Jessie Mollison]], a pretty little Scotch girl, a companion of Mrs Vallentines, my friend, David Anderson is in love with her, but she is engaged, so David must smother his passion, she has a young lady friend she sadly wants to palm on me, but I cant see it. – I met them both yesterday & had a long walk with them & in the evening I went to the Theatre, enjoyed myself well, I recvd a kind & affectionate letter from mother, all well, but very short of money. Im getting very uneasy concerning home. I dont see how they are to live decently, not having any thing to depend upon for support. I wrote to her to day & enclosed a pound Stg I went to Church this morning spent the rest of the day reading & learning my lessons, spelling & arithmetic {{Image|file=Aae-59.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/247}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-60 262]

Bendigo Long Gully May 1859
23rd [22nd Sunday] May. Miserable weather all the week. I am working with my Couzin Harry in “Butcher Gully” this week, but owing to the state of the weather, could do very little work, made 14/. each — Monday night went into Sandhurst, visited the TH. Meeting heard another of Goughs Lectures read, after it, I went to the Concert Room & heard the usual lot. Tuesday I went to my singing Class, accompanied [[Mollison-45|Jessie]] home Thursday went to Barklys, he & I took a ramble about Pall Mall, I left him & having a solitary 6d I went into the Shamrock Concert Room & had a Sixpenny intellectual treat. Yesterday In the afternoon I went into Sandhurst had a long strool about met many faces & friends I knew had tea at Barklys, afterwards took a -nother ramble & for a short time visited the Shamrock. Went to Church twice to day spent the afternoon at Harry Enniss, not in a very rational manner, Im sorry to state [1859-05-29] 29th Fine weather for a change. Came back into “PinchGut” again, got out a lot of dirt, have only washed a portion of it, we had £1.0.0 each to draw, poor work Im getting thoroughly disgusted with my continued ill luck, at the very time Im so in need of money to assist those in Melbourne. Im sure {{Image|file=Aae-60.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/248}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-61 263]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-05-29

no one could try or work harder than we do but to no purpose. Monday I went to the Tm.Society heard Mrs Warne deliver an able Lecture on Temperance she is a very clever woman, some people object to women speaking in public. I think if they are possessed of talents & abilities suitable for the subjects they speak upon that they have a right to exert them in a good cause. Christ at his resurrection told Mary to go & tell his disciples & surely if he thought her worthy of such a mission, we should not despise knowledge & wisdom from female sources, under any circumstances, there has been quite a controversy on the subject on Bendigo Tuesday I went to the Singing Class, saw Liz & [[Mollison-45|Jessie]] home. Wednesday spent the evening at my books, Thursday went to Pollards Singing Class came home with Watson. (he was drowned in the R.Charter) I went into Sandhurst yesterday received a long letter from Mother all well. Miss Eldred is still living with them, I met [[Mollison-45|Jessie]], had a long chat with her. I spent the evening with her & her friend at Vallentines, left at 11.30 pm. went to the Shamrock to find someone going my my way home, found a lot of neighbours homeward bound, some of them not very sober managed to get into a row on our way & fortunately getting clear off with one or two slight bruises, a lot of wild Irishmen that live in IronBark Gully nearly always molest us whenever we gave them a chance {{Image|file=Aae-61.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/249}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-62 264]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-06-05

I went to Church twice to day. In the evening I met Liz & [[Mollison-45|Jessie]], [[Niven-74|John Nevin]] (Jessies Beau) & I saw them home spent a couple of hours very agreeably with them, anything but pleasent leaving a nice comfortable house & going into the rain & having nearly 3 miles to walk home along a rough lonely road. [1859-06-05] June 5th 1859. Weather very unsettled. Monday afternoon I went into Sandhurst & drew £5.0.0 out of the Bank to send to my Mother, my little hoard is waxing less I also Bought a few necessaries I required – Im rather downhearted at my continued bad luck. I dont intend to work with Dave again cant get on with him, this week has been passed in looking about for some payable place to set into, a friend of mine Hugh Campbell & I put a tender in to sink a shaft 200 ft deep but someone had another in at 6d a foot less so we lost it — Monday night Lockey, Dave & I went to hear one of Goughs Orations read after it was over, we met some friends who had just come out of the Theatre & did not care about going in again, we went in with their checks & saw the Great Irish Comedian Hudson, in the “Happy Man”, he is very happy in the character, Kate Warde was playing with him, an old favorite of mine on leaving the Theatre we went to the Shamk for a short time, met in with neighbours came home together, pretty jolly — {{Image|file=Aae-62.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/250}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-63 265]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-06-05

Tuesday night went to the Singing Class, saw little [[Mollison-45|Jessie]] for the last time, she went to Melbourne the next morning to live with her parents there. [[Niven-74|John Nevin]] is quite distracted at her leaving, what a peculiar sensation love must be, to create such an alteration in ones manner in a man like Nevin — Im sure Ive never seen a girl yet that ever I felt any emotion over Minnie Hooper, I liked, but I never experienced for her what Ive seen displayed in others & what poets & authors love to dilate upon Etc. Wednesday & Thursday night remained at the tent reading Etc. Friday went to my singing – Saturday night went into Sandhurst, met Young Lockey went home with him had tea at their house, left about 8 pm & went to the Theatre to see Parker the Swordsman, he playd with several Bendigo “shin crackers” but he was a match for all of them at a time Im thinking he does some wonderful feats with a sword – We saw some good “Ballet Dancers" – “& Pose plastiques” Went to church twice to day, in the evening I took a walk with Liz, she introduced me to her sister & brother. I went to see Faithey Bostock this morning she does my washing & mending, they are very poor Bostock being sick & when well unable to get employment. I am very sorry for them Faith works very hard to keep things square Tom Rudd her brother I think is in Gaol {{Image|file=Aae-63.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/251}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-64 266]

Long Gully June 1859 Bendigo
[1859-06-12] 12th June. Wretched weather, bitter cold, any thing but pleasent living in a calico tent in such weather. I suppose I should grumble if I lived in a house. Im so very dissatisfied in my nature, Monday night went to the usual Temperance Meeting. Tuesday went to my Singing Class, after it was over, we all (that is the members both girls & boys) went to a quiet place, & having a concertina & flutina we got up a lot of dancing. Kept it up till late, being moonlight. Im sure the folks in the tents about thought we were a lot of maniacs just let loose from some Asylum Wednesday I was a good boy, remained at home by a good fire & read a good book & had a good supper, & then turned into a good bed which was a good deal better than being abroad. Thursday night went to the S. Class repeated our Dancing by moonlight again until 11 pm. Friday night I went to see Barkly. I lent him (like a fool) £5.0.0 some time back when the Bailiffs were in his house, he has promised it me many times since. Im sadly in want of money & asked him for a portion of it, but got some abuse instead. I was nearly inclined to take it out of his hide. I went to the Frazers (the Bakers) spent a couple of hours very jolly with Margery Frazer & Joanna — Lockey {{Image|file=Aae-64.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/252}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-65 267]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-06-12

was trying to Mesmerise the latter, & she acted so well that he thought hed succeeded, we had such fun — on leaving there I went to the Shamrock Room, sat alongside of one of the loveliest women I ever saw in my life, we got very friendly, & some fellow sitting on the other side of her making free with her, I checked him he seemed quarrelsome & was going to strike me but hit her instead, she astonished me by pulling out a short dagger, which instantaneously she struck at him with going through his coat & slightly cutting his side, he thought he was murdered & made a great noise. I managed to get her out before the police came, she wanted me to go home with her, I did but did not remain long with her, she was an Italian, & told me her husband is a surveyor & has been away some weeks from her in the Bush & being inclined for some amusement she had ventured out – I formed my opinion of her, having heard of her by repute, she is a kept mistress of one of the Camp Officials. I had an invitation to come & see her whenever I liked, she plays a guitar & finding I could sing was delighted, how the deuce such a woman came on Sandhurst is a mystery, my acquaintances, the male portion who have heard of the circumstance quite envy me my adventure that led to such an acquaintance(Z) Saturday night being on Bendigo & coming on to rain I went to see {{Image|file=Aae-65.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/253}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-66 268]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-06-19

Liz Marshall, spent a few hours pleasently together she is a nice clever girl & would make some man a good wife — on leaving her I went to the Shamrock for a short time, met Lockey & Dave, came home together. I received a letter from Mother, she is very unwell. The Mail from England brought out £50.10.0 for me from my Uncle Henry to commence some business with or do something else than dig, if I had got it 4 months ago, It could have done me some good, but Father going away & being obliged to break into my own money to help to keep Mothers home together, & I hear Father owes so much money in town that by the time Mothers get some necessaries for herself & children I wont get much of it she wants me to go to town so I Intend starting on Tuesday. I went to Church this evening & bid my fellow choristers good bye. In the afternoon I went to Hoopers saw Mrs. Hickey had tea with them. I recvd two letters from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] yesterday, they have been lying in the P.O. Long Gully for some weeks. Im sorry Id not got them before, he is still on Daisy Hill, he says he heard about my brother Ned that he is hardup on Ararat I shall write to them both on my arrival in Melbourne [1859-06-19 Sunday] 20th [19th] June 1859. At home, sweet home, once more, would I could never leave thee. I like {{Image|file=Aae-66.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/254}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-67 269]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo and 117 Kerr St, Fitzroy 1859-06-19

method, so I will commence where I left off. Last Monday I got a few things ready for my journey, went to see Faithey, & bid goodbye to my neighbours, went into Sandhurst in the evening called at Barkleys, & squeezed a pound Stg out of him, stayd tea with him, after which I went to the TH Meeting as usual. Mr Frazer is the president He insisted upon me staying at his house the night, his kind offer I accepted had a very comfortable bed, (for a house) he called me early in the morning & made breakfast for me, the Coach left Sandhurst at 6 am Tuesday morning came on to rain, & what with being crowded & a couple of babies squalling, I had anything but a pleasent journey & to crown all a man in Delirium Tremens, who had an epileptic fit, one old lady got so frightened & being near the door of the Coach she jumped out, & put her ankle out of joint, it was dark when I got into Melbourne tired & stiff found all well Wednesday I spent in roaming about the town to see all the sights & in the evening my sister Mary & I went to the Princess Theatre Thursday I knocked about & visited several people Im acquainted with & in the evening in company with Fred went to the Circus Friday afternoon Mother & I went out visiting & shopping. I bought a poncho some shirts & other necessaries. In the evening we went to see {{Image|file=Aae-67.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/255}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-68 270]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy, 1859-06-19

poor Mrs Harken, found her very ill in bed since her husbands death, she has existed entirely upon charity, what a position for a young & beautiful woman, well educated accomplished & brought up in the midst of luxury. I feel very much for her, we left her about 11 pm Saturday I wandered about, gazing in shop windows & looking at the pretty girls (and there are some in Melbourne) In the evening Fred & I went to the Market (Paddys) he to meet some girls, I to look at them, we dropped into a Free & Easy on our road home, & had our ears tortured by some wretched music both vocal & instrumental. Sunday. This afternoon I went with Mother to see a Mrs Crapper (who lives on Emerald Hill) she is a nice homely Yorkshire woman, that in my infantile days was in my mother's service, as nurse to this child, & a fine character I heard of the various vicious propensities I used to indulge in during my tender years. We went to see the Chinese Joss House, a most gorgeous sight, inside what with ugly Idols, & beautiful ornaments the Silk Banners Etc Etc it was a very interesting place to visit, we left early & in the evening my sister Mary & I went to St Peters Church heard some grand singing. I saw the girl I got into a scrape about, the last time I was in Melbourne. I spoke to her, she wants to see me tomorrow. I didnt promise her I could gratify her. {{Image|file=Aae-68.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/256}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-69 271]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy,

Melbourne June 1859 —
26th Miserable wet weather, still in town Been enjoying myself right well, all the week, one way or another. Been introduced to several young ladies flirted about with them, Wednesday night, Mary & I went to the Olympic Theatre to see “Extremes or Men of the Day” performed. Thursday I paid the Eldreds a visit, my family & theirs are not on friendly terms through some cause or another however they did not display anything like coolness towards me. I have been to see Mrs Harken several times, she is getting very emaciated looking. I did a little commission for her which cost me £.1.5.0 I dont suppose Ill ever see it again. Yesterday afternoon I went to see my old acquaintance John.C.Burchell at Prahran he was very glad to see me. I invited him to dinner to day, he came & in the afternoon we took a walk to the Cemetary & saw the funeral of Ellen Mortyn, she was a most charming Actress & is much lamented, the last time I saw her was on Bendigo when she playd “Desdemona” to G.V.Brookes “Othello”, he was & the same {{Red|*}}again in a {{Red|*}}more {{Red|*}}noted {{Red|*}}musical the chief mourner. In the evening we went to St. Peters Church, we sat up in the galery & owing to young persons running out & making a noise the doors were locked & we found that the sexton had locked us in, some 30 of us including the mem- -bers of the choir, the gas was turned off. I ran my back against the door & burst the lock off it {{Image|file=Aae-69.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/257}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-70 272]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy, 1859-07-04

& thus got our liberty. Fred & I accompanied Burchell a part of the way home & got wet through coming home. I received a long letter from Lockey Frazer (the younger) they have had a fine T. Meeting since my absence well attended a debating Society is being formed, & he is one of the Committee. I wrote to Hy Vickerman one day last week, & also to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & Frazer & Joe Dean. Im getting sick of my present inactive life, another week more & then Higho for the diggins, hard work, hard living Etc, its like going to the devil from Paradise the idea of leaving Melbourne & its pleasures. I dont suppose there is a city in the world that has so many temptations as this town or where so much sin in every shape prevails, what with women & places of amusement Etc. Im sure if Id plenty of money I would soon be ruined & come to grief body & soul [1859-07-04 Monday] July 4th 1859 Oh dear, 8 days since I last continued my journal. Still in Melbourne been trying to get some employment, but was not fortunate enough. Last Monday night I took Mary & Miss Hobbs to the Royal Theatre turned out very wet, however there were plenty of cars to be had so we rode home I took them both to the Annual Tpa Soiree at the Exhibition Building, we were dressed well & every body else there was, every thing was first rate, we sat at the Eldreds table, my {{Image|file=Aae-70.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/258}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-71 273]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy, 1859-07-04

friend Burchell was there also, after tea there was a lot of “spouting” Rd. Heales in the chair however we didnt care for it, we went onto the Balcony & one young chap had brought a pipe with him, I was along with Annie Eldred & was just commencing to dance with her when Mr Harmer (the Secretary) put a stop to it. I objected to his interference & had some words. I felt inclined to punch his head, for I dislike the man he was one of the canting lot that persuaded & aided my father in leaving us — he didnt know who I was, so I wasnt very particular what I said to him — he is the intended husband of the younger Miss Eldred (Louisa) & is old enough to be her father, there were several of the clique there & I felt anything but comfortable in their company — however I forgive them. My pretty friend [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] came down from Sunbury on Saturday, looking so charming & beautiful, she is one of the prettiest girl I ever met & Im sure Im in love with her, she has any quantity of admirers. I admired her the last time I was in town & had the pleasure of seeing her, but now Im bewitched & have been doing the agreeable & making love ever since, there is some fellow, always following her named Sutherland, Saturday night, Mary & her & myself went into town & met him, we could not get rid of him so at length we proposed going into the Theatre, he paid for 4 Dress Circle tickets. “Azrael the Prodigal” was playd R Heir playd the prodigal, while G.V.Brooke the father {{Image|file=Aae-71.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/259}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-72 274]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy, 1859-07-04

& well being one of the grandest things ever brought out in the colony — but I was highly amused at our friend Sutherland, who during one of the intervals went out & brought back with him 4 Bottles of Ginger Beer & a tumbler, also a pocket full of large green pudding apples — I told the girls for heavens sake not to appear to know him, he was quite annoyd, & thought us destitute of taste, the girls were disgusted, & every glass was upon us, for my part I didnt care, but was convulsed with laughter, he knew no better, after it was over, we adjourned to the Cafe de France & had a splendid supper, Roast fowl Etc I stuck to [[Summers-6236|Jane]] & my sister would not walk with him, yet he is a goodnatured fool, for fool he is, in some respects. Sunday morning I went with her to hear Mr New preach & on getting home we found Sutherland here, he had called during our absence & my mother for fun invited him to dinner, we had seen him coming & had cleared out at the back door while he was at the front. After dinner he had to go away to catch the Sunbury train he had a cab & Jane & Mary & self accompanied him, but as soon as we saw him off we found our way to Princess Bridge, where we hired a sailing boat & went to the Botanical Gardens, a lovely place & being a nice day was crowded by pleasure seekers, we met many we knew, came home by Railway & after tea went to Church, heard some fine {{Image|file=Aae-72.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/260}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-73 275]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy, 1859-07-04

singing. In the evening had several visitors some friends of [[Summers-6236|Janes]] knowing she was down from the country came to see her, my old nurse Mrs Crapper & McDougall were here also – This morning I accompanied Jane for a strool went into town & had our portraits taken which we exchanged with vows of unchanging love, (vows (Im sure that have nothing but a transitory impulse for a foundation) I could never centre my whole thoughts & feelings on one that I feel is a coquette, tho I dont think would ever be a heartless one) that she likes me & the feeling is reciprocal Im sure for the present, yet it will be many months ere I see her again & in that time surrounded by flatterers & admirers she will soon cease to think of me. If not Ill idol ize her! for she will be a woman in a million I feel now Im sick of town, this time next week Ill be on Bendigo pondering on to day, she took my dear little Brother Charlie with her, he is not well & the country air I trust will do him good [1859-07-10 Sunday] July 11th 1859 On old Bendigo once more in my tent, 10 ft x 12 ft how limited, & yet how comfortable. I think the less we can do with in this world the greater will be our happiness in it, but it is not possible to be satisfied human nature grumbles against the principle. I have been quite low spirited since my return here {{Image|file=Aae-73.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/261}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-74 276]
117 Kerr St, Fitzroy, 1859-07-10

everything appears to be so dull & present such a different aspect to what it did before, how has time passed. Last Tuesday, I went to Richmond called on some friends of [[Niven-74|J.Nevins]] – Came home by the train, called to see Mrs Harken & bade her adieu. In the afternoon I took Mary to have her likeness taken, but were too late, we went to a Mrs Simpsons & Mary playd on the piano for me the first time I ever heard her. I think with practice she will make a fine performer I went to the Hobbs that evening. I had not been there since the night I took Miss H. to the Soiree they were rather cool. I fancy because I took the girl out once or twice that I was in honour bound to enter into an engagement with her, they hinted as much, however I soon undeceived in that respect. I called on the Eldreds bid them good bye, came home early & went into a Mrs Finlys (a neighbour) who introduced me to some friends of hers present. I remained until 10.30 saw a Miss Jaffys home — my usual job if any ladies call at our house. Im always looked upon to do the amicable. I packed up my things & on Wednesday morning at 6 am bid all at home good bye once more. I came by Rail to the Diggers Rest 21 miles from town, then took the Coach arrived on Sandhurst at 7. pm after a wretched journey, having rained all day & the coach being {{Image|file=Aae-74.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/262}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-75 277]
Pinchgut Gully, Bendigo, 1859-07-10

over crowded. I met Bill Donovan & Enniss, we came out to the Gully together, found my couzin Harry well & glad to see me — Thursday I went to Bostocks from there into Bendigo, called at Frazers in the evening, met, Lockey, spent a pleasent evening there — I bought a pair of strong Boots & a pair of Blankets — Friday morning, hearing there was a rush at the Sheepwash Creek I went- , in company with Bill Donovan & Yorkey Tom – the day was warm, but being a pleasent road we enjoyed ourselves — we found the rush situated among some rough little hills, about 200 people there, none of whom are getting much gold — so I dont intend going there again, after tea I went to the Singing Class, they were all glad to see me back I went to the “Shamrock” for a little while. Saturday morning I spent writing letters to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & my mother, went into Sandhurst in the afternoon & posted them. I met an acquaintance, who wanted me to go & work for him on the Hustlers Reef £3.0.0 per week its only a short job, unless they strike the Reef, its better than being idle until something else turns up. I met Lockey & we went to the Shamrock, late when we got home, I met Eliza Marshall — she was glad to see me, I also saw my foreign lady friend who was so nearly putting a stop to someones existence a short time back. I went to Church this morning heard a good sermon, either it or the long walk gave me a good appetite for my dinner. I had several old acquaintances here during the afternoon. I heard to day that my Prahran friend J.Burchell intends trying his luck on Bendigo & will be here tomorrow {{Image|file=Aae-75.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/263}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-76 278]
(blank page) {{Image|file=Aae-76.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/264}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/01-Aae-77 279]

John Hy Watmuff {{Image|file=Aae-77.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/265}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-78 280]
{{Image|file=Aae-78.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/266}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-79 281]
{{Image|file=Aae-79.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/267}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aae-80 282]
[rear end board] {{Image|file=Aae-80.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=1/268}} END of JOURNAL 1 == Sources ==

Below is an alphabetized list of people whose names appear in a muster of [[Space:Captain_John_Scudder%27s_Company|Captain John Scudder's Company]] of the [[Space:First_Regiment%2C_Essex_County_Militia%2C_New_Jersey|First Regiment, Essex County Militia, New Jersey]] dated 1 October 1777. Enoch Badgley, Private
Jonathan Badgley, Private
Joseph Badgley, Private
Daniel Baker, Sargeant
Henry Baker, Private
Nathaniel Baker, Private
Joseph Booty, Private
David Boroughs, Private
Cornelius Briant, Private
John Briant, Private
Samuel Briant, Private
James Clark, Private
Moses Codden, Private
Joseph Cory, Corporal
Peter Craig, Private
Henry Demoney, Sargeant
James Doughty, Private
David Dunham, Sargeant
Thomas Force, Private
Cornelius Frazee, Private
Charles Gilman, Private
John Hollot, Private
John Hool, Private
Samuel Jaquish, Sargeant
Dennis Jennings, Private
Joseph King, Private
Levi Lenox, Private
Melvin Ludlam, Private
Samuel Lumbard, Private
Enoch Manning, Private
Isaac Marsh, Jr, Private
Caleb Maxell, Private
Jonathan Miller, Private
Moses Miller, Private
Squire Osborn, Private
Isaac Pack, Private
William Pangborn, Private
Abraham Parsons, Private
Neamiah Randall, Private
John Ross, Private
John Scudder, Captain
Thomas Smith, Private
Jacob Stanbury, Private
Jonathan Stephens, Private
Eiljah Stites, Private
Elijah Stites, Private
Enoch Terrill, Corporal
Isaiah Terrill, Private
Eder Vermule, Lieutenant
Richard Waller, Private
Aaron Whitehead, Private
Henry Williams, Corporal
Isaac Winans, Private
James Winings, Sargeant
Aaron Woodruff, Private
Stephen Woodruff, Private
The muster was found in a muster book headed, “Captain John Scudder’s Muster Roll Book – October 4th, 1777” and contained in the case of Mary Demoney – Widow #20, 976 at the Pension Bureau, Washginton, D.C. A certified copy was made and filed at the New Jersey State Archives. Also included in the Muster Roll book is a muster roll of Captain Laing’s Company dated 1 October 1777. [https://www.familysearch.org/search/catalog/175573?availability=Family%20History%20Library Revolutionary war manuscripts, New Jersey numbers 1-10811], FamilySearch Catalog with access restricted to FamilySearch Center (formerly Family History Center) or FamilySearch Affiliate Library, Film 007724451, Image 34. Original data: New Jersey State Archives. Dept: Genealogical Society. Rec: Revolutionary War Manuscripts. MSS# 254. == Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-1 283]
No
2 {{Image|file=Aag-1.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-2 284]
[front end paper] {{Image|file=Aag-2.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-3 285]
{{Image|file=Aag-3.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-4 286]
1859/61
Bendigo, Victoria
1862 Otago @ NZ.
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{{Image|file=Aag-4.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-5 287]
Journal - Kept by - John Hy Watmuff from July 1859 to 1862 Sept {{Image|file=Aag-5.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-6 288]

John Henry Watmuff
Manuherikia River
Otago NZ


Crabbs English Synonims √ Books Ive sent for
Rogets Thesauris √
Watts Logic ~~
Gilberts — " for the millions √
Abercrombies intellectual powers √
{{Image|file=Aag-6.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-7 289]
Continued from July 1859 Long Gully
[1859-07-17 Sunday] July 11th [17th] 1859 Horrible weather, raining nearly every day. I went to my job on the “Hustlers Reef” last Monday morning, but left it last night, the ground is very dangerous & the men that own the claim know very little about timbering & making the ground secure. They would not allow me to have my way so I did not see the force of risking my life through their parsimony Hugh Campbell, Dan Fennegan & I put in a tender for the driving of 50 ft in the Hit or Miss Companys claim, Johnsons Reef — yesterday & got it, The shaft is 280 feet deep & wet, but unless the ground changes, I fancy we shall be able to make good wages at the price we are to have 30/- per foot — & timber supplied at the Shaft for boxing & propping Etc – we commence at it in the morning, all well — I got Bill Donovan into my place on “Hustlers Reef” Tuesday night I went to {{Red|to}} my Singing Class, quite a revival there several new members. Wednesday night stayd at home reading & learning my lessons. Thursday, went into Sandhurst called at Barkleys then visited Frazers [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] & I took a strool about Pall Mall had some fine fun with some young ladies acquaintances of his — Friday remained at [home] {{Image|file=Aag-7.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-8 290]
Hit and Miss Reef, Sandhurst, July 1859

looking over Lindley Murray. Anderson came in & enlivened us with one or two of his lovely songs — he has a beautiful voice what a pity he is possessed of so little self respect, with his intelligence & abilities, combined with a very little energy would make him successful in anything he undertook Saturday I left work, came home & brought a couple of wheel barrow loads of wood from the hills at the back of the tent, then dressed myself & went into Bendigo, called at Barkleys could not get any money from him, I met my companion [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] & we went into the Shamrock Concert Room, spent a jolly evening — came home together I received a long letter from J.[[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] he is very well, but not doing very well at his business — his Reef here is turning out very rich — he assures me — I have a portrait of my sister & by some means he got a copy of it & the man imagines he is in love with it the best of the joke is he has never seen the original. I went into Church this morning & after dinner, I met Donovan took him to the Hustlers Reef, went afterwards into Sandhurst, walked about the township had tea in an Eating House went to Church & came home together, & so passed another week {{Image|file=Aag-8.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-9 291]

Long Gully Bendigo 1859 —
[1859-07-24] July 24th Fine weather during the past week Commenced our contract on Monday, had to rig a windsail & put up a shed over the Shaft, & had 2 days hard bailing out water got down the Shaft on Thursday & by yesterday dinner time had drove about 4 feet — not so bad considering everything we had to prepare before commencing work Tuesday went to the Singing Class, Wednesday Hugh & Dan & I went into Sandhurst, called at Frazers, had some fun with Margery Johana & [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]], on leaving them I visited the Church of England Bazaar, it was like getting into a hive of Bees, the young ladies at the stalls were like a lot of Jewesses begging & coaxing one to purchase articles at about 100 percent above their value. I bought some small volumes of poetry by different writers, on looking over them I find they are little gems. Thursday night my friend Jno. C.Burchell came up from Melbourne, he is a young chap I like well, well educated & intelligent he will be good company for me — he is going to live with my couzin Henry & I think he intends trying his luck at golddigging & is going mates with Henry tomorrow {{Image|file=Aag-9.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-10 292]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, July 1859

Burchell & I went into Sandhurst yesterday afternoon (I received a letter from my Uncle Charles, he informs me he intends returning to Bendigo shortly, in the letter was an order for £50.0.0 to be placed in the Bank to his a/c. I suppose if he brought it with him he would spend it ere he arrived here I got a letter from my Brother Fred — all well at home) we had tea at the Criterion Hotel, afterwards visited the Theatre, early this morning when we arrived at the tent After Breakfast got in several Barrows of firewood for the coming week, then went to Church. In the afternoon we went to Harry Inniss tent, he had his arm broken last night in a row, several Irishmen rolled into him & gave him a hiding in consideration of several, us boys, have given them, spent a jolly afternoon there I intend writing to my Brothers tonight [1859-07-31 Sunday] {{Red|August 1st}} 1859 Fine weather during the past week. We drove 9 ft 6 in for the weeks work, making us about £4.15/. each, we only get paid once a week, & 1/3 is deducted or kept back until the contract is completed, we struck a streak of lava yesterday which is making a deal of water, I should not be surprised if {{Image|file=Aag-10.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-11 293]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, 1859-08-07

the drive is swamped tomorrow. Harry & Burchell left here for a rush at the Sheepwash Creek last Monday morning. Uncle arrived here in the same evening, he is looking very well, but he has led a very fast gay life since he left us — he left Tuesday morning & went after Henry, they all returned yesterday tired & footsore after a fruitless journey, they could find nothing to suit them, tried several holes but got no gold — I've been into Sandhurst I think every evening, visiting about. Last night Uncle, Burchell, Harry & I went to the Shamrock Theatre, saw our little favorites the “Worrells” I saw my foreign lady friend, had a strool & a long chat with her — I recvd a letter from Mother, all well — no news. Mary has been to a Ball at Sunbury, in company with [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]], & I believe enjoyed herself very well I wrote to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Thursday & to mother this afternoon. I went after dinner to see Dave we took a walk together, called on Harry Innises went into Sandhurst this evening & Church, met several friends took a strool with some young ladies got home here about 11 pm. time now for bed — August 7th 1859. Lovely weather but very cold first thing in the morning. On going to our work last Monday we found 10 feet of water in {{Image|file=Aag-11.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-12 294]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, 1859-08

& still running from the lava streak, we thought of giving up the contract, but the shareholders agreed to pay us a weeks wages while we bailed out the water, so all this week we’ve done nothing else but bail, hard work, lifting a 16 gln keg water 280 feet. We found yesterday that we are just beating the water, I went down — there is still too much water to be able to make much at it, so the owners paid the claim a visit, & have agreed to give us 10/- a foot more to carry on the drive I have been very gay & fast this week out every night on Sandhurst, it would be impossible to note down what Ive done & where Ive been Etc went to my singing as usual, Dan & I joind a Dancing Class, Monday & Thursday night the man is a Scotchman named I. Robertson, a great man at athletic sports & Highland Gatherings Etc I dont think he can teach us anything but Flings & Scotch Reels & Jigs Etc — however there is such a jolly lot frequents the place, that I intend going if only for the fun of the thing. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] came down from Daisy Hill yesterday. In the afternoon we went into Sandhurst (I called at the P.O & received a long letter from Mother & one from Fred all well, no news. [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] is living with them for a while, having left Sunbury. I would like to be at home for a time.) We called at Frazers, they insisted upon our remaining {{Image|file=Aag-12.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-13 295]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, August 1859

to tea — spent the afternoon very pleasently – after tea, Jim, & I went to the Shamrock Rooms didnt get home until this morning about 1 am & arose at 7, we had to go & Bail water at the Shaft until 1. pm. so as to keep it down for if it rose above a certain level it would distroy the Shaft — I hate having to work on a Sabbath — but it cannot be avoided sometimes on the diggings. Spent the afternoon reading & in the evening went into Church, met some acquaintances, got home by 10. am — [1859-08-21 Sunday] August 22nd [21st] 1859. A fortnight since I continued my journal. We have done very poorly at our contract, only drove 8 feet during the time; it takes all our time to keep the water down & the rock we are driving in is the hardest I ever met with in the whole course of my digging experience We struck a small quartz spur on Thursday & with it came another heavy stream of water Im afraid we shall have to give the affair up unless we make some fresh arrangement with our employers — £5.0.0 per foot would only just give us wages — very annoying — Last Saturday night, I went to the Theatre along with Uncle, Burchell & Dan — Sunday morning I went to Church, being Sacrament Day we (Choir) were kept in until 3. pm. I had dinner at Campbells — I received a letter from Fred on Wednesday, all well, made me quite {{Image|file=Aag-13.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-14 296]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, August 1859

envious with the account of the places of amusement he has visited, Theatre, Oratories Etc flirting about with [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] — no news from England by the last Mail from father — I have visited the Dancing & Singing Class as usual — Friday night I took Miss Scott home, got into hot water through it — there is a chap named C.Smith after her, I dont think he has any honorable intentions towards her. She is a poor girl but rather nice looking — however he is very jealous of her & I me & knowing it I was determined to annoy him & have been very attentive to her whenever I meet her at the S. Class I know she likes him but I think is afraid of him, however time tries all — Last night, Dan, Burchell & I went into Sandhurst, knocked about one place & another, had a dance at the Hamburgh Rooms — heard a song in the Shamrock & about 9, went to the Theatre, saw Fawcett in the “Lady of Lyons” I remained at home to day reading & writing. I wrote to Mother & enclosed £5.0.0 in the letter, for her — her money is done Im sure, ere now. I received a letter from my Brother Ned; he is still on Ararat, but not doing much, that is the reason he states for not writing before this; my old mates are still knocking about that neighbourhood. I wish Ned was on Bendigo. Mother is very anxious for us to be together {{Image|file=Aag-14.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-15 297]

Long Gully, Bendigo, August 1859 [1859-08-28-Sunday] 27th [28th] August — Weather very unsettled, but I fancy its clearing up for Summer. Our employer put us on wages this week (£3.0.0) each, they also engaged 3 other men to assist us, we have done nothing but bail water the whole of the week, after working 2, 12 hours shifts in the day, we tossed up, for the shift & we get the day one — I dont like night work — we beat the water once more — so next week I suppose we shall resume our contract I would much sooner be on regular wages but that do{{Blue|esn't}} suit the claim holders ideas. Dan, Hugh & I go on the night shift the coming week — commence to night at 12 oclock — Went to the Dancing Class on Monday & Thursday, could not go to my singing owing to the rain — I went to Church at Sandhurst this morning, called at Frazers found a letter from Mother, she has received a letter from Uncle Hartley (Halifax) he is very indignant at the manner in which my father left his family & Im afraid he will wish a cool reception if he visits there [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] has got the Refreshment Rooms at the Sunbury Station. Im afraid such an occupation as she is likely to fill will not tend to improve her, girls soon lose their greatest charm (their modesty) in public places such as Hotels, Restaurants Etc — She begs to be kindly remembered Etc to me {{Image|file=Aag-15.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-16 298]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, Sept. 1859

Long Gully Sept 1859 Sept 4th Miserable cold wet week, anything but pleasent working at night at the windlass what with the rain, wind & cold, the stone we have been driving through this week has been very hard — on paying our 3 mens wages £9.0.0 & the Blacksmiths Bill for picks, gads & drills sharpening, powder fuse Etc — we had about 5/. each to draw. Im quite disgusted with the affair if it do{{Blue|esn't}} get softer next week I dont intend doing any more at it — I went into Sandhurst last Monday afternoon had a cruize about met my foreign lady friend, went to her place for about an hour, she playd & sang me some pretty melodies. I missed my Dancing & Singing this week. Yesterday I went to see Faithey Bostock, some other merry devil of a woman was there, had a good romp & had to run for fear of getting my head broken from there I went to Sandhurst met Liza Marshall had a long chat with her, wanted to know why I never came to see them now explained the reason, became good friends & I promised to visit her this evening — I met some friends, we all went to the Shamrock came home by 12 oclock. This morning we had to go to our Shaft & bail water until noontime, spent the afternoon reading went to Church in the evening with Dave & Burchell, went to see Liza for a few minutes {{Image|file=Aag-16.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-17 299]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, Sept. 1859

on leaving her, I met the two young Kings [[King-39039|Alick]] & [[King-48616|John]], the former is a nice chap but rather fast, the other is clever, but Im afraid will from present appearances turn out when older a sad scamp. Alick has a nice voice & is a member of our choir, along with his sister, a nice little girl. I often go to their house, they live close to the Church Old [[King-39040|Mr King]] I like well — he is gold smelter in the Oriental Bank — we took a long strool together, accompanied me nearly home I wrote to mother last Monday & sent her £1.0.0 — Sept 11th 1859 — Lovely weather for a change. We discharged our men yesterday & intend working it by ourselves if we do any more to the Hit or Miss Companies Claim we made small wages this week — the ground is still very hard, every particle has to be blasted out with powder. I heard to day the shareholders intend giving it up & getting the claim registered for awhile. I shall not be sorry to back out of our contract, for we are injuring our constitutions working at it we take 4 hours each down below & then come up to the surface & work at the Windlass the other 8 hours, its harder work than being below, but far more healthy. I went to my Dancing Class on Monday & Thursday night, had a little adventure, the latter night, about 10.30 I left the Room in company with a pretty Scotch girl to see home, she lived about 2 miles {{Image|file=Aag-17.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-18 300]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst, 1859-09-11

from Bendigo towards the Emu Creek (I didnt know or I wouldnt have gone) we thought of taking a near cut through the bush, but we lost ourselves & at length tired & weary our clothes in an awful state through pushing our way through the bushes & high heather — I got her home, she lives in a hut in a quiet little gully in the hills, she opened the door very quietly, & found her father sound asleep in a chair, she put the clock back to 11 (it was then 3. am (Friday) & awoke him, the old man was sure it was after 11 before he fell asleep, but of course she easily persuaded him it wasnt any such thing — I started for home had 5 miles to walk — the day was breaking on entering the tent. I didnt get to work the until 9. am. & then wasnt fit to do any work properly, my mates had sat down by the road side until nearly 2 oclock waiting for me — Friday went to the S. Class after it was over Dan & Burchell & I went to the Shamrock stayd there until 11.30 & then came home — I went into Sandhurst last night called at Frazers, got a long letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], he is not doing much I wrote to him & advised him to return to Bendigo & attend to his interests here, his claim is paying very well, but would pay him better if he was working at it himself {{Image|file=Aag-18.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-19 301]
Hustlers Reef, Sandhurst

Burchell received a letter from the Maguires, they are working on the Gt Western diggings between Ararat & Pleasent Creek — only just making a living, they state that my Brother Ned is working about 5 miles from them somewhere nr Moonlight Gully — I visited the Lyceum Theatre, heard Thatcher, Mrs Oakey & my old favorite Mdm Vitelli, the latter is a charming little woman — the young chaps on Bendigo are all in love with her. I of course being susceptible & at a very susceptible age must say ditto — women & girls play the devil with me — make me keep late hours or early ones I should say — I feel Im a flirt – or else am so very particular & fastidious in my taste that I can never find one that seems to please me wholly, for Im positive I never was in love — Minnie Hooper I liked very well but Im sure my feelings towards her were anything but that of a passionate lover — [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] I like a little, but I feel as if my vanity was the only thing she seemed to affect — I should never go into ecstasies about, her, beautiful as she is. I have her likeness, there is an expression about her features that seem to say, Im beautiful, I know it — I like to be flatered, courted & admired, & will be while I can, boast of a charm. (If thats not her Ill suffer hanging) {{Image|file=Aag-19.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-20 302]
Hustlers Reef, Redan Reef, Sandhurst

This morning I had to go to Eaglehawk Gully for our money, Sunday morning being the usual, diggers, settling up time — I spent the afternoon Reading a strange history of Carthage, on the war between the Romans & Carthagenians, the characters of the two great generals Scipio & Hannibal are well portrayed I went into Sandhurst this evening, & heard a good sermon, afterwards took a long walk with several members of our choir — about 10 when I got home — [1859-09-18-Sunday] Sept 19th [18th] 1859. Lovely weather; we gave up our contract at the beginning of the week settled up on Tuesday night, the claimholders are not in a position to carry on the work any further, so we were out of work but on Thursday we took a contract, to sink a shaft 60 ft deep on the Redan Reef, we took Dave Anderson into partnership so there are now 4 of us mates — we put in 3 Tenders last evening for other contracts I think we shall get one out of the 3 — we commence with the one we have on Monday — Last Monday I went to the Lyceum Concert Room & heard some excellent singing. Tuesday night I went to the Shamrock Wednesday night remained at home reading until 11. pm. Thursday knocked about the gully called at several acquaintances tents. Friday I went to the Singing Class — took a pleasent walk along with two young ladies, on leaving them I went into {{Image|file=Aag-20.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-21 303]
Long Gully Bendigo 1859 (Sept)

the Shamrock for a short time. Yesterday afternoon we all turned to & carried in a lot of firewood for the coming week, about 4 pm dressed myself & went into Sandhurst called at Frazers (where I get my letters a/d) found a letter from Fred awaiting me, all well in town. [[Summers-6236|Jane S.]] has been in town again — On leaving there I went to the Lyceum Theatre, heard Vitelli sing some pretty ballads. I arose early this morning & went into Sandhurst to Church — after the service was over I met young Lockey had a long chat, 2 oclock when I got home to the tent spent the afternoon reading & in the evening went to Church again found I was very late so did not go inside, went into Kings had a yarn with the old folks — came home & have just finished writing a note to Mother in which I enclosed £5.0.0 for her — I wrote to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] during the week — Sept 25th 1859 Lovely weather. Anderson & I commenced our contract on Monday, & by last night had sank it down 30 feet & slabbed it 15 ft. so we have done very well- Dan & Hugh have done nothing yet they have been looking out for a contract, they got one on Friday to sink a shaft 70 feet deep on the Sophia Reef — we had to buy a windlass & rope (£3.0.0.) before they could begin, which they purpose doing tomorrow so we ought to do well now for a short time. Last Monday I went to a Ball at the Town Hall (had a ticket sent me) enjoyed myself firstrate, sunrise next morning {{Image|file=Aag-21.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-22 304]
Redan Reef, Sandhurst, Sept. 1859

when I arrived home. Burchell very kindly took my shift in the Shaft on Tuesday morning while I went to bed, arose at dinner time & went to work Remained at home every night till Friday, when I as usual visited the Singing Class, on leaving it at 9. pm I went to Lyceum in company with Dan & Dave Anderson, left about 10 & on our way home in Commission Gully we fell in with anything but a reputable lot, (some old neighbours) went to their place & remained until nearly 1 next morning, eating oysters & singing & dancing & kicking up a row Left work at 5 pm yesterday, had tea & afterwards went into Bendigo (or Sandhurst) visited several places of amusement (on the cheap, I dont think anyone sees more life than I do on so little money, I never drink & am well known) Remained some time in the Lyceum Theatre — came home with old [[Fraser-9757|Lockey]] I went to Church this morning with him, had dinner at a tent in Iron Bark Gully with Dick Day called at Bostocks stayd an hour or so — came home & wrote a letter to Fred & another to Mother October 9th 1859. A fortnight since I wrote up my journal — been hard at work with our contract Dave & I have only 7 ft more to do. Hugh & Dan I dont think will be able to make the other one pay, the ground making a deal of water — Last Sunday afternoon [[King-39039|Alick King]] with his sister Mary & another young lady paid us a visit & remained to tea with us at the tent, the first time ever a female {{Image|file=Aag-22.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-23 305]
Redan Reef, Sandhurst, Sept. 1859

had a meal in my tent — we returned into Sandhurst with them & went to Church, afterwards Took a nice walk. I & Mary have always been very good friends, my mate Hugh is very fond of her but she hates the sight of him, he was at her mothers on our return & was anything but amicable he is a most infernal hypocrite, pretends to be very religious, but I wasnt long in finding him out during the time we lived together in our tent Last Monday night I went into Sandhurst, met J.King, who informed me that Hugh had been saying a great deal to my disparagement, which rather annoyed me, so the following evening I went to the S.Class on purpose to see him. I called at Kings they were very cool to me — I accused Mrs K of it – & at length she told me that Hugh had warned her not to permit me to come to their house, or her daughter would soon be a prostitute. I could hardly contain myself with rage, for I can swear I never had an impure thought towards her or breathed an indelicate expression in her hearing I did not meet him that night, he sent a man to work in his place at the claim, but on Friday night I went into the Singing Class & met him, he wanted to avoid me but I got hold of him & exposed him & antecedents to all his acquaintances, & made him apologise to me & also to the Kings for his calumnies. I recvd a long letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] yesterday he wants me to go with him to Melbourne at X mas I had a letter from Mother, no news by the late mail from England for us — she is {{Image|file=Aag-23.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-24 306]
Redan Reef, Sandhurst, Sept. 1859

getting very short of money & doesn't know how to make things meet. [[Summers-6236|Jane S.]] is living with her she left her fathers place — because he married her servant & took possession of her bedroom Etc she is on the look-out for a situation, poor girl Im very sorry for her, she has workd & striven very hard to make money for her father — & now to be the next thing of being turned out of house & home, is really very hard — I went to the Shamrock after leaving the S.Class it is discontinued for 3 months — Im very sorry for I was getting on nicely could read music a little & my voice has greatly improved since I have been under Mr. Hardy. Burchell is mates with us instead of Hugh Campbell, I went to Sandhurst yesterday came home early for a wonder. This morning I went to Church, got in early called for [[King-39039|Alick King]] at the Bank — In the afternoon Lockey & I took a long walk to Eagle Hawk Gully, he stayd tea with us spent the evening writing a letter to Mother October 30, 1859 It is 3 weeks since I continued my journal I am getting very negligent & careless — but its really not worth while the uninteresting Im continually filling my book with. In after life should I live & be in a different position perhaps the pages I write may though insignificant at present may be {{Image|file=Aag-24.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-25 307]
Redan Reef, Maiden Gully Sandhurst, Sept. 1859

a sort of reference if not of amusement, & its become such a habit now that I could not break it off very well. I feel it like a duty tho a self imposed one — I am sure it has been the means of improving me in many ways & to a person wishing to improve & instruct themselves will find it a great assistance. I must try & recall to mind how the the time has passed or how I have spent it — We finished our contracts a fortnight ago and were out of work for a week afterwards. On drawing my money I wrote to Mother & sent her £5.0.0 — I bought a share in a Quartz Claim in Maiden Gully, there are 8 shareholders — we are sinking a shaft on the ground, it will cost us about £1.0.0 per week each to sink it, we let out the shaft sinking by contract, Dave & Burchell got it, we are not in partnership now — Dan & I are mates, we took a contract to sink a shaft out of Bendigo about 6 miles, on the Break of Day Reef, we are going to lodge & board at the Robinson Crusoe Hotel (Allens) & come home here once a week. I received a very affectionate [letter] from [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] & another portrait — I had mine taken here & sent it her in return — she informs me that [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] is in town & making havoc with ladies hearts, flirting about every where {{Image|file=Aag-25.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-26 308]
Break of Day Reef, Robinson Crusoe, Hotel, Sept. 1859

the little beggar has been telling her of my flirtations here, & she intends being jealous she is living at the Club Hotel St Kilda & informs me she has any amount of beaus & admirers — what a tantalizer she is, she may have 10,000 for what I care. I dispise coquettes. I got a long letter from Fred, he informs me that my sister Mary is very ill, & in the opinion of several that she is in a decline. God forbid for she is very dear to me. Im trying to make arragements for her to come up here, the change may do her good. Dan & I went out to Break O.day last week, we like the place very well, the claim is situated in the Bush about a mile from the Hotel, there are about a dozen quartz Reefers staying there a nice lot of fellows. Mrs A. makes us very comfortable, Mr A is a quiet gentlemanly man, evidently been in a very different to what he now occupies, he is a fine musician & the best flutist I ever heard they have also an excellent Library, so we are very comfortable — Mr & Mrs Sexton paid me a visit to day stayd tea, he got a billet last week (they are people that lived in the half of mothers house in town, she referred them to me) I {{Image|file=Aag-26.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-27 309]
Break of Day Reef, Robinson Crusoe, Hotel, Sept. 1859

lent them some money a short while back I wish they would return it, for Im getting very short — I went to the Kings last night Dan — Burchell — & I took Mary & some other young ladies to the Theatre. I went to Church this morning & evening — had tea at Barclays took a strool about Sandhurst got home here about 10 pm — In the after noon I paid Mrs Hooper, (good old soul) a visit — Mrs Hickey was there — wont be long to judge from appearances ere she is a mother — she looks very wretched poor girl 13th November 1859 — Another fortnight passed over my head. Im getting very irregular Our contract at Robinson Crusoe Gully, is not paying us — the first 15 ft was a nice soft rock but since, we have struck a body of granite we can hardly clear our expenses out of it. Its a delightful place to live. I love the bush, dont think I could ever settle in town the neighbourhood where we are working is very rough — a continual succession of steep hills covered with thick scrub & timber, snakes, Lizards abound here — worse than Sandy Creek — I think we have killed about a dozen snakes since we have lived there — I had a narrow escape on Friday from the bite of one — I was going {{Image|file=Aag-27.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-28 310]
Break of Day Reef, Robinson Crusoe, Hotel, Nov. 1859

after some slabs for our shaft, when I trod upon a snake. I observed it instantly, I think before my foot was upon it, for I gave a bound or jump that eclipsed every jumper I ever saw I could have fainted, to see the hateful thing coil up round my ankle. I believe I was bit{{Blue|ten}}, but having on a pair of Wellington Boots fortunately my life was spared — cursed things I do hate them, a lion or tiger, generally gives some sign of his approach, but a snake lies in the grass, you dont know the moment when in the bush you may be bit{{Blue|ten}}, & ones end is sure & quick — I received a letter from Mother last week, my brothers & sisters are all well, she received a long letter from Father by the last letter, he abused her for allowing me to send such letter as I did to my Uncle Henry. I merely informed him of the manner in which he left his family, he looks upon it as an exposure & is very wrath & states that our object has failed if we wished to prejudice Uncles mind against him & insinuated that I have ruined my future prospects by such a line of conduct. I dont much care for myself but my poor mother is accused of possessing a malignant & persecuting spirit — because she has spirit enough to let his relatives know her {{Image|file=Aag-28.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-29 311]
Break of Day Reef, Robinson Crusoe, Hotel, Nov. 1859

wrongs, she is very miserable at the accusation so little deserved, with regard to expectations I have been taught to look forward to, I look upon as moonshine, Im not very sanguine about ever receiving a penny, if it comes, right & well, if not I shant know disappointment. God knows Ive had enough of that in my life. — I received a note from Fred, & one from [[Summers-6236|Jane]] he writes in anything but respectful terms of Jane — he makes her out to be nothing but a flighty giddy vain, proud coquette — & Im not to think anything more of her — its very little I ever did — it affects me very little. Im sorry she is such a fool — My friend James [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] came up from town & confirmed the report concerning Jane Jim imagines Im in love with the girl, he do{{Blue|esn't}} know me — I had her portrait on me at the time. I stuck it upon a post & Jim & I made a target of it for stones, we couldnt hit it which so annoyed me that I dashed it on the ground & it broke in a thousand pieces & so ends that affair — I spent the evening with Jim very pleasently — he is a fine generous hearted young chap too good natured for his own good, Im afraid. The claims I have shares in are likely to be too expensive for me to keep them on, there is no retreat now. I must either continue on or else forfeit what I have already spent on them {{Image|file=Aag-29.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-30 312]
Isa King, Nov. 1859

[Sunday] 27th.November 1859 — Bendigo Victoria
Another fortnight passed; the weather has been fearfully hot — we finished our contract yesterday at Robinson Crusoe, the poorest job I ever took in my life the last 30 feet being through solid granite, it took every penny we earned this last 3 weeks to pay for tools & powder – my share or calls upon me for my claim amounted to £6.0.0 & to pay these Ive had to get into debt for my board — I could borrow but I dont like — so Im pretty hard up just now. Ive not wrote to mother the last three weeks, not having any money to send her. Im sure she must be greatly in want of money, I cant think about it, I do hope the claim Ive got shares in will soon strike a pay able reef — I received a long letter from my brother Fred about a week ago the mail arrived from England but no news from Father, mother has been expecting money from him, I wasnt so sanguine — Last Saturday week when I came into Sandhurst — I spent the afternoon & evening at Campbells & Kings — Mr Kings eldest daughter had just arrived from Geelong where she has been residing for a long time. I was introduced to her – she is a very different girl from Mary, she is very pretty, with lovely dark eyes & curly black hair, & a perfect little needle {{Image|file=Aag-30.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-31 313]
Isa King, Nov. 1859

her manners (in my estimation) are perfect, something so fascinating & irresistible about her — that I experience emotions when in her company, I never felt for mortal before her image is ever before me. Ive been in her company very often since & the more I see of her the more I like her — I cant make her out, there is a melancholy about her that amounts to mystery. I cannot get or find out where she's lived the last few years & in what capacity — I cannot think theres anything improper attached to her — although it has been hinted at, by acquaintances of her family — I was with her last night, Dan & I took them out for a walk. Dan with Mary & I with Isa — he was so cross at the arrangement. Dan is in love with her (Isa I mean) the night was lovely so we took a long strool. I was astonished to find my companion so well informed — that she was intelligent I was sure — but without exception she is the best educated woman it has been my fortune to meet with. I spent this morning in my tent reading, after dinner I walked into Sandhurst — met [[King-39039|Alick King]], he invited me to their place, made me welcome, he & I, with his sisters took a cab & rode to Kangaroo Flat, walked from there to the Robinson Crusoe Hotel, Mrs Allen made us very welcome & after a short rest walked {{Image|file=Aag-31.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-32 314]
Break of Day recommenced, Isa King, Nov. 1859

through to the bush to see the shaft Dan & I sank on the Break of Day Reef, lowered [[King-39039|Alick]] down couldnt persuade the girls to go down we had tea at Allens, it was a lovely night we took our time walking to the Flat beguiled it by singing Etc, discovered that Miss K — possesses a beautiful sweet voice nearly 10 pm when we reached their home 11 pm when I got to my tent, feel very sleepy. I wrote to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] this morning he left Bendigo some time back for Daisy Hill — [Sunday, 4 December 1859] December 3rd [4th] 1859. The weather has been very hot 100^º in the shade, Im burnt as black as a coal, the first four days of the week, Dan & I spent the time looking for work or a contract. Thursday night the shareholders of the Bk of day Reef offered us a £1.0.0 per foot if we would continue sinking their shaft, I dont think we can make wages under 30/- a foot. Dan thought otherwise, so in the hope of the ground getting softer, we accepted the offer — Im not in great hopes about making anything out of it, but perhaps its better than being idle We took out our tools & things on Friday morning & {{Image|file=Aag-32.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-33 315]
Break of Day, Isa King, Dec. 1859

worked there until yesterday afternoon when as usual, we came into Sandhurst, nearly all my leisure time has been spent at Kings, in company with [[King-48386|Isa]] reading, conversing & taking pleasent moon- -light walks, about the ranges surrounding Bendigo. I think Im not disagreeable to her — for my part I could live in her company for ever, she is very superior to myself — & also to any other member of her family except her father — he & she seem isolated from the rest, Mrs K. is rather a vulgar coarse woman — but very kind & goodnatured. This morning I spent in the tent reading & writing. In The afternoon visited several neighbours — After tea Burchell & I walked into Sandhurst, went to the Kings & got the girls out for a walk, Isa & I together of course — much to the disgust of several young chaps that are paying (or would if allowed) a deal of attention to them. We talked on a variety of subjects I found her far better posted up than myself on nearly everything we conversed about. I have read a great deal the last 4 years far more than she has — but she has an excellent memory & very keen in her conceptions & pretty correct in her judgement Im more subtle in my reasonings, but she is the most convincing It was late {{Image|file=Aag-33.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-34 316]
Break of Day, Isa King, Dec. 1859

when I got home — I received a long letter from Fred yesterday — no news from home no money — mother is poor spirits — Ive not wrote to her for a long time, not having anything to send her — she must think it very cruel & undutiful of me — My claims are still sucking me, no return, nor do I see any chance of any. Ive given up one share, that has cost me over £50.0.0 since I first commenced it [Sunday, 18 December 1859] 13th [18th] Decr.1859. Another fortnight rolled by — similar to the last, we gave up our contract yesterday, the ground got harder than ever, we could not clear our expenses. I owe for a weeks board where I was living. I hope soon to pay it. While I have been away at Break O day Burchell with 3 others took a contract on the Nelson Reef California Gully to sink a shaft 60 foot deep — one of them wanted to give up, but in doing so would forfeit his back money, the contract not being completed. I bought or gave him the amount that would be coming to him, so I will commence tomorrow,) all being well. Ive not been (or to night I should say, at 12 oclock) {{Image|file=Aag-34.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-35 317]
Nelson Shaft, Isa King, Dec. 1859

very well the last few days — where I have been working there was a deal of foul air which has affected my lungs. I am a little better. Im very downhearted & miserable at my long continued run of ill luck if it was [not] for the consolation in the way of sympathy I get from Isa King, I would be truly wretched — she is so kind & affectionate — I wonder how my mother is getting on, she must be very much in debt — I hear that if we finish our contract in a satisfactory manner, we are to be put on wages I dont much like working for a “boss” but I think constant regular wages is preferable to what I have lately been engaged at — Last night having a free pass given me for the Theatre I took Isa. Burchell was there with another young lady, we enjoyed ourselves very much — Spent to day reading until the evening, when I called at Kings Isa & I took a pleasent walk sat on the grass in the Camp Reserve till 10 pm — came home nearly 11 Pm I hear Jim Hall — my mate we are just going to work, being on the night shift {{Image|file=Aag-35.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-36 318]
Nelson Shaft, Jim Wedding, Dec. 1859

Long Gully Bendigo Jany 8st 1860 A fortnight since I last wrote, but how differently spent from the previous one I feel quite a different being from what I was when I last wrote — I received a Telegram from my friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on the 20/12/59 informing me that he was going to be married the following day or day after & was very anxious for me to be present I had not the price of the fare, but Uncle who is somewhat indebted to me lent me £10.0.0. I had just come from work at daylight when I received it (the message) having been at work all night, so Id no time to lose — I got my things ready & in the afternoon went into Sandhurst, had about 2 hours sleep, made my adieus, paid my fare & left by the night coach at 6.pm. the coach was crowded & the night being sultry, I was stiff, tired & sleepey on my arrival at Mother's house the following morning at 6 am & ill prepared to go to a wedding party — I found all very well, tho’ all in bed I was surprised, by seeing J.Summers come into the parlour, she looked so {{Image|file=Aag-36.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-37 319]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Jane Summers, Dec. 1859

beautiful, I was quite taken aback. I soon recovered myself & was very cool which seemed to hurt her terribly, we had a long conversation together, she told me how her father getting married left her without home Etc, & she was only marrying [[Edelman-278|Edelman]] for the sake of one. I couldnt but dispise her, a young beautiful girl uniting herself to a man so much older than herself & from what Ive heard of him is a renegade Polish Jew & anything but a man of principle I went to see Jim about 10 oclock, took [[Summers-6236|Jane]] with me, found him all right – just married by a Scotch clergyman Mr Odell in the house — ive promised to return there in the afternoon, on our return home Jane told me she would never have been engaged, but she heard I was going to be married to some girl on Bendg now I have heard that she was engaged previous to my acquaintance with Isa I was strangely situated, loving Isa & hearing Jane swearing how dear I was to her Etc, on my arrival home I found my sister Mary just returned from Sunbury where she had been spending a few days on a visit at McDougalls {{Image|file=Aag-37.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-38 320]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Dec. 1859

after dinner Mary, [[Summers-6236|Jane]] & I returned to Jims place. It is needless to relate how we spent the time, as usual upon such occasions very jolly, he had hired a fine large Ball Room at an hotel next door so we had plenty of dancing, singing fun & I believe everyone enjoyed themselves Mrs Hamilton is really a nice girl, for that is all she is, her maiden name was Kennedy, she is about 16 years of age but looks older, I hope they will be happy, for Jim deserves to be – he, {{Red|*}}in the course of the evening, insisted upon me receiving a £5.0.0 note, to pay my Coach fare up & down, he would have sent it me for that purpose, but had not time. Im to pay him it back when I have £500 ayear, heaven grant it wont be long ere Im out of his debt, It was daylight when we arrived home next morning. Id not slept for 3 days so I didnt rise until the afternoon Christmas Eve I went to the Exhibition Building with Mary & heard the Messiah sang in grand style. Farquharson – Coulon, Sara Flowers, Carandina being the principal vocalists, next day was {{Image|file=Aag-38.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-39 321]
117 Kerr St. Fitzroy, Nelson Shaft, Dec. 1859

Sunday, went to St. Kilda. with some ladies in the afternoon — St Peters in the evening knocked about with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] my spare time on Monday, & for the short stay I had I saw a great deal of life. Bid adieu to Melbourne & those so dear to me in it on Tuesday morning, the weather was intensely hot, the coach was crowded, I had a fat woman sitting in my lap for some 5 hours, no joke, arrived on Sandhurst at 8 pm in another hours time was in my own miserable tent, however I had a good welcome given me by those in it. I spent the following day in the tent, asleep in the afternoon I went to work at night being my night shift, next day Thursday I went to see Isa, she was very glad to see me but thought I ought to have called the day before -, I spent my spare time with her ever since. Last Monday the 1st Jan 1860 the first Caledonian Gathering on Bendigo took place in the Camp Reserve. I went into Sandhurst & called for Isa, spent the day with her witnessing the sports, we went to the Theatre in the evening, it was very hot & we were very sleepy having been up all the night before, seeing the old year out & the new one in, on leaving the {{Image|file=Aag-39.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-40 322]
Hamilton and Wife, Ironbark, Jan. 1860

about 10 pm we took a walk sat down for a while until we nearly fell asleep — it was 2 am Tuesday when I got home — I found my brother Ned here, having just walked up from Melbourne, where he had arrived from Ararat the day before I left — Thursday – Friday & Saturday night — I visited Sandhurst — Sunday, a good boy remained at home reading Im taxing my memory considerably to day & still Ive another week to account for — last Thursday night I went to the Lyceum Theatre saw Mr & Mrs Fred Younger & Mungall play. Jim Hamilton & his wife arrived on Sandhurst on Friday. I was to have met them last night at Frazers the Bakers, but I couldnt keep my appointment until it was too late. I saw Jim in the morning he was very glad to see me — I called at Frazers last night, took a strool with Young [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] — saw a storm coming on & thinking I could get to my tent before it came on I started, but when I got to Iron Bark Gully, the rain came down in torrents I was drenched to the skin before I got into shelter, did me no good for Ive been suffering from a cold & a quinsy in my throat the last few days, which annoys me greatly, for I have such a job to swallow anything. I spent to day writing, but under difficulties, our tent {{Image|file=Aag-40.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-41 323]
Ironbark, Nelson contract ended, Jan. 1860

being swarmed with visitors, at present there are no less than fourteen in it — some sitting on buckets turned upside down on the ground – my tent seems a rendezvous for all the idlers about the gully. I intend putting a stop to it — We finished our Contract on the Nelson Reef last Friday, but owing to the Manager being away in Melbourne we have not been paid yet. I hope we shall get on, on wages for the future. I am getting sick of contract work its so very hard to get a party of good working chaps together. I have just heard that [[Summers-6236|Jane]] is to be married next week to [[Edelman-278|Edelman]] & feel rather jealous & yet I ought not to be, for she is a girl I never would have married I liked her very much, & perhaps if Id never known Isa King would have loved her, for when I was in town, very little would have made her leave, E, she wanted to come to Bendigo with me & perhaps if I had had the money I should have brought her up a good job I think I had not — for I would have disgraced her & myself too, how affectionate she laid in my arms & showered kisses on me its the thought of those moments that bring a pang of jealousy — well its all over now – our acquaintance was brief I was only in her company a few times & yet was as intimate as if I was living with her for years! (a sensual passion nothing more & the more easy to shake off-) {{Image|file=Aag-41.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-42 324]

[1860-01-15 Sunday] Long Gully Bendigo Jany 1{{Red|6}} 1860
Weather very hot. We got our money all right last Tuesday & went on to work on wages £3.10.0 per week, but last night (Saturday) we all got discharged. It appears the late manager Mr Anderson, had employed a number of his friends to work the mine the new Manager Mr Froggart, found a great many of the hands were useless ones, many who had never had a tool in their hands before so to get rid of them he commenced by discharging all hands I think that is the reason, for he will have to employ some to keep the ground so I hope to get on again next week for I was specially recommended to him as a good workman — heaven knows I have had experience enough in practical gold mining — I wrote to mother on Tuesday & sent her a pound Stg- all I could spare — my brother Ned is living with me, he is not doing any thing yet — Uncle received a letter from mother yesterday, stating that she had heard from [[Vickerman-168|Aunt Hartley]] by the last mail from England — who informs her that my father had been in {{Image|file=Aag-42.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-43 325]
Long Gully, January 1860

Halifax, but had not called on them — very strange. I suppose he had a presentiment of the reception he would have received if he had done so — some relation is dead who has left Uncle & Mother about £15.0.0 each it will come out in the course of a few months — it will be very acceptable tho so small a sum — There was a PS to her letter for me stating that [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] was married yesterday week to [[Edelman-278|Edelman]] heaven grant she may be happy, tho I see clouds hovering over her future I know for a fact that he is at this moment an insolvent — & is only marrying her so that she cant give her evidence in a case of arson — it appears Jane was living at a hotel in St Kilda belonging to him, that was insured very high, she saw him or his {{Red|*}}man [https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/154879589 setting fire] to the place, for the sake of the insurance, the [https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/5677621 trial] takes place shortly, & from what I can learn [[Edelman-278|Edelman]] will lose the case — & I also hear he has another wife living, & has a family somewhere, so putting one thing to another it do{{Blue|esn't}} look very bright for her in the future, however she has been warned sufficiently {{Image|file=Aag-43.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-44 326]
Long Gully, January 1860

My sister Mary was her bridesmaid & is spending a week with her. Thursday night I went to the Theatre, heard some good singing I went last night & took Isa King — we spent a very pleasent evening together — Rose early this morning read a great deal until dinner time, when [[King-39039|Alick King]] came out to see us, & spent the afternoon here After tea Burchell, Alick, Ned & I walkd into Sandhurst called at Kings, had an hours quiet chat with Isa under the verandah alone — Dan was there looking as jealous as the devil, he likes Isa. I did not get home till late — I wrote a long letter to my father yesterday enquiring whether he had forgotten or ceased to take an interest in his family its a very painful duty for a child to have to write to his parent in the spirit I was obliged to do — There is a large rush about 50 miles from here at Lamplough, great numbers are flocking there — Harry, [[King-39039|Alick King]], L Frazer, & my brother Ned purpose going there in the morning, they are preparing their swags for the journey I dont envy them, no joke travelling such fearful hot weather as it is {{Image|file=Aag-44.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-45 327]

Long Gully Bendigo Jany 22/60
The weather has been very hot during the past few days, the thermometer being as high on several occasions as 115^º in the shade two men dropped down dead, sun struck – Im positively melting away. I got on to work again in the Nelson Reef Co. on Wedny on the night shift & 3 wretched shifts they were the days being so hot that it was impossible to get any sleep & have to work at night is very trying to the constitution. I received a letter from Mother last Monday, all well — enclosed in it was a printed effusion of some rymster the subject being the adventures of the Maid of the Merry Jig -the name of the place Jane Summers lived at for some time on Sunbury, it is a most scandalous thing, enough to shock any virtuous mind to read, bad as Jane is, she doesn't deserve caluminating in such a manner I wonder who composed it, I suppose one of her old rejected suitors — Burchell & I went to the Theatre the same night & enjoyed ourselves very much, my shift ended yesterday morning at 7.am. I tried to get some sleep but found it impossible, it was so hot In the afternoon I went into Sandhurst called at Kings, they had just received a letter from [[King-39039|Alick]], stating they had just arrived on Lamplough – all right, but could get no opinion about the rush {{Image|file=Aag-45.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-46 328]
Long Gully, January 1860

for a few days, they had {{Red|*}}seen many friends who spoke highly of the place. I trust they will be fortunate — I had tea with the Kings, & afterwards Isa & I went to the Theatre, we didnt enjoy ourselves much it was so like an oven — I saw her home & on leaving her I walked through the Camp Reserve & being very tired I sat on the grass & fell asleep. I suppose it was about 12 oclock I awoke this morning & found a policeman standing over me & my little dog, barking most furiously, the man thought Id been drunk over night & from the Police quarters he had noticed me lying down. I was cross with him awaking me. I was enjoying a luxury unusual for some time past, a sound sleep — he invited me to the Camp, they were sitting down to breakfast & invited me to partake of some. It was very kind — I felt very much refreshed afterwards. I sent one away for half a gallon of ale which pleased them as much as there coffee did me — I got home about 10 this morning, after dinner Burchell & I went to Joe Deans tent this afternoon he came home with us & had tea, I called at Frazers (Long Gully), had a chat with them came home & wrote to Edward. I wrote to to Mother on Friday & sent her a pound Stg. I hope if I continue in constant {{Image|file=Aag-46.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-47 329]
Long Gully, Nelson Reef California Gully January 1860

work to be able to send her something regular for the future — my shares in three claims Ive had to give up, after costing me about £150.0.0 since I commenced them I have still one share left, but I have very little hope of it ever doing me any good it costs me about 12/. per week to keep it. Im now 8 years on the diggins, it appears 18 to me & yet how short my life has been, what trials I have endured & what scenes & changes Ive witnessed it seems like a dream, but for the many stern realities connected with it. Im just ten years in Australia, there were about 40,000 people in Victoria when I first came into it & now theres between five & 600,000, what a contrast, where Sandhurst now stands I remember when it was a forest with hardly a soul near it for 20 miles, since that time what tons of gold have been taken away from it & I no better for it all — Curse upon gold digging I say. I wish gold had never been found in it — I went to see Mr & Mrs Hamilton last Tuesday & spent a very pleasent evening with them 29th Jany 1860. Lovely weather the past week, quite a nice change — Ive been at work on the Nelson Reef at £3. 10.0 per week, but unfortunately the wages are to be lowered after this date to {{Image|file=Aag-47.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-48 330]
Nelson Reef California Gully January 1860

£3.0.0 per week, eight hands were discharged because they would not accept the reduced rate — I thought I would [not], but I find the N.R.Co. is not the only one that are lowering the pay, so I intend to go on at it tomorrow morning. I wrote to Mother last Monday & sent her £1.0.0 , received an answer yesterday all well, she has moved into another house, more rent, but better situated, she is going to let one room — & Mary has commenced a school, attached to the house — I hope she will be prosperous in her undertaking. I cannot but admire her courage in making such an attempt at her age. I think she is just turned 15, she wants some money to fit the room up with forms & desks Etc. I wish I had some to send her, but unfortunately I have not. I went into Sandhurst Thursday night, met Miss Scott, took a long walk with her, I went last night, called at Kings they have received another note from Lamplough stating that [[King-39039|Alick]] has been laid up with dysentry & that they all think of returning soon as possible, Isa & I went to the Theatre met Burchell there came home together I have spent the day reading & making another attempt with my school books — Burchell & Hooper have just gone to Church so I shall have a quiet evening alone [Monday 30th January 1860] Monday morning 6 am. I had just finished writing last night {{Image|file=Aag-48.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-49 331]
Nelson Reef California Gully January 1860

when who should pop in, but [[King-39039|Alick King]] & Lockey the elder) tired, & footsore, & looking miserable & haggard after their journey. My brother Ned & couzin Harry they left some twenty miles behind, Harry being knocked up they left Lamplough in disgust on Friday morning — they have had some hard times since they left, having very little money & not getting any gold — & the weather being so very hot — I went into Sandhurst with [[King-39039|Alick]], remained an hour there, fell in with Burchell came home & found Ned & Harry just arrived & boiling the billy for some tea — poor devils they look wretched after their tramp — I know what it is knocking about & travelling under a hot sun with a heavy swag — & many times with a hungry belly — I thought little of it at the time, but I fancy I could not go through so many hardships again, its well we dont know whats in store for us — Im cook this morning, & while the Billy has been boiling Ive been writing, so now breakfast — & then to commence work 7.am — I begin /, have one hour for dinner & work until 6.Pm — 10 hours work aday & it is hard work under ground, working with a heavy hammer & gads & pick & shovels, I dont think its healthy, what with the dust & the smoke from the powder, in a hole 200 feet deep — {{Image|file=Aag-49.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-50 332]

Long Gully February 5th 1860
Lovely weather — Still at work on the Nelson 3 days underground & the other 3 at the windlass — we have been getting out some very rich quartz, about 20 Tons which yielded over 1,000 oz — it was only a small spur, & is worked or run out they purpose erecting extensive machinery shortly — & I believe only intend keeping on about a dozen hands just to make a large dam & to assist, in the Engines action about 20 hands were paid off last night I wish I could get constant work elsewhere for the Manager Mr Froggart is a regular little tyrant, & bullies everyone he has spared me so far; with the exception of some insinuations I overheard that was meant for my mates & I, which didnt affect me much — My tentmate Burchell took very ill at the beginning of the week with Rheumatic Fever — poor fellow he is as helpless as a child, cannot hold a bit of bread between his fingers Harry & I have to feed him like a baby, he is suffering the most excruciating agony I dont know what we should do, if it wasnt for the kindness of Mrs Hooper & Mrs Forbes who are always bringing him something nice & waiting upon him during my Brother & mines absence {{Image|file=Aag-50.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-51 333]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

one woman is worth fifty men, where theres sickness. I hope he will soon recover — its very miserable having any one sick in such a place as a tent, he wants to go to the hospital, but I dont like the idea, we'll see how he gets on next week. Ned has been at work with Uncle Charles (who lives along side in a tent with Harry) the last week but with poor success, didnt get enough to pay for his food — so it falls heavy on me having to keep all — I went to Sandhurst last night — saw Isa spent a couple of hours very happily with her — This morning we had the tent full of visitors, bad luck to them I say — Dave & I went to see the Drews in California Gully, they keep a Restaurant there — Ive known [[Drew-3557|George Drew]] a very long time — his [[Palmer-21429|wife]] is a nice woman I left them & went alone to Mrs Hoopers found Mrs Hickey there, she has been confined, got a fine little girl, they were very glad to see me, Minnie looks 5 years older since her wedding & has such a melancholy sad appearance — that do{{Blue|esn't}} speak well for her happiness. I had tea with them & didnt leave till late so now for bed — bed did I say. Im sleeping on the ground since Ned returned, & to make things worse I {{Image|file=Aag-51.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-52 334]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

have no bed clothes, but an old coat & a ponsho — my Blankets I left at Allens & owing them about 30/. I dont like to go for them until I can pay my debt Dan I hear had no such scruples but brought them on his own away yesterday Its fortunate its hot weather so I dont miss them much. Last Thursday was my 21st Birthday — what a brilliant fortune Ive inherited. I spent the evening at Drews, singing & dancing Etc — Feb 12th 1860. Weather very hot. Been working very hard, making a dam, the work is very hard, wheeling barrows half the day, the other pick & shovelling my shoulder, arms, & face are burnt black I feel it much being so accustomed to work underground lately, Mr Froggart & I have had several tiffs, he has seemed to pick upon me, as a butt, but I opened his eyes, when I told him I knew the way the work should be done better than he did Etc — I could teach him his work — I expect Ill get the sack. I dont care I shall get more elsewhere. Ill remain as long as possible if only to annoy him. I dont think he ever had men working for him that speaks to him as I do, the other men fawn & submit {{Image|file=Aag-52.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-53 335]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

to everything he likes to dictate. I suppose its owing to them being married & knowing work is hard to obtain just now. I went into Sandhurst last Monday night for medicine for Burchell, called on Mrs Hooper who kindly made up the liniment & lotion he requires — he is still helpless but I fancy do{{Blue|esn't}} suffer so much pain as he did the women neighbours continue to visit him & bring him little niceties, that we cannot procure, or cook, such as nice gruel — chicken, broth Etc — what a ministering spirit heaven has endowed women with. — I receivd a letter from Mother yesterday all well, no news by the Mail, but some pencil marks in a newspaper informing us that father was in Manchester — do{{Blue|esn't}} state what he is doing — I dont think he takes much interest in his family, or he would write to us a little oftener. Ned is doing nothing yet, he & Uncle are working together they made 14/- each last week. I went to Kings on Thursday night — also on Friday, called at Frazers, from there went to the Shamrock didnt get home until 12 oclock, spent a jolly evening altogether — [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & his wife went to town last week I heard from him during the week he purposes returning next week. Burchell heard from Bob Maguire he has quite recovered from his illness & is at work on Ararat doing well — my {{Image|file=Aag-53.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-54 336]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

old mates are still in that neighbourhood Last night I spent at G.Drews, drank a lot of Cyder which gave me the gripes Ive been suffering great pain ever since Ned went for some brandy & cayenne which I took & Im glad to state Im better now I wrote to mother this evening & sent her £1.0.0 I saved it out of my last pay I could ill spare it as Im now situated my credit at the butchers & bakers fortunately good or I dont know what we should do for my wages are always spent before their earned — 19th February 1860. Beautiful weather Still at work at the same job. I was paid last night had very little left after paying my debts — Burchell I am happy to state is much better he is able to knock about a little, but is very weak & thin — I went into Sandhurst on Tuesday night, saw Holloway play “Belphegor” called at Kings saw Isa for a few minutes — promised to see her on Thursday night — when we took a long walk — it was a lovely night, & I enjoyed her company very much, our theme being what constituted happiness in mankind, a simple {{Image|file=Aag-54.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-55 337]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

subject, but one when gone into is very interesting Isa must have read or else thought & observed a great deal in her life she is very intelligent or else Im very ignorant & my knowledge so limited that I form an estimate of her intellect from mine Last night we went to the Theatre together heard L.Thomas — the harpist I never listened to anything more beautiful it was late when I got home — I have been reading a Book called Lions, living & dead, it gives a good description of celebrated characters, chiefly literary, contains a small review of their principal works. I find it very interesting — I was surprised at about 2 pm to day by Isa & Mary King with their brother [[King-39039|Alick]]calling here. I felt so ashamed at having only a poor tent to invite them into, however they hadnt expected anything else, they very soon made themselves at home — Isa bustled about & made an impromptu dinner I had to go into neighbours tents & borrow plates (tin) knives & pannikins Etc a stranger would have laughed to have seen two nicely dressed young ladies & us dirty rough diggers sitting {{Image|file=Aag-55.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-56 338]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

anywhere we could on the stretchers eating what I called a good dinner, but they I suppose, considered a pigs mess, however they appeared to enjoy the novelty as it must be to them — they remained to tea after spending a most jolly Sunday afternoon — we had a walk about the hills & gullies — showing them the diggings & how the gold was extracted Ned & I accompanied them into Sandhurst didnt stay long there, got back by 9 p.m & wrote a letter to mother in which I enclosed £1.0.0., I received a letter from her yesterday that put me in very poor spirits, she is in great poverty, had to pawn her watch. She is very bitter, thinks it very hard that having three sons, she is not above want Ned feels it very acutely, poor chap he is rather downhearted, doing nothing — how different we might have been if my father had but done his duty to his sons & taught or gave us either a trade or an education not one of us is fit for anything but hard work, if we take a situation it can be but a menial one, & we are all possessed of a spirit above accepting such an one {{Image|file=Aag-56.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-57 339]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

I would if circumstances permitted it go now & learn a trade, but as mother is situated I cant — I must make money some way or another in order to assist her. I did think Ned would have been spared the feelings I experience — I, years ago offered to pay for him being educated & sent money to Adelaide for that purpose, but it was put to other uses — I wish him now to endeavour to improve himself & go & learn a trade he is not more than 18, but he has knocked about so much the last few years that his mind & inclination is against making the attempt — there are some people possessed of good abilities that might become clever if so disposed, but not gifted with energy or application sufficient to be so, my brother is one of that sort naturally talented & quick, but wanted developing when young. A time will come when he will have wished he had taken my advice. Ive worked very hard the past year or so, & under difficulties such as few have experienced to improve myself & fit me if ever the opportunity occurs for something better than a diggers life Mother states that a person called upon her who has just come from England & seems to know our family {{Image|file=Aag-57.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-58 340]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

P.56
affairs, he sais that he knows my father who informed him, that he (my father) had visited my Uncle Joseph, who refused to let him have a penny more than what he has the control over & threatens if he is pressed that it will [be] the worse for us boys — & hinted as much that he purposed leaving his money to us — it appears Uncle Joe has certain monies that other deceased Uncles of mine left, which monies he has invested for his own interests, my father wishes his share of them, but the miser di{{Blue|dn’t}} like parting with it & father do{{Blue|esnt}} want to press him, fearing to injure our prospects — he promises to write by the next Mail & let us know all particulars — I trust he will — its time I was in bed, after 12 & I have to rise at 6. 26 February 1860. Weather very hot we finished the dam about the middle of the week — since that time Ive been working at the windlass, hard work this hot weather — Burchell is getting all right — Ive had a deal of unpleasentness with Uncle, this week — he received some money from Adelaide, & has been on the spree ever since, during one of his drunken fits he slit my tent, & cut down all the nice saplings around it. I was very sorry for they made the tent {{Image|file=Aag-58.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-59 341]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

so nice & cool. I remonstrated with him & he was very insulting said many bitter things about me & my family. I could hardly keep my hands from striking him – but for somebody being near I should have done so, he had the audacity to claim my tent, which Harry & I put up while he was in Adelaide — & on his return I bought out Harrys share of it, because he wished to live with his father — he never liked me for when a boy I would never knuckle to him, & once he struck me, so I shall never respect him & he knows Im too manly to strike him now, he came into my tent abusing me the other day & I bundled him out, by the shoulders with the assistance of my knees I went to the Theatre on Tuesday night saw the “Honeymoon” played. Thursday I went to Kings found Isa very ill in bed laid up from the effects of a cold accompanied by a fever — I was very much grieved she was delirious & didnt know me for some time — Ive called every night since, she is much better, Im happy to state I found her to night sitting up in the parlour — but looking very pale — I spent a couple of hours with her, reading — I was at the Theatre a short time last night — [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] called on me this morning, he was in poor spirits his claim is not turning out anything just now, & the weekly {{Image|file=Aag-59.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-60 342]
Nelson Reef, California Gully February 1860

58. outlay per share is about £7.0.0. a very considerable sum & no returns. I went into Sandhurst with him. Mrs H. is looking firstrate. I had dinner & tea with them after which I went to Kings — I receivd a letter from Mother, all well — she informs me that a friend of hers a Mr Dewer who is in the Murray Navigation Co.is going to interest himself on my behalf & endeavour to get me a situation in the same employ I trust he will do so, I wish to cut this life. Mr Froggart & I have had several wordy battles. I dont think Ill remain long in the Nelson Reef Co. unless theres some change — I met [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] the Younger on Friday night he had just returned from town called several times at my mothers house saw Mrs Edelman, they had a long chat about me — Lockey knows nothing about our amour — but he gathered from her enough to know how we were situated to each other so I got pretty well riled about her from him March 4th 1860 Still very hot weather had a thunder storm on Friday & continued raining until last night. I lost 2 days work through it just £1.0.0. out of my pocket, spent every night this week at home reading & learning my lessons Etc — I went into Sandhurst last night {{Image|file=Aag-60.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-61 343]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

called for Isa, took a long [walk] together — visited [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s & introduced her to them — spent about an hour there conversing about one thing & another — it was late when I got home — This afternoon I went to see Enniss met [[Fraser-9757|Lockey]] the Elder, went with him into Sandhurst called at his Uncles the Baker – had tea there — went in to see the Grandmother next door — poor old lady she has been confined to her bed the last 16 weeks — March 11th 1860 — Lovely weather the last few days — I received my wages last Monday. I wrote to mother at once & sent her £1.0.0. — I received no answer yet, perhaps she is waiting the arrival of the mail I hear its Telegraphed. Macauley the historian is dead, also Captain Harrison of the Gt Eastern I went into Sandhurst on Tuesday night called at Kings, their house joins the Scotch School Room, there was a grand Concert in it, tickets 5/. each — we didnt honour it with our presence, but took an outside ticket, which cost us nothing, the window being open — we heard as well as if we had been inside, & Im sure we were far happier — she is a dear good girl, so very kind & pleasent — I never met anyone I liked so well in my life. I wonder if {{Image|file=Aag-61.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-62 344]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

60. she cares for me. I dont think Im very objectionable to her — for she always prefers my company to any one else, whenever I go to their place — she is very frank & agreeable to me except upon one subject & that is about two years of her life before her arrival on Bendigo. I cannot imagine anything improper connected with her but there are those uncharitable enough to hint as much to me — & when I challenge them are very quiet, & know nothing. Ill find out sometime or another — I met Mrs Hickey & her mother one night in California Gully, Minnie looks so wretched. I returned with Mrs Hooper who told me a long story about Hickey, about his manners Etc, & the manner he treats her, she is very sorry she allowed the wedding to take place March 18th 1860. Had very indifferent weather the past week. I lost the first three days in consequence of an accident I met with. I was under a bank of earth working, pick in hand, when a lump of ground broke away & striking the pick drove it into my foot, Im afraid it will be a long time before its better, tho I dont {{Image|file=Aag-62.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-63 345]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

intend losing any more time if I can possibly help -it — I lost yesterday owing to the rain – so I did not have much money to draw last night, we finished the job at the dam, & all hands were discharged. I was not sorry for I shant be long ere I get another billet & perhaps a better master — I dont know how it is this last few days Mr Froggart has been very civil & in fact taken quite a liking to me, if there was anything he wanted doing particular & well, he sends me about it, strange — for we were always at loggerheads until lately — I let him see he couldnt bully me like the others & he respects me the more for it — I was the last he paid & in doing so told me that if I would come up on Monday morning he would try & find me constant work until the machinery came up & the work commenced in earnest, very good of him, I was astonished. I have read a deal during the past week Hudibras, Tassos’ “Jerusalem Delivered”, & a strange old book without a title page, about the Goths & Huns — I have been reading in the way of light literature, alternately Dickens Bulwer — Disraeli & Walter Scott, I used to like the latter best, sometime back, but I like Dickens now, there is too much philosophy in {{Image|file=Aag-63.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-64 346]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

62. & abstuse speculation in Bulwer for my mind to fully enter into, in its present unculterated state. I think Disraeli is too artificial, there seems a desire in his writings to please two classes, I have just finished, Sybil but there is a work by Thackeray – “Vanity Fair”, that I was delighted with such an easy racy style & full of fun & good sense its written in — Tuesday afternoon I went into Sandhurst, called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s Photographic Rooms, had my portrait taken on closing for the day I accompanied Jim home, Mrs H. insisted upon me staying tea — I did so & spent a pleasent evening with them. Wednesday night I called at Kings saw Isa remained with her about an hour — went to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s. I went into Sht. last night called at the P.O. received a letter from Fred, all well at home, he states that Mother had received two letters from England one from Father, who has commenced business in Manchester, as a Silk Manufacturer, he anticipates being in a position to send for his family in the course of another year. I trust he will be successful in his endeavours to retrieve his fallen fortune, the other letter was from mothers relatives & contained an account [of] my Couzin Chambers death through Consumption, poor fellow I remember {{Image|file=Aag-64.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-65 347]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

him so well — he was his mothers pride, she will be sadly cut up, her other son Charles Bryar is very wild I hear & does very little for her — I called at Kings, Isa & I took a pleasent walk together — Edward is still doing nothing poor chap he is getting quite downhearted he only made about 15/. last week — he intends looking for work next week at some of the claims [Saturday, 24 March 1860] March 24th 1860 Nice weather, Mr. F sent for me on Monday morning. Im to do just whatever I like about the works, Im left entirely to my own judgement My brother Im happy to state got employment at the Engine Shaft at present being sunk by Contract (Nelson Reef Monday night I went into Sandhurst called for Isa went to the Theatre, together nearly 1 oclock when I got her home — I afterwards met some young men (acquaintances joined & visited some cursed place, where we found a lot of girls, two of them were beautiful & under different circumstances would be worshipped by lovers of female beauty I left them about 3 oclock the remainder stay’d there — company I dont care much about — I overslept myself the next morning & lost ¼ of a days work in {{Image|file=Aag-65.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-66 348]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

64. consequence. I received a letter from mother my sister Mary she states is far from being well — imagines she is in a consumption, God forbid — she writes in very desponding terms about their Circumstance I answered it & enclosed £1.0.0 in the letter, It will be acceptable. I was unable to send her any money last week, losing 4 days. I have been reading Nicholas Nickleby — I like it very much. I received another letter to day from mother, informs me that Fred is very ill. I went into Sandhurst this evening, called at Kings, did not remain long went to the Theatre for a short time, got home early, & now for bed, or I should say the floor for bed I have none. I filled a sack with dry leaves & sleep upon it, my covering being an old cloak & coat. I hope in a fortnights time to be able to go out to “Break of Day” & get my bedding out of pawn. [Tuesday, 27 March 1860] 26th March 1860. Last Sunday afternoon I went up to Mrs Hoopers — Mrs Hickey was there, looks 10 years older than she did on her wedding day. After tea Bobby Hooper & I went into Sandhurst, visitd the Church of England, on leaving after {{Image|file=Aag-66.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-67 349]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

the service we went to the Kings, found Burchell & my Brother Ned there, while sitting talking, Mary King came in crying on enquiring the reason, she stated that Hugh Campbell had met her — & wanted to kiss & take liberties with her. I was very Cross & said if she was a sister of mine Id give him something he didnt bargain for or words to that effect, her brother [[King-39039|Alick]] was there who admitted he hadnt courage sufficient to resent it — Isa & I walked out into the Verandah I filled my pipe & seeing a light in [[Niven-74|John Nevins]] tent (situated about 20 feet ) from Kings) I left her to get a light for my pipe, on entering the tent I found Hugh Campbell lying on the stretcher, he made an attempt to be friendly, held out his hand, I began to remonstrate with him, he got very insolent & while I was in act of lighting my pipe he in a most cowardly manner, rushed upon me & struck me in the face my pipe stem going nearly down my throat. I soon recovered myself & getting him on my hips I lifted him on his stretcher, with one hand I held him by the jaw & with the other I commenced giving him something he didnt relish I unfortunately hadnt struck him more than twice, when my old mate Dan (who is at present mates with Hugh) rushed in along with, John & James Campbell {{Image|file=Aag-67.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-68 350]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

66. Dan got behind me & held my arms fast while Jim Campbell tried to strangle me by squeezing my neck. I was powerless, in the hands of I believe the three strongest men on Bendigo however I wouldnt let go my hold of Hughs jaw with one hand & his hair with my other I could not hollow out, however Isa heard a struggle & knowing I was in the tent rushed to see what the matter was — the wretchs had blown the candle out, & were doing their work very quietly. I remembered no more, but on recovering my senses, I found myself supported by Isa & Ned — It appears they locked the hut or tent door & no one could get in, my brother Ned smashed the window but could not assist me all being so dark Isa took a candle & set fire to the place which caused them to let go of me. [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] Frazer & [[King-39039|Alick]] never helped a hand — the curs the former hadnt time he says to get off his Sunday Coat & Vest — the latter did do better, for on Hugh being got out of my hands he rolled into him & gave him the hiding I had commenced — I was very illused, my left shoulder was put out, & my body & head are covered with bruises & torn with the nails in their boots. I did not feel hurt on recovering my senses (at the time) {{Image|file=Aag-68.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-69 351]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

my blood was up & If I had not been kept back I should have done somebody an injury I with great difficulty got home, about half anhour afterwards. Isa & [[King-39039|Alick]] came out to see me, a nice object I was, my clothes torn into shreds — they state that Hugh has both eyes bunged up & looks anything but handsome, Ill pay the lot out for their nights work — Ive heard since that one of them heard me make the remark through the window, when Mary came in, & they had been prepared for me — Dan is no friend of mine, there has been an ill-feeling on his side towards me in consequence of Isa’s preference to me — I wrote a letter to Mother on Sunday & enclosed £1.10.0 in it, Burchell posted it to day, this morning I got my bruises doctored up, I dont think Ill be fit for work this week. I spent the most part of to day with Mrs Hooper Minnie was there, they didnt know me at first — In the afternoon I escorted her a part of the road home, called at Drews & also on Mrs Froggart (Mr F. is in town) & told her I should not be fit to go to work this week — owing to an accident I met with, being thrown out of a cart — This evening, Tuesday, I went into Sandhurst called at Kings. I was very much hurt on enquiring where the sons were to hear they were in [[Niven-74|John Nevins]] tent in company {{Image|file=Aag-69.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-70 352]
Nelson Reef, California Gully March 1860

68. with the Campbells. I could hardly credit it & went to the tent, & could hear Jack King laughing over the affair, as a good joke, [[King-39039|Alick]] was not there — I felt that I should like to give him a thrashing to visit & be on apparently good terms with a man that never neglected an opportunity to insult his sister. I felt I was determined to take no more notice of what had occurred except in my own defence — if crossed by by any of them. I did not like the way Mrs King alluded to the quarrel, she seems to think, I ought to still see the affair out, as if it was my business, her sons might not [like] to be implicated in any way — with it – & stated as much that she was glad to see her son so ready to heal up the breach – so much for meddling in anothers business I have learned a lesson — Isa was very much affected & remonstrated with her mother what a contrast there is in their dispositions I got home about 9 pm —
[Sunday, 1 April 1860] 31st [1st] Nice weather — I did not go to the Nelson Reef this week. Ned being out of work I thought Id try & get him a job of some sort to keep him employed hearing of a contract on the Britania Reef, I went to see it found the shaft to be 220 feet deep & about 20 feet of {{Image|file=Aag-70.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-71 353]
Britania Reef, April 1860

water in it, so twas impossible to go down & have a look at it, however I put a tender in at £1.1.0 per foot (driving) it was accepted — a neighbour Ike Ket joined us & we commenced on Thursday & bailed the water out, we found the shaft in a very dangerous state at the bottom & as the owners of the claim expected us to make it secure at our expense, such as providing timber for the purpose Etc. we gave the concern up yesterday morning, I went to see Mr Froggatt yesterday, to enquire if I was to go on to work Monday morning. I had my walk for nothing, Mr. F. had gone to Melbourne, but will be up again in a day or two. Ive been reading a great deal the last few days. I spent nearly the whole of my day at arithmetic which Im very deficient in. I borrowed some time back a volume of Chambers Educational Course one of the most useful works for beginners ever published — Im alone to night my tent mates having gone to Bendigo
[Sunday, 8 April 1860] 7th [8th] April 1860. Miserable weather during the past week. Mr Froggart sent for me last Monday morning, [[Drew-3557|George Drew]] & I have been working in company on the Nelson — lost 2½ days owing to the rain & Good Friday, we dont get paid for holidays, the way {{Image|file=Aag-71.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-72 354]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

70 of the employers on the diggins, no work no pay — Mr Froggart told me last night that he wont be able to give me constant regular work for some weeks to come, but in the meantime he will find or give me as much as he can in order to keep me — he is erecting machinery at present, by contract, some firm in town & they employ their own hands — I spent last Sunday with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], he introduced me to a man named Stacey a Writing Master, he wants an agent, & wished I would act for him. I did not care for it, but I mentioned Burchell to him, who at once engaged him, he delivered two lectures on Caligraphy, one at the British & American Hotel on Tuesday night & one at Buchanans near my tent. I attended both — they were very interesting. I procured him several pupils on the occasion, on our road home a heavy thunder storm took place, we got drenched to the skin, found our tent flooded with water, our bedding saturated, we looked like a lot of shipwrecked sailors. Monday night Ned went to Kings, found Dan there very comfortably seated by the fire. Ned was astonished & didn’t hesitate stating what he thought about the matter after what had passed — & left {{Image|file=Aag-72.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-73 355]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

in disgust — I dont intend going near the house again, much as I love Isa, I saw [[King-39039|Alick King]], he was very much hurt at his mother permitting those who had so insulted his sister to be on continued terms of intimacy he was so affected by it, that he purposes leaving home in consequence — , an old play mate of mine from Adelaide called upon me one day, Pearce Devenish, hang him I wish I could shake him off for he is a low blaguard. Good Friday morning I went to see the remains of the Shellback Engine that blew up on Tuesday night. I never saw such a sight before portions of the boiler plates we found 50 yards away, & bricks & timber scattered about in every direction, at the time of the accident the men employed at the works were engaged repairing a dam bank some distance from the works, very fortunate, for had they been at their customary posts, not one would have escaped alive its very unfortunate thing, for the company has been very unsuccessful for a long while & were just beginning to improve — I wrote to my mother & sent her £1.0.0 all I could spare — I received an answer last night, enclosed in her letter was one from my father, a very long one, any thing but comfortable, its contents made me feel, its no use referring to them {{Image|file=Aag-73.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-74 356]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

72. them, Ned received a letter from her, & enclosed in it was Aunt Hartleys letter containing the death of Cousin Chambers Bryars — I spent this morning reading. In the afternoon I visited Mrs Hooper, Mr H is still very ill, the tumour in his side is increasing in size. I dont think he will ever recover. In the evening I went to Church with Jim Hall heard some very good singing, but I cant say I profited by the sermon. Mr Croxon will never be a favourite of mine through his preaching I came home after the service. Harry & I have had a long serious conversation since he is a very thoughtful boy, reads a great deal & thinks as well — what a pity his father did not educate him, he is the making of a clever man, poor chap, he has been a cripple from his infancy, yet! it is astonishing how hard he can work — [Thursday, 12 April 1860] 11th April 1860. Weather still very unsettled. Finished my job on the Nelson to night, so Im out of work — [[Drew-3557|George Drew]] & I put a tender in to drive a shaft, but we didnt succeed in getting the job, to day — Monday night I went to the Theatre on purpose to see Isa. Burchell very kindly went to her fathers & got her to go {{Image|file=Aag-74.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-75 357]
Out of Work April 1860

so that I might meet her, she was very glad to see me, we left the Theatre & took a long walk together, she was not surprised at my stating I did not intend visiting their house again, she was very sorry at what had occured, but thought it ought not to be the cause of our seperation, that she loves me Im positive & that I love her is beyond all doubt fondly & truly with my whole heart & soul. I feel for her, what I would never give another being, credit for what a contrast is the feeling to what Ive usually felt towards others. Oh love in its pure & sacred character is a holy passion – softens & refines both the inner & outer man. I met her last night, we took a long walk together, the night was lovely, the stars seemed laughing & twinkling, the moon appeared to look upon us so benignedly, open thorough love episode was ours last night, we were both so happy, & I did anything but bless the time for passing so swiftly by. Im sure it was after 12 when we kissed our adieus — [Friday, 13 April 1860] 12th [13th] April 1860, Been idling about all all day, looking for work, reading Etc – mending my tent, & ditto clothes, a neighbour (Teetotal Jim) spent the evening with me in our tent, he is excellent company plays the flutina & flagelet & sings well he has only just left us, now for bed {{Image|file=Aag-75.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-76 358]

74 Long Gully Bendigo April 1860 [Saturday, 14 April 1860] 12th [14th] Cold day, I went into Sandhurst this morning, called at Dr Barnetts for medicine for Mr Hooper, on my return remained there till dinner time, In the afternoon I went to California Gully, went down the companys shaft, had a long yarn with the men – called at [[Palmer-21429|Drews]], had tea there — on my way home paid my Grocer a visit & purchased necessaries for the tent, spent the evening with Joe Russell, a neighbour. [Sunday, 15 April 1860] 14th [15th] Sunday night, the weather has been too disagreeable for enjoyment — Yesterday morning I turned mason & built a new chimney to my tent. In the afternoon I took a walk with Ned, had a look at the place he & Harry are working at, they want me to join, them but I met some men who have taken a contract, & offered me a share in it — so I declined. I had a very bad headache & could not keep my appointment with Isa last night. Im very hard up for money, not had a shilling for near a fortnight. Froggart owes me £4.5.0 I was disappointed at not getting it last night, shall have to wait until next Saturday night now for it. I owe the Butcher & the Baker a months bill & my dear mother Im sure will {{Image|file=Aag-76.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-77 359]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

be disappointed at not receiving money from me — I sent her nothing last week I dont like borrowing or I need not be short I have so many kind friends that have so freely offered to lend me some. I called at Hoopers last night, she knows how Im situated & on leaving she wanted me to take a pound all she had, of course I refused, knowing her to be poorer than myself, it shows what a good kind heart she has. We spent this morning firing at a target with a rifle & a revolver. Im not such a good shot as I used to be. I beat every one in this neighbourhood with the pistol, but am no account with the rifle. my new mates called after dinner & we tossed up who was to commence the first shift to night at 12 it fell to me & my mate — I thought of seeing Isa this evening at Church, but Im obliged to go to bed instead & endeavour to sleep. I hate night shifts — but there is no getting over it, it is nearly 6 pm, so I must turn in, Ned & Burchell have just left for Church, 3 miles from here how I envy them — 19th April 1860 — Three days since I last wrote. Weather beautiful, but have not enjoyed it very much, been on the night shift. Bob Forbes & I are mates, miserable work, go down the shaft {{Image|file=Aag-77.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-78 360]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

76 at 7 pm. come up to supper at 12. am again at 1. am & leave at 6 — no joke 10 hours work in a close shaft, with bad air more than 150 ft from the bottom of the hole – anything but healthy what with the smoke from the powder & dust arising from the ground or rock. I think we shall be able to make wages at it if we dont come across any harder stuff than we are at present driving in. Monday morning I went up to Hoopers, Mrs Hickey was there with her baby. I turned nurse some two hours. Tuesday I went into Sandhurst, called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s Portrait Rooms had my likeness taken in my working clothes. I went home with him & tried to get an hour or two’s sleep but I couldnt, had tea with at his place & had to run so as to be in time to go to work. I did feel tired next morning not having had any rest or sleep the day before. I went to bed at 6.30 & did not awake until 6 the same evening. I never felt so exhausted in my life. (Saturday) I went to work last night & I was quite frightened {{Image|file=Aag-78.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-79 361]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

to commence, during the day my mates came on a solid face of rock like granite we couldnt make 3/- aweek at it & the air being very bad we were compelled to give up our contract, however we have spent the rest of the week at it boring & drilling as far as possible to try & discover if it was likely to change but we could see no signs of it — we only made about £1.0.0 each, I recvd the money due to me all right, & Ned having made £2.10.0. we paid off our debts & sent mother £2.0.0. I feel quite a load off my heart, trifle as it is — (Sunday night) 22 April 1860. I went into Sandhurst last night called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s, & Frazers — purchased a few articles of clothing I required, met Burchell & Ned, & we went to see "Rob Roy" — I never laughed so much at a performance in my life, {{Red|*}}Robertson as the Outlaw, & some girl that would make an admirable little scullery maid as "Diana Vernon", 2 am this morning when I got home — Been raining hard all day, truly wretched, our tent is like a pig sty. In the afternoon I went up to {{Image|file=Aag-79.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-80 362]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

78 Hoopers. Poor H is very ill. Im afraid his days are numbered, the doctors say he may linger a long while, but hold out no hopes of his recovery — I thought of seeing or meeting Isa tonight, but it is so wet, & I wont go to the house — it seems an age since I saw her last, nearly a fortnight — friends of mine, very officious ones, tho’ perhaps they are right have been questioning respecting my intentions towards her — censuring me for entangling her affections, in my position. I never gave the idea a thought before. Ive vainly imagined I could go on loving forever. Im fairly per -plexed, it would be cruel & my heart would revolt at uniting myself to her as Im at present circumstanced. I would not think of such a thing even if my mother was comfortably situated, but as long as she is not I shall never contemplate matrimony but to part with Isa, perish the thought, my mind seems distracted come secret hope to my aid & bid me be sanguine, for Im very sad, from many causes — {{Image|file=Aag-80.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-81 363]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

23 April 1860. Been very wet the forepart of the day, so did not go to work along with my couzin & Brother, took a walk as far as California Gully paid a few debts I owed. In the afternoon I went to Long Gully Crossing place & posted a letter at Pentreaths P.O to Mother. In the evening Burchell & I went to the Temperance Soiree, held in the School Room of the Scotch Church, it was the most successful affair ever held on Bendigo £200-0.0 was collected towards the Erection of a New Temperance Hall. I met Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & his wife & also Isa in their company, I could not get near them until it was over, when Jim took Isa under his care & left me with Mrs H — I wasnt pleased at the arrangement, Jim met some friend who was desirous of being introduced to Mrs H. & he had the impudence to introduce Isa as such — I meeting a friend at the same time I introduced Mrs H. as my wife — the episode caused us some fun I only spoke a few words to Isa, agreed to meet her on Wednesday night — all well – on seeing her home — Lockey & I accompanied Jim home remained about an hour at his place — 12 OC Pm now, time for bed — {{Image|file=Aag-81.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-82 364]
Charlie, Charles Brothers Watmuff; Nelson Reef, April 1860

80 25th April 1860 In the midst of life we are in death — little did I imagine the night before last, when I wrote the record of that evenings pleasure that the soul of my dear little brother [[Watmuff-23|Charlie]] was wending its way to realms of bliss. Poor Charlie he was the youngest & the pet of the family born on the sea Eleven years ago on our passage from England. I received a Telegraph message yesterday afternoon informing me that he died in the morning. I received a letter at the same time from Fred that was written on the 22nd inst desiring me if I wished to see him before he died I must start at once, the letter did not come to hand until it was too late It appears he went with another boy fishing in the Yarra — & he slipped into the water & would have been drowned but for the other lad who caught him ere he sank, on his rescue instead of returning home & changing his wet clothes he play’d about until his clothes dried on his back, some two or three days afterwards in consequence he was laid up with Rheumatic & lost the use of his leg & arm — & became delerious — & was so when be breathed his last, my poor mother must be in great grief — my father will be very much {{Image|file=Aag-82.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-83 365]
Death of Charlie, Nelson Reef, April 1860

afflicted when he hears of it, Charlie being his favourite child — I would have started for Melbourne if Id had the money, but had not & knowing how miserably poor mother is, I thought under such circumstances that having to borrow money Id better send it to her than spend it in travelling — she will have received £2.0.0 the morning he died that I sent her, Burchell with his usual kindness offered me £2.0.0 all he possessed I would only accept £1.0.0 from him, my X(couzin Harry had a few pounds by him, but did not offer me one halfpenny.)X Burchell borrowed £2 0.0 from him on his own account to lend me, but knowing how it was procured I would not take it, but went into Sandhurst & called upon [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], who without any remark offered me £10.0.0, he was very much grieved because I would only accept £5.0.0 from him — I wrote at once to mother & sent £6.0.0. Heaven reward Jim for his kindness In time of sorrow it is, when friendship is tested. I feel happy in having such friends I hope it will one day lay in my power to repay them for their kindness. On leaving [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], I went to Frazers the Baker where my letters are always a/d. & having seen the letter from Fred marked immediate, & the Telegraph {{Image|file=Aag-83.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-84 366]
Death of Charlie, Nelson Reef, April 1860

82 coming through him, he had opened it, thinking he might be able to render me some assistance Fred had stated that mother had had to pawn her jewellery to procure medicine & get other necessaries for Charlie when ill) — from which he gathered how she must be situated, he at once sent Margery with the message & letter & he insisted or made me promise, if I wanted any money to apply to him for it — It was a great shock to Ned & I poor Charlie Im sure he’s in a better place than this world, with its cares & sorrows — he was an universal favourite with everybody, so very quiet, & thoughtful, too much so for one so young God grant his souls at peace — __________________________________________ [[Freer-1284|George]] & [[Freer-1283|Will Frear]], J.Hall & I met this morning & agreed to take the contract we were at last week at an increased rate — two of us to work at it — the other two to go to Huntly & sink a shaft on our own account there as we know several parties who are doing very well & who advised us to take up a claim there. [[Freer-1284|G.Frear]] & Hall are to go to Huntly, & Will & I to go on with the contract & endeavour to earn enough to keep things going — I hope we shall be fortunate I went into Sandhurst this evening but did not meet Isa at the appointed place. I suppose she could not leave {{Image|file=Aag-84.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-85 367]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

home without creating suspicion. I do not visit their house — nor am I at all agreeable to meet thus clandestinely. I have a great abhorrence to anything underhanded. I called at Dr Barnetts on my way home for physic for poor Hooper — Im getting weary & tired with writing, my mind being so over- tasked the last two days — I forgot to state there was a P.S. attached to Freds note informing me that [[Edelman-278|Mr. Edelman]] had bolted from his creditors & was supposed to have fled to Sydney, leaving [[Summers-6236|Jane]] penniless, she has returned to Mothers — her usual refuge — [Friday] 27th April, 1860 Weather fine — Im afraid our contract is not going to pay us we have only gone four ft since Wednesday our other mates came up from Huntley this evening, they have a claim there, but dont think it stands a good show, they commenced to sink a shaft upon it, but the purpose “shepherding” it until the party in the next claim bottoms, which they hope to do in a few days, if it is any good of course we shall sink ours, if not we dont intend to incur any further expense on ours. [Monday, 30 April 1860] 31st April 1860 Lovely weather the last few days. Yesterday, Sunday I {{Image|file=Aag-85.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-86 368]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

84 left here early in the morning, to go to Robinson Crusoe Gully for my blankets & tools I left there, my couzin Harry lending me £2.0.0 (rather an extraordinary circumstance) to assist me in paying what I owe — It was a lovely day so I was determined to enjoy it & walked through the bush & as a matter of course lost my way. I was well repaid for curiosity led me to clamber up a very high hill, where I had one of the grandest views I ever witnessed, from my position I beheld the whole district of Bendigo with its innumerable gullies that looked liked yellow serpents gliding through the green forests, the tents in the distance looked like flakes of snow, away to the west the rugged Pyrenees presented themselves — looking as gloomy as my fortune did when I crossed them some years back — a little more to the North — I could discern Mount Koorong Malaga & Moligul to the South Mount Alexander & I imagined Macedon — & thoughts & old associations crowded upon me, & I sat down on the spot & was lost in the bewilderment of the vicissitudes attending different periods of my life short & chequered as it has been — an hours {{Image|file=Aag-86.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-87 369]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

walk brought me to Allens — where I had dinner to which I did ample justice. Mr A was very kind, stated how foolish I was in letting such a trifle prevent me from coming for my things. On collecting them I found Dan Finnigan had taken the best part of my tools away & also a pair of my blankets — time tries all — I did not think he was so dishonarable as I have discovered him to be. I went with Allen to see a new Reef he has just opened, he showed me some splendid specimens — he gave me one — I left about 3 — 4 Pm — with my swag walked to Kangaroo Flat about 1½ miles fell in with a car & rode to Sandhurst, some 4 miles, passed [[King-39039|Alick]] & Isa King in a trap driving towards where I had left — I quite long to see her again it seems an age since we met & spoke to each other I was very tired when I arrived in the tent. This morning I was going to our contract (which is on the Nelson Reef) where Mr Nicholls the Superintendant told me I could go on to work for wages in one of [the] other shafts for a few days & could then return to complete our contract — if we liked — I thought it would be the best to accept the offer in order to keep in the good graces of the Company, for Im sure {{Image|file=Aag-87.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-88 370]
Nelson Reef, April 1860

of constant employment in a few weeks time [Tuesday, 1 May 1860] 2 [1st] May 1860. Weather very unsettled the last two days, working in a shaft some hundred ft deep on the Sth end of the N.Reef raising quartz. I received a letter from my Sister Mary yesterday giving me a more detailed account of Charlies death — she states my mother is distracted since my brothers death & was unable to answer my letter, but purposes doing so shortly — [Friday, 4 May 1860] 5th.[5th] May 1860 — Friday night-) Mr. & Mrs [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] paid me a visit last night — she thought a tent a cold cheerless place to exist in, wondered how we lived, & had our healths, Etc in it, Ive seen tents Ive thought looked like little palaces, but Im beginning to have different notions concerning them now, in fact Im getting ashamed to live in one very strange Ive lived in nothing else for many years, but then such a change has been stealing over things on the diggins of latter days, that the old joyous reckless days of golddigging seems vanishing, with the refined notions now indulged in by people — I dare say its all very well but I fear, all that pleasent unaffected sociability that used to exist has vanished {{Image|file=Aag-88.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-89 371]
Nelson Reef, May 1860

they invited Ned & I to tea this evening but Ned wouldnt go because he hadnt good enough clothes to be presentable in, its not long since a pair of yellow dirty trousers & a blue serge shirt were passport enough for any company in the colonies — but alas! as Ive stated before, such days & times are fast fleeing away — I went & passed a very sociable evening — I went into Sandhurst this afternoon on business for Mr Froggart. My mates [[Freer-1284|G.Frear]] & Hall returned from Huntly to day, having seen the next claim bottomed & which turned out a “duffer” so they purpose going on with the old contract while we go on wages – of course we share whatever we earn — [Saturday, 5 May 1860] 6th. Saturday — Left off work at 4 Pm squared up with my mates & dissolved partnership. We made only £2.10 each after expenses were paid for our fortnights work — only two of us having earned anything — I went into Sandhurst this evening, met Mary King — she wanted to know why I did not visit their house as formerly. I soon let her know the reason she says Isa thinks me very unkind they saw me last Sunday when I passed them in the cab, they went to Allens who informed them I had been there — if I {{Image|file=Aag-89.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-90 372]
Nelson Reef on wages, May 1860

88 only remained half an hour longer, there I should have returned with them — it wasnt to be. I must try & see her, I went to the Theatre for a short time, met Ned, came home early [Sunday, 6 May 1860] 7th. May Sunday. Been a lovely day — I went into Sandhurst this morning called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s & accompanied him to hear Mr. Fletcher the Independent minister, he chose for his text the first line of the Lords Prayer, Our father who art in heaven! – I liked it well — its long since I heard such a sermon — or one so liable to make an impression. I had dinner with Jim — left about 3 pm & returned to the tent, paid Hooper a visit — after tea I again visited Sandhurst & went to the Church of England, along with Miss Scott, at the conclusion of the service I saw Isa King, I quite forgot Miss S. Ill be ashamed to meet her again after leaving her so very abruptly. Isa seemed as glad to see me as I was to see her — we wended our step to a quiet spot & sat down — we had such a lot to talk about. I was so happy [I] forgot all the thoughts that have been so perplexing me in reference to her & my duty, it was 11 pm when we parted more enthralled than ever & less inclined to touch upon the subject of seperation {{Image|file=Aag-90.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-91 373]
Nelson Reef on wages, May 1860

I had began to get reconciled to the idea, but now it is further off than ever — oh for the past few happy hours — such blissful hours that compensate one for a life of sorrow oh love the sacred essence of all thats pure on earth when the affections are centered on a worthy object — [Monday, 7 May 1860] 8th [7th] May 1860. Been a nice day. Been very busy all day, running about on business for Mr Froggart. I had to go into Sandhurst & having to wait an hour I called at Jims & he would have me sit for my likeness in my working clothes — I had to go in again to insert advertisements in the “Advertiser” – this evening I spent in a most humane manner. J.Hall cannot write very well & having a sweetheart on Inglewood he got me to write a letter to her for him. If ever love was made by proxy & was successful he ought to be — I exerted my best abilities in its composition, such poesy in prose was never penned before — he was quite proud of it — [Thursday, 10 May 1860] 11th.[10th] May 1860 Three days since I continued my journal. I had an idea of keeping a daily one — but I purpose writing now whenever I am inclined. Still on wages at the Nelson Reef raising stone — Tuesday night I saw Isa King she looked so nice, we took a long walk together, {{Image|file=Aag-91.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-92 374]
Nelson Reef on wages, May 1860

talked all manner of stuff interesting alone to ourselves, late when we parted Wednesday night we went to see Miss — Avonia Jones in the play of Sybil, she is the finest actress ever appeared in Australia I could not imagine it was in human nature to be her superior — after seeing Isa home I met Hugh Campbell & Dan — we had some words, they were very insolent — to me — how manly? for two men to bully one. I had courage to tell them what I thought of them, Dan on Saturday insulted some foreigners & they nearly killed him they managed to cut one of his toes off or nearly so, the police got hold of him & he was fined £7.0.0 with costs for his freak. It was 2 am next morning when I got home. I received a letter from my mother yesterday. I answered it at once & sent her £1.0.0. Mr Dewer called upon her, she mentioned me to him, he wished he could see me to ascertain what kind of a situation I am suited for, he is going to the Snowy River & wont be back for some {{Image|file=Aag-92.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-93 375]
Nelson Reef on wages, May 1860

time. I dont care much for peoples promises I have long since discovered that the man who helps himself in this world is the man who succeeds. Ive been suffering from sore eyes lately Ned got some kind of lotion from Dr Harris to day which I trust will relieve them — [Saturday, 12 May 1860] 12th May 1860 Beautiful day. All hands got discharged to day but me, they kept me because there are a few jobs want finishing. I must be a favourite with the manager for he always gives me the preference if he can any time. I have been getting my brother Ned this evening to sit down & endeavour to improve his writing & otherwise improve his mind, he do{{Blue|esn't}} seem to care about it. Im very sorry for with a very little application he might soon fit himself for a better position than he appears likely to fill in his present state — [Sunday, 13 May 1860] 13th Cloudy day, got up very late, cut up a lot of firewood & did some sewing such as putting patches on my working clothes & mending the tent, spent the whole of the afternoon reading "Cassells Papers" In the evening Ned & I went into Sandhurst, {{Image|file=Aag-93.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-94 376]
Nelson Reef on wages, Soldier’s Gully May 1860

visited the Church at the conclusion of the service Ive met Isa & Mary King, we all took a long walk together, if the rest were like myself they were very happy Isa tells me that [[King-39039|Alick]] has left them & gone to Lake Colac near Geelong. I fancy he was inclined to be wild. Jack has just returned from Inglewood, been very unlucky. [Thursday, 17 May 1860] 17th May 1860 Fine weather, Monday & Tuesday I worked for the company & was politely informed my services would not be required again for some time. My couzin Harry & brother Ned are erecting a small puddling machine near Soldiers Gully & wish me to join them — so I thought I might as well do so as be idle. I commenced this morning — I dont know how it will pay us yet, not having got properly to work — I went into Sandhurst last night called at Frazers found a letter from mother there she is not very well & is very short of money by the last mail from England she had a few papers from father in one she found some pencil lines, in which he informs her he finds it very uphill work to get a commission & make a living where he is. [[Summers-6236|Jane]] is still {{Image|file=Aag-94.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-95 377]
Soldier’s Gully May 1860

at Mothers, shes had to pawn her jewellery to pay off debts Etc, since her husband left her a [[Edelman-279|boy]] arrived from home who states he is his son & that his father, [[Edelman-278|Edelman]] has been twice divorced, & his wives are still living, they have heard nothing of him since his departure — I called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] & spent the evening with them — had supper, late when I got home to the tent. I hear the 10 O.C. whistle time to go to bed, very useful things are whistles attached to engines where so very few possess watches — [Saturday, 19 May 1860] 21 [19] May 1860 Weather very unsettled during the past three days. Ive been working with Ned & Harry at the machine I think it will pay us when we get properly at work, the three days we have been at it we [got] 1 oz. 10 dwts of gold, the machine is nearly a mile from the tent & as our tent is getting done up we purpose erecting a small stone hut near the work, there being a great quantity of loose stone on the surface near the spot we have selected — On leaving work this afternoon I visited California Gully, called on Mr Froggart who paid me what I was due — called at Frears & also at Drews. [[Drew-3557|George]] is laid up with a bad hand I believe he will have to lose one of his fingers, he has been very unfortunate {{Image|file=Aag-95.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-96 378]
Soldier’s Gully May 1860

lately, his wife is on the point of being confined & not a penny to bless themselves with, there is a deal of misery in this golden country — I wrote a letter to Mother & enclosed £2.0.0 in it, intend posting it on Monday — I told her to advise [[Summers-6236|Jane]] to get a divorce from her husband, I hear she is very unhappy I did not think such an unholy union could be otherwise. I called on Mrs Hoopers also stay’d for about an hour, she related all her troubles to me — heard nothing else to day, everybody seems to have their share in this world, more or less, some of their own creating & some of anothers — I dont know what people see in me to be so confidential in their sorrows If it was in my power to relieve them I would, but it causes me grief to know Im unable to assist them — except with sympathy & its like mustard without beef — that I never covet it from anyone — After tea, (being wet) Burchell & I went to Piggotts & danced for about 3 hours — enjoyed ourselves very well — 12 O.C Im sure [Sunday, 20 May 1860] Sunday. Beautiful day. Spent the morning reading Addisons, Cato, a fine play, some splendid passages in it — the characters are beautifully drawn — I like it exceedingly, shall read it again if I have an opportunity. We had several {{Image|file=Aag-96.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-97 379]
Emerald Co. (Shamrock, C. Gully, May 1860

visitors in the afternoon. In the evening Ned & I went to Church, met Isa & Mary King took a long walk together, 11 pm when we left them — [1860-05-21] Monday 21st. been cold & very cloudy I had an offer of a job this morning to drive a shaft in the Shamrock Cos Claim, C. Gully £3.0.0 per week — in company with [[Freer-1283|W.Frear]] we have been engaged making a windlass to day or I have, for my mate left work about 1 pm, & Ive heard has been on the spree what a pity, he would be a nice chap if he could only keep from drink — I went into Sandhurst this evening thinking to meet Isa, but it came on to rain & she did not put in an appearance at the usual trysting place — so I was disappointed, however, I had some compensation, by paying a visit to the Frazers, where I spent a couple of hours with [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] & Margery the rain ceasing, Lockey accompanied me a part of the way home — Tuesday 22nd. Been a wet miserable day. I went to work this morning, but not finding [[Freer-1283|W.Frear]] there I called at Mr. Cuddys a shareholder in the Shamrock Co who agreed to work in his place until he returned, we working away at our windlass, in his yard, Mrs. Cuddie standing by conversing {{Image|file=Aag-97.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-98 380]
Ellen Cuddihy. Emerald Co. Shamrock, C. Gully, May 1860

with us, when [[Freer-1284|George Frear]], came running to us in a most excited state & informed us that my mate [[Freer-1283|W.Frear]] had just returned home half drunk, with a small phial of poison he said something about being ashamed of the life he has led & his inability to reform & very deliberately drank the poison, Georges manner & the nature of his communication acted so upon [[Morris-3116|Mrs. Cuddy]], (who had only just recovered from a severe illness) that she fainted. I did not observe her at the time, having immediately rushed to Frears tent to see what I could do I found [[Freer-1283|Will]], stretched on the floor with his teeth so firmly clenched that I found it im- -possible to apply an emetic, several people hearing of the circumstance, came in, & with our united efforts at length got him to swallow an emetic — the police afterwards took him in charge & he is now lodged in Gaol — the best place for him, he is a desperate fellow when in liquor, he is one of the strongest men I ever met with, it took 6 of us to hold him, when getting his mouth open — On my return to Cuddys I found Mrs. C. had burst a blood vessel two doctors were in attendance, who make it no secret that her days are numbered hold out no hopes of her recovery — {{Image|file=Aag-98.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/98}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-99 381]
Ellen Cuddihy. Emerald Co, (the Shamrock) Cuddihy, C. Gully, May 1860

It must ever be a source of pain to [[Freer-1283|Frear]] to know he was the cause of her death — oh drink, vile miserable curse of humanity, demoralizing agent, when will there be a stop put upon its abuse — when will human nature throw off — & escape its influence — Governments build houses for its victims & yet encourages its sale & derives a revenue from its consumption – & its effects, what volumes I alone could fill of the many victims of intemperance that have come under my own observation since my sojourn in the Gold Fields, few would credit that half the population work & toil for no other recompense than the pleasure attached to drink which their labour affords them the opportunity of indulging in. I used to have a mate that on dividing our weeks earnings on a Saturday afternoon would make the remark, "look sharp boys & lets aget across the creek before dark, so that we may get drunk before its too late", poor Ned, we left him on Donolly, a few weeks afterwards he suffered from Delirium Tremens & was found dead in the bush with the flesh torn from his bones — & such is the end of many in the bush. My old mate Tom Rudd Ive heard is transported, having been a connected with a bad lot of drunkards & blaguards, he got above honest labour & took to thieving he is now reaping his harvest — {{Image|file=Aag-99.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/99}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-100 382]
Emerald Co, (the Shamrock) Cuddihy, California Gully

Long Gully, May 1860. Bendigo
Wednesday 23 Very cloudy weather, got to work at last this morning. The shaft is 120 ft deep Im engaged in — the rock requires all to be blasted, the air is very bad gives me a pain in my chest — Mrs. Cuddy is very ill — her husband has been helping me to day but he might as well have remained at home for what work he has done — this evening I went to Halls been giving him & another young friend of mine lessons in Caligraphy. It affords me pleasure to be able to instruct another — Friday. Very disagreeable weather. Still at work for the Emerald Co, (the Shamrock) have better times than on the Nelson Reef, I have more my own way. I went into Bendigo last night & called upon [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s they were very glad to see me — he has been very ill with dysentry & is greatly changed — I offered him £2.0.0 towards what I owed him, but he got so indignant & would have thrown it in the fire if I had not stopped him, he wont receive it until Im worth £500 a year. I trust he may never require it until Im in the possession of such an amount, however I divided it between Burchell & Harry owing {{Image|file=Aag-100.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/100}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-101 383]
Shamrock Co’s Claim (the Shamrock), C. Gully, May 1860

them both money — I went to Sandhurst this evening, called at Frazers & received a long letter from mother — all well, my sisters school is improving. [[Summers-6236|Jane]] is still with her — but mother dont speak very highly of her, says she lounges about & actually puts out her washing Etc twelve months ago she wasnt above doing it herself but she wants to be the grand lady, since she has once tasted the sugared cup of idleness & luxury — I called on Hooper still unwell — his tumour increasing in size — [Saturday] May 26th 1860. Been very cold to day left work at dinner time in consequence of Cuddy, who had to leave me & attend to his wife, poor creature she is very ill — this afternoon I went up to Mr Hoopers, Mrs Hickey was there, looking better than I have seen her for a long time. I have been reading “Ivanhoe” the best of Scotts Novels in my opinion This evening I spent with a wild lot at Piggotts, dancing & rioting till 11 pm — saw Dave & Joe home, drunk. Sunday 27th.[May] 1860 Lovely day, rose early did a lot of jobs about the tents read during the afternoon — In the {{Image|file=Aag-101.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/101}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-102 384]
Emerald Co.(Cuddihy) C. Gully, May 1860

[evening] Ned & I went to Bendigo. I met Isa — what an age it seems since I saw her last, she accused me of coldness & thought I wished to give her up Etc – I swore I loved her dearer than any object in life. I summoned up courage enough to tell her how Im situated & what folly what madness it was in me to continue feeding my flame & hoping under such auspices as mine for a consumation of hopes that I saw no prospect of being realized. Isa wept & I sighed my sorrow. I was very sad, & she angel as she is poured such balm & comfort into my soul by sympathy & hopeful trusting spirit, that she loved she didnt deny, & would always do so, whatever time may prove or do for for us. I released her from any thing like an engagement — she may consider herself bound to me by, & for the future we are to be but as very dear friends — but while of she is single & I ever in a position to maintain her respectability I vow never to look on another woman with eyes of affection — it was late when we parted, I more deeply in love than ever my mind in a strange bewilderment Monday 28th [May] 1860. I rose early this {{Image|file=Aag-102.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/102}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-103 385]
Emerald Co. (Cuddihy), Ellen Cuddihy death, 27th May 1860.

morning & got to the claim at 7 am – waited some time for Cuddie, not coming, I went to his house or hut & was shocked to find Mrs. C. dead, having just breathed her last, poor Cuddie he is in great grief, I remained with him all day & assisted in the preperations for the funeral. [[Freer-1283|W.Frear]] was tried & acquitted this morning, he left Bendigo at once with an unenviable conscience. I went into Sandhurst this evening with Burchell went to the Theatre, saw “Winters Tale” playd the principal characters being taken by Mr & Mrs R.Heir — 12 when I got home. I wrote to mother during the afternoon & sent her £1.0.0 — Wednesday 30th May 1860. Wretched weather — rainy & cold — I have not been to work, but have been very busy – I went into Sandhurst yesterday with Ned & bought a cart load of packing Cases, which we intend to build a hut with, having given up the idea of building a stone one. Harry Ned & I have got it nearly finished. I dont suppose I shall live much in it for I anticipate getting on the Nelson Reef for constant, shortly & it will {{Image|file=Aag-103.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/103}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-104 386]
Nelson Co (Nicholls) C. Gully, May 1860

be too far for me to walk to work — [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] yesterday gave me a ticket for Mr Hitchers course of Lectures, his first was last night, the subject being the search for “Sir J.Franklyn” I met Isa at Jims & we went to hear it — it was very interesting. MClintocks voyage was the principal feature of the lecture his discovery of the Relics Etc — I went to Cuddys claim this morning just to keep it from being jumped — while there Mr Nicholls the under manager of the Nelson Co called upon, wants me to go on for a few days on the Dam — I dont like where I am at present engaged, so I purpose starting in the morning Friday 1st June 1860 — Beautiful weather I have been hard at work on the N.R the past 2 days. I went into Sandhurst last night met Isa by chance, took a walk to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s spent the evening there very pleasently, singing. Isa sings very well she has a nice sweet voice & sings with great taste & feeling — knows such a quantity of lovely little songs — Jim accompanied us, as far as Kings after paying his portrait Gallery a visit {{Image|file=Aag-104.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/104}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-105 387]
Nelson Co (Nicholls) C. Gully, May, June 1860

I hurt my hand yesterday & I fear it is going to fester, been very sore to day & the work Im engaged at dosn’t improve it, using a hammer & drill all day. I went to Mrs Hoopers this evening & she good soul commenced at once to doctor it, Ive got it poulticed up at present Sunday 3rd June 1860. Lovely weather I did not go work yesterday owing to my hand being so sore & painful, I assisted to shift our tent in the morning & help to put a roof on the new hut — I intend to board at Drews in California Gully (being near my work) next week, the new hut is too far to walk night & morning, being bound to time, finished the outside of our hut to day, in the evening Burchell & I went to Church but took a strool about Sandhurst until the service was over — we spent an hour listening to a lady playing a piano at a house — she sang & playd beautifully. I could peep into what seemed a drawing room, nicely furnished & how it made me long for such a home what a contrast it presented to the miserable wretched hovels Ive spent {{Image|file=Aag-105.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/105}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-106 388]
Nelson Co (Nicholls) C. Gully, June 1860

the last 10 years of my life in — well who knows a time may come when I may possess such a home — the nice fire blazing in a grate, the curtains, easy chairs & sofa, the piano — & various luxuries & conveniences — appeared so perfect, strange I should have such thoughts on such a spot, for I once was camped in a hut built of boughs 8 years ago on that same spot, where now stands the best house on Bendigo -. We got to the Church just as the people were coming out, met Isa — we took a long walk together, our agreement of the other night was forgotten, for we were together, as formerly — & have promised to meet her on Wednesday night — [Friday]8th June 1860. Having finished my job on the Nelson, last Monday I went to work again with Cuddy. I dont intend working in his claim again I cannot get my money from him, he owed me £5.10.0 I bought some canvass from him about £3.0.0 worth but I can ill afford to lose the rest. I commenced to board with [[Palmer-21429|Mrs Drew]] on Monday morning. I pay her 27/6 perweek washing included. Im very comfortable {{Image|file=Aag-106.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/106}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-107 389]
Nelson Co (Nicholls) C. Gully, June 1860

Tuesday evening I called at Hoopers. Mrs H I thought was rather cool toward me & I accused her of it — it appears those cursed reports about Minnie & I, that I thought were buried in oblivion, at this length of time, has reached her ears. I soon reasoned her out of her doubts — I imagined Id put a stop to them long ago — whatever passed between Minnie & I is only known to ourselves — she is a true & honest wife & since her wedding has never spoken to me but as she might to a stranger — I was very much annoyed, but people are so fond of scandal in this world, if a person has the slightest blemish on them its soon made into a large blotch Wednesday I went into Sandhurst & called at the hut on my way. Ned had recvd a long letter from Mother, all well at home, [[Edelman-278|Edelman]] had returned very suddenly & had vanished again taking [[Summers-6236|Jane]] with him — I went to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s, found Isa there — spent a couple of hours very pleasently. I happened to state there was a Dance at Thorpes "Imperial Hotel" California — Jim on the impulse wished to go, the ladies would not go but had no objection to allow us to go I did not care about going, but was {{Image|file=Aag-107.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/107}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-108 390]
Nelson Co (Nicholls) C. Gully, June 1860

induced to accompany him. I did not think it right to leave them, but Isa agreed to remain with Mrs H. so we went — got there about 10 pm & danced & flirted till 4 am next morning, when we adjourned to Hazlitts store (a friend of ours, another wild young devil) we had a supper of salmon & eggs & other dainties, which we prepared ourselves. Jim slept with Dave I went to my own bed at Drews, close by — Jim left after having breakfast with me Sunday 10th June 1860 Nice weather — I managed to get some of my money last night from Cuddie, paid my board, wrote to mother & sent her £1.0s.0d. I spent the evening with a fellow boarder, Andrew Smith who has a Chemist shop opposite to Drews he is a nice young fellow — clever & well informed, rather an improvement on the general run of my acquaintances – After breakfast this morning I went to the hut or I should say the tent for the hut is not finished, they are all living in a little 8 x 10 feet tent — I washed a flannel shirt & some socks — had dinner with them — after which J.King & his sisters Isa & Mary paid us a visit {{Image|file=Aag-108.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/108}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-109 391]
Nelson Co (Nicholls/Froggart) C. Gully, June 1860

the hut is only 1½ miles from Sandhurst so its convenient. I was ashamed to ask them into such a hole — but they were too well bred to make any remarks about it – we showed them about the gully, how the dirt was puddled, cradled & the gold seperated from mother earth, all which appeared to interest them — we had tea together on the grass, under the shade of a gum tree, just outside the tent — Isa & I afterwards took a quiet walk for some two hours or so such happy hours — I was very loath to leave her — Burchell & Ned accompanied them into Sandhurst I returned to my new domicile, & now for bed & dream of her who night & day fills my soul — how absurd such notions would appear to me if uttered or experienced by another — June 13th 1860 Beautiful weather — I went to work for the Nelson Reef on Monday morning. Im the handyman at present doing every kind of work I dont much like it, but its better than being idle. I think I am on now for constant. Tuesday evening Hazlett & I went into Sandhurst, called at Frazers & received {{Image|file=Aag-109.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/109}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-110 392]
Nelson Co (Nicholls/Froggart) C. Gully, June 1860

a letter from mother, all about the same.- We went to hear Mr. Fletcher lecture on what is known of the "Interior of Australia", it was intensely interesting, his discriptions & accounts of the adventures of the several explorers was very good, the subject just at present is one that is filling every ones mind! the Govt. being employed now in fitting out an exploring party to cross from Victoria to the Gulf of Carpentaria — I met Mrs & Mrs [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] there, quite well, promised to visit them on Thursday night — June 15th 1860 Lovely weather the last two days. I went into Sandhurst last night met Isa, took a walk met J.[[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] who insisted upon me spending the evening with them, which we did most happily & sociably, had supper, 11 when we left 12 when I parted from her — 1 next morning I before I got into bed, I felt very happy, blessed with the love of a dear girl & such as Isa is, & the friendship of [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] The Nelson Reef is looking very lively about 50 hands at work, two engines & crushing plant in course of erection {{Image|file=Aag-110.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/110}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-111 393]


The blacksmith & I are the only wages men on the ground & do just as we like — 17th Saturday Nice day. Our manager went to town a few days ago & has not returned so I didnt [get] my wages paid to me, another disappointment. Its certain but inconvenient to wait sometimes, for Im in debt. I went to Hoopers for about an hour, the old man still lingers, he was telling me how unfortunate he has been the last few years induced to leave a good home & business in Cape Town to try & make a fortune in this Golden Country, he thinks heaven has cursed him & his family for his covetiousness. I spent the evening in company with Andrew Smith, conversing upon a variety of subjects. I called at Cuddies for the money he owes me but could not get any from him 24th June, Lovely weather — A week since I last wrote my journal. Ive been engaged all the week, helping our Blacksmith & Engineer, at the forge — making Iron Cages bolts & Bars, Nuts & Screws — picks, gads & hammers — Tuesday night I went into Sandhurst, called at Frazers found a letter there from mother, all well she received some Newspapers from England, found some penciling {{Image|file=Aag-111.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/111}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-112 394]


of fathers in one, in which he states his business is not paying — I think it was very foolish of him commencing something he knew nothing about in an old country, in the midst of so much Competition — I remaind about half an hour at Frazers, [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] & I went to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]], remained there till 11 pm spent a pleasent evening — late when I got home having nearly 4 miles to walk. I spent Monday night at Hoopers. Minnie was there quiet & modest as ever — looks as if she had a world of sorrow on her mind & I believe she has according to her mothers account of her domestic trials — Wednesday night I spent with Ned & Harry. Froggart came from town & paid me my wages, after I had paid my debts & sent my mother £1.0.0 I found myself in sole possession of a solitary shilling Thursday night I spent with, A.Smith very jolly — Friday night we went to hear one of the candidates for the mining board give his opinions on mining matters, Mr Lane we know him well, he is deaf & has a sniffle in his nose, very amusing the jokes that passed on the occasion at his expense {{Image|file=Aag-112.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/112}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-113 395]

1st July 1860. Weather very fine, On Tuesday I finished at the forge & was put to the windlass of the New Engine Shaft, where I have to work 12 hours a day & the hardest work I ever did in my life. I get 10/- per week more wages for it — but I hear it is to be reduced — I did not leave the gully during the week except last night when I went into Sandhurst called at Frazers found a letter from mother enclosed in one from my father, that had been forwarded to us by Aunt Hartley of Halifax — he writes in poor spirits, having had no returns from his business, my poor father must be very sad & lonely 16,000 miles from his family, amidst strangers & unsuccessful in his pursuits. Mother is also in poor spirits my brother Fred is confined to bed with Scarlitina, she misses his wages small as they are it paid her rent, Ned sent her a £1.0.0 on Monday. I purpose doing the same to day — I am afraid Cuddies money is a bad debt — He has ran away, leaving a great many debts behind him — I thought of getting it to day — for Ned & Harry have bought a puddling mill for £35.0.0 they {{Image|file=Aag-113.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/113}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-114 396]

are to pay £10.0.0 down the rest in 3 months so if I could have got a few pounds for them it would have helped them, my fortnights wages were all spent before I got it, having bought, boots & clothing I was in need off & sent a £1.0.0 to mother. Last Monday a concert was given at Thorpes for the relief of an unfortunate family. I was solicited to sing. I promised very reluctantly, however I sang twice & was encored on both occasions. I surprised myself, I felt as if, I could sing to any height & with so much ease — I have since been solicited to sing at two other places or concerts that are to take place on Sandhurst I have neither the time nor the inclination to devote to such things, so was compelled to decline the honor. I received a kind little note from Isa on Friday she had not seen me for a fortnight & thought it very cruel – she spent the day at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s. I shall try to see her this evening at Church — I go on to work to night at 12 oclock (I hate night shifts) 11 pm. Went to Sandhurst calling at Forbes, Hamblys & Hoopers on my way from there went to Neds {{Image|file=Aag-114.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/114}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-115 397]

had tea with him, they have bought the machine, had to borrow the money, I hope they will make it pay, they hire a horse to work it at present. I went to the Albion with a friend had a drink remained with him until Church came out — met Isa & Mary King, the former was very glad to see me we took a walk for a couple of hours, & enjoyed ourselves — I was sorry I had to part with her so early, but she knew I had to go to work she accompanied me home to Drews I put her in a cab — being too far for her to walk back — 3rd July. Tuesday morning just returned from work, tired & wretched, the nights are bitterly cold & to be stuck at the windlass for 12 hours through a cold winters night is no joke, last night it rained very heavy, & having no shelter, got wet through. I have not felt very well the last two days. I feel very feverish & have a fearful headache — I shall to bed directly, Ive had my breakfast 7th July 1860. Saturday. I have been very ill since I last wrote confined to my bed {{Image|file=Aag-115.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/115}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-116 398]

for three days, got quite delirious with fever the effects of a cold. I feel very weak — but much better. I found my appetite this morning so I shall soon recover. I took a little walk to the works to day, saw Nicholls — who told me he will find me an easy job for next week, until Im strong enough to resume my post at the "Shaft" the loss of 5 days wages will be a serious things for me. I intend to try & walk as far as Neds, he did not know I was ailing until this morning, Isa, dear angel, came to see me twice & sat & read for me like a dear creature she is — 8th July Sunday Wrote to mother & sent her £1.0.0 Received a letter from her & one from Fred enclosed in it was a note from Mary they are all ailing from influenza, a universal complaint at present, Fred sent me two pieces of music — Mother wishes I was living with them, not more so than I do myself [Sunday, 15 July 1860] 16th July 1860. Nice weather. Im happy to state Im getting strong & over my attack & with the exception of a cough — dont {{Image|file=Aag-116.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/116}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-117 399]

suffer from its effects. I went to work on Monday morning, doing light jobs, about the place — Froggart finding I can write gave me some office work to do. I dont think I should like to be stuck in an office all my days. I would prefer robust labor perhaps its through never being in one, I went to see Ned yesterday, they did very well last week, paid what they borrowed. I had to go to work this morning at the Engine Shaft bailing water, from 11 am till 6. pm — I dont like working on Sunday its miserable seeing people going & coming from Chapel — & pleasuring Etc & have to stick at a windlass labouring away, but necessity knows no law — if the water was not kept down it would rise & distroy the shaft & it is costing about £20. perfoot to sink it, it is the finest shaft in Australia I hear or will be when its properly lined & finished — I suppose we shall get a days pay for our days work After tea I went to Hoopers, Minnie was there quiet & cool as ever. Mrs. H. told me that the reports I alluded to — had reached {{Image|file=Aag-117.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/117}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-118 400]

Hickeys ears, & he was grown quite jealous of me — damn peoples prattling tongues I wish Id the slitting of them 22nd Nice weather but far from a pleasent one for being on the night shift, all the week & still suffering from a severe cold. Ive taken a deal of physic lately, had I taken Shakespears advice & thrown it to the dogs — I believe I should have been better than I am I went to see Ned on Tuesday, he had a letter from Mother — all well — I wrote to my sister Mary to day & also to mother — After dinner I called at Hoopers had a long chat with the old man, upon the immortality of the soul — he has some strange notions about the subject that I could not entertain. On leaving him I went to Neds hut for a time, went into Sandhurst, called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s had tea with them, Jim & his wife talked to me very seriously about Isa made it out I was doing her an injury by continuing my addresses to her — for it appears Isa has several admirers & I hear from them that one has proposed I met Isa this evening at Church, & I made her answer me if such was the {{Image|file=Aag-118.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/118}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-119 401]


case, she said Id no right to point her duty out, if she had liked the man she would have had him. Im very sorry I ever knew her, she wont marry me in my present circumstances & I told her I saw no prospect of improving them & if she wanted a home, not to think of me again tho god knows it will be long ere her image & my love for her is effaced from my heart my love for her is such, that I would be happy to see her so with another who could justly appreciate her, as I do I would willingly bear the sorrow, such an event would cause me, without one pang of jealousy. Ive tried to school my inclinations by reasoning upon the absurdity of such a passion, but philosophy stands a poor chance, when it comes in contact with, Cupid. I walked home anything but a happy man — the only way to break the charm that binds us is absence — Ive thought so long, but I & J. think Isa the same, lacks the firmness Ive been reading my old favourite “Lallah Rook” this week — with sundry other such like matter that seems to add fuel to my flame Ill get some heavy works on scientific subjects & see if it wont prove in some way an antidote to my passion or folly. {{Image|file=Aag-119.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/119}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-120 402]

29th July 1860. Im still at work on the Nelson Reef, the shaft is stopped, 12 hands were discharged. I, of all the wages men, was kept on, along with the blacksmith, Harvy we get along first rate. Im getting quite a "Smith" can make & mend most anything in the iron line — I was very glad to be kept on, for work is very hard to obtain owing to so many of the public companies turning out failures — Tuesday I went to Sandhurst called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s, met Isa there purely by chance, they were all going to hear a Fletcher, lecture. I was easily induced to accompany them, but owing to Fletcher being indisposed, the lecture was postponed I returned with [them] & spent a pleasent evening as usual, singing & reading. Jim has an excellent library. I went to the new Theatre at the Shamrock last night, finest place on Bendigo opened with a good company Ned was with me. I received a letter from mother also, which I answered to day & enclosed £1.0.0. Ned has been very ill all last week but Im happy to state hes got over it. I gave him £1.10s.0d to assist him in paying off his debts. I went {{Image|file=Aag-120.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/120}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-121 403]

into Sandhurst this evening & gave [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] a few pounds towards paying off what I owe him I got £1.0.0 from Cuddies partner, last night, very unexpected. I dont suppose Ill ever see the rest of what he owes me — On leaving [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] I walked into the township & who should I meet but Isa by chance — she was bound for Church, but instead of going, we took a long walk & found a nice little spot & with her cheek rested against mine, the hours slipped by so quickly, 11 when we parted, 12 when I got home, I feel no inclination for sleep [Sunday, 12 August 1860] August 10th 1860. Twelve days since I continued my journal. Im still at the Nelson working hard as usual the Machine will soon be finished I received several letters lately, one from my sister Mary that didnt please me — one Mr. Davis seems to be the leading idea that pervades in in it, no allusion made to mothers struggles & difficulties, or a particle of sympathy, poor girl, I must not be too hard, for she is very young & I must say thoughtless. I trust as she grows older, she will improve. {{Image|file=Aag-121.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/121}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-122 404]

I had the honour of recvg one from my brother Fred, full of matter, but destitute of sense, with the exception of [[Summers-6236|Jane Edelman]] & her doings — of which he gives me in detail, & his private opinion of [[Edelman-278|Mr E.]] which is not a very exalted one — Mother sent me a long letter full of troubles, a list of her debts & how she has been pressed by Sutherland for his £5.0.0 Im bewildered to know how she is to get out of her difficulties. I assist her to the utmost of my power & can do no more — my poor mothers proud spirit is sadly humbled, having to put up with so many humiliations It was a most unfortunate event my father leaving England & then to abandon his family, as he has done & God grant it may be for the best his ways are inscrutable Last Saturday night I went to Sandhurst, where I met my brother Ned, he is doing very well with the new machine lately. I trust he will be more fortunate {{Image|file=Aag-122.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/122}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-123 405]

the coming week. We went to the Theatre together, being very crowded & a very indifferent company performing we did not enjoy ourselves much. On Sunday afternoon I had tea with him, Burchell & I went to Church. I was disappointed at not meeting Isa — we called on [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] coming home remained with him chatting until 10 pm — Isa had paid them a visit the day before, she was well & had enquired after me. It seems a long time since we met, I walked home alone — I enjoy my own company sometimes, best, it is very pleasent to commune with ones own thoughts, on such occasions more ideas revolve through my brain than at any other I went to an amateur Concert on the night of Thursday week, they did some portions of the “Messiah” very well, but they were best up in the secular portion of the entertainment — a young man named Newton Clapham sang very well, he has one of the finest tenor voices I ever heard — I joined a Quadrille assembly this week, we are {{Image|file=Aag-123.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/123}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-124 406]

[to] meet twice aweek at Thorpes, it will cost me about 5/. a month — they are very sociable jolly affairs & knowing everybody in the neighbourhood, who attend it, makes them very pleasent I went to see Hooper on Wednesday I fancy he is a little better, I went into Sandhurst last night, met Ned knocked about with him talking over our very brilliant prospects, untill 9.30 when I jumped into a cab & rode home did not get to bed till past 12 Mrs [[Palmer-21429|Drew]] had some friends visiting her & I was invited to join the party I rose early this morning (Sunday) & went to the hut 1½ miles from this found Ned & his mates sound asleep got some clean linen & returned spent the rest of the morning in writing & reading. I purpose after dinner visiting my friends, the working man[’s] visiting days on the diggins, a man has very little inclination for going about much during the week after returning from a hard days work. {{Image|file=Aag-124.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/124}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-125 407]


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[Continuing Wednesday, 15 August 1860] in sorrow, I more bewildered than ever & very much embittered at Mrs Hambles Hamblys conduct, I went to Kings the following night, [Monday] (the first time for many months) they made me very welcome, & Isa was delighted. We sat together in her little room for hours, chatting away & very happy, the clouds of the night previous had vanished and we lived in the present once more -. last night Tuesday we went to the Dancing Class for a few hours. [Sunday, 19 August 1860] 20/7/60.[19th Aug] Lovely weather, Summer beginning with its clear skies & sunny days, such as only can be experienced in Australia. Things were looking very dull where I am at work, but some three days back Mr Nicholls & I while examining an old drive in one of the claims found a little thin rim{{Red|*}} of quartz, which on inspection turned out to be auriferous, we set in a drive & found it got thicker & in breaking down the stone found some splendid specimens, some of {{Image|file=Aag-127.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/127}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-128 410]

them fairly encrusted with gold. The Manager has put on about 20 men who are raising the stone, the proprietors are in good spirits & are asking absurd prices for shares. I pity the buyers, for Im sure its only a small patch Ive had too much experience in quartz mining not to know the difference between a spur & a Reef as it is generally supposed to be. I received a long letter from Fred on the 17th. all well, had a letter from Father very little news in it, Mary did not like the form of my last letter to her I trust she has more sense than to despise advice that I meant for her good I answered Freds the following day & enclosed a pound Stg in it for Mother I had a visit from L.Frazer on Thursday he left for Melbourne the next morning & I sent a message to Mother by him. I went to see Mr Hooper last night poor old man he looks very ill, Mrs Hickey with baby was there, on leaving there I joined Smith & Hazlitt spent the evening in my tent, singing, joking, Etc had supper {{Image|file=Aag-128.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/128}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-129 411]

& seperated about 12 — 9 am this morning when I arose, paid Edward a visit, he had just recvd a letter from my mother, & enclosed in it was one from my father to her — nothing important in either — Spent the afternoon at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s had tea, Mrs. H. was very civil, I did not forget to let her know that her illnatured remarks had not escaped my memory — she pleaded zeal for me as an excuse — I let her know that I cared little for anyone who meddles in my affairs, my own judgement with regard to my own feelings, I thought sufficient for their guidance. After tea I called at Kings Isa & I took a short strool together, very quiet arrived here at 9 Pm, tis now 12 [Sunday, 26 August 1860] 27/7/60 Nice weather on the whole Sunday, what a blessing is the Sabbath & yet how ill spent it generally is by diggers, working & slaving all the week their minds & bodies appear to be worn out, its usually spent in reading (Novels) smoking & lounging {{Image|file=Aag-129.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/129}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-130 412]

about, the married digger appears for the sake of his family to be a little more particular & goes to Chapel once a day at least. Tuesday night Smith & I spent at G.Fowlers, he has a pretty cottage, & possesses an harmonica, & being a good musician he is good company, he is a gentleman & is liked by all who know him, we spent a pleasent evening, learning a Duet, “What are the Wild Waves Saying”). Thursday night I accompanied Smith, Dowding & Hazlitt to the Theatre to see Mr & Mrs C.Holt perform a piece of their own, called “Court & Stage” their acting was good, but his reputation would not increase were he to depend upon his dramatic productions — we hired a cab to bring us home, & through kicking up such a row, by singing laughing Etc we frightened the horse & had a very narrow escape for our lives — I recd a letter from Fred on Friday all well at home, informs me that mother (most wonderful to relate) had recvd per mail a draft for £8.0.0 from Father. It assisted in lessening the debt, mother {{Image|file=Aag-130.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/130}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-131 413]

has incurred in Melbourne since his absence Last night I went into Sandhurst & not meeting anyone I know I went into the Theatre & was rather surprised to see my brother Ned, setting in the Boxes as large & grand, with the Miss Kings. I soon joined them, enjoyed ourselves well, On leaving them at home I walked out with Ned, had some supper with him, 2. OC this morning when I got to my tent, Late when my bed & I parted company this morning. In the afternoon went to Neds, found a young man named [[Dight-42|Henry Dight]] there, who has just arrived from Melbourne, he is an acquaintance of Freds, & knows our folks well — he is a carpenter & has a long job on Bendigo before him, to assist in making the Sludge channelhttps://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/154842748 Alexander Amos and Co. ; completing sludge channel, Sandhurst, £5500 The channel probably was 9 inches wide with 8 inch sides. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/87944965 from the White Hills to Huntly he seems a nice young fellow — I left about 4 pm & walked about Sandhurst till 6 –“- & called at Kings, accompanied Mr. King & Isa to Church, after the service, Isa & I took a pleasent walk together. Great excitement has been caused on Bendigo, by the report that the Exploring party consisting of 14 men {{Image|file=Aag-131.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/131}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-132 414]

& 26 Camels, bound from Victoria to the Gulf of Carpentaria headed by Ohara Burke was within a few miles of Bendigo (Lockwood) nearly everybody that was able to raise a vehicle or conveyance went to see them but all were doomed to disappointment for the said party are some 30 miles off in quite another direction — I wrote to my Mother this morning & enclosed £1.0.0 [Sunday, 2 September 1860] Sept 3rd [2nd] 1860 Beautiful weather, but rather warm. Still at work for the N. Reef working underground in a shaft 200 ft deep all the week, driving in some very hard sandstone, with ironstone veins running through it, have to work very hard to do a fair show of work — there are three of us in one drive, we manage to put in about 6 shots a day, 2 of us use the hammer while one turns the drill, & after a shot, one man wheels the mullock to the mouth of the Shaft, another squares up the drive while the other usually climbs up the shaft & heaves up the mullock to the surface. Monday night I went to Sandhurst called for Isa & having an order for the Theatre, went to see "Ambition" playd {{Image|file=Aag-132.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/132}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-133 415]

Tuesday night I went to Hoopers, left about 9. pm came home & dressed, for the Q party, fine company there, wound up with a good supper 3 OC next morning when I left, felt very seedy next day. Wednesday evening I walked into Sandhurst (3 miles no joke when ones tired) called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s, met a Mrs. White there, an aunt of Mrs. H. (I met once before at Eldreds) I dont like her, her husband Mr W was one of the intimate friends of fathers who assisted in sending him to England she was pleasent to me, but I had an instinct feeling which told me it was assumed Jim & I left them & took a strool about Sandhurst, had a fine lark to- gether, went to Freemans Pastry Cook shop, flirted with a couple of waitresses most ardently, 12 oclock when I got home precious tired, through not having my proper quantity of sleep the night previous. Nature wont do to be abused, she makes one suffer for plunging into excesses, Thursday & Friday night remained at home reading a variety of stuff. Last night Saturday, Ned came over & had tea with me, & having a shilling {{Image|file=Aag-133.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/133}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-138 416]


or two each — left from our extravagance, we walked into Bendigo & visited the Theatre saw Holt in "Macbeth" I liked him in the character, the Lady M was a most miserable attempt, (Mrs. C.Holt) she is just tolerable in Comedy & thats all — Raining hard all day spent the morning reading & writing, after dinner Smith & I went to G.Fowlers, several musicians dropped in & what with the instrumental & vocal, we had a Concert several there being the leading musical men of Sandhurst, late when we broke up — after spending a pleasent day [Sunday, 23 September 1860] 25th [23rd] Sept 1860 Three weeks since I continued my journal want of inclination, for I cant complain of want of time for its not been so very much occupied after work hours. — Im beginning to look upon keeping such an uninteresting journal as mine is as pure waste of time, but having kept it so long Im loath to discontinue it, it serves me as a thing of reference — & a time may come when it may afford me pleasure to look over its pages, on looking over it now it brings up many associations that I would {{Image|file=Aag-134.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/134}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-135 417]


otherwise have forgotten, Sundays being my “day" I shall commence by noting how Ive spent, to a Professing Christian, not well — but to me very pleasently, for Ive spent them with her, who is as dear to me as life itself, my own sweet Isa, last Sunday not being well she came out to see me. I showed her over the Nelson Reef Works had a pleasent walk about the ranges in the neighbourhood, had tea together in my tent provided so nicely by Mrs. [[Palmer-21429|Drew]] — walked into Bendigo together called at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s, rather late when I got home, this morning I had a fine walk through the Bush about 9 miles to the Whip Stick Scrub to order a lot of sawn timber for the Company, had I been on pleasure I would have enjoyed myself, but being on business, I did not, such is the perversity of human nature — We have been very busy on the Reef lately, but had a holiday on Friday in consequence of the ceremony of christening the Engines. Mrs. F- did the thing cleverly with a bottle {{Image|file=Aag-135.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/135}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-136 418]


of Champagne, one of the Engines is now called the Trafalgar, the small one (16 horse power for winding purpose) the Nile, Nelsons two great victories, its generally admitted to be very appropriate nearly everybody in the neighbourhood got drunk, there being plenty of beer & eatables provided, Mr F. gave me preference of any job I liked about the works. I chose the Crushing machine feeding & washing out, the hours are very long 12 hours a day & every alternate week night shift. I fancy it will be more healthy than working under ground. Friday night a party of us went to hear an old favourite of mine Barlow the little wonder, he is the most versatile genius I ever heard of has an excellent voice, either for comic or sentimental songs, can play most every instrument, in fact can produce music out of anything Ive received 2 letters from mother since I last wrote, answered one seems days back & enclosed 30/. in it. [[Palmer-21429|Mrs. Drew]] was confined of a [[Drew-4173|boy]] early in week {{Image|file=Aag-136.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/136}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-138 419]


[My] friend Frazer came from town a few days ago & brought up a parcel from mother & gave me a long a/c about those at home — Etc I wrote to her to day & sent her £1.0.0. Ned is not doing much at the machine Im afraid they will get into difficulties if things dont mend with them I gave Ned £1.0.0, so Im pretty hard up myself just now, I paid him a visit this afternoon & found [[King-48316|Isa]] & her brother [[King-48616|John]] there, passed the afternoon very pleasently, walked into Sandhurst with them in the evening, left them rather abruptly in consequence of the coach for the Gullies coming by at the time & not feeling disposed to walk out I jumped up — & so got home early. I forgot to state I wrote to my father last week, I wonder if he will answer it, Query — October 2nd [Sep 30] ]1860. Weather very unsettled Been raining hard all day, much to my annoyance & disgust, for being Sunday & a day I look forward to with so much {{Image|file=Aag-138.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/137}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-391 420]


pleasure. I had promised to meet Isa & Ive been disappointed. I entered upon my new job on Monday morning, & have got sick of it already, what with the long hours, & the attention & anxiety attaching it, my very soul & body gets weary, 12 hours work amid the din of the Crushers, can’t hear myself speak do{{Blue|esn't}} suit me — Im told I shall get ac- customed to it. Im afraid not — I managed to go into Sandhurst, Wednesday night, called at Kings, Isa was alone, & what with singing, reading some beautiful passages from some poetical works she has, & delightful conversation, such as only those that love can understand I spent some four hours — She gave me a splendid portrait of herself (Batchelder took the day — before) I never saw such a perfect likeness of anyone as it is) wont I prize it. It was 1 am next morning when I got to my tent, I receivd a letter from Mother, all well, she had, per favour of a passenger X "Gt Britain" receivd a parcel from my father, containing 12 {{Red|*}}Sovereigns some religious works, & drawing books for my sisters. I must be thinking {{Image|file=Aag-391.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/138}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-139 421]


of going to bed (6 pm) for Ive to be at work by 12 OC tonight, next week being my night shift October 7th Nice weather during the past week. Feel tired & knocked up, after my nightly labours. I cant get enough sleep in the day time, my nature seems to object to the unusual mode of making day into night. I did not go out of the Gully during the week, until yesterday afternoon, (after spending the whole of the morning in bed) when I went into Sandhurst partly on our Managers account & also to make some purchases for myself in the shape of a new Sunday Coat & hat & gloves) arrived back by 6.OC went on to work until 12 pm to finish my week. Rose this morning at 11. am after dinner, I went over to Neds hut, we walked into Bendigo, called at Kings, found nobody at home, at least none of the young ones, rather disappointed heard they had gone early in the morning with a large party (picnicing on a Sabbath rather objectionable) to Axe- dale, I dont think they will enjoy themselves for it has been a wretched {{Image|file=Aag-139.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/139}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-140 422]


day, drizzling rain & high winds — We got wet through coming home going a considerable way towards cooling my passion, what with the rain & the disappointment of not seeing Isa, however Ive been spending the evening in the company of Gibbons in the shape of his "history" — its really splendid. Im passionately fond of Ancient history — I wrote to mother since my return & sent her £2.0.0 My brother Ned giving me 13/. towards the sum — [Sunday, 14 October 1860] Oct 15th [14th] 1860. Wretched weather & to crown my misery a wet Sunday Tuesday night I went to the Kings met Ned there passed a jolly evening laughing over their last Sundays spree Wednesday night I spent at Hoopers the old man is worse — Friday night I went to the Theatre, met Fowler & Murdoch, after the performance we rambled about Market Square fell in with an old acquaintance a pretty woman, I used to know on Dunolly & Ararat, she used to be with or accompanied Madam Barre or take part in that ladys classical {{Image|file=Aag-140.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/140}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-141 423]


entertainments the "Poses Plastiques" we had supper in a snug little parlour of an Hotel, didnt get home till 3 am next morning — last night I went to Happy Valley to assist Mr [[Halley-903|Halley]], our new Superintendant on the Nelson Reef, to bring his things to [[Palmer-21429|Mrs. Drews]], where he is going to take up his quarters, the little Ive seen of him I like, however — being tent mates, I shall know him better ere long. I went into Sandhurst this morning per invitation to dine at Kings, had a fine dinner, after which Isa & I took a walk out to Neds hut he provided tea for us. I was obliged to leave early & come home to try & get a little sleep before going to work at 12 oclock to night — I dont feel inclined to sleep, but if I dont I shall suffer before morning — I forgot to mention that Ned received a letter from father, I wonder if he intends honoring me with one — 21st Oct 1860 Alive & kicking which means in polite parlance (I suppose that Im in the enjoyment of good health & spirits — George Drew (who takes the {{Image|file=Aag-141.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/141}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-142 424]


the opposite shift to me on the "Works") & I have arranged the division of our labour, different than formerly — we change shifts at 12 OC. this past week — I went on last Sunday night at 12 & worked till 12 Monday noon — George came on & worked till 12 at night & so on, by this means we both get 6 hours of the night, the only objection I have to the arrangement, is that we only get one evening to ourselves in the fortnight. Yesterday Saturday my week ended at 12 (noon) Spent the afternoon in bed so had the night to myself, I dont go on to work till Monday at noon — Last night I went into Sandhurst, visited the Theatre left in disgust at the close of the first Act met Ned & [[Dight-42| Dight]]— & J.King, knocked about till 1 this morning, honouring nearly every place of amusement with our presence for a short time, Dance rooms, Free & Easys & Concert Rooms — Rose late this morning & had a long chat with Mr. [[Halley-903|Halley]] (my new tent mate) he is a clever man – was a member of the Andersonian Institute (Glasgow where he was in business as an Engineer but through the failure of an extensive Steamer firm, whose boats he had fitted up, was the cause of his failure, there {{Image|file=Aag-142.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/142}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-143 425]


are several Engines in the Colony, made by him, with his name on them) I may consider myself very fortunate in thus being so connected with such a man — he is exceedingly modest in his manner & simple in his habits — a true philosopher, but a man who possesses a deal of energy & perseverance — he has been very unfortunate in the colonies, fitted up a large crushing plant & extensive machinery on Blackwood with Mr Froggart, which ruined them both & now they are both engaged in conducting the works of the Nelson on fixed salaries rather a drop for them — Mr H. is very kind to me always willing to instruct me & in such a way that he makes me feel Im doing him a favour, by relieving him of a portion of his knowledge After dinner I went into Sandhurst & called for Isa, took a cab & brought her out here, showed her over our works & the lions of the Gully, had tea together & had a pleasent walk afterwards to her house — after resting a little time we again sallied forth, sat down on an old favourite spot of ours in the Camp Reserve where we told our tale of love over again, 10 OC when we parted, 11 when I got home I received a letter from mother on Tuesday, in which she informed me she had received a legacy from England £17.0.0, it paid some of her debts) I wrote & sent her £1.0.0 {{Image|file=Aag-143.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/143}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-144 426]


California Gully Oct 1860 — 28th Nice weather, Summer setting in Monday morning I went to Mr Hoopers he is no better, went to work at 12 — & done nothing else since, except reading a little. I think it very hard we should have to work six, twelve hours a day, right through the week, while all the rest only work 10 & leave at 4 pm on Saturdays, one thing our work is not hard, but very tedious & monotonous & requires a deal of attention, we are also out of the sun & rain the machine we attend being under a large Shed — Im afraid I shall get deaf the Stampers make such an infernal noise, George Fowler called for me this morning, to go with him to the Church in Long Gully. Ive been several times before I did join the choir but had not time to attend the rehearsals — but whenever I go I usually enter it, George & I were the only males there this morning, so we had a fine opportunity of displaying our vocal powers some very nice young ladies there but have wretched voices. I intended going into Sandhurst this afternoon but the weather is not very agreeable & I was afraid If I went, I may be induced {{Image|file=Aag-144.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/144}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-145 427]


to remain, & having to go on to work to night at 12, it wouldnt do to neglect the sleep I require — 4 o'c now, so into bed I purpose tumbling at once My brother Ned & J King I see coming along the road. Ive just told [[Palmer-21429|Mrs. Drew]] to tell them Im asleep & must not be disturbed, what a wretched way to pass ones life — Nov 4th 1860 Weather very hot my weeks works finished yesterday Saturday 12 O.C. so I dont go on till 12 tomorrow. Tuesday I received a long letter from Mother & also another from Fred full of Town talk, all well at home — my sister Mary quite got over her attack. I wrote to Mother this morning & sent her £2.0.0 I spent Tuesday evening at Kings, saw Isa she was glad to see me, we are trying (or Im doing so) to be but as ordinary friends towards each other tho’ somehow or another on making our adieus, our lips come in contact as by an irresistible impulse that recognises no law but that of inclination I was introduced to a Mr. Edwards of whom Ive heard Isa speak about a young man that came from Scotland {{Image|file=Aag-145.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/145}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-146 428]


in the same ship with her & her father (who came out alone, only lately tho not Mrs K. & the rest of the family arrived) & I believe they became attached to each other, & would have been united, but he led rather a dissolute life after his landing she had not seen him for near 4 years & now he springs up, I hear a reformed man, he has a contract or is employed by the Contractors for the New jail on Sandhurst. I feel a little jealous, but if he renews his addresses, I wont stand in his way, for Isa & I broke our engagement mutually, & I dont care what she does, if she is rendered happy My brother Ned has made his acquaintance & being room in his hut for another he has allowed Edwards to live with him I dont like the fellow somehow an instinct makes me think he is not what he would like people to think he is, I dont know what to call it (a want of sincerity, is the nearest definition I can think of. I could never think such a man could supplant me in Isas affections I went into Sandhurst yesterday evening, & called at Kings took Isa to the Theatre late when I got {{Image|file=Aag-146.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/146}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-147 429]


to Neds where I slept for the night but came here to Breakfast, spent the morning reading. In the afternoon I went to Neds, J.King, & Isa called immediately after, spent the afternoon very pleasently, had tea there & in the evening Isa & I took a walk found ourselves at length seated on our dear little spot in the Camp Reserve, as loving together as if we were to be married in the morning making ourselves (this is on reflection) more miserable than ever — 11 o'c when I got home, nearly 1 now, poor human nature how weak & frail under temptation after all our resolutions to again be guilty of giving vent to passions that under our circumstances should be subdued. Its very fine old folks talking, but where two young impassioned natures meet, away flies philosophy and reason in connection with the hearts affections — Nov 11th 1860 Lovely weather still at the Nelson Crushing Machine been a reduction in the wages but I am happy to state, not in mine {{Image|file=Aag-147.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/147}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-148 430]


Im getting 5/. per week more than the other men on the ground, there being more responsibility attached to my situation, last week about 2,000 oz of gold passed through my hands, we are crushing for the public (not hav’g stone of our own) we had some stone from the Johnson Reef that realized something like 40 oz per ton I got away from work last night at 7.30, instead of 12 pm, owing to some derangement in the machinery I went to see Mr. Hooper, poor old man he is much worse, his belly is getting a fearful size, owing to the tumour increasing — Minnie was there with her baby the prettiest child I ever saw. This morning I wrote to Fred — & read till dinner time. In the afternoon, I went to Hoopers had a chat for an hour with H. he speaks very despondingly, but thanks God for sparing his life so long, from there I went to Neds, Edwards was there & tolerably pleasent. We three went into Sandhurst {{Image|file=Aag-148.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/148}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-149 431]


& called at Kings, Edwards & I stayd tea — from his manner towards me seeing Isa prefer my conversation to his, Im sure he hates me, at times his features bore a most malevolent expression, however I took no notice of him or his looks & spent a very pleasent evening, the 12 pm now, time for bed, if the machine had been all right I should have to go on to work instead of going to bed, as it is, Im to be there at 6 in the morning Nov th. 18th.1860. Weather very warm summer set in, in all its intensity — Been hard at work, getting horribly disgusted with my job at the Machine such long hours & the work is so monotonous, not a soul to speak to for 12 hours, to one with a temp~ like mine, possessing an active mind & fond of excitement, such a life as Im leading would kill me soon Ive no time to go into company If I do its at a sacrifice of rest when I do go out that I dont derive much pleasure. For instance I left work at 12 on Friday, midday after 12 hours {{Image|file=Aag-149.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/149}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-150 432]


hours labour, & went to bed at one & slept until 6, had my tea & went into Bendigo & took Isa to hear the Oratorio of the Creation (it was done very credibly by some 50 per- formers, all amateurs & I enjoyed it very much), 11 pm when it was over, had to make a hasty adieu to Isa & walk home 3 miles, had 10 minutes to change my clothes & get to work by 12 & did 12 hours work — so where was my pleasure! I was so sick & exhausted on leaving work yesterday noon, I threw myself down on the floor of my tent, without waiting for any thing to eat & slept till 6 pm on rising I washed & dressed & then walked 4 miles to Golden Square to see [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], (where he is at present living) spent the evening with them gave him £2.0.0 being the balance of what I owed him, tho I shall always consider myself in his debt for the many kindnesses he has shown me since our acquaintance {{Image|file=Aag-150.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/150}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-151 433]


he informs me he has sold his share on the Redan, or Sophia Reef for £700 half cash the rest in 6 months, he has long purposed visiting his fathers home in Scotland, & now he has the means, he intends leaving here in a fortnights times, heaven prosper him wherever he goes — I shall be very sorry at his absence, especially, as he thinks of remaining there — it was 12 O.C when I arrived home I wrote to Mother this morning & I enclosed £2.0.0 in the letter — After dinner I went to Neds, we went into Kings & in company {{Red|*}}with [[King-48386|Isa]] & [[King-48711|Mary]] & there brother [[King-48616|John]] took a cab & rode to Kangaroo Flat from there walked to Allens had some refreshments & visited the "Break 0 day Reef" & rambled about the ranges through the Scrub & Bush, not very pleasent travelling for ladies with extensive Crinolines, got back to Kings by 7, had tea & left at 9 pm — walked home, called at the hut & had a chat with Burchell {{Image|file=Aag-151.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/151}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-152 434]


Nov 26th.1860 Very hot weather all the week, one comfort I work in the shade, the greatest fault I have is when I have to sleep in the day time in the tent. I find it most oppressing I left work at 12 Saturday night & slept until 10 am yesterday morn rose & dressed, went to the Long Gully Church, very poorly attended places of worship dont appear very attractive places out in the gullies verifying my general idea about Church goers. I think 19 out of 20 would not go but to see & to be seen the word of God & the salvation of souls is a very ordinary consideration with the majority. On leaving the Church I met my brother Ned & couzin Harry with their horses & drays just returning from the bush with a couple of loads of firewood (query, rather doubtful about the propriety of such Sabbath work the idea struck me & I moralized over it whilst accompanying them {{Image|file=Aag-152.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/152}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-153 435]


to their hut. I had dinner with them which I prepared myself – quite a novelty to be a cook again after living at a Boarding house so long — after dinner I went into Sand & called at Kings, old folks out, no one at home but Isa, I thought her manner was not as it is usually there appeared a want of consistency about her which to me seemed unusual & strange, sometimes full of her accustomed enthusiasm & at other times distant & reserved I was rather pained by her manner Ned & [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] called & had tea after which I left got home by 7 pm went to bed, & rose at 12, not having slept a wink & feeling wretched & tired, however I had to go to work & have just returned, waiting for dinner — ere I turn into bed again, what a life I received a letter from mother on Saturday all well, tells me she is just 50 years of age, my poor mother, she has led a sad miserable {{Image|file=Aag-153.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/153}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-154 436]


life from a variety of causes. I would I could render her declining years happier 4pm. I called at Hoopers this afternoon, & I heard there from Scoty that he had met Isa my Isa with Edwards nearly every night last week what can I do or think of such a thing, I was positively savage when I heard it. I cannot believe she can think seriously about him, tho’ now I remember she always spoke most compassionately of him, which I ascribed to her charitable spirit & I feel miserable, my very soul seems torn from me — who can I blame but myself. I must have sickened her with my manner during the past 6 months. I ought to have been prepared for this, yet I could never realize the idea of losing her. I had hoped something would have turned up, that might have given me en couragement to look forward for a happy consummation of our love I cursed her when I heard it. I ought {{Image|file=Aag-154.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/154}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-155 437]


to have cursed myself for being such an idiot as to find myself on her to have continued our intimacy, when we first agreed to be nothing more than friends. I feel ashamed of permitting my passion getting the better of my judgement, wont I steel my heart, at least, in her presence she shall never know the pang her conduct has caused me — While she was single I would never look at another being, bearing the shape of woman with affection, I dont wish to see her again, but I will & tell her what I think of her December 2nd 1860. Lovely weather Went to work at 12 last Sunday night — Tuesday night I paid a man to work in my place & I went to Golden Square to bid [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s Good bye — I was rather astonished to find Isa King there, who had being spending the day with them I was very cool towards her I could not conceal from her, that {{Image|file=Aag-155.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/155}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-156 438]


of Edwards attentions toward her & what I thought about such behaviour had it been anyone else I would not have noticed it, for we have only been as very dear friends to each other the last few months, except at times when we forgot ourselves, she wished me to meet her the following night but unfortunately or fortunately (is a matter for after consideration) it turned out very wet, & she was not at the place appointed — being the first time I ever knew her to break an engagement. I had weighed as I thought every consideration & had come to the conclusion that if she was agreeable we would get married at once — I felt my very happiness for life depended upon it, & was fully determined to risk all consequences – my wages are enough to support us & my brother Ned is out of debt & I think would be able to assist mother, as I have hitherto done But man proposes & God disposes my feeling underwent a complete {{Image|file=Aag-156.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/156}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-157 439]


revolution ere I returned home — I met Ned about an hour after the appointed time, who told me he had just met Isa & Edwards together going to the Theatre. I thought if she could go there in the rain she might have met me per promise & my feelings were very bitter. Ned & I went to the Theatre & saw them she looked very pale & anxious I thought, as if she had been guilty of committing some crime & was afraid she was being discovered — the play did not interest me much that night I got out in time to go to work doing my work in a most mechanical manner. I went to Church this morning, after dinner called at Neds went with him into Sandhurst. Ned had to call at Kings so I thought Id go in, found Edwards there, I just spoke to Isa, did not stay a minute – took a cab & rode to Golden Square called on Mr & Mrs [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s {{Image|file=Aag-157.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/157}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-158 440]


spent the afternoon & had tea with them & bade them once more adieus felt very sad at parting with them for Jim is the only man I ever met I feel a truly lasting sincere regard for, & tho we may never meet again, he will ever remain fresh in my heart & memory, he leaves on Wednesday for Melbourne) I called at Kings (on leaving Jims) for Ned (Isa & Eds, out for a strool) – received consolation from Mr. K. & Mary, such as its all your own fault. Isa had told them we had broken off our engagement, & that I had no right to let her present conduct, influence me – Etc — Etc. I feel very lonely, sad & miserable losing my best friend — & the only being I think my soul will ever yearn after – tho’ whatever may turn up, I should never think of Isa again as I have done I would not marry her now if it would save my life, tho I love her still {{Image|file=Aag-158.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/158}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-159 441]


I wrote to mother this morning & sent her £2.0.0. I will post it tomorrow 9th. December 1860 Weather very unsettled the last few days, been hard at work, visited little, the only thing in the shape of pleasure Ive had, is Mr Halleys Company & Conversation, which I’ve stated before is very interesting. I learn something from him every day, "light my candle from his lamp" — called at Mr Hoopers on Tuesday morning. Old H. is worse, occasionally delirious — Minnie was there & several old neighbours who were very anxious to know when I was to be married. I had to submit to a severe ordeal, they little knew how every word pricked me — I forgive them they meant no harm, Minnie was the only one who seemed to know how things stood, she spared me — & turned the tables upon them — with a pleasent fire of raillery. Mr. Halley & I left the tent early this morning & took a long walk about the Gullys, looking at the Reefs & both being well known, we did not get home till tea time {{Image|file=Aag-159.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/159}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-160 442]


California Gully 1860 Dec [Sunday, 30 December 1860] 29th.Decr.1860. Three weeks since I continued my journal. Been working away as usual, alternate night & day shifts — passed my Christmas very quietly, X mas day J.Hall, J.Barrow, & I hired a horse & trap & drove down to Huntly, after some refreshments we started to drive through Sandhurst & to Kangaroo Flat, stopping at every public House on the road, the day was very hot, my two companions were drunk by the time we arrived back, after tea I took a cab & went into Sandhurst met Ned at Kings on passing, (Isa out with Edds.) had a chat with the old folks — (I was there on Sunday, but did not speak to Isa, its more than a month since I spoke to her, how strange, who would imagine that this unnatural coolness could spring up between two beings that professed to love each other as we did, what an incomprehensible thing is the human heart) {{Image|file=Aag-160.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/160}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-161 443]


Walked to the hut with Ned, he has been very ill during the past fortnight but Im happy to state he is now recovering I wrote to mother a fortnight ago & sent her £1.0.0. I also wrote this morning & sent her £2.0.0. Ive recd 2 letters within this last 3 weeks they are all well at home, but they are disappointed by my not going to see them this X mas, the fact Ive neither time nor means, nobody in the Company’s employ could take my place without a weeks instruction & then would not do the work in a satisfactory manner, & what with my expenses & sending my mother money I find it impossible to save enough to visit them, as I should like to do — I long to see my dear mother & sisters it seems years since I had that pleasure This morning I called at Hoopers, found him still lingering, hardly knew me – on leaving there I went to the hut Burchell was the only one there, had a long chat with him, we went into Sandhurst together, visited the Church at the conclusion of the Service, I met {{Image|file=Aag-161.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/161}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-162 444]


Mrs Hickey (Minnie), I walked home with her, we are very confidential to each other, she tells me a deal of sorrow & troubles (few pleasures poor girl falls to her lot) & I tell her some of mine I left her at her mothers, got home here about 9 pm nearly 12 Pm now, time for bed — 1st February 1861 A month since I wrote up my journal, getting very careless & neglectful Ive little inclination, the life Im leading is of such a character, that I find Ive little pleasure in noting how my time is spent. I feel ashamed sometimes on looking over these pages to what little purpose Im living for, if it wasnt for that bright star of our existence "Hope", what poor miserable wretches we should be Im still in the Companys employ but not at the same job. Im engaged now, as Banksman or Lander at the Engine Shaft, it is the only part of the works, where any work {{Image|file=Aag-162.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/162}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-163 445]


is being done at present. The capital is getting low, & they wish to strike the Reef that is supposed to exist on the West side of the Shaft. I like my present job much better than the other I had, the work is not of such a monotonous character, there is some anxiety attached to it, the slightest mistake in the signals might cause the death of those below or injure the machine I have to land the water & stuff as it is hoisted up, assist in repairing the tools & dress the timbers necessary for securing the ground I have heard from my mother twice once from my sister Mary — & was agreeably surprised at receiving a long [letter] from Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], (who I had fancied was ploughing the ocean near Cape Horn -) he informs me he is settled down in Swanston St. (Melbourne) where he has purchased the business of an "Ornithologist", his family & self are well — how I laughed to hear of Jim turning Bird fancier — Im afraid he wont be fortunate in his new profession, as in his old one he’ll dwindle his money away & then return {{Image|file=Aag-163.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/163}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-164 446]


1/2/1861 - to old Bendigo again. I wrote him a long letter full of my opinions & advice I dont think he’ll thank me — I wrote to Mother a fortnight ago & sent her £2.0.0 wrote also yesterday & sent her £1.0.0 My brother Ned is still unwell was laid up a fortnight & managed to get considerably into debt. I have been unwell the past week, lost 2 days work, £1.0.0 out of my pocket no joke these times. Ive been to Church every Sabbath evening since I last wrote, met the Kings but never spoke to Isa, until last Sunday when I met Mr. King who insisted upon me going home to tea with him, Isa presided at the table, & was very affable & agreeable smiled as bright & looked as lovely & pretty as ever — I dare say to other eyes, but not in mine I called her Miss King she called me as usual, as if nothing had occurred to distroy the feeling that used to exist between us, what thoughts crowded into my mind during the short time I sat opposite her. I couldnt understand her, she was as calm & selfpossessed {{Image|file=Aag-164.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/164}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-165 447]


met my eye as steady as a statue — I enquired after Edwards & was told he had not been there for a month I had heard such was the case, & also that his past professions of contrition for past misdeeds was but assumed, — after tea was over Mary informed me that while on Bendigo, he had saved up £40.0.0 with the intention of getting married, he had left them one evening & went to some Gambling Saloon & lost every penny of it, & had left Bendigo for a situation in Inglewood She also told me, that some years ago he was engaged to Isa, when she was a mere child, that circumstances had seperated them for years until they met again on Bendigo, when finding her disengaged, & professing repentance for his past negligence, she was induced to go with him again — Mr. King has a large family & Isa is over 20 & he thought or thinks it time she was married, & knowing I wasnt in a position to unite myself to her, he had advised her to accept Edwards, Mary told me that Isa had admitted to her but a week ago, that she loved me dearer than any object on earth — Mr. K. {{Image|file=Aag-165.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/165}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-166 448]


knows nothing of Edwards late gamblings & falling off in his promises to reform – poor Isa she must be more wretched than I am — her prospect of happiness with such a being must be small Mary told me that she heard Edwards make Isa promise never to speak to me — how unmanly of him & — so accounts for her passing me without scarcely recognising me — her heart is fairly crushed, & her mind bewildered. Mary made me promise never to breath a word about our conversation. Isa would never forgive her if she knew what she had told me — I have Isa’s portraits which I have long intended to return to her — she has mine which I purpose getting from her — In one of my mothers letters, she informs me she had received a letter from father, & he was engaged as agent for some Coal Merchant in Lancashire – having given up business on his own account I hope he will be successful but Im rather doubtful, for he is so fond of changes never can persevere or stick to one thing I fancy his must be a wretched life so very far from his family, with no one {{Image|file=Aag-166.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/166}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-167 449]


[to] comfort him should he be sick or in distress, no home — no sympathy, living with strangers — Im sure there is no one in our family that feels for him as I do — & still Ive been accused of being the most prejudiced against — him, with the exception of my mother Ive have the most to complain of from his treatment but I forgive him as freely as it is possible to do so — It grieves me to know & see how my mother has had to struggle on against so many adversities, working like any common sempstress to support her family, she with her fine mind, refined & cultivated habits & manners & at her time of life seems very hard — how comfortable we might be if Ned & I were living with them, what we earn would keep us very comfortable. Ive no desire to see them on the diggins — nor yet do I see how I could live with them — in Melbourne — God help me Ill try to act a sons part to her, my mother — Ive been to the Theatre twice since my last entry, once to see G.V.Brooke & Miss Avonia Jones play "Macbeth" the finest acting I ever witnessed in my life There has been another novelty — the March Troupe comprising a company of some 30 girls who play drama remarkably well — {{Image|file=Aag-167.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/167}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-168 450]


2/2/61 February 2nd 1861 My 22nd. Birthday – how time flies. I dont appear to be getting any better with increasing years, in a worldly sense — Ive perhaps been a gainer by the experiences Ive undergone — I went to see Old Hooper, had a long chat with him, his end is drawing near fast, Minnie was there, she had been on a visit to her mother the last month we are very good friends & often have a laugh over our sentimental days 10th February 1861. Another week nearer the grave — Been hard at work, regular slavery — just now at the shaft, a deal of wet. Ive been working below this week no joke — we are wet through before we get to the bottom of the shaft & then to have to work for 8 hours in water makes one very tired & unfit to go out visiting Etc afterwards — my week finished yesterday at 1 Pm (Saturday) after tea last evening, in company with a fellow workman named Joe Beale I went into Sandhurst, visited the Shamrock or Theatre Royal, saw the Marsh Troup {{Image|file=Aag-168.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/168}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-169 451]


play or perform the "Sea of Ice" a very sensational drama — on leaving we visited some friends of Joes — not very reputable ones I fancy — didnt get home until 4 am this morning, after Breakfast I went to see Mr. Hooper — he is still lingering what a short step there is between the grave & him, whenever I visit him I think it is the last time. It ought to make one pause in a wicked career & produce reflections on the brevity of life & not to spend it idly or in vain, but to be prepared for that great trial we are sent into the world to bear — Death — so that we may live again in glory everlasting – & not leave the saving of our souls for lifes last moments. Its very seldom such reflections cross my mind. Ive led such a strange life & been thrown into such a strange mixture of good & bad company that Ive acquired habits of free thinking that are not altogether orthodox I fear I take up the Bible & read it sometimes as I would a work of fiction, its truly marvellous morality, I think is very fine but rather Utopian — but still {{Image|file=Aag-169.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/169}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-170 452]


a religion that all refined minds would adapt to [than] that of any other Ive any conception of. I fancy Christs comforting angel was his own good conscience no Satan tempted him but that which every man carries in his own bosom, his evil passion I think that in the worlds society there are people far superior to others in moral excellence — kind of moral pillars, which I think Christ is the highest, he was one who had conquered himself, which ought & I believe is the object of professing Christians that there was such a being as Christ I dont doubt, & that he was a man in whom was condensed all that was good & elevated in mans nature a kind of demigod who had conquered the same passions we combat, that he had his faults is very possible, but owing to the partiality of his biographers, we have not been shown them — perhaps Ive not read or studied Theology sufficiently to state or have opinions upon the subject but such thoughts flash across my mind until they form into substances — with regard to happiness, I fancy from the experience Ive had, that is to be {{Red|Completely changed my views on the subject, (J.H.W. 1870)}} {{Image|file=Aag-170.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/170}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-171 453]


had on earth, we must look for it, not in the world, or the things of the world but within ourselves, in our temper – & in our hearts, a kind of spiritualism that I feel convinced belongs to the soul & of divine origin, a feeling or sensation that however depraved human nature may become, will never be effaced — In the afternoon I went to the Church in Long Gully heard Revd Haywood preach walked over to the hut had tea there then went to hear the Revd Fletcher who of all men or preachers on Bendigo I think I could profit under — if I could get over that unnatural spirit of contradiction that I possess — its a great blemish in any ones character to doubt & endeavour to turn & construe what is good & what in my heart I feel is true into ridicule. After the service I met Mr. King & Isa just shook hands with them & came home March 10th 1861 Just a month since I wrote last — getting very negligent of late. Still at work on the Nelson Reef the last 3 weeks, all day work — I like it much better, enjoy better health – we have finished sinking the Engine Shaft {{Image|file=Aag-171.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/171}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-172 454]


220 ft deep. We left a well 8 ft deep & put in a plat[e] & have set in two drives or cross cuts in East the other West — I trust we may soon strike the Reefs – for the affairs of the Company are at a low – ebb — the valuable Crushing plant is standing idle, they purpose making some improvements in it & commence crushing for the Public again — so I expect next week I will have to take my old post again — & give up my present one at the Shaft — I recvd, much to my surprise a letter from my father, no family news in it but lots of advice, cautioning against the vices young men are so prone to indulge in, sensual enjoyment, smoking, drinking Etc & a long tirade against matrimony my brother Ned had informed him I was courting & so drew his conclusions I think it will be a long time till I think of such a thing as marrying — I got a letter from mother that made me uneasy, my little sister Bessie was dangerously ill, I answered it & sent her £2.0.0 afortnight [ago] Ive heard since from her, that she has quite recovered {{Image|file=Aag-172.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/172}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-173 455]


I also wrote to her to day & sent her £2.0.0 & as long as Im able Ill endeavour to send her £1.0.0 per week I heard from Fred sometime back, he sent me some pieces of music — I had a letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] last week he & family are well — doesn't state how his business [is] in answering. Last Sunday Ned & I walked to Huntly (or 3 miles beyond there) to see [[Dight-42|Harrry Dight]], — had dinner with him, had a look over the Steam Saw Mills, where he works — took a ramble in Bush shot some 20 parrots enjoyed ourselves very much walked back to Huntly, where Harry introduced us to a young lady, a friend of his, very pretty, & I fancy that is all can be said in her favour, she is evidently an adventuress & is making a fool of Harry, who she wants to erect her a place — she purposes opening a library, in connection with a shanty I advised him to cut her, the acquaintance will do him no good — she invited me dinner (next Sunday (to day)) but Ive had no intention of going too far for a joke — we were very tired when we got home, tho we rode half way — {{Image|file=Aag-173.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/173}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-174 456]


I went to a Ball three weeks ago at the "White Horse Hotel" a grand affair I went to the Theatre last night with Joe Beale, did not come home till this morning 9 am — This afternoon I went to Hoopers, he is still alive, Mrs H. was in great trouble, Scoty who lives with them broke out on the spree again & got into a deal of trouble, from there I went to the hut, Ned away had tea with Harry & Burchell, after which I went to Church, called at King’s to return a book Ive long had of Isa’s I did not stay long, she looked very {{Red|*}}nice It would not do [to] visit there much I am getting weaned of my passion for her tho Im leading a very different life now than I did when I used to keep her company Company & scenes I frequent I dont care about referring to in my journal, in after days may be a reproach, tho thought of them is sufficient, without putting such things in character I was very happy & far more virtuous and morally inclined when she was my only companion than now — Ive somewhere heard or read that there {{Image|file=Aag-174.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/174}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-175 457]


is nothing in human life more amiable & respectable than the character of a truly virtuous & lovely girl, as man will acquire a better moral tone by keeping such company, if he is so fortunate in falling into such — I rode home tis very late — when I commence to write, I dont like to stop, sometimes) [Sunday, 17 March 1861] March 18:th 1861 Weather very hot during the past week, the diggers are in great want of water, many of puddling and Crushing Machines, are stopped working & many men out of work in Consequence I have not been well this past week owing to a bad cold & working such irregular hours. We have been laying down the pumps in the Engine Shaft I went to work on Monday morning, left it at noon & slept during the afternoon, had to go on at 6 Pm & work all night & so on all the week, in the day time we get down the pipes, & at night have to bail the water out Tuesday I went to Hoopers — Im getting tired of going Mrs. H. quite bores me with her recitals of her sorrows — not but what I can sympathise with her, but she seems to have stored them up for my particular {{Image|file=Aag-175.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/175}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-176 458]


edification whenever I visit her. I have received no letters since I last wrote — I commenced what will be a long letter to Father, which I intend to send by the next English Mail My brother Ned paid me a visit this morning & remained to dinner, there machine is not very well, it cost them so much to have to hire 2 horses & dray they have bought a horse & cart of their own last week, its not quite paid for but they hope to be out of debt in a fortnights time. I went over to the hut to see the horse, he looks satisfactory We went into Sandhurst, visited the baths had a bathe, met J.King, accompanied him home, Isa away on a visit had tea, Mary is getting a nice girl what a change there is in her since I first knew her — went to Church had a long chat about Isa — left her about 9. Pm took a cab & rode home. April 7th. Three weeks since I last wrote up my journal, nothing particular to note — finished laying down the pumps so there will be no more night work for the Banksman — but unfortunately Ive lost that job, not through any {{Image|file=Aag-176.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/176}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-177 459]


fault on my part, but one of the Engineers is to be dispensed with & he wants employment & as he has not been accustomed to any thing like mining, there was no job he could take except the one I had where the only qualities needed is steadiness & a knowledge of preparing timber, a kind of rough carpenter — Im shall be engaged at the crushing machine helping to prepare it for work. Ive not been about much since my last, afortnight ago I went into Sandhurst, met Minnie & walked to her mothers with her. I went to see her father, he looks horrible, I never saw such an unnatural sight in my life, wasted to a skeleton & yet his belly is an enormous size presenting a shocking appearance Last Sunday, Ned & I went to Huntly to see [[Dight-42|Dight]] — two other young men were there, friends of Harrys who had just come from Melbourne & were acquainted with my brother Fred, at least one of them Ned Rowitt — a smart little fast sort of a chap — who seems to have a vast amount of consequence I always play humble pie to suchlike {{Image|file=Aag-177.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/177}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-178 460]


beings. I make a harvest of fun out of them by humouring their conceit & vanity. I can say he’s a decent fellow but having lived in a town all his life I fancy from his manner, he looks upon us country or bush bred youths, as somebody to patronise. I like to meet there sort a[nd] take a little of there arrogance out of them in a quiet manner — late when we left them, with a promise to meet them last night at Abbotts Theatre, or Dancing Saloon — we met & spent about 5 hours in the most reckless manner, in company of a lot of the lowest characters on Bendigo the place is well patronized by all classes, Lawyers, Clerks, Tradesmen & diggers mixing with the most abandoned beings of both sexes — 12 OC when we parted company 1 this morning when I got home — felt disgusted with myself this morning, headache from the excitement & smoking cigars — I dont know how those that drink must feel next morning — I always feel seedy after anything of an unusual nature — Im fond of pleasure & {{Image|file=Aag-178.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/178}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-179 461]


amusement & generally get it in whatever form I desire it — but I always avoid excesses, most young men seem to plunge headlong into it, distroying health & wealth in the pursuit — Im wild & reckless when frequenting such places as I was at last night — but on leaving them Ive no desire to return to them — many I know are quite the reverse, the more they go the more they want to go — I wrote to Isa last week (& returned her portrait) I stated my object in doing so was that I had no desire to preserve anything of one, whom I had been so cruelly deceived in, that had professed such love & confidence in me — & not without cause — for I acknowledged she was the only being I ever loved or could love in this world with the same pure emotions, & I was sorry to find that she one whom I thought was peerless – could have abandoned herself to another in such an impromptu manner, was unworthy the love of an honorable man & from her conduct the last 3 months it was very evident her professions of regard for me, were but feigned I concluded by hoping we should be {{Image|file=Aag-179.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/179}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-180 462]


friends for the future to each other & trusted that at any time if it was in my power to be of service to her, she would employ me – Etc — I wrote it on the impulse of a moment, my heart seemed to go with it. I would have given anything for the likeness & better again — its contents must have caused her sorrow for after con- -sideration I dont think she deserved my reproaches — I received her reply next day – which I shall copy to the very letter — Dear John Henry — I never fully realised that all was indeed at an end between us until my portrait was returned to me, it has been a severe trial to me, & none the easier to bear that I have in a great measure brought it upon myself, but while I own that I have been greatly to blame, still I am convinced that were you thoroughly acquainted with the combination of circumstances that have been the painful cause of our separation, you would think – I have been more sinned against than sinning — There is one portion of your note to me, which implies a doubt of my having ever entertained any affections for you — you seem to believe that while {{Image|file=Aag-180.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/180}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-181 463]


feigning a sincere love for you — my affections in reality were bestowed upon another; but in this you do me a cruel injustice, from the commencement of our acquaintance, until very very recently, you possessed my undivided love & never in all that time did I, in thought word or deed, prove unfaithful to you With regard to the party whose it is unnecessary to name — I have merely to state the fact that for more than two years previous to his/my arrival on Bendigo we were strangers to each other, in accordance with my Father & my own wish. I then ceased having any communication with him — You will naturally expect me to return your portrait, in fact it was for me to take the initiating step in the matter but I had not the courage to do so I hope you will not insist upon having it returned, let it be a pledge of friendship between us. Should the time ever arrive for either of us, when to retain it would be a crime, I will then return it to you. I thank you for your friendly good wishes, it is the greatest consolation, that I can have under the circumstances, that I may {{Image|file=Aag-181.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/181}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-182 464]


still look upon you as a friend, I trust that when circumstances will permit, you may find one better calculated to make you happy & more worthy than I would have been to be your companion through life — I find I have written at greater length than I had first intended & I will now conclude with a hope that you will not become a stranger to us, my father highly esteems you & you will always be a welcome visitor at our house with kindest regards to you Dear Johnnie for the present adieu, Isa — Many would suppose this a very nice note, but oh! Isa it breathes of deceit, what can she mean by a combination of circumstances, a man whom she professed to abhor, & whenever he shows himself she rushes into his arms — & yet Ive heard they are parted for good again perhaps: to judge from a part of her note she wants me to renew the attack Ill go to there place while Im welcome but no more love passages, thats past This morning I visited to see Ned In the afternoon I went with Hazlett to see the Devonshire Reef, where he has a share — came home by 3 O.C {{Image|file=Aag-182.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/182}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-183 465]


& wrote to mother sent her £2.0.0 did the same a fortnight ago — no news from father by the last mail. I received a a letter the other day from Fred, giving me an account of the pleasures he & others enjoyed during the Easter holidays — he & my sister went to the Volunteer Review at the Werribee, a most amusing a/c he gave of the affair, what with the rain & bad railway accommodation & other inconveniences April 14th 1861 Lovely weather — till to day when it commenced raining, wish it would cease. Been at work in the Smiths Shop all the week, making Cages (or helping) for the Engine Shaft. Tuesday night I went in company of several others to E.H. Gully with the intention of joining the Volunteers, however after reflection I came to the conclusion I had no time night & morning to walk a mile to be drilled so did not join — Its a very popular movement & reflects credit on the community for taking such an interest in it — Wednesday evening I went to Sandhurst visited the Atheneum. I often go there a kind of a debating society. Last night I went to the Theatre, didnt get home {{Image|file=Aag-183.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/183}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-184 466]


till late. Spent the morning reading — In the afternoon went into Sandhurst to witness the Confirmation Ceremony – some 60 people were confirmed (many in my opinion confirmed sinners). I knew several, Minnie was one, after the service I met her & her brother Bob with Burchell walked home with them, got wet through April 21st Weather beautiful — Been erecting a "Whip" on one of the Shafts at the Nt end of the Claim, to hoist up stuff with — 7 hands were discharged last night, things looking blue, no sign of the Reef yet — Spent my evenings reading, with the exception of Tuesday when I witnessed the rehearsal of a drama, some very aspiring amateurs are going to produce at Thorpes. I went into Sandhurst as usual last night, called at Hoopers on my way, went to the Theatre & was surprised to see Mary & Isa King in company with Edwards come in take seats near me. I just bowed or returned their salutation, & at the close of the first Act — I shifted my {{Image|file=Aag-184.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/184}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-185 467]


quarters — 12 when I got home - This afternoon, hearing there was to be a grand funeral in honor of a man who was killed on the Victoria Reef named Matthews — Hazlett & I went to the Cemetary (Long Gully) the deceased was an Oddfellow, a Forrestor & Freemason & to crown all was a Volunteer & being the first to die, he was buried with Military honors — 7000 people were supposed to be present I dont suppose 99 out of every 100 ever heard of the man before – the roads were like a fair vehicles & footpassengers crowding every where to see the show for such the procession was — while waiting for the funeral in the Cemetery, I saw one of the prettiest girls I ever saw in my life, doing what I termed to Hazlett, a meditation among the tombs, he left me with the intention of meeting the procession & while leaning over a fence, the girl came up & enquired if I could show her the foreigners Burying ground — rather a strange question, but I offered to ascertain for her — we walked about some time over the ground without finding out — the crowd {{Image|file=Aag-185.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/185}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-186 468]


began to increase, so I offered her my arm which she accepted, found her far more attractive than the show — She was an Italian & so beautiful, she might have sat to Murillo for an ideal – Madonna — I pumped her but to no purpose, I couldnt get out of her where she lived or what her name was — our parting was as strange as our meeting we were walking very leisurely along the road leading to the White Hills, when a buggy passed by with a gentleman in it, he stopped & just said "get up" when before I could speak we shook hands & she left me in a moment. I was quite bewildered, I felt as if an angel had left my side & disappointed & cross I saw the vehicle drive away at a rapid rate — immediately after, I met Miss Sayars, (an Undertakers daughter) a pretty girl, but oh what a different style to the little foreigner who had just left me — had a chat with, & left her very abruptly for standing by I saw Isa King & her brother [[King-48616|John]] — I spoke to them {{Image|file=Aag-186.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/186}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-187 469]


Isa was very affable & friendly — the funeral being over, I got a cab & we three went into Sandhurst, accepted Isas invitation to tea — I dont know what possessed me, that after what has passed I could be so free & easy with her — I met Ned there & after tea we all went to Church, & returned to their house, did not stay long — Isa & I hadnt an opportunity of a quiet talk — I wrote to Mother this morning & sent her £2.0.0 — Received a letter from Fred during the week, & enclosed in it was one from Mary — April 28th.1861 Nice weather — At my old job "Banksman" again at the whip, tho I was engaged the fore part of the week on business, had to visit Sandhurst very often on behalf of the company — Mr Hooper departed this life last Sunday night the 21st. inst – a post mortem examination was held on the body, & it was stated that if the disease he died of had been properly treated he would have lived for many years — Cancer of the Liver he died of — I have {{Image|file=Aag-187.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/187}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-188 470]


been to see Mrs. H. whenever I had time she is in a poor way, poor woman — I was sorry I could not go to the funeral but Mr Froggart could not spare me — Hooper was an Oddfellow so he was buried with some Ceremony, all the funeral expenses paid, & she received £20.0.0 from the Lodge — Dave Hazlett & Hannon Stewart & I went into Sandhurst last night, knocked about Pall Mall, saw everything worth seeing — then visited the Theatre, came from there & went dancing got home by 1 this morning Last Monday night I went to an amateur performance at Thorpes — passed off very well — at the conclusion there was a ball & supper — to which I stay’d — I had only just time [to] change my clothes & swallow my breakfast before going to work Tuesday morning. I did not rise till late this morning, read till dinner time when Hazlett called & we went to the Anglo Reef to Stewart tent — he is a nice young fellow — Ive known him some time & we are very intimate Hennen is his proper name, but he {{Image|file=Aag-188.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/188}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-189 471]


came out a middy in some ship of Greens & bolted away for the diggins on his arrival & turned gold digger, he has not been a very fortunate one — something like myself – but he is vastly my superior in intellect always studying, he purposes going in for some profession, but first wants to get a some money together, we passed a very pleasent afternoon together, looking through a microscope & stethoscope he possesses he returned with us & had tea together at [[Palmer-21429|Mrs Drews]] — after which we rode into Sandhurst, went to Church met the Kings introduced Stewart to them passed a pleast evening at their house, Isa & I rather shy time I was in bed – 12. OC. May 5th 1861 Been nice weather the last week. Working very hard but for- -tunately all day work. Monday evening I attended a meeting at Thorps for the purpose of forming an amateur Dramatic Club — in connection with our Debating Society — about 20 young men joined — Thorpe promised to expend £30.0.0 on fitting up a stage & scenery in his large public Room — our object is for the {{Image|file=Aag-189.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/189}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-190 472]


the sake of amusement & to aid the Charitable Institutions on Bendigo Tuesday night Mr. Hally & I went to hear the Revd Dr Cairns, lecture of the Observance of the Sabbath. Its a subject that is causing much controversy among the clergy at present. A Melbourne minister Revd I. New has published a pamphlet in which he wishes to prove there is a differance between the Seventh & the Sabbath Dr C — is his opponent on the subject so the subject of the lecture was the basis of the argument I would like to know more of News side of the question, before being decided on either side. I left with a good opinion of the lecturer, as a good sound reasoner — Wednesday night Dave Hazlitt & I went to a Temperance Meeting, heard some good addresses on the subject delivered by members of the T. Society Thursday night I paid Mr. & Mrs Welstead a visit spent a pleasent evening there singing Etc, Mrs W. plays the cornet well Mrs. W. is one of the jolliest women I ever met with, there was a very pretty girl there to whom I was introduced {{Image|file=Aag-190.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/190}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-191 473]


— Miss Lay — rather affected in her way, thinks women dont get half eno[ugh] attention paid them, as they are entitled to I intend having some fun with her, when I have cultivated her acquaintance more Welstead made me a present of Two pretty songs — which I purpose learning Friday night I paid my brother a visit, he had just received a letter from Mother — enclosed in it was one from Father. I have not read it yet Ned having it in his possession, nothing fresh — the same old story — all well — Saturday on leaving work I went into Sandhurst, met by chance my Cemetary acquaintance, had a long chat with her she would not allow me to follow her or accompany her home — I would have done the former, but some acquaintances came up at the time & I could not shake them off — one of them once was a clerk in a large house of business here who knew the girl I had been speaking to he seemed surprised that I knew her, & it was only with some trouble I got out of him what he knew concerning her which rather surprised me — his old employer was a Wine & Spirit Merchant {{Image|file=Aag-191.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/191}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-192 474]


& speculated considerably in vine growing in the colony, he went to Europe & brought out with him a man who understood the management of such things — the man had a daughter, this very girl – who ere they landed in Victoria was an orphan — her father having died on the passage — leaving her an easy prey to their patron, who turned out to be a pattern of everything unmanly, for after seducing her he abandoned her, or next thing to it, he set her up in a small Cigar shop in View Place, Sandhurst — & while keeping it was confined of a child, that died some weeks back — he {{Blue|doesn't}} know what she is doing at present, but thinks she is being kept by her seducer again who I know well — he is a Justice of the Peace in the neighbourhood of Bendigo & a member of the Presbyterian Church & is married — I believe that tale for the man in the buggy that she left me to join — was no other than the J.P. After making a few purchases in the clothing line I returned home early & {{Image|file=Aag-192.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/192}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-193 475]


what is very extraordinary without visiting a place of amusement — with the exception of calling into the Albion to have a glass of something — where I met Warden Anderson, (a nephew of Sir Henry Barkly the Governor of Victoria) with whom I made acquaintance in a singular manner, reflecting very little credit on either of us — he is a young man, a wild reckless dare devil that will come to no good, unless he changes — Sunday. I went to Eagle Hawk Gully this morning to hear the Revd Mr Henderson one of greatest humbugs I ever knew & to crown my dislike of him & his church while feeling for the smallest coin I could find in my pockets to put into the "plate" I lost a pound note — did not miss it till I got home — I remember seeing a piece of old paper on the floor of the pew, but I never dreamt about it being my lost money. I at once returned, but could not find it – somebody had taken it up — I was very much annoyed, for I wrote to my mother this afternoon & as usual I {{Image|file=Aag-193.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/193}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-194 476]


send £2.0.0 — but I had to borrow a pound from Ned to do so (who can ill spare it, being in debt & having to meet a Bill shortly) stayd tea at Neds where I found [[Dight-42|Harrry Dight]] & several other acquaintances — Went to Church (in Sandhurst) & heard Mr. R.Fletcher on the conclusion of the service I met Isa King alone — had not much difficulty in getting her to take a short walk — sat down on our old spot in the Camp Reserve, talked about old times, but avoided the future it was a melancholy pleasure to be thus thrown together again, she would not permit me to make any freedom with {{Red|*}}her, our lips just met at parting — I can write no more whenever I allude to her I get into a peculiar train of thought & feeling that unfits me for anything else — [Sunday, 12 May 1861] May 13th.1861. Nice weather up to friday night, when it came on to rain & blow & no signs of it abating. Hard at work on the Reef {{Image|file=Aag-194.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/194}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-195 477]


nearly losing the number of my mess on Tuesday. We had put in a shot at the face of the drive & fired the fuse & stood in the shaft waiting for it to go off — no signs of it going I entered the drive to see the cause — when just as I got near it it exploded blowing out great lumps of rock, which had they struck me who killed me at once [but] with the exception of a few bruises & losing my hearing for two days — I got off very well, it was looked upon as one of the most extraordinary escapes that ever occurred, in mining — by those who have been miners all their lives, my fellow workman was sure I was killed & before venturing into the drive had climbed up the Shaft & got quite a crowd down — I was quite stupid when they found me, it is an awful feeling to be so close to death, never shall I forget the agony I experienced for a moment on finding the fuse burning so close to the powder & not have time to turn round — {{Image|file=Aag-195.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/195}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-196 478]


Monday night, I attended our first rehearsal, we have a drama called "Still Waters Run Deep”. I would only only venture in a very light character where I say some dozen lines, & have to do a little pantomime business Tuesday night, tho’ rather sore & bruised & went to E.H. Gully to hear Mrs. Warne deliver a lecture — I have alluded to her before — I was introduced to two of her daughters, very different beings from the mother — light & very frivolous in the manners & conversation would not have the slightest objection to go to a Ball or the Theatre if they only had the chance & were allowed how often is it we find clever peoples children usually very unintellectual I think the mind is exhausted in their progenitors or else they devote so much of their time to the public & their own minds advancements that they are overlooked or neglected — Wednesday attended Rehearsal again Thursday night, I went into Sandhurst met several acquaintances, was induced {{Image|file=Aag-196.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/196}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-197 479]


to go to the "Royal" saw the Marsh Troupe in their farewell piece – coming home, (with some neighbour-) we visited the Quartz Miners Arms where there was some dancing going on, & meeting some more we knew we were tempted to remain till 3 am Friday morning — felt very loath to go to work next morning — Saturday night raining heavy did not go anywhere, spent the evening with Mr Halley reading & conversing — This morning I paid Hoopers a visit found Mrs. H. ill in bed, did not stay long, read all the afternoon — & after tea, went to the Wesley Chapel at the back of the tent — just came home [Sunday, 19 May 1861] May 20th.1861 Lovely weather after the rain. — Im working at the North claim again "landing” a billet — I like the work is not very hard, & being near the roadside I see everybody passing, so Im always in company. Monday night I went to Thorps — assisted in enlarging the Stage & doing other things connected with the production of "Still Waters" — {{Image|file=Aag-197.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/197}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-198 480]


Tuesday I went to Bendigo for a walk called at several tents on my way home Wednesday. I went into Kings where I had promised to meet my friend Burchell (who left Bendigo enroute for England) his relations at home hearing of his ill luck in Australia have sent money for him to return — he purposes studying for the Medical profession, he has an Uncle in practice near London. Im sorry he is going in one sense, for I always found him a sincere kind, good natured friend & companion the only acquaintance I had since [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] left, that when I was in sorrow or low spirited I could open my heart to in confidence Some 20 persons came to bid him adieu 12 oc when we parted — he left Bendigo next morning by the 6 am Coach for Melbourne Thursday evening I spent with [[Dight-42|H Dight]] he went to Melbourne (where his parents reside) on Friday morning, wanted me to go with him but I cant well afford the time or money, tho I know the change would do me a deal of good — {{Image|file=Aag-198.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/198}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-199 481]


Friday night — the amateurs met, when it was resolved to put off the play, until the 29 inst. in consequence of the illness of Mr. Thorpe & the difficulty we have had in procuring lady professionals, the Bendigo ones are under engagements, we have sent to Inglewood 40 miles distance for two, it will be rather expensive, but the public mustnt be disappointed Saturday (pay day) I went into Sandhurst in the afternoon, made a few purchases — called at Kings for Ned — (who is always to be found there) spent 2 hours there, very pleasently, left & went to Abbots had some coffee, then walked home — This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson in E.Gully, (didnt hear anything of my lost pound) tho, he preached about the talents. In the afternoon in company with Mrs. Hooper & Scoty — I went to the Cemetery to see Mr. Hs grave — left her there & Scoty & I went to see some friends at the "White Hills" & had tea there I had to hurry back — as I had promised Mr. Halley (the Engineer of the Nelson) who was away to get up steam & start {{Image|file=Aag-199.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/199}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-200 482]


the Engine for him, after putting on a good fire I went to Sandhurst — met Isa coming out of Church, she walked out some distance with me when we parted, she told me she was engaged to Edwards, a long time previous to our acquaintance, but she had a presentiment she would never be married to him, or if so would ever be unhappy. I left her very abruptly promising to meet her early next week — I feel Im not acting honorably in thus renewing an intimacy fraught with so much unpleasentness — 11 pm I have just returned from the Engine having pumped the Shaft dry, so as to allow the men to go to their work below — the Shift commences at 12 O.C- 26 May 1861 Fine weather — Been hard at work, not only on the earth, but on the Stage — Our Dramatics Manager is a strange card — we pay him a Salary of £3.0.0 per week simply for 3 lessons a week on {{Image|file=Aag-200.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/200}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-201 483]


Elocution & to instruct us in the business of the stage — he offered to take the leading character in the coming performance, & now just at the last moment he refuses for some trifling reason to play — and as the public expects great things from our performance it will make us look so ridiculous to make a mess of it, not one of the company would undertake to learn the part at such a short notice, from Friday night to Wednesday, I was induced to try it — it was 11 pm when I got it & before I went to my bed I had committed to memory nearly perfect 100 lines. I had a rehearsal this afternoon & went through 2 Acts perfect its no joke for an amateur to learn the language of the principal character of a 3 Act play in such a short notice — I hope the fellow will return & take the part — I may learn the words, but alas! for the acting, it will be a Burlesque I wrote to mother last Monday & sent her £2.0.0 I went into Sandhurst last night, called at Kings, for Ned he is like one of their family) I went {{Image|file=Aag-201.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/201}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-202 484]


from there to the “Lyceum Theatre“ & heard the Lyster Opera Troupe perform “The Bohemian Girl“ its a lovely opera & the two leading singers Squires & Escott sang most beautifully. “Remember Me” by the former was rendered most exquisitely, his voice being a light sweet tenor, not great range but his falsetto is the sweetest & best cultivated I ever heard — Madam E. has a fine powerful voice (sophano) & sings with great taste & feeling – they are not well supported — their Bass, Farquhason not being well was unable to appear — I walked home with a friend named Howard a nice fellow & very clever — he was one of the French commissioners at the Exhibition of ’50 — Remained in the tent this morning studying my part — afternoon had a rehearsal — This evening I went to Mr. Croxtons Church (Sandhurst) met Isa — we took a long walk together — 10.O.C when we parted — {{Image|file=Aag-202.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/202}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-203 485]


California Gully 1861 June 2nd 1861 — Weather very changeable, plenty of rain the fore part of the week. Monday and Tuesday evening, had a rehearsal of "Still Waters”. I had learnt the piece allotted me, knew it perfect when the fellow, returned at the last moment very repentant & offered to play the character of the Captain I danced with joy, tho knowing it, I was sure I would make a bungle of it — Wednesday night the affair came off with great Eclat, under the patronage of the E.H. Volunteers who came full dressed in marching order, with the band, every thing went off first rate, not a hitch or error made during the whole piece, the place was crowded & after its conclusion the forms & Benches were cleared away & we danced till day light — Isa & Mary King {{Blue|were}} there, so I spent a happy night. The performance was for the Benefit of the hospital, we met on Friday night to settle up, found the expenses far heavier than we had any idea of, so little left after everything {{Image|file=Aag-203.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/203}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-204 486]


was paid up, we were half ashamed to send the balance in for fear of it being published. Saturday night I went into Sandhurst, met Isa King in Pall Mall & persuaded her to visit the Theatre heard the Lyster Opera Troupe do “Traviata”. there is some lovely music in it, but the two principal vocalists are ill supported, however they did their best. It was 1.am this morning when I got home, & had to rise again at 4.am & assist Mr Halley to make some alterations in the machinery & execute a few repairs, that could only be done while the engine was stopped We finished by 8.am & after Breakfast went to bed & slept — 10.30, walked over to E.H. met the people coming out of Church, walked home with Mrs. & Miss Lay. In the afternoon I went to Neds, had tea with him went to Church (Sandhurst) met my friend J Stewart (or Hannan) after the service, we walked home with {{Image|file=Aag-204.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/204}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-205 487]


the Kings, remained there about an hour got home by 9½30 pm Jim has just gone what a melancholy fellow he is sometimes & at others mad with excitement I wrote Mother to day and sent her £2.0.0 — so now to bed — June 9th.1861. Fine weather, during the week, rather cold in the morning. The weather does not affect me much my work being under ground or Shed — The Stone we are raising I think will pay – The Bendigo Garrick Club sent our club a requisition inviting us to assist them in a piece they wish to produce next week at the Theatre Royal, we agreed. Im to play a part in "Ways & Means", we had our first rehearsal in the drawing Room of the "Shamrock". I dont think much of the Club we are to assist, with the exception of one or two — I never met such a lot of duffers, one fellow who is to take a leading character, sniffles thro' his nose after the most approved Yankee style, another puppy of a chap, who wishes to be thought particularly clever goes about boasting he {{Blue|doesn't}} know a line of his piece, nor does he think he {{Image|file=Aag-205.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/205}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-206 488]


requires to do so until the last moment I was thoroughly disgusted & am very sorry Im connected with the affair. Last night I went into Sandhurst called at Kings found Ned there, we left together & went to see "Neil Warner" in "W.Tell" I like his acting even better than G.V.Brookes in some characters, "Hamlet for instance" Thursday night I went to a party at Welsteads. Mrs W. & I exchanged clothes in the course of evening, I with the aid of a veil & while dancing outside passed of as a woman. I danced with Murdoch & others who did not discover the counterfeit until I had recovered my regular costume when on mentioning some of the compliments I had been paid, they looked uncommonly uncomfortable & ill pleased — Spent this afternoon reading & writing — In the evening Hazlett, Stuart & Smith & I went into Sandhurst, visited the Church, not falling in with anything we knew in the lady line we took a walk about Sandhurst till late, 12 oc now, time for bed — June 16th.1861 Weather very unsettled & disagreeable with plenty of rain, making it unpleasent at work scarcely a day occurs but what I dont come home wet through & truly wretched & the work Im doing {{Image|file=Aag-206.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/206}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-207 489]


must be done whether it rains or no Monday night I went into Sandhurst had a rehearsal of “Ways & Means" in the Shamrock, after it was over I went to Abbotts Lyceum heard Thatcher sing some of his local songs — 12 when I got home Tuesday afternoon I took a holiday, the performance taking place that evening & we had to attend a stage rehearsal. I was rather amused at the appearance of some of the ladies (who were all professionals) some whom I had always imagined were so beautiful. I was quite disgusted with them, with one exception, Rose Edouin who is really one of the most charming girls I ever met — I had a long chat with her, got very friendly — she indulged in some fun at our expense (amateurs are always looked upon with such contempt by most professionals) It was amusing to hear one fellow doing the sentimental, with the strong nasal organ in such a matter of fact style — he is supposed to be in love with Nelly (R.Edouin) & tells her he loves her but in such a manner we all burst out laughing, she told him to to throw more feeling & pathos in his language towards her (professionally) & in his attempt to conform to her ideas proved so ridiculous that our merriment was increased tenfold, the rehearsal over {{Image|file=Aag-207.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/207}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-208 490]


by 4.30. pm, I took a strool, saw the Sandhurst Volunteers for the first time, going through a parade to the great delight of all the children & loafers who had turned out to witness them go through their evolutions, this volunteering as become quite an institution every where — tho a novelty on Bendigo, being but a short time organised — I met Mr. King who insisted upon me having tea at his house — I agreed, met the girls, who purposed going to the Theatre to witness our performance & as they stated to have a laugh at the amateurs, (which they had to their hearts contents) I left them & began to dress for my character at seven I laughed at the changes produced with the application of paint, rouge & false hair Etc I was talking to Wilson for quarter of an hour before I knew who he was, the per- formance wont bear any comment, those who took some of the principal characters were very bad, did not know their parts, & were not well enough up in stage business to discern the audience, the members of our club if not such good actors were better up in their parts & but with one exception, never made an error {{Image|file=Aag-208.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/208}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-209 491]


or mistake, at the conclusion of the first part I washed & went into the house joined Miss Lay & the Welsteads, when it was over we took a cab & I came home with them, my arm being round Miss Lay waist all the way, the cab being crowded she had to sit in my lap, she is pretty but a little fool & I fear would become an an easy virtue to any one inclined to do her wrong it shant be me — Ive enough sins on my head — The papers spoke very highly of our attempt, but I think the proceeds being so much more than was anticipated prompted the flattering critique. I went into Sandhurst last night, went to the Theatre for a short time, 2 O.C this morning when I got home — the reason it is so late when I get here after being to the Theatre is the distance I have to walk home — for I cant always afford to pay for cab — had to go down the Engine Shaft this morning to repair the valve in the lower lift of the pump, 11. am when I finished. In the afternoon I went to Neds — found my old mate [[Freer-1283|Bill Freer]] there, who tried to poison himself some 12 months ago he has wandered all over Australia since then {{Image|file=Aag-209.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/209}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-210 492]


feeling as he informed me like an outcast & a "Cain" continually haunted with feelings of remorse for the idea sticks to him he was the cause of Mrs. Cuddies death, he will soon kill himself with drink, not having resolution enough to withstand its degrading influence, he returned to Bendigo last night nearly starving, met Ned who offered him work at the "Machine". I wrote to Mother this morning & sent her £2.0.0. I received a long note from Fred during the week, who informs me all at home are well, & that he had received a letter from father, full of good advice, suasians Etc — June 23rd.1861. Miserable weather must expect it this time of the year, the middle of winter — Im working the whip on one of the North Shafts, getting out quartz for the Machine, which has not been at work for a long time now Mr Froggart purposes starting it again shortly, when I suppose I shall again have to resume my old billet at it — Im informed to day that our wages are to be reduced after next week — Im only getting £3.0.0 per week now, & {{Image|file=Aag-210.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/210}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-211 493]


that is 5/. per week more than the other men employed on the works get, so if they are reduced to £2.10.0 mine will be £2.15.0. I dont know what to think about it, Im not confidence sufficient to try & get into some house of business store or anything in that line — there is a prejudice against diggers being em- ployed in the way of business, & my knowledge of it is so limited that I should not know how to commence — I bought some days ago Chambers System of Book Keeping, by single & double entry — on looking over it, I cant understand it. Dr. & Cr. & other technicalities was Greek to me until I had them explained however I intend mastering the principle of it — when a man gets to be 22 years of age & after leading a life as mine as been, its very hard to have to commence something so very opposite to what Ive been accus- tomed — Monday night the Amateur Club met — & it was agreed to produce “All that Glitters is not Gold” Friday night we had a rehearsal I think it will be a success — Our Debating Society met at the same time — I had the honor of receiving the congratulations of the members {{Image|file=Aag-211.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/211}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-212 494]


with a considerable amount of undeserved praise for my essay "on the prospects of the Working Men of Victoria” Wednesday night I went to see Ned found him away & his mates hard at work by moonlight employing a mill of dirt a very customary plan, but one that if I had was working with them would object to, I think 10 or 12 hours a day quite enough to work, & if it would not pay at that Id give it up. I think it is paying very well, they have 2 horses & drays, with a nice cottage & stables & everything comfortable & out of debt. Ned seldom lets me know what he makes & Im afraid from what Ive been told he has an inclination to be wild, he is fond of the Bowling Alley & frequenters of such places always get rid of a deal of money, I have spoken to him about it, but he pooh poohs what I say to him on the subject. Im afraid if he does not give such practices as he is addicted to he will get a confirmed gambler. If I had not broken it off suddenly & been most determined on my resolution, I should {{Image|file=Aag-212.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/212}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-213 495]


have become one many years ago — I used to think nothing of playing poker – Vantone — Cribbage Etc nightly, sometimes winning £20. & at others losing through sharpers a greater sum — Its a passion that after a certain time becomes incurable — God grant Ned never may come under its influence. Last evening I went into Sandhurst called at Kings in company with Hannan Stewart. Isa has been away on a visit to Castlemaine for a considerable time, & while I was there Edwards rode up to the house having just arrived from Inglewood. I heard from Mrs. K. that Isa & he never correspond, so he met with quite a dissappointment at not meeting her the old folks were very cool to him, he did not remain long, didnt seemed pleasd to find me on good terms with the family again — I dont like the fellow something so very sinister about him — On leaving them I went to the Theatre saw “Kenilworth” (Burlesque) with [left blank] as Queen Elizabeth, he is the finest – Burlesque Actor in the colony — This morning I had to go down the Shaft as usual to let out the air from the column in the pipes. Went to Church this evening came home & started the Engine, been writing this in the Engine house, to while away time {{Image|file=Aag-213.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/213}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-214 496]


There has been a splendid comet the last fortnight to be seen in the East, it appears very bright about 4. am. June 30th.1861 Miserable weather, as I expected my wages have been reduced to £2.15.0 per week, it is not only the Nelson Reef Co but every one on Bendigo have reduced the wages. I shall feel the difference for after sending my mother £1 per week & paying 25/. per week for board Ive not much left for clothes & other necessary expenses — I feel it very hard that it should be my duty to have to send so much of my earnings home. I would not mind it if I lived at home & enjoyed its comforts but to do so as I have done knock about the bush & live in a cheerless tent & in such a wretched manner, tends to make me very dissatisfied — I think it a shame my father should have abandoned his family, whatever excuse he may make, that its for our ultimate benefit he went {{Image|file=Aag-214.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/214}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-215 497]


home to England. I have very little hope of ever being benefitted by relations there if he had never inculcated such ideas into our heads & given us trades or tried to educate us & put us in the way of living in a respectable way we should have been in very different circumstances than we are now, my thoughts are bitter sometimes on this subject, but I usually end by being ashamed of them — I am sorry Ive referred to it in these pages — & will for the future guard against doing so — Our Club met one night, had a rehearsal, I spent a jolly evening at Welsteads on Monday — Last night I went into Sandhurst, called at Kings. Isa is still at Castlemaine met Ned who gave me a ticket for the Theatre, late when I got home Wednesday night I went to a Concert at the White Horse Hotel — for the benefit of a family in the gully, it was a poor affair, something like the Free & Easys we used to have on Ararat & Donolly — I have been very uneasy respecting a letter with £2.0.0 in it, I sent a fortnight {{Image|file=Aag-215.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/215}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-216 498]


ago, mother usually answers my letters immediately on receipt of mine, & it is this makes me doubtful about it. I gave it to Ned to post, & he informs me he did so — I wrote to Mary to day & enclosed in it another £2.0.0 I trust it will go all right — I spent this morning reading & writing. In the afternoon went to Church (Long Gully) from there to Neds hut, & had tea as usual found it crowded with mighty laughing, joking, card playing & trying to perform Gymnastic feats — I protested against spending the Sunday in such a manner & got laughed at for when I used to have a place of mine own — I was as bad as any of them, after tea [[Dight-42|H. Dight]] & I went into Sandhurst Church — he came part of the way home with me — July 7th. 1861 Weather very unsettled Been very busy getting the Crushing Machine into Working order, purpose to commence Crushing next week, so I will have more night work. We have two Rehearsals of our new piece during the week being determined to keep our character for being the best dramatic club on Bendigo {{Image|file=Aag-216.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/216}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-217 499]


I am sorry to state my tent mate Mr Hally has left me, having purchased a cottage on the Companys Ground & is living a solitary life — I regret his leaving much — he is such a well informed man I feel Ive been greatly benefited, intellectually by residing with him. I went into Sandhurst last night, did not go as usual to any place of amusement with the exception of visiting Mr. Batchelder a photographer, an old friend of [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s he has a fine exhibition of photographic pictures, that are seen to advantage through stereoscopes. I received a letter from Jim yesterday, he was on the point of leaving Melbourne for England, having given up the Bird shop, not before losing a considerable sum of money) met my brother Ned walked to his hut with him, on arriving home I was informed a sad accident had happened in our main shaft the men on the last shift, whilst putting in a shot — & using a steel tamping rod which striking the fire caught the powder causing an explosion that blew the two men out of the drive, burning them fright- fully, they were conveyed to the hospital at once Im afraid one of them wont recover poor fellows Im very sorry for them, one of them is married & has a large family of young children — I often wonder such {{Image|file=Aag-217.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/217}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-218 500]


accidents are not of more frequent occurrence I spent this morning reading. In the afternoon went to the Church in Long Gully met Mrs. & Miss Lay walked home with After I went to Sandhurst Church, after the service met a friend of mine with two young ladies who I also know, & much to his delight relieved him of one, took a pleasent walk till 9 pm, 10 when I got home, changed my clothes & went to the Engine, to start it & pump the shaft dry for the men to go down at 12, found Mr Halley there & cross because I had not come sooner, we had some words both of us being cross at having to come to work on a Sunday evening — 14th.July 1861 Wretched weather — Working at the Crushing machine. Im getting to hate it, the continual noise & clatter for 12 hours a day is enough to drive a man mad, such is the noise that one cannot speak to a person, if alongside of any. I am nearly deaf for hours after work Ive a drumming in my ears that is far from pleasent. We had a rehearsal of All that Glitters Etc last Monday night when we were introduced to the ladies who take the female characters, the one who is to play Martha is a woman {{Image|file=Aag-218.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/218}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-219 501]


about 35 and anything but prepossessing in her appearance — Im supposed to make desperate love to her — & while doing so I was so struck with the absurdity of the whole thing that I actually burst out laughing in her face, a proceeding very ungallant & ill-bred on my part, & one that caused her much offence – so much so that she was for cutting our connection. Im such an ass if anything tickles me as being ludicrous I must laugh — Ive no power to control it. I saw her home to Sandhurst & we got good friends — found her a regular woman of the world, fine company being an old actress — was full of amusing anecdotes about eminent pro- -fessionals in the same line — her moral principles & such like I found rather low called at Neds on Friday — not at home) Saturday night went to the Theatre Raining hard all day so I spent it in reading a variety of literature — [1861-07-21-Sunday] July 20th.1861. Raining nearly every day more or less, making things more wretched than they are. Monday night had a rehearsal, Tuesday night the {{Image|file=Aag-219.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/219}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-220 502]


16th. our performance came off before a crowded audience firstrate for amateurs at the conclusion of the first piece, my name being on the programme to sing a solo, I did so, singing a song from the “Opera of Maratana” “[https://youtu.be/dkN3RUTvghI?si=hucSK8c4_CqEGp0U Let me like a soldier fall]-” very few had heard it before & being (fortunately) in good voice, I was encored. I began another, but the house was so clamorous for the same one over again, that I had to sing it. I found it very hard to put the spirit into it as I did at first — at the conclusion of the entertainment the place was cleared & we finished with a Ball some 150 people being invited we broke up at daylight. Friday night I went to see Ned he had received a long letter from father full of good advice, but little family news — I wrote to Mother last Monday & sent her £2.0.0. Last night I went into Sandhurst, called at Kings found Isa away — met Ned & J.King & we all went to the Theatre – knocked about afterwards, 2 am this morning when I got home — Been raining all day did not go out any {{Image|file=Aag-220.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/220}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-221 503]


where, until 9 pm when as usual had to go to the Engine & assist Mr Halley in getting the machinery in working order for the nightmen — I took a short walk in the afternoon for an hour to see Ned, he was away (at Kings of course) [Sunday, 28 July 1861] July 27th.1861 Fine weather during the week everything looks so nice & pleasent after the late rains. Our Club met last Monday night to settle up the accounts of the last performance, we made the “Sick Club” a present of £6.0.0 from the balance — there was a Quadrille party at Thorpes same night. I remained till 2. O.C Wednesday night I went per invitation to a party at Mr Reynolds, Victoria Reef (a well to do Reefer) about 50 present. I knew most of them, & I managed to spend one of the jolliest nights of my life there what with music, singing, & dancing Etc Mr. R. had engaged the large room of the British & American Hotel for dancing in it was near 4 am when we broke up I was very loath to go to my work next morning being tired and knocked up — Thursday night I spent at Lays — they showed me some very beautiful curiosities they brought with them from Africa {{Image|file=Aag-221.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/221}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-222 504]


among them & what pleased me most were some lovely paintings, done on a kind of substance resembling isinglass. I had to go again on Friday night for something I had lent them, I dont intend going there often, people are coupling my name & Miss L together in a manner that do{{Blue|esn't}} please me — I meet her very often at Balls & places of amusement where I sometimes pay her attention but far from being marked — she is a a light frivolus thing that would soon disgust me — nothing pleases her so much as when indulging in a a little scandel (disgusting to me). It was very late when I left work last night, did not go any where, spent the evening with Andrew Smith the Chemist This morning did not rise till late read till dinner after which I paid Mrs. Hooper a visit found her quite well, got a good blowing up for being so long visiting her from there I went to Neds found him away — had a long chat with my couzin Harry about Ned & family matters he tells me Ned is very extravagant & {{Image|file=Aag-222.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/222}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-223 505]


ought to have been out of debt long ago, he still owes a small sum about £6.0.0 Harry tells me they could get £60.0.0 each for their share in the machine & Horses Etc. Ned thinks of selling out, 12 months ago they commenced without a penny & now they are earning good wages & possess a good plant Ned has sent very little or done much to assist me in helping mother — I wrote to her yesterday & sent her £1 Ned giving me another to make up for I am in want of several necessaries & was obliged to keep some money by me [Sunday, 4 August 1861] August 3rd [4th] 1861. Pleasent weather — Ive been unwell lately suffering from a a severe cold, working so much in the rain & perspiring freely afterwards with wet clothes on Etc. Monday night our Club met had a long discussion on a a paltry subject some idiot had started & left in disgust. Wednesday night I went to see Ned, as usual, away, my couzin Harry informs me Ned in one of his queer fits sold his interest in plant for £40.0.0. I think he was foolish in doing so he could have got far more if he had tried — {{Image|file=Aag-223.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/223}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-224 506]


I dont know what he purposes doing I wished he had kept it, for he could earn wages at it & have assisted my mother, I want to cut my present kind of life. I fancy Im capable of taking a different position than I at present occupy or likely to do if I continue much longer a miner Ive learnt to get tired & in fact disgusted with the kind of company Im obliged to mingle with in my present occupation what I use to delight in rowdy low company low scenes & places Etc. Im sick of & wish to be something different — I must wait my time I suppose — Friday night I went to my Club, it was proposed to give another D. entertainment we selected a piece “Sink or Swim”. I think we will be able to produce it in our usual style. Last night I went to see an acquaintance of mine Fred James — he with some others are getting up an amateur Concert in the shape of a “Negro Band”. I was pressed to join & have selected a couple of songs to sing on the occasion & others of the party dropping in we had an impromptu rehearsal. I was {{Image|file=Aag-224.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/224}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-225 507]


rather astonished to find such excellent talent in the neighbourhood. James is a host in himself, plays the English cornet & the Banjo & possesses a good rich tenor robusto voice. I think it will be a success, the object being for a charitable purpose it ought to be — I trust my cold will be better before it takes place — Went to chapel this morning In the afternoon went over to Neds he had just concluded a bargain with H.Inniss one of the Share holders in the machine Ned sold out of — Harry wishing to leave offered Ned the share for £40.0.0 which he bought, so he was a gainer by the transaction, a good more by which means they got rid a partner they could not agree with — We took a walk into Bendigo, went to Church met Mary King. Isa had her kind regards to me from Castlemaine where she still is — on leaving her I fell in with John & Joe Falder some neighbours of mine & very respectable young men walked home together, went to the Engine & got all ready, time for bed after 12 oC — {{Image|file=Aag-225.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/225}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-226 508]


[Sunday, 11 August 1861] August 10th [11th] 1861. Fine weather the fore part of the week rained the last two days Monday & Friday nights I devoted to the D. Club, The other 3 nights to political meetings, being on the eve of a general election. I voted yesterday for Donovan the popular member who was returned by a majority of 400 votes, I went to James on Thursday night sang our pieces, for the coming concert. The members of the Club I belong to object to my singing at the affair which is to be held at Alexanders Assembly Room a rival of Thorpes where we meet & perform, it comes off on Wednesday while our club performs on the ensuing Monday & it is supposed to [be] an opposition to injure the one I legitimately belong to. I received a letter from mother yesterday, she informs me that while [at] the Theatre Royal last Sunday to hear a clever preacher named J Taylor that on leaving by some back way she fell as I understand down some trap or stairs, injuring & bruising her {{Image|file=Aag-226.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/226}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-227 509]


very much, I am sadly grieved at the accident but am thankful God in his mercy preserved her as he did from being killed, having had a most narrow escape — Been raining all day. Spent the afternoon at Falders the evening at Welsteads — I am now going to do my customary Sunday night work — set the engine pumps to work — 10 pm — 18th August 1861 Nice weather during the week. Still at the Crushing Machine detest it more than ever Been at rehearsals 3 times during the week. The concert came off on Wednesday night, with great eclat every thing went on firstrate — tho I must confess, I was not in such good voice as I usually am — & whenever I fail to please myself I think I dont please others — after the performance there was a Ball, at which I remained till daylight did appear enjoyed myself very much met S- there we were rather surprised at meeting I thought her in Melbourne & she thought or heard I had left Bendigo, since the eventful night we last met, she’s been married to a very respectable man at Tarrangower, {{Image|file=Aag-227.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/227}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-228 510]


who knows nothing of her previous life so she hoped I would confine my knowledge of her to myself I went into Sandhurst last night visited the Theatre Royal — met several acquaintances, among the number Mary Lace, walked home to Long Gully with her. Spent this morning reading. In the afternoon walked into Bendigo, met Edward & [[Dight-42|H. Dight]] rambled about, went into the Shamrock for a while had tea there — then went to Kings, vainly hoping to see Isa, she is still at Castlemaine, came up during the week & only stay’d at home for a day — Went to hear Revd Mr Fletcher preach came home alone — what an uninteresting week Another uninteresting week passed. I really dont know how its passed, with the exception that I have had to work very hard compensated by a slight share of pleasure tho under circumstances I ought not to complain plenty I know dont enjoy life as I do — I must be possessed of a miserable discontented disposition, nothing seems to gratify & yield me that amount of satisfaction that I desire even the attainment of my wishes. I think it would be different if I was otherwise occupied. I feel I am cast into a path of life Im not suited or fitted for — suffering {{Image|file=Aag-228.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/228}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-229 511]


under a species of thraldom I feel it very difficult to seperate myself from the associations connected with my occupation & the life Ive led & am leading are becoming hateful to me — A diggers life was all very well some years back when times were good & a man had a chance of doing well — but now its downright slavery for an existence, without the pale of society – with no prospect of social advancement – circumstances compel me to remain so — but I hope (but for it what wretched mortals we should be) that something will turn up & change the present order of things in my case — Our performance came off on Monday night but owing to the inclemency of the weather with but moderate success, the audience being more select than numerous — wound up as usual with a Ball — some very nice people being there — spent my spare time reading — I got hold of a volume of Lockes celebrated Essay on the Human Understanding — I never read anything so clear & simple & yet so profound — If Im ever in a position Ill buy his works — Last night, Saturday) I went into Sandhurst visited the Theatre for a short time, after the performance I saw Mary Lace, in company with some man — immediately on seeing me she left him in the most unceremonious manner — & asked me to see her home, very flattering to my vanity, but I was near {{Image|file=Aag-229.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/229}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-230 512]


suffering for preference for he suffering from a sudden attack of rage & jealousy rushed at me & made a blow at me with a riding whip that would have killed me, but for my agility, there were several near me that Im acquainted with, fellow workmen Etc — with whom Im on good terms & would do any thing for me, put a stop to his murderous intentions by giving him & his gang a good licking I dont intend for the future making myself a convenience for any girl again — I saw her home she is very pretty but a most arrant flirt, & yet is not chary of her favours where she is prepossessed in ones favour. I wrote to my mother this morning & sent her £2.0.0 In the afternoon I went into Sandhurst, & heard a Mr. Burtt, deliver an excellent Temperance Lecture at concluding I went to Kings didnt remain long came home & after tea went to Robinsons for an hour — [Sunday, 25 August 1861] 28 August 1861 Another week passed as usual with little variety, with the exception of one event that I was rather unprepared for, the departure of my Brother Edward for the province of Otago New Zealand — News arrived a short time back from there of the discovery of a new gold field reported very rich immense numbers of people are {{Image|file=Aag-230.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/230}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-231 513]


leaving Victoria for there, Ned made up his mind to go on Monday (he sold his share to my couzin Henry in the puddling machine for £45.0.0 half the money down the rest in three months time) & informed me of his intention. I went into Sandhurst with him spent the evening together at Kings, & slept there all night & left for Melbourne at 6 am the following morning. I feel very low spirited at his leaving, he is so very headstrong & so very easy to lead, that I feel uneasy respecting his future course, I always exercised a control over him when on Bendigo that acted as a check to him — I pray God he may be successful & kept out of harms way — Ive not heard from him yet, I believe he will remain at Mothers for a few days prior to his departure — Tuesday I went to a party at Thorpes enjoyed myself very much, Wednesday night I went to a lecture at the Wesley School Room Saturday night, I went to Bendigo called at Kings met [[Dight-42|Dight]], took a strool about Pall Mall, met many friends, who are leaving Bendigo for NZ next week — we went to the Theatre to hear the Biancas in the Opera of “Il Trovatore”. Went afterwards to a free & easy left it in disgust, reached the Hut at 1 am this morning, & turned into Neds deserted bed — came home to Breakfast spent the morning reading. In the afternoon my {{Image|file=Aag-231.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/231}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-232 514]


friend Hannan Stewart & I went into Sandhurst spent a pleasent afternoon there had tea & afterwards went to Church with them, took a pleasent walk afterwards, did a little courting by proxy on my brother Neds a/c with Mary King but with no success. I think there is somebody else she thinks more about. Time & absence will soon cure him of his fit, on leaving them I fell in with about half a dozen acquaintances who are all bound for New Zealand next week, the brothers Falder, & A.Smith leave in the morning. I long to go if only for the change. [Sunday, 29 September 1861] September. A month since I continued my journal, nothing particular having occurred to break the usual routine of my every day life — I am still at the Nelson Reef Co — at the Crushing Machine, we have commenced the night shift system again, 12 hours on & 12 hours off, every alternate week the night shift, I do detest it — I heard from Mother a fortnight ago, who informed me that Edward, on reaching town, heard bad news from N.Z. thought he would wait, until he heard more news from there — he acted very imprudently, spent all his money in a lot of mock jewellery, & at length when he made up his mind to leave, he could only {{Image|file=Aag-232.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/232}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-233 515]


and very barely raise his passage money, he left in a ship called the “Giants Causeway" in company with [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] Frazer, the accounts are very conflicting from there, it appears to be a miserable inhospitable climate & quite destitute of firewood, where the diggers are — there is no doubt about there being gold, for Ive seen letters the last week from there from old Victorians who are doing very well. Last Sunday I took a delightful walk through the bush to Huntly to see [[Dight-42|H. Dight]] he made me very welcome had dinner with him, looked over the Sawing Mill he is connected with, left about 4 pm, got home very tired at 9. pm. Monday night I had an agreeable surprise on going over to see my cousin Henry, who should I find but my coz Lizzie (Henrys sister) who has just come over from Launceston & purposes remaining here to keep house for her brother – it is five years since I saw her last in Adelaide a little girl, she has grown into a very nice ladylike young woman, we were very glad to see each — other having of course a great deal to talk about, it was late when I left them I had heard she was in Melbourne staying with mother, but I did not expect her here so soon. Wednesday night we gave the last of our amateur performances, a benefit for the manager, Robinson — the Club being {{Image|file=Aag-233.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/233}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-234 516]


having become defunct or next, thing owing to so many going away to N.Z. The attendance was poor owing to the same reason, things appear at a regular standstill, claims abandoned tents, huts & stores closed in every direction — I have been to the Theatre several times lately owing to the rather unusual attraction of witnessing a live baronet, transformed into a disciple of Thespis. Sir W & Lady Don he is a low comedian, I have seen many much better. Lady Don is a splendid ballad singer, & is a fine looking woman, Burlesque appears to be their forte. I have been to the Kings several times, Isa returned last week I have only seen her once & then it was in company with others. Lizzie & I called there last night, but everyone was out except Mr King, who h as usual made me welcome — I had dinner at Harrys to day after which Liz & I took a walk & introduced her to Mrs. Hooper & Mrs. Hickey, we had tea with them & then went into Sandhurst to Church with her. I ought to have been in bed instead done me more good than walking & then sitting down to write, it is now 11 pm & I have to go to work at 12 & dont leave till 6.am in the morning — {{Image|file=Aag-234.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/234}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-235 517]


[1861-10-06 Sunday] 1861 California Gully Bendigo, Victoria Been on the night shift all this week feel worn out for want of sleep, some folks can sleep at any time, but it is a most difficult thing for me to get about 3 hours of it in the day time, & that is not enough to have to work 12 hours through the night upon. I received a long letter from mother on Friday, she had just recvd a letter from my father in reply to one she sent him requesting him for assistance to keep her home together & educate her daughters, he plainly informs her it is not in his power, that he has eno’ to do to keep himself (I think the main reason of his leaving his family was to shun his duty as a parent, I sincerely trust it was not but I should be ashamed to acknowledge [him] as a father in such a case, but it looks like it) poor mother is in sad spirits at what she considers his negligence. It put me in a poor way for I see no way out of continued poverty. Im naturally sanguine but I feel to have no hope in this respect – of materially improving our position, my brothers & self appear to me to be kind of outcasts in society, not one of us pursuing any defined course. Oh how wrong it is to bring up boys without some settled calling or trade or education, especially in a country {{Image|file=Aag-235.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/235}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-236 518]


like this. I felt low spirited & went into Sandhurst, called at Kings, thought it would enliven me, they appeared very cool toward me, perhaps it arose from my own morbid state of mind, I want a change Ive had a long spell of hard work with no rest or holiday, but I dare not think of it. I must work on, ever work, humanitys bondage — I have been to see Liz several times. I went to Bendigo last night, met [[Dight-42|H.Dight]], we went to hear Lady Don — she playd & sang with her usual grace & spirit, on coming home we called at Harrys, Liz made us up a bed & we stopped there for the night, had breakfast this morning with them, came home read a little, after dinner I returned & took Liz for a walk to the Back Creek Cemetary, situated in a very pretty place (for Bendigo) & a fashionable Sunday afternoon promenade, we were rather unfortunate in choosing the day for visiting it, windy & frightfully dusty, we were very tired & dirty on reaching Long Gully, felt all right after a good tea. I was sadly grieved on Monday by a visit from Mrs. Bostock (my old friend Faithey) begging money to bury her children, she has lost three within the last {{Image|file=Aag-236.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/236}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-237 519]


three weeks from Diptheria, her husband is very ill. I gave her all I could spare, in fact more – & collected her a little sum from my fellow work man — poor Faith, she has known nothing but sorrow all her life, she was married at fifteen & is now 22 & had 5 children, her husband has been very unfortunate, sickness & want of employment. I think Im very wrong in con- stantly repining at my own lot, when I have but to look abroad & see so much misery around me. Scarcely a day passes without coming in contact with a beggar of some description, this should not be the case in such a country as Australia, the Golden Land there is something radically wrong existing some where — bad government, bad rulers. I often think the misery there is at present is a kind of judgement on the people for their willful extravagance & debauchery in the early days of gold digging. God grant there may be a change for the better soon — I wrote to mother to day & enclosed £2.0.0. The news from N.Z. are of a most conflicting nature, extremely so. You meet one person who has received very good news, & from another the reverse. I suppose I shall hear from Ned in a week or two. Last Thursday was a holiday for those that could afford to take one. A Volunteer Review was held at Huntly, came off with great eclat. I heard many funny tales, in connection with it — {{Image|file=Aag-237.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/237}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-238 520]


[Sunday, 13 October 1861] October 14th.[13th] 1861 Pleasent weather. Still at the Crushing Machine working most irregular hours, night & day, crushing for the public Had a holiday Thursday afternoon, owing to a receiving a visit from for the Governor, Sir Henry Barkley, he paid the Johnsons Reef Co plant a visit, where I saw him & his lady he is a tall thin man about 50 years of age, with a very kindly disposed countenance his lady is a young woman about 21 I should say he seemed pleased with everything he witnessed — Wednesday night on leaving work at 12 pm I changed my clothes & went to a Ball at the White Horse Assembly Rooms, danced till day break I did not go to work yesterday. In the afternoon I paid Mrs. Hooper a visit, from there went to Lizzies, took her into Sandhurst for a walk called at Kings. Isa & Edwards {{Blue|were}} there, the latter having just come in from Tarrangower — I believe they have broken off their engagement stayed tea there, Liz walked home, I went to the Theatre, met my quandary acquaintance Mary Lace, she lives in Long Gully, so I walked home with her — I stood talking with her near her mothers tent, when that lady, hearing our voices came out, & abused us frightfully, she didnt know me in the dark. I beat a retreat after expostulating with her for some time to no purpose — I vowed the last time I saw her {{Image|file=Aag-238.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/238}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-239 521]


it should be the last for I always get into trouble whenever I meet her — she called at my tent several times lately, so [[Palmer-21429|Mrs. Drew]] informed me — but fortunately I was always out. Nearly 3 am this morning when I got home, did not rise till 10.am, read till dinner time, after which I went to Mrs. Hoopers had tea there her boy Bobby & I with my couzin Liz went to the Wesleyan Chapel, C. Gully, heard a decent sermon, a funeral one, for a man that was killed on the Redan, one time a fellow worker of mine [[Andrawartha-5|(Antrewather)]] he left a [[Truscott-810|widow]] & three children, a subscription was got up in the neighbourhood & a considerable sum collected to enable her to open a small place of business – at the close of the service, Bob saw Liz home I met Miss Lay & took a walk about the ranges with her. I dont much like her she is a most affected bundle of charms, she was born in India, where her father held a good position he is now a Reefer — the Mother & daughter Keep a school, the usual recourse for broken down gentility [Sunday, 20 October 1861] October 21st.1861. Weather been hot, Summer set in — Been on day work the past week tho’ I worked half a shift last night for my mate (Watson) besides doing my own 12 hours — 18 hours work, right off, is no joke, with no rest between & such hard work {{Image|file=Aag-239.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/239}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-240 522]


on getting home I fell asleep & did not awake till 10. am this morning. I went over to Couzins twice during the week. Harry has his mates share in the Machine, so he owns the whole of it now. I dont think he can make it pay for the ground is nearly worked out. I received a short note from Ned yesterday he arrived all right after a quick passage landed without a penny, had to sponge on others, until he arrived on the Tuepeka or Gabriels Gully, where the gold is found — he gave a fearful description of the place, very mountainous & cold, & no firewood within miles, provisions at famine prices, he says great numbers of the Victorians cant stand it, & are returning, he thinks there is plenty of gold getting, & hopes to get some himself very shortly. There must be a deal of gold getting by some, for the escort returns are very high. This afternoon I spent at Lizzies, [[Dight-42|Dight]] was there) stayd tea, & we all came over to Chapel in the evening I did not return with them, but came home at the close of the service, I purpose trying to sleep for a couple of hours, I have to go to work at 12, my night shift next week I dont feel well, had a bad headache — I wrote {{Image|file=Aag-240.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/240}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-241 523]


to mother this morning I sent her as usual £2.0s.0d — I had a long letter from her some days back, she is very anxious on Neds account [Sunday, 27 October 1861] October 28th.1861 Weather hot & sultry & being on the night shift, I have to sleep in in the day time, my tent is like an oven with the heat & what with the noise of passing vehicles, children playing, & a Butchers (Mr. Field) pigs squeaking, renders it next to impossible to get any sleep. I dont think I have had more than 18 hours sleep during the week & for a man who is engaged in hard physical labour, for 12 hours out of 24, it is too little to enjoy ones health & strength — I feel fagged & worn out — I was pleased at receiving another letter from my brother Ned, informing me that he is in way of doing well he is mates with [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] Frazer & another man, he is getting £7.10.0 per week wages in a claim, which keeps the three of them in vituals the other two are prospecting, for a claim, he thinks any one if they will stick to work & make up their minds to put up with the hardships may do well — the weather is improving, Summer setting in. Im very glad to hear it, & trust he will make hay while the sun shines, for generally it is the first at a rush that do well — the next 6 {{Image|file=Aag-242.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/241}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-242 524]


months will be the most prosperous for Otago & those in it. Things are very dear there it costs them £2.0.0 prweek to live & then have nothing but Biscuits & Mutton. I wish I had gone with him, for many reasons. I think Ill go when I get the money that I am to receive from my cousin Harry in November. I have time yet to think about it. I went to chapel this morning. In the afternoon I went to hear a Mr Lloyd from Geelong, deliver an open air address on Temperance, he spoke & reasoned well & I trust to some purpose, for many that were present wanted talking to on the subject I had tea at Fawcetts, from there walked into Sandhurst, went to Church, met Isa, saw her home, spent a comfortable two hours with her, talking over a variety of subjects, both of us avoiding the subject nearest our hearts — she did not deny that whatever there had been between Edwards & her, was at an end — [Sunday, 3 November 1861] November 5th [3rd].1861 Pleasent weather, but rather hot. Been on the day shift this week I go on to night at 12, so Ive not much time being 10.30 now. Tuesday night I went to the Theatre, heard two very fine musicians, named Possard & Dewery, one plays the violinello the other the violin. I never listened to anything more exquisite I think Possard plays equally as well as {{Image|file=Aag-242.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/242}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-243 525]


Miska Hauser, the great violinist, that visited Australia, some years ago — Thursday evening I spent with my couzins, very pleasently. Last night I went into Sandhurst, called at Frazers, found a letter there from Mother all well at home — she had received a letter from Ned, of a similar tenor as mine – made a few purchases, went to the Theatre met my foreign lady friend, looking as charming as ever, she was very glad to see me & made some apologies to me for her strange behaviour, on our last interview she was in company with a gentleman whom she introduced to me as her husband a quiet looking man, in a government billet late when I got home — I went to Chapel this morning, heard a good sermon, spent the afternoon at Welsteads. In the evening I went to Chapel, met my couzin Liz & Miss Piggott there, walked home with the latter. Mr. P. looked rather blue at me I thought & was only just civil, the old blaguard he ought to feel honored, at his daughter receiving attention from any respectable young man. A report has been prevailing about Bendigo to day, that the Exploring party headed by Burke & Wells has met with a most disastrous termination – a relief party was sent after them (but too late) to render assistance if necessary, on {{Image|file=Aag-243.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/243}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-244 526]


its arrival at Coopers Creek, they found one survivor named King (he was nearly dead) who informed them that Burke & Wells, with two men, Gray & King had left Coopers Creek, & crossed the continent to the Gulf of Carpentaria & their provisions falling short on their return they had endured great hardships. Gray died, (tis said from the effects of ill usage by Burke, who from all accounts was a very unfit person to have command of such an expedition) the rest reached Coopers Creek, in a most exhausted state. I can imagine their misery on finding the party they had left in charge of the depot, had but the same morning abandoned & returned for the settled districts on the "Darling River" the three poor fellows nearly starved to death found in a “cache” a little rice & a paper stating, they thought they must be dead or had returned by way of Queensland they were too tired to follow, & after a consultation it was agreed to turn south for South Australia there camels died, there food was soon finished & sick, weak, & spiritless they lived a short time with the natives, but the food the natives lived upon, gave the Europeans no nourishment, fish & a kind of seed called “Nardoo” which satisfies the appetite but contains little nutrients, even then was {{Image|file=Aag-244.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/244}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-245 527]


scarce. Burke died first, then Wells, King lived with the natives, who seemed to pity him in his desolateness he could not have survived much longer. It is a most heartrending story, & will long be remembered in this country — great blame is attached to the party leaving Coopers Creek so soon – but perhaps when the particulars come to light, the blame will rest on others shoulders -- Many attempts have been made to cross the continent, this King is the first that has returned alive from the undertaking — I wrote to mother to day & sent her £2.0.0 November 10th.1861. Weather frightfully hot, been 110^º in the shade two days Been on the night shift, wretched work could get very little sleep. Im a stone lighter than I was one month ago, such is the effect of hard work in hot weather without a proper quantity of sleep, been nowhere during the week, except one visit I paid Lizzie, she is not very well got a severe cold. I went to Chapel this morning. In the afternoon I went about visiting the charitably disposed, with a subscription list towards the erection of a School for Fawcett. He is a cripple & a very intelligent young fellow I like him well — I was not so successful as I anticipated, it is really astonishing what {{Image|file=Aag-245.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/245}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-246 528]


an amount of poverty a person discovers exists in peoples dwellings when solicited for assistance towards a charitable institution I should have had no difficulty in selling a lot of tickets for a Ball or any other pleasure entertainment. In the evening I walked into Sandhurst, went to Church after the service called at Kings (I cannot resist the temptation whenever I have the opportunity) saw Isa, as usual, very friendly & agreeable, we appear to understand each other very well — I seldom experience any thing like embarrassment in her company even when left alone. We read & sing Etc — as of old — after 10 when I left them had a pleasent walk home — November 17th.1861 Another horrible week reminding one of the regions “infernal” This has been a week of dissipation to me — Monday night I spent at Fawcetts very pleasently. Liz Fawcett is a very pretty girl & possesses a fine contralto voice, we had lots of singing (ditto Friday night) Tuesday night I went to Kings, the old folks being away, we had some fine fun dancing & singing 12 pm when I left Wednesday night I went to the Quadrille party at Thorpes, nearly all the ladies {{Image|file=Aag-246.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/246}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-247 529]


in the neighbourhood were there, one half of their husbands being in N.Z. they didnt seem [to] feel any restraints, every body enjoyed them selves, flirting, courting & dancing Etc — Its disgusting sometimes, even to me, to see the levity displayed by women, with families – in such places — seem to possess no sense of shame — Ive seen women dancing, regular attendants at these kind of weekly reunions having their infants brought them by their husbands to be suckled, in the dressing room it was 4 am next morning when I left the gay & festive scene. Thursday I was too tired to go any where, went to bed early — Saturday evening I called to see Lizzie, she had just returned from a visit of 3 days to Mrs. Hickey (Minnie) Myers Flat, she seemed quite pleased with the change – from there, I went into Sandhurst, visited the Theatre — met [[Dight-42|H.Dight]], left early & went to a low dancing room, left in disgust with what I saw (tho nothing new) I fancy my feelings must be becoming more refined — for these kind of places had once a peculiar attraction. I delighted in a wild frolic, ending with what I used to call a jolly row, (but I think it is now one one [of] the most revolting sights to visit such a place as I went into last night to see beautiful, lovely girls about, Im {{Image|file=Aag-247.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/247}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-248 530]


sure some of them not more than 16 years of age, splendidly dressed & maudling drunk, becoming desperately enamoured with men at first sight. Its really astounding the heights prostitution is carried to in this colony. Melbourne teems with them preachers & ministers exclaim against it in every pulpit, but to no purpose I fancy it arises from the state society is in, the diggins are populated with so many single men & Melbourne contains an excess of women, with very little profitable work for those who are willing to work. I stopped all night with [[Dight-42|H Dight]], he is salesman in Amos Iron & Wood Yard, View Place, rose early, & walked over to my couzins, where I had breakfast Spent the afternoon reading & writing. I wrote to Mother & enclosed, but 30/. this time having had some expenses that left me very short of money. In the evening I walked into Sandhurst, met Mary & Isa King, we took a walk to Lizzies to gether, stay’d about an hour, then went back with them again — November 24th 1861. Very hot weather Been on the night shift, but Friday night owing to an accident, that nearly {{Image|file=Aag-248.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/248}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-249 531]


sent us to “Kingdom Come” we did not work last night. Went into Sandhurst called at Kings (I can go nowhere else) stayd till 9 pm, when I left & went to the Lyceum Theatre, it was frightfully crowded, owing to King the Survivor of the E.Expedition having arrived yesterday evening from Swan Hill enroute to Melbourne, being present, in company with the Mayor (Strickland) he appeared to be very weak, tho only 23 years of age he looked 30, he has been a soldier & is a fine well built smart looking chap – but one, (according to the doctors) was the most unlikely to survive much hardship poor fellow what misery he must have endured I pitied him his ordeal last night far more attention was paid him than was to the performance — This morning I took a walk to J.Hannon Stewarts on the “Shellback” he is a particular favorite of mine, he showed me a lot of beautiful photographs & stereoscophic views, & we spent a few hours contemplating minute nature through the medium of a powerful microscope, the best I believe on Bendigo Spent the afternoon with him visiting our acquaintances, laughed & joked at “James” looked very serious at Fawcetts, went to my couzins had tea with them, from {{Image|file=Aag-249.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/249}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-250 532]


[there] went to Church, met Mary & Lizzie King the latter is getting quite a woman — took a long walk together. Mary tells me a gentleman named Enniss is a constant visitor at their house & professes a great liking for Isa — hang his impudence, an old man with a daughter just married I believe her parents desire her to marry him [Monday, 2 December 1861] December 2nd 1861 Weather very unsettled, one day exceedingly close & sultry & next rain & so forth — I received a long letter from my brother Ned, he is still working in Gabriels Gully, & doing pretty well, he states he has 6 oz of gold & £20.0.0 in money by him very good I think for the time he has been there, 6 weeks. I trust he may continue to do as well & at the same time be kept out of temptation, he does not advise me to go there, but thinks I might do much better there, than where I am, leaves it to my own judgement he doesnt deny having to put up with many hardships, his mate [[Fraser-8298|Lockey]] returned from N.Z this week, being rather delicate he could not stand the hardships & privations having always been accustomed to a good home & comforts he speaks in glowing terms of the gold fields there, thinks there will be some more golden districts discovered before long. I have made up my mind to try my fortune there. I am heartily weary & sick of my present life, long hours, night shifts, hard work, & of a description that would soon make an old man of me, my only {{Image|file=Aag-250.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/250}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-251 533]


regret is that I am leaving a certainty for an uncertainty. I would not much care for my own part but In my present situation I could always send mother something to assist in keeping a home but I could not keep it up long were I to remain & there is no chance of improving my social position My sole object in taking this step will be in the hope of realizing a lump sum of money that I may be enabled to enter into some other pursuit than Ive been engaged in so unprofitably for such a number of years. I do hope providence will prove kind to me in my undertaking. I know many that are making what I would look upon as a fortune over there — why may not I be as fortunate If work & energy will bring it, I shall be successful I wrote to Ned to day telling him not to be surprised if he should see me shortly — I wrote also to my old friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] (Stirling, Scotland) This week as been one of the hardest In the shape of work I ever experienced — the machinery became deranged & we have had to work night & day to get it in working order again. I worked for 35 hours without intermission except to go to my meals I felt very tired and sore from the effects of my over tasked labours, getting 5/- per week more than the other men Im expected always to be at hand, we got every thing in working order by Saturday at noon. I spent one day in the Boiler repairing a valve — I never spent such a day in my life. Im sure I lost half a stone in weight — however I feel quite elated at the bare prospect of a change — I visited my couzins three evenings of past week. Saturday night Liz & I went into Sandhurst, did some shopping {{Image|file=Aag-251.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/251}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-252 534]


after which we called at Kings where we stayd till 11 o.c very tired when I got home thro' the want of proper rest lately. Sunday morning I went to Chapel, after dinner, I called upon my friend J.Hannan Stuart & we took a strool together, found ourselves at my couzins by tea time, tea. I left early having to go on to work at 12 P.m. last night, looked into the Chapel heard the end of a sermon, met the Fawcetts, went into their place for a short time, got home by nine changed my clothes, & went into the Engine House where I slept till the Engineer came & roused me got home this morning at 7.am, slept till 2 pm, went to see couzin Harry who has promised to let me have the Bill that falls due tomorrow — I have just spoken to Mr Froggart about leaving, he was very sorry to part with me, & offered me 5/- per week more wages if I would remain, he also promised if I am unfortunate in N.Z. & want a billet on my return he will, if in his power — put me in one, very kind of him, & some satisfaction to feel & know that Ive been appreciated. I have promised to continue my work till Tuesday night. I purpose leaving Bendigo on Wednesday if possible I hear our Engine whistle calling me to work Im on the night shift, commence at 6 pm leave at 6.am the following morning — 7. [Thursday, 5 December 1861] December 5th.1861. Thursday afternoon — I leave Bendigo, where so many years of my life had been spent, where I have formed so many pleasent friendships & am endeared to by so many associations, to morrow — my spare time the last few days Ive spent in making my adieus, many I perhaps may never see again, some of them strange odd characters, some very dear to me, & {{Image|file=Aag-252.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/252}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-253 535]


that I shall ever regret parting with, others I cannot respect enough, to experience much pain at parting with, however every one I visited tendered me their best wishes for my success in future – those that know me well, advise me to take the step, they think if Im fortunate, Im one that will turn it to account, many of my friends have a very exalted opinion about me, they think Im fit for something better than leading a diggers laborious life — tho I shall always be in their memories known as Gentleman Jack — & sundry other such like {{Red|*}}patronizines. I received £22.10.0 on Tuesday from my couzin Harry, being the balance due on the machine & horses Ned sold him — I shall leave with about £20.0.0 [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] & I are going to N.Z. in company he unfortunately cannot leave Bendigo for some days so I purpose waiting for him in Melbourne I am not sorry in one respect, for I wish to spend a fortnight in town with my family — This is the last I may ever write in Bendigo. Ive packed up my things I purpose taking with me — my books & with{{Red|*}} others things, I have given them away to friends — I shall spend to night in Sandhurst with the Kings where several friends have promised to call & see me I feel half sorry at the step Im taking arising from the great love of locality I possess. I never left but one place in my life with regret & that was Pleasent Creek some 200 miles West of Bendigo where I spent the most wretched portion of my life — & I think I never went to a place in such good spirits & sanguine of success as there — {{Image|file=Aag-253.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/253}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-254 536]


==Melbourne Decr. 1861== Decr.10th. Once more at home in the bosom of those I have so longed & loved to see & live with Home Sweet home, how few but those who have not known but little of its joys & pleasures can appreciate it, it is so nice & happy to live with those you know are sincere in their sympathy & love than among strangers who cannot enter into the state of ones feelings when in trouble & sorrow is experienced a feeling or suspicion of a want of true sympathy The evening of the 5th. I spent at Kings, tho I fear Isa monopolised my entire attention, she took my leaving very much to heart. I was more affected than I liked to show, never shall I meet another girl whose love I shall prize like hers or one I think I could live so happy with as a companion for life, she is warm, true & affectionate in her nature & possesses a fine mind, no promises passed between us, but if Im {{Red|*}}prosper[ous] I shall certainly renew the friendship, she wishes me to be happy & made me promise to seek some lady in society, I should learn to like, or in other words bid me flirt as much as possible & she says Ill learn to laugh that I could ever have loved a being like her — my couzins and several others were there to whom I bade adieu Slept at the Shamrock for the night, roused up at 5 am next morning, left by a coach drawn by 4 horses, found myself sitting beside a fat old lady & a clerical looking being, we did not exchange a word, all the way to Castlemaine where we reached about 9.am, had breakfast & started again in half an hour — nothing very {{Image|file=Aag-254.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/254}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-255 537]


particular occurring on the road so far. I was struck with the immense amount of labour, in connection with the Railway works, all the cuttings from the Big Hill to Castlemaine are through Granite Beds, my astonishment was increased on getting nearer the more advanced portions of the line, the aqueduct of Taradale & Malmsbury are fine pieces of work, scarcely a spot on the road but what did not bring up some recollection of bygone days before their was a road of any sort for vehicles, when it used to take a month & 6 weeks to perform the journey of 100 miles the times Ive trudged along tired & weary in wet weather & in the mid of winter & the heat of summer & camped out, with heavens canopy for a cover & the stars to light me — the good old days before people used to ride & coach it, new chums little know what the earlier pioneers diggers & bushmen had to endure — forests stood where towns are now, surrounded with all the accessories of wealth. On reaching Woodend I found our journey by coach was at an end, the Rly being completed to there -(40 miles from Melbourne) 4 pm when we left, arrived in town at 6.P.m took a cab to my mothers, it is needless to state she was glad to see me as were my sisters & Fred — I fancy mother is looking much older Mary is growing a nice young woman, Bessy is much taller — I suppose we shall have her in long dresses soon & a consequence she’ll be! Saturday afternoon I took Mother to see the Exhibition of Colonial productions, which are to be sent to London for the Great Exhibition that takes place next year — I never saw such {{Image|file=Aag-255.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/255}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-256 538]


a magnificent sight, such displays of wealth & commerce & colonial manufactured goods I noticed of latter, a deal of cabinet work such as elegant pieces or furniture made from Colonial woods, endless would be my task were I to attempt to discribe what I witnessed the principal feature in the building appeared to be a gilded column reaching to the roof supposed to represent the bulk of gold obtained from the Vic. Gold fields, nearly every branch of industry was well represented — It was the last day, the place was closed in the evening by a Concert given by the Philharmonic Society, the singing was pretty good but the place was so crowded it was impossible to enjoy it. Fred & I left early rambled up Bourke St. visited several places, tried my strength lifted 525 lbs not so bad for a little chap. I met my old rival Edwards, we were rather surprised at meeting, he told me about Isa cutting him, said it was all his own fault. I gave him all particulars concerning the Kings late when we parted. Sunday morning I went to St. Peters. In the afternoon Mary & I took a walk, met Edwards again, got fairly tired of him, harping on the same subject. Fred & I took a long walk after tea about town. This afternoon I visited the Museum at the University spent a few hours very rationally & I believe profitably {{Image|file=Aag-256.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/256}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-257 539]


It contains models of every description of Machinery used in Farming & Mining pursuits a vast quantity of stuffed & Skeletons, specimens of Zoology & Ornothology & other natural curiosities too numerous to allude to On leaving there I went to the Public Library & was disappointed to find it closed for some days in consequence of some alterations Tuesday, I spent walking about town saw a great deal to interest me, many new buildings gone up since my last visit I noticed a great many diggers in the streets, bound for N.Z. they are easily told, sauntering along gaping into shop windows Etc so different from the quick brisk step of the business men of town — In the evening I went with Mary & to the philharmonic rehearsal (she is a member of the Society) we called for a friend of hers [[Rowowski-85|Miss Rekowskie]], a charming little girl, (a daughter of a [[Rakowski-84|Polish gentleman]] a fine jolly old fellow,) with nice quiet winning manners that are irresistibly attractive — [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] called on me to day he arrived from Bendigo last night Wednesday. Spent the morning at home reading. Harry called about 11 Pm. & informed me he had fallen in with an old fellow apprentice of his named Thos Downs whose father is an old seafaring man on this coast for upwards of 30 years, he is engaged at present in fitting up a small schooner called the Sarah & Esther, at present lying in {{Image|file=Aag-257.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/257}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-258 540]


the Yarra for Otago N.Z. She will be ready for sea in a few days. Harry has promised to go with them providing I am agreeable. I did not like the idea having had too much experience of small vessels — in former times — however I accompanied him down to the vessel found her a flat bottomed little craft about 30 tons looked very old & weatherbeaten, she had just received a coat of tar & a few new ropes looking like an old man spruced up for a season — I was introduced to Captain Downs an old bluff looking fellow with a deal of forced politeness but an expression in his face I did not like, a man I would not depend upon except perhaps in his profession — his son Tom, seems an easy, good natured sort of chap, nothing particular about him either personally or intellectually to specially recommend him to notice, three others (diggers) but formerly sailors, who are working their passage, form the whole set who are going to tempt providence in this old dingy I remonstrated with Harry about the folly of going in such a craft & at the same time paying as much for our passage as if we went in a first class ship — but to no purpose not having any experience in nautical matters he sees no danger. I after anything but willingly consented to go with them. On arriving home I found my sister Mary had gone to spend the evening at Mr James, Hoddle St. so I had to go for her was introduced to a nice {{Image|file=Aag-258.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/258}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-259 541]


lot of people, spent a couple of hours in a most agreeable manner — home by 10 pm Thursday. Cruising about town in company with Harry, visiting every place we think of interest, smoking Cigars & drinking lemonade & enjoying sundry other luxuries only enjoyed during this hot weather — Wrote to Edward & also to Mr. Halley, after tea in company with some friends of Harrys I knocked about town mingling in all kind of company (not altogether creditable) & places — 12 Pm when I got home Friday. Went this morning with Henry down to the schooner, had a good look at her was not any the better pleased with the inspection, made the acquaintance of all on board, the cabin is a small box of a place about 6 ft x 10 fitted up with two bunks large enough to hold 2 in each (in close quarters). In the evening Miss James called & spent it with us, she is a fine jolly girl, time passed very quick but pleasently, she is full of life & fun — I enjoyed the walk home with her. Saturday. Spent the day until 4 pm (reading & doing little jobs about the house) when Mary & I went to the Public Baths, paid 6d each, optional hot or cold & every necessary supplied, called at Rekowskis on our way home, no one in but [[Phillips-40668|Mrs. R.]] In the evening a friend called, J.Sutherland, Mary & I accompanied him for a strool about town until 9Pm. I went out alone called on an acquaintance stay’d till 11 pm — {{Image|file=Aag-259.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/259}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-260 542]


[Sunday, 15 December 1861] Sunday Dec 16th.1861. After breakfast, two friends of [[Dight-42|Harry Dights]] called, took a walk round the gardens, called at Dights, found the old folks nice homely people, came home alone to dinner after which we were fairly stormed with visitors among the number Geo. Johnson, Mr. & the two Miss Rekowskies, the [[Rakowski-84|old gentleman]] did not remain long, Mary & his daughters & I took a pleasent walk together came home early & had some singing, my sisters voice has greatly improved, after we went to St Marks Church, at the close of the service we took another pleasent strool. I fancy if I was thrown in Miss R. way much I should begin to get soft about her, she persuaded me to remain in Melb. thinks it very strange I should prefer a rough diggers life to a life in town with all its pleasures & comforts. (I entertain the same idea but what can I do, I am not qualified for an office or a mercantile life & people dont like to engage a novice. I feel bitterly, my position – & inability to improve it at present, no! Ill go to N.Z & if I can make a few hundred pounds, Ill never dig again) We met a gentleman named Clark an acquaintance of Marys to whom she introduced me to, he left us on arriving at Rekowskies we did not remain long there, on coming home found Harry here, after we settled the business he called about he left. The English Mail arrived last night, no news from our relatives I fancy father forgets he has a family — I received a long letter from my old friend Burchell, quite well, he has commenced his studies for a surgeon — {{Image|file=Aag-260.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/260}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-261 543]


[Monday, 16 December 1861] Monday 17th Been very busy to day, purchasing necessaries for my voyage, buying Blankets, Boots Flannel shirts & trousers. Harry & I took a ramble in the evening met some Bendigonians bound like ourselves for N.Z. Im sorry we did not take our passages in some other craft for judging from appearances it will be some days ere we are ready to sail [Tuesday, 17 December 1861] 18th Decr.1861 Harry called with a cab this morning, took our things on board the schooner found all hands very busy loading her cargo, which consists of a lot of damaged timber, this evening I went to the Philharmonic Society in company with Mary & [[Rakowski-85|Agnes Rekowski]], heard them rehearsing something that gave me an idea of the confounding of tongues at "Babel" called at R. on our way home spent about an hour very pleasently at their house [Wednesday, 18 December 1861] 19th. Still in town "Sarah & Esther" sails tomorrow. Harry called this morning, went out together, visited several places, rambled about till we got tired, came home about 4 pm. – expected the Rekowskies who had promised to spend the evening with us, was disappointed, little [[Rakowski-86|Dalia]] called to say her sister would be unable to come through some unforeseen circumstance — I feel very sad at the idea of leaving home once more — the more I see of home the greater my desire is to remain — God grant I may be prosperous & soon return [Thursday, 19 December 1861] 20th.[19th] Bid good bye to all at home this morning called at [[Rakowski-84|Rekowskis]] & one or two other places & made {{Image|file=Aag-261.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/261}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-262 544]


my adieus. I called for Harry & we went to Emerald Hill, where we were to meet Captain Downs & his son & go on board the schooner, which is lying off the Williamstown Battery. Capt. informed us she would not sail till tomorrow, & could return home again — we were not sorry. I felt as if I would willingly break my leg or arm so as to have an excuse for not going in such a wretched craft we spent several hours at Downs (Mrs D. is a nice person — & very interesting company, having been in the colony upwards of 25 years — she loves to talk about old times.) had dinner & tea with them during the afternoon I & Fred went to see Mrs. Crapper (who lives on E. Hill) my old nurse, she was very glad to see us, wished me luck Etc. & bade her adieu. Came home to Mother, much to her surprise & delight about 6 pm, my sisters were out, they came home with Mr Clark about 10 pm spent a very happy evening together, perhaps my last. I am more sad than ever — having to make another adieu in the morning (11 am) [Friday, 20 December 1861] 21st. Another painful parting this morning. Harry came & breakfasted with us, left home early. Fred accompanied us to Emerald Hill where we parted, found old Capt quarrelling with his wife I believe he is an old vagabond, & they live very unhappily together, however when things got settled we left for Sandridge about 1 pm - (tis 9 years ago since I was there before, what a {{Image|file=Aag-262.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/262}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-263 545]
On Board the Sara and Esther 1860-12-20

change, at that time there was but one Hotel in it & now its a bustling seaport town two long jettys crowded with some of the largest ships afloat-), we found the boat waiting for us, when just as we were embarking, I met Miss Sayers on the pier, had a chat for a few minutes with her — she had come from Bendigo to see some friends off to N.Z. we reached the S&E all right — found our cabin anything but clean or comfortable, being a small Box of a place about 6 x 10 ft it originally intended to accommodate two persons, four of us are to exist in it now, we put things in order the best way we could — & as the wind was fair & no signs of it changing, Harry & I took the boat & went on Shore at Williams town. Harry has an aunt living there so we called upon her, found her a jolly old woman who made us very welcome there is an old soldier living with her a Yorkshireman, who we found very interesting, he is at present engaged as Drill Instructor to the W.T. Volunteers — we staid tea & then returned on board I feel sorry I did not go home by the railway for I dont think from what I can hear we shall sail until late tomorrow, been spending the evening on deck, being a lovely night, its very pretty to watch the ships at anchor, & see the lights of a large town in the distance where everything seems so quiet & still & to know there is so much life & bustle but such a short distance away — [Saturday, 21 December 1861] 21nd Decr.1861 Still at anchor waiting for a fair wind to carry us out of the bay. I hate this dallying away of time, if we had left Melb. as I wanted in the Aldinga on Wednesday we should have been half way on our journey, patience, in some cases, is a virtue I cannot boast of. {{Image|file=Aag-263.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/263}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-264 546]
1860-12-22, On Board the Sara and Esther Bound for New Zealand

Harry & one [of] the sailors [[Downes-1298|Tom Downs]] & I went on shore this morning for a short time cruised about the “village” on Board by 2 Pm, when the Clearance Officer came to have a look at us & give us permission to proceed on our voyage – so the S&E 37 tons Capt Downs & 6 others from Melb. are only waiting for a fair wind to convey us to the Eldorado of our desires – the Capt has gone on shore — his son Tom hopes he wont get drunk & get into the watchhouse, very consoling, to have to place dependence on such a character — -(copied from a pencilled journal-) [Sunday, 22 December 1861] 22nd Dec 1861 About 2 am this morning Harry & [I] were roused up by a great uproar, which we found on turning out to proceed from some one quarrelling It appears the capt. took 2 of the men ashore, with him, & requested them to wait an hour for him, they did so, & he not coming they went into a public house & got drunk while there, the Capt. found them & he being drunk they began to abuse each other, however they found the boat & came on board, bringing with them a tall old man named Beirtt or Brett, 70 yrs of age an old friend of Downs who in a drunken fit formed an impromptu idea of going to N.Z. he was the Bellman or Public Crier of W.Town & a strange looking mortal he appeared on my first inspection of him, dressed in a crooked hat & Red Coat with Brass Buttons & ringing a large Hand Bell they got quieted at last, & we put them all to bed X(*but not)X without some trouble, we soon fell asleep {{Image|file=Aag-264.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/264}} [Part 2a New Zealand] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-265 547]
On Board the Sara and Esther Bound for New Zealand

& were awake about 6 am, when we went on deck & assisted in heaving the anchor & setting the sails the day was very hot & sultry & every appearance of an approaching change, the wind was light & very variable, we reached the heads about 2 pm saw the remains of the Ship "Empress of the Seas" that was burnt about 3 days ago - on getting out side of the Bay the wind began to rise, until it blew a regular gale, our tackle which was old began to snap like packthread nearly every rope we hauled upon gave way - impeding us very much in reducing sail & the deck being covered with timber made it awkward to work we were in a great state of confusion, whilst getting in our foretopsail, we had it cleared up & some of us going aloft to take it in when a sudden puff snapped off our topmast, the sea was running very high, rendering it impossible in the state we were in to get rid of the broken spars & rigging, all we could do under the circumstances was to let her run before the wind the seas running over her washing us sometimes off our feet, making it very dangerous, having nothing but a life line along the vessels side however by about 12 pm with a deal of trouble we got the broken rigging cut adrift, we lost the spar but saved the sail, being full of rents it is not of much use, by this time we had nothing set but the foresail, & as the wind was fair we kept our course, we {{Image|file=Aag-265.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/265}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-266 548]
On Board the Sara and Esther

were off Cape Schanck at the time of the accident - I was in anything but an amiable humour, at my folly in coming to sea in such a cursed old craft that had been a Lighter on the Yarra for 11 years, the owners are trying to float her over to Otago & there she is to resume her old duties - Old Brett annoys me, he is an infernal old croaker, prophesises we are all bound for Hell, I do hate these croakers. I believe in making the best of a bad bargain. I wont sink if I can help it, but if it is my lot to be lost Im quite reconciled, but no croaking - I could go down with my arms folded if I saw no chance of escape - Harry & I turned in about 1 pm & slept as sound as tops, our Cabin being half full of water, made it anything but pleasent [Monday, 23 December 1861] 23rd./12/61 - Was roused out early this morning by finding the water rising in the cabin, got up feeling very seasick, our first job on getting up was to bail out the Cabin. We found the wind had abated a little, but I never looked upon such a wild scene - the sea was running mountains high & our old boat looked like a wreck upon the water all on board seemed dull & lowspirited at such a stormy commencement of our voyage with the exception Harry & I the rest had not had any sleep during the night. After breakfasting of Biscuit & Salt Beef which {{Image|file=Aag-266.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/266}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-267 549]
On Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island

appears to be the only fare on board we made the startling discovery that our vessel was sinking, from the fact of the water rising in the cabin through the floor - we got the pump to work & found that by taking shifts of 2 hours each alternately we could keep the water down allayed our fears. In the afternoon it came on to blow great guns had to close off our foresail & keep her before the wind, she sails well with the wind aft being flat bottomed she rides over the waves like a duck, at times the waves rise, as if they were going to overwhelm us, when she rises with the swell beautifully, we sighted Wilsons Promontory about 9 pm - the most Southern part of Australia - Being loaded with dry deals & closely packed we feel most danger in the water rising, & swelling the timber & so open the seams, we think it is from that cause she makes so much water at present - I feel very tired having worked hard all day & not a dry stitch on me - Ill try & get a few hours sleep - [Tuesday, 24 December 1861] 24th/12/1861. Roused up early to take our turn at the pumps, found everything looking as wild as ever - Downs very anxious, hoping to make the lee of the Swan Island by night the hurricane had ceased into a blustering gale, the sea looking more rough & angry than ever, as if it felt wrath {{Image|file=Aag-267.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/267}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-268 550]
On Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island

& disappointment at not getting our craft with its cargo for its prey, we felt anxious until we sighted our haven, which on doing, relieved us of our anxiety a little, we let go our anchor - & had taken in our sail, when it began to blow such a hurricane as few in our vessel say they never experienced before we had to let go our other anchor, while doing this another craft & a steamer ("City of Hobart" from N.Z.) came in for shelter during the night, we made all right & bailed our cabin dry when we had a chat & I took what I never remember taking before a glass of spirits. I really felt the better for it I wished to know what Downs intention was we could not think of proceeding on our voyage in our present plight. I could get no satisfaction from him, so I turned in reckles of consequences - consoling myself with the notion I had fellows in distress [Wednesday, 25 December 1861] 25th.Decr.1861 Christmas Day. What a strange place & under what unpleasent circumstances to be placed in, on such a day. The sun that we had not seen for some time burst forth in all its glory making us reconciled to our position with its gladding influence than we otherwise would have been, the gale abated a little, but there is still a heavy sea & strong wind, rendering us unable to go ashore – in fact whatever our desire was in that respect we had to forego it, in the performance of necessary duties, such as pumping out our {{Image|file=Aag-268.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/268}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-269 551]
Christmas on Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island

floating cullender & arranging our wreck & also in making preparations to run up a new topmast fortunately for us my mate [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]], being a carpenter & having his tool chest aboard we are in a position if we can get a spar fit for the purpose ashore to put it up, we are lying about two miles from the shore in Banks Straits, to the south some 5 miles, we can see the N.E. coast of Tasmania, an uninhabited part of that island Peter (one of the men) who acts as cook prepared what to us was nice dinner, consisting of a plum pudding & the skeleton of two ducks, that Brett brought on board. I brought forth a large Cake my mother gave me on leaving Melb - Im afraid our good things are all finished, for our vitualling depart is like everything else, not much account, we have a Cask of Salt Beef a few Bags of Potatoes a Fifty pound Bag of Flour, 6 lbs of Butter & one Bottle of pickles with salt & pepper - a carcase of a sheep comprised our Store list on leaving Melb the fresh meat is already finished so salt junk & Biscuits with potatoes is our only food for the future, towards evening we had to up anchor & shift our quarters to the other side of the island from where we can see several other isles – the largest being Flinders - & Waterhouse, which our Capt. informs me are inhabited [Thursday, 26 December 1861] 26 Decr.1861. Lovely day, sea gone down & looks calm & unruffled reminding me of its treacherous character when thinking of the appearance it presented to us during the past three days, after breakfast that was a better one than ordinary, having caught a fine Barracoota, a fish that frequents these waters {{Image|file=Aag-269.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/269}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-270 552]
On Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island Lighthouse

in great quantities - We got out our Boat (a most dilapidated article) Capt. Harry & one of the men & myself forming the crew went to shore, after some trouble we found a small sandy cove we pulled into & landed found the island to be very small about 3 miles long by one broad, very low & sandy the only vegetation being some low set scrub & tea tree bush, at the East End of the Island there is a fine Lighthouse, which a walk of five minutes brought us to, we found there the only persons living on the isle, viz, Morgan the head Keeper with his wife & family & two other men, with a half caste Maori, a fine looking chap possessing as I found enormous strength, the children ran screaming in doors at our approach & we were unable to make friends of them during our stay Morgan invited us inside treated us to some home brewed Beer & currant damper, & after a chat for an hour during {{Red|*}}which time, our Capt bought a spar for our topmast, giving 30/- for it - Harry & I, having expressed a desire to ascend the Lighthouse, the men accompanying us we made the ascent, we were rather "puffed" before we reached the top, however we were well repaid for our trouble a more gorgeous sight I never witnessed than when we got inside the Room containing the reflectors the sun shining brightly upon the glasses, producing all the varied colors of the rainbow, it reminded me of the descriptions of Enchanted grottoes & abodes I had read about in "Arabian Nights" & Oriental love - I was struck with admiration at its beauty & also with the mechanism connected the lamp & the revolver. We had a fine view of the sea & ships in the distance, our time was beguiled by {{Image|file=Aag-270.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/270}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-271 553]
Christmas on Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island

our friends detailing to us their life among the Islands they frequently visit. The Maori they inform me has a boat about 4 tons, he thinks nothing of going twice a year to Launceston in, alone & he informed me himself he purposed venturing to N.Z. in it, as soon as his engagement with Morgan is completed in the course of three months - They showed me some curiosities in conchology, splendid strings & necklaces of the most minute but pretty shells. I should have purchased one but not having much money & having an uncertain future ‘fore me I could not afford to gratify my desire - this comprises their principal pastime, with hunting snakes found in great numbers on the isle of a most venomous description Morgan showed us a large snake he had killed the day before, which had sprung at him like an infuriated dog fortunately he had long sea boots on at the time which doubtless saved his life, on bidding our friends adieu on the beach after getting a cask of fresh water in the Boat & lashing our spar astern we pulled back to our vessel about 3 pm passing a wreck that had taken place some weeks previous, our spar being formerly one of its yard arms got everything on Board all right, & commenced at once with Adzes to dress the spar for a topmast there was a deal of work to be done to it which Im happy to state was finished by dark, the other chaps have made everything ready aloft to ship it in its place in the morning. Harry & his tools being the most important feature in the work about sundown we were visited by the Maori & one [of] the Light house men, in their boat, we having presented them a "nobbler" & tobacco pipe, things very difficult to obtain - I was near forgetting to state {{Image|file=Aag-271.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/271}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-272 554]
On Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island

that (the Old Croaker as we call him) Brett returned on shore where he purposes to remain until he has an opportunity of returning to Victoria. Harry & I sent a note each to our homes by him, should he return Im glad he is out of the ship, he made me miserable he called me aside yesterday & told me in a most prophetic tone to leave the ship, for anybody in company with Downs was sure to meet with a sad fate - he informed me he has known Downs for nearly 30 years & that he his one of the vilest characters alive & finished by telling me some strange stories concerning him & among the category his having murdered a man in Hobart Town some years ago, all of which I firmly believe having had hints given me by Peter & Harry about him, but I did not care about listening to, thank God Im in no way superstitious. If we go down we do so & there’s an end of this world, whatever the next is, our ship hasn't leaked so much this two days. I dont care when we are ready to sail, three days with a fair wind will carry us over to the South end of N.Z., two more ought to take us to Otago & there Hurra for the diggins that are more in my line than this cursed ship business. [Friday, 27 December 1861] 27th.Decr 1861 Fine day, wind changd this morning we had to up anchor & get at the other side of the Island with the straits again, where there is a current that runs at the rate of 6 knots the hour, plenty of pelicans & albatross flying about, caught another barracoota, made a good dinner for all hands. Worked very hard to day helping with the topmast, got everything {{Image|file=Aag-272.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/272}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-273 555]
On Board the Sara and Esther: Swan Island

finished at last, tomorrow we intend trying to get on the yards & sails - spent the evening playing at Cribbage - & yarning, made a discovery, Old Downs knows my friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s wifes father & all her relatives, a bad lot according to his account, however he shall never hear what Ive had told me concerning them - he has taken her away from all connection with them, so who or whatever they are cannot affect him much - so long as man & wife agree & live happy together & in themselves who they are & where they belong to is or should be of no consequence to anyone [Saturday, 28 December 1861] 28th Decr.1861. Still at anchor, blowing a gale of wind, sea very rough, but much worse round the Island - we have both anchors out Capt. hopes they wont drag, so do all on Board, our chance of saving our lives under the circumstances would be very slight. Could not do much work to day aloft so all hands with one exception (myself) have been busy patching & repairing sails we are getting uneasy, for there is not more than a fortnights provisions on board & if our voyage is very long we shall have to submit ourselves quietly to "hard times" not pleasent to contemplate in an old, leaky, unseaworthy craft [Sunday, 29 December 1861] 29th.Decr.1861. Wind went down in the night left a rough sea, we heaved the anchor this morning at 7 am, got under weigh with a light puffy breeze from the N.W. carried us along at the rate of 3 knots an hour, the men working aloft all day, got every thing in its place sail set & tackle & gear all right {{Image|file=Aag-273.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/273}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-274 556]
On Board the Sara and Esther

we have a better fore top rigging than when we left port our topmast is better at all events. We were astonished at the quantity of Mutton Birds that have flown past us to day for hours without ceasing, myriads bound toward the coast of Tasmania (that has been in sight all day) having the appearance of a low cloud. Capt. prognosticates from the heavy weather, I think we've had enough to please the most stormy inclined. In the evening [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] brought forth his bible out of which holy but much neglected work he read aloud some very comforting chapters, he read about Christ walking on the sea to his disciples assistance - Sun went down very solemnly, heavy looking clouds & very low [swell] around us wind beginning to rise & other signs of rough weather. Im going to turn in, there will be more pumping to do ere long [Monday, 30 December 1861] 30th. Horrible rough weather. Blowing great guns, nothing set but our foresail all day the sea running mountains high as if ambitious & soaring to reach the skies, at times our boat seemed buried in a nightly gulf & then rises to a pinnacle when we seem to pause & hold our breath as if it was our last before we were cast into unfathomable depths. Im getting so accustomed to the sublimity of it, that I would soon lose taste for the sublime & desire to the ridiculous by losing appeciation for the grandeur of such sights. Poets & writers may blather away about {{Image|file=Aag-274.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/274}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-275 557]
On Board the Sara and Esther

"the sea" the sea & all its splendour, if such like were to take a voyage in the "Sarah & Esther" they wouldnt relish the subject, but wish for the quiet homely pastoral scene, that I shall in future look with more complacency upon - Ive been abominably sea sick to day & things around me are not likely to cure it - I wonder Im not accustomed to the motion ere now. I wasnt sick in the least the first 2 days, owing perhaps to the excitement - Our vessel poor thirsty thing, has been making a deal of water, to day had to spell at the pump every two hours. Tom Downs is very ill with dysentry took bad while at Swan Island, he is getting very weak & we have nothing on board fit for him to eat, a few pounds of flour is the only luxury we [have, we] give it [to] him made up like paste with sugar, poor fellow Im very sorry for him, he is a nice easy going good natured young chap, so different in every respect from his father, who is the vilest old Jonah ever lived, when he was a young man he used to be in a Slaver off the coast of Africa & the stories he relates accompanied with blood, & Crime astonishes me, providence hasn't cooked his goose ere now - [Tuesday, 31 December 1861] 31st.Decr.1861. All on board very low & dispirited, owing to the rough weather, hard work & harder fare. Blowing very hard all {{Image|file=Aag-275.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/275}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-276 558]
On Board the Sara and Esther

day, nothing but the jib & closed reefed foresail set I wouldnt care much if I could only feel confidence in our ship, but such an infernal "cullender" to have to trust ones life in, is enough to make one wild "Old Skipper" is always at the Helm, I dont know how he stands it but there he sticks, singing an old dirge, the only words of which I can catch are
Damn the weather Across the heather Or at the tiller On the billow I fancy theres a nice hot place for him prepared in another world where there wont be too much water to cool him as at the present. Pumping I find is fine exercise, as Bob (who acts as chief mate) says, it developes the muscles & reduces the stomach, unfortunately there are none on board but whose muscles have been developed long ere this & dont care for the service, however we all work pretty well under the circumstances, the wind tho’ rough is fair at present - January 1st.1862. News Years Day, heaven preserve us, what a stormy beginning. Wind abated a little in the morning, set our topsail, had to take it in about 10 am, when it came on more furious than ever. I thought we could never outlive such a gale, sometimes a gust would come & we’d look about for each other, scarcely expecting to see one left on deck. It struck me to day as being very fortunate we have no bulwarks, for the weight of water we occasionally ship, must sink her if not got rid of immediately, it is very dangerous being about the deck with nothing {{Image|file=Aag-276.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/276}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-277 559]
On Board the Sara and Esther

but a life line along the sides. Old Skipper is a fine sailor, he watches every billow, like a cat at a mouse seldom we ship a sea when he’s steering. We lay to about 4 pm. rather a dangerous experiment, but she acts better than was anticipated 2nd. Wind abated (or gale I should say) about daylight, leaving the sea like a moving mass or range of mountains, some of the waves appeared to meet the skies whilst we lay at rest for a moment in a deep trough, such a sea as very few have looked upon, our little dingy rolled fearfully we got our topsail set in the afternoon, & so we are proceeding on our course, which is some consolation Skipper treated us all to a glass of whisky, the old blaguard. I was lying in my bunk & I saw him take a bottle & half empty it, then fill it up with water & so served it out remarking to me there is nothing like combining policy with economy, he had but a 1 doz case on board on leaving Melb. so he means to spin it out 3rd. Sea still rough with little wind making very little headway, poor Tom, very ill. Im afraid if we have much longer, such weather, we shall have to throw him over- board - I have had a long chat with him to day, he is fond of his mother & likes to talk about her & his home - 4th. No change, heavy sea, making very little headway, Tom very ill. [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] found in his box a small Bottle of very good Bdy. that his mother had put there for medicinal purposes, he burnt {{Image|file=Aag-277.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/277}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-278 560]
On Board the Sara and Esther

some & mixing some herbs he found with it, made an excellent concoction which Tom took some hours ago Im happy to state he feels much better. God grant it may prove effacacious. We are sorry Harry did not know of it ere now. I pity Tom, it is the first time he ever left home & feels our present want of luxuries or necessaries far more than any of us 5th. Sunday. Making very little difference to us we have to work at the pump as usual & attend to other duties, Harry & I are supposed to be passengers but we are from necessity compelled to work like the rest, with the exception that we dont do any night watch, once or twice we have tumbled out when anything extra has occurred. The sea has been less rough to day, but the wind very unfavourable being S.S.W. our course being S.S.E. We expect to see Stewarts Island to morrow, if the wind changes Harry got out his Bible to day & we have read a few beautiful Psalms & some Chapters of Christs life & works from "Luke" 6th. Monday Old Boreas at it again, in a deuce of a rage. Ulyses Voyage home from Troy is likely to rank second to ours, in having the fates against us, on coming on deck about 4 am this morning (Day Break) & after a most pleasent dream where I had met Isa King after a quarrel & made friends again with sundry other things how quick the illusion was dispelled, by the wild scene that presented itself to me, the wind howling & driving dark masses of cloud along, which seemed to touch the water, being so low, the sea very rough & angry & our {{Image|file=Aag-278.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/278}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-279 561]
On Board the Sara and Esther; Pigasa Point, New Zealand

vessel rocking fearfully, with nothing set but our jib & foresail, a wretched day we passed. Capt. couldnt take the sun so towards evening, looking hazy ahead, he thought it advisable to lay too for the night, a miserable night we are likely to pass, ship like a log on the water at the mercy of every wave & billow - Tom is much better in health & spirits ==New Zealand== 7th. Jany 1862. Somewhat mistaken in our idea yesterday about the proximity of Stewarts Island. We put sail on this morning, weather being much fairer, sighted land about noon. Pigasa Point the most Southern point of N.Z. rounded it about 11 Pm. being a fine moonlight night we can see the shore from the deck very plain, the Island I believe is very mountainous, but abounds with good timber there are a few Inhabitants at the Nt end of it, who make a living sawing timber - it formerly was a whaling station. Our Skipper has visited the place & discribed it to me he has visited every part of Australia, N.Z. Tasmania & the Islands - abounds with anecdotes of sea & land in which he figures not very creditably, one, by observation, may pick up a deal of information from him, but must be careful not to take the chaff with the grain. On our rounding the Island we found a fine fair breeze to run us up the coast, if it will only continue we may arrive at our destination in another two days easily the distance being under 200 miles from this point 8th. The breeze continued all night & the best part of to day until 4 pm - when it died away, (6 more hours of it would have done us). We kept near the coast all day, which looks the most inhospitable ever I saw being high & rockbound, looking dark & frowning, when the wind left us we were opposite Tyre Bay (or what seemed to me nothing but an open roadstead) where {{Image|file=Aag-279.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/279}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-280 562]
On Board the Sara and Esther

we saw a Brig & a Cutter laying at anchor in the mouth of the River Clutha or Molyneaux, the country seemed level & wore a more inviting aspect from this point, though later in the evening we fell in with the same old rough & rocky walls similar to what we passed in the morning we expect to be near Port Chalmers by day break thank God, for our provisions are nearly done, & so are the men what with bad fare & hard work in our leaky vessel Jany 9th. 1862. Without exception, this has been the most eventful day of my life at least incidents have occurred that will never be effaced from my memory About 1.am a head wind drove us out to sea, the wind changing a few points more favourably, we were enabled to "beat" back to Cape Saunders (distance but 8 miles from Port Chalmers) by about 3.pm. it had been a very hot close, sultry, day, not a breath of wind after noon - all nature seemed hushed, our sails hung heavy against the mast, the sea looked like a field of glass, the sky very cloudy, all hands on board appeared to be weighed down as if with "ennui." I spoke to Downs concerning the appearance, things presented, he seemed very anxious & regretted having beat up so near land at this time not above ¼ of a mile distance - we were in the cabin when we observed the mercury on the weather glass sink very suddenly he rushed on deck, ordered sail to be taken in, we got the topgallant sail furled, the Mainsheet cleared up, when we heard a rush of wind coming down upon us from the land, accompanied with some claps of thunder We were engaged hoisting on the peak halyards. I was letting adrift the slack to leeward, Dave Magher (the smartest young chap on board) was standing on the galley (situated at the foot or against the {{Image|file=Aag-280.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/280}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-281 563]
On Board the Sara and Esther- Lightning Strike

mizen mast) hauling, Mike & Bob were on deck weather side of the galley, [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] was taking in the slack around a belaying pin, hauling together, when our mast was struck by lightning, the electric fluid passing down the Rope that we were hauling upon, the noise was terrific, more loud & startling than a myriad of cannons fired at once. Would that this were all – but alas! such was not the case - I was knocked or thrown off my feet by the shock, on regaining my senses which were in rather a paralised state, I sprang or climbed to windward, for what with the shock & the squall, our vessel was on her beam ends. I shall never forget the sight which presented itself, huddled together, & kept from rolling overboard by the galley keeping its position, I saw Dave, Mike & Bob, apparently dead, my friend Harry was more stunned than hurt. I called to him to rouse himself & assist in helping to save ourselves. I got him up at last by gently administering some curses at what I considered his stupidity. Old Capt was at the helm & seeing us, looking at the bodies, he coolly told us he believed they were dead, on looking around at our situation, we found the squall passing over as rapidly as it came, our Mainsheet was lying in the water, holding a great bulk of that element with about an hours hard work in clearing the mast of the sail & bracing round our fore yard to catch the wind full in the fore sail, our vessel slowly righted to our great joy. The excitement of these circumstances seemed to inspire us with twofold strength on getting things to right a little, & steering away for Port Chalmers, we looked after the unfortunate wretches who were suffering from the lightning. Mike & Bob were severely burned, the former had the hair of one side of his head singed off, his neck & shoulders {{Image|file=Aag-281.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/281}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-282 564]
On Board the Sara and Esther; Port Chalmers

very much burnt. We found him insensible got him with Bob (who was not so severely burnt, but whose nervous system seems most affected) into the Cabin - poor Dave we found insensible & I fear will ever remain so, he looks horrible, on stripping him, we found the Electric fluid had first reached his wrist ran along his arm, the right side of his body & down his leg, carrying or burning of the flesh (the smell being most offensive) his flannel & drawers next the skin were burnt to cinder as if by fire, on getting them into the Cabin where we left them, we having to work the vessel at this time entering Port Chalmers, by a narrow irregular channel, bounded by sandy shoals, which were only avoided by great care, there being no wind – the tide brought us into port, where we found some fine vessels anchored in what appeared to be a basin with no visible outlet, surrounded at the sides by very high hills covered with trees & dense undergrowth rising nearly perpendicular out of the water, we could see a few huts here & there, where there appeared to be a level terrace, it was just dark when we dropped our anchor, but not before another incident occurred worth noting, the tide drifted us against a ship called the "Alma", bound for Melbourne, in the morning, with a number of passengers (a rough looking lot of diggers) who seeing our little craft bumping against theirs, with only Harry & I on deck & the old man at the wheel presenting anything but a nautical appearance, we were saluted with imprecations, & coarse remarks, which under different circumstances we could have replied to in the same spirit, but we were too sad to indulge - in getting clear of her, our topmast (the new one) fell foul of their spritsail yard, causing some confusion. {{Image|file=Aag-282.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/282}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-283 565]
On Board the Sara and Esther; Port Chalmers

On dropping anchor we were paid a visit by their Captain a blustering German Yankee, who on our explaining our position sent his crew on shore for a Doctor who dressed our sufferers burns. Harry & I went on shore with him, found a small township with about 100 abodes in it, situated between high hills with a small wooden jetty for boats to land - we bought a loaf of bread & some butter, & returned on board, where we discussed our luxuries, being a lovely moonlight night the sight was beautiful, the surrounding woods buried in gloom, but the summits of the hills seemed crowned with a halo, all this I observed while furling the topsail & mainsail, a job of no inconsiderable difficulty, the sail being torn & our rigging broken however thank God our voyage is over, Im sure I ought to feel grateful, for not one on board but has suffered severely in some shape or form, but myself, we have had a deal to put up with, but Im so accustomed to hardships I cease to think much of them afterwards Tom Downs is much better, very weak but able to walk about, we shall sleep on deck to night, our bunks being occupied by the unfortunates. Mike is much better after his burns were dressed, he was able to get on deck, it will be some time before he & Bob are able to do much for themselves poor Dave, the Doctor thinks he wont live & if he does will be a miserable cripple for the rest of his existence, his arm, right ribs & thigh are bare of flesh to the bone I helped to dress him & never shall I forget the horrible spectacle & the offensive smell connected with it. We are within a cables length of the "City of Hobart" S.S. She leaves for here for Melb. in a couple of days we saw her last at Swan Isle bound for Melb. where she loaded & landed passengers & cargo here, in the mean while how annoying to us {{Image|file=Aag-283.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/283}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-284 566]
Port Chalmers, trekking to Dunedin

Otago, New Zealand 1862 10th.Jany 1862 Lovely day. Rose early, cleared things a bit on board. Harry & I thought of going up to Dunedin by a Ply Steamer, but not coming within hail, we agreed with Tom Downs & the Capt. to go on shore & walk to Dunedin a distance of 8 miles leaving orders to Mike & Bob & a man sent on board – to have the craft towed up the inner Bay of Otago to Dunedin, we promising to come on board the next day for our "swags". So accordingly, we landed about 9.a.m. & commenced our walk by ascending a very high hill, covered with the most dense forest I ever saw our road was but a track, but we found groups of men at work cutting down the timber previous to making a road in contemplation, it was frightful hard work climbing over fallen trees, with a moist spongy wet soil underneath. On reaching the top of the hill, one of the grandest views I recollect ever seeing burst on our sight, at our feet behind we could see Port Chalmers to our left the bay of Otago whose waters wash the skirts of the town of Dunedin away to the West ranges of mountains rose one above the other until lost in the clouds, to the East the wide Pacific Ocean like a sea of silver with the noon day sun reflected upon it. On leaving this spot we descended into a pretty valley where we found a good metal road running in its centre, on both sides were small farms, gardens Etc & a few very decent looking dwelling houses, following the road which opened into a flat we found the houses getting more plentiful until we reached {{Image|file=Aag-284.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/284}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-285 567]
Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand

the city of Dunedin, situated at the head of the Bay the business portion of town is on a narrow Flat, but the residents are principally situated on the sides of very steep hills which surrounds & rises abruptly out of the town. We found many large & commodious places public houses, all built of wood, buildings going up in every direction, every thing looked busy & brisk but as usual in such mushroom places, thousands of men walking about looking for work, afraid to venture on the diggins. I spoke to many & I at length got disgusted with the tales they tell of hardships to be endured Etc - towards evening the S & Esther not making her appearance, we thought we'd stop the night but where, was the question, if we had had our blankets we would have camped out, however in rambling about we saw three men sitting on their swags, against a wall in whom I recognised, my old friends John & Joe Falder & Andrew Smith. We were glad to meet each other, they had just come down from the diggins where they had been three months, & had cleared about £120.0.0 each in that time, they seemed to think I have come too late, the best ground being taken up & worked out, but they advised me to try my luck, being dark we went into the Royal Hotel & asked for a bed, none to be had, but were told they would make us up a shakedown on the floor of the taproom for 2/. each to which we agreed, the place was full of men drunk & getting drunk gambling, cursing & swearing, at 12 oclock the police cleared the place, our beds were made & we turned in, tired & exhausted with my late exertions 11th. Rose at 6 Am. anything but refreshed after our nights rest, after Breakfast for which we paid {{Image|file=Aag-285.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/285}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-286 568]
Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand

3/. each, we wandered down to the beach, where we found the Sarah & Esther just being cast off with other crafts from a tug, being a strong breeze from the East, she was run right up the beach high & dry, with her nose into the town, however the tide rising we had to take a boat to get on board, we found poor Dave Magher suffering severely but perfectly consious, the other two were walking about, apparently well - with a deal of trouble we put Dave in the boat & pulled on shore landed near the jail, being the nearest spot to the hospital, on landing we had to run all over the town in search of a hand cart, at length being successful we got him into it & soon wheeled him to the hospital, a small wooden place prettily situated but answering various purposes, being a lunatic asylum & a Benevolent Asylum, on leaving him, we returned to town, pencilled a note to Mother, which I sent by John Falder, who left for Melb. by the "City of Hobart" Joe Falder & Smith intend remaining another week or so here. We rambled about town all the rest of the afternoon Harry met many he knew, being a carpenter & having his tools with him, he had no difficulty in procuring work he do{{Blue|esn't}} intend to try Gold digging until better accounts are current concerning them than at present. Ill follow his example tomorrow, & if I can get a decent billet Ill take it, until I hear from Ned, if he would advise me to go. We came on board this evening, to sleep, Capt in consideration of our valuable services has promised to let us remain on board as long as we are in town. Sunday. On rising this morning & finding it likely to be a lovely day, I packed up my swag determined to start at once for the diggins, had a good breakfast & bade all hands on board good bye, with the exception {{Image|file=Aag-286.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/286}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-287 569]
Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand

of one all came ashore with me where we parted with their good wishes for my success, on reaching Princes Street I met Joe Falder who said if I would wait for him until tomorrow he would accompany me & become "mates" he promised to pay for my board at the hotel he was staying at until he was ready. I thought it would be the best thing, for its not pleasent travelling in a strange place alone - & he having been on the road before, knew where the best camping places were Etc I left my swag at the Royal & we rambled about until we found ourselves at the door of Dr Burns' (a nephew of Bobby Burns the immortal) Church, where we stood at the Porch & heard him preach an excellent sermon. I did not hear the text, but it was something about Girding up ones loins in whatever we undertake, but more particularly in Christs cause - he is a venerable looking old man & I believe is very much respected in this decidedly Scotch province. After dinner we went on board the hands came on shore & accompanied us to the hospital to see poor Dave - on returning, I met [[Niven-74|John Nevin]] & [[Mollison-45|Jesse Mollison]], very well dressed she recognised me & I believe wanted to speak but John who always was jealous of me, didnt take the slightest notice of me – & so we parted - she is the Belle of Dunedin - I found her greatly improved since I last met her upwards of 3 years ago, her parents came here before the gold was discovered & are in good circumstances. I understand now why John gave up a good situation to come here he was very fond of her, what fun I used to have with them both on old Bendigo. Im sorry we met for I looked, being in company with a lot of ill dressed sailors & myself in diggers costume, anything but a respectable member of society - the days in summer here are very long, not being dark till 9 pm {{Image|file=Aag-287.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/287}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-288 570]
Otago, on the road once more

[1862-01-13] Monday. Rose at 6.am, Breakfast not being ready till 8, I went down to the Schooner, found all hands at work unloading the craft, found Harry picking out some tools from his chest into a carpenters basket prior to commencing the job he has got. After another cordial adieu we parted! with regret that Harry was not coming with me, for he is one of the few people I have met that I thoroughly like, he is upright & manly - very good-natured & a sincere friend – went on shore had breakfast. Joe having some business to transact which kept him till 11 am made it late when we left town to proceed on our journey. A.Smith accompanied us about 2 miles when the road commenced to being very mountainous, he left us & returned - our road for 5 miles lay on a high range, where some attempt has been made to form a road by cutting in a zigzag manner the sides of the hills, we came to a small river or creek, near its exit into the ocean, called "Green Island" where we lit a fire with some reeds, & boiled our Billy & eat some Biscuits & Butter started again about 2Pm, the sun being very hot, our road for some 3 miles led us over a very high hill, with not a stick of wood growing upon it, nor could we see the signs of any ahead on descending from the hill, we found ourselves in what are termed the Tairai Plains, but what I should call a Valley which runs between some high hills averaging I should think 2 miles broad & some forty miles in length, this portion of Otago being the only track of country fit for agriculture, some parts of it are very fertile, but not adapted for raising good grain (except oats). We followed the road along the W side of {{Image|file=Aag-288.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/288}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-289 571]
Waihola Lake

the valley, most of it being farmed in & partially cultivated. (the landowners I found & I hear are without exception Scotch in fact everything that meets the eye, seems Caledonian, the country is very hilly & bleak in winter must truly be wretched, it is well watered but ill wooded, the hills are quite barren of timber but covered with good alluvium, yet too steep ever to be brought under cultivation, will do to run sheep upon), until we reached the [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-45.9908089,170.1412887 junction] of Waihola Lake & River Tiera about sundown, the river runs into the sea & is navigable to this point. The lake is little more than a swamp running about 7 miles up the plains by about one mile in breadth, fed by small perennial streams. We had to cross [by] a ferry paying 1/. each found a small township, with an hotel for its centre of attraction, where we purposed putting up for the night. We had come about 22 miles, not so bad for we had very heavy swags, mine weighs 46 lbs a good load to carry all day long. We found everything very dear 2/6 for our tea, consisting of tea cold meat & bread, our beds appear tolerable, but I dont know how we are to sleep, the house is a wooden one & immediately beneath is the tap room full of drunken diggers, swearing & gambling & singing praises to their God Bacchus. Joe left our billy below. I went down to get it, but found it vanished very annoying, for it was filled with tea & sugar - [1862-01-14] Tuesday. Lovely day. Left the Ferry 6.am. after buying some Biscuits & Bacon at a store we walked alongside of the Lake for some seven miles the borders of which are under cultivation, with here & there a decent looking farmhouse, met a pretty Maori girl {{Image|file=Aag-289.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/289}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-290 572]
Tokomairiro (Milton),

full of fun sat down for a few minutes & had a gossip with her, her brother lived in a lot nearby & cultivated about 2 acres, she gave us some milk, I never met such a little lump of vanity, she didnt hesitate when I asked her how many beaus she had to inform me she might have any young man in N.Z. we bade her good bye bursting out laughing in her face at the interesting piece of impudence, by 1 pm we made a scattered village called [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-46.1286251,169.8699035 "Tokoinuira"] situated on the plains & surrounded by a good agricultural district, the sun being hot we camped & rested for two hours, & made some inquiries about the road to the different "diggings" - hearing we were only 10 miles from the [http://maps.google.com/maps?q=-46.095932405335,169.87125357962 "Woolshed] [https://kaelewis.com/woolshed/woolshed.htm diggings"] & having heard our old friend Fowler was there, we determined on paying the place a visit tho’ some miles out of our road for "Tuapeka" - our road for some 4 miles brought us to an opening or narrow gully between some very steep hills, with a large creek running in its centre, our path up the gully led us to cross it several times, found the water very cold, this kind of travelling soon made us very tired we at length got to the end of where any work was going on without hearing anything of our friends it seems a miserable hole, about 300 people at work sluicing in the bed of the creek, a new kind of gold washing, I never saw in Victoria, darkness coming on, we went into a store kept by an old Scotchman named Dickson, of whom we bought some Biscuits & Bacon, he was very kind & invited us into his back apparently cut out of the side of the hill. We spent the evening with him & seeing we had {{Image|file=Aag-290.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/290}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-291 573]
Waitahuna, Gabriels Gully

no tent & likely to be a wet night he introduced us to a young man who lived in a hut alongside who allowed us to sleep with him, he had a lot of dry grass in a corner which we spread on the ground & soon made our bed - We playd a few games of cribbage together, discovered him to be a shipmate of my brother Ned in the "Giants Causeway" from Victoria & formerly a stockdriver on a station near Pleasent Creek when I was located in that neighbourhood years ago - he advised us not to remain there, for very few were making more than their "tucker" [Wednesday, 15 January 1862.] 13th.[15th] On rising this morning found it raining hard we waited till 10 am when it ceased, & commenced our walk for Teupeka, our road lay over a very high steep mountain which we toiled over for hours reached Waitahuna about 3.pm when we camped & had something to eat, did not stay long, but pushed on through a very hilly rough country until about dusk when we reached a large flat where we found a number of tents, on enquiring for the celebrated Gabriels Gully we were pointed out a narrow gully running between some more high barren looking hills, we found the gully full of tents & bearing every appearance of a large rush - the diggings being confined to the edge & centre of the gully, on following it up for about a mile we came to what is termed the township, a long string of calico stores, Billiard Rooms & Shantys called Restaurants, the best of the latter called the Cosmopolitan & kept by a lot of Jews we entered, having been informed my brother Ned was to be found there. I was disappointed in not {{Image|file=Aag-291.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/291}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-292 574]
Ned Watmuff at Gabriels Gully

not meeting him. We were told to wait, after tea Ned always making it a rule to call, knowing I was coming, every evening. We sat in a back room where was congregated a lot of fellows, gambling, the table being covered with baize so as to create no noise with the dice. I should think over a thousand pounds Stg changed hands the two or three hours we were waiting. Ned at length came, we were very glad to see each other, he looks very well, in spite of the climate & hardships he must have experienced at the commencement of the rush. I was grieved to find him on such intimate terms with the fellows I had witnessed gambling. I was more hurt when I heard he had been very successful digging, but had spent what he had so hardly earned with these fellows gambling & associating with similar characters. It appears from what he tells me, he joined a party one of them named Signor Catebeni an Italian, a man who I should imagine had lived by his wits. Ned appears to be very fond of him & when there claim was wrought out they took a Billiard Room in a gully called Wetherstones 2 miles from this, on the other side of the range, they are paying £20. per week for it as yet they are uncertain how it will pay, having only just opened it, after incurring a deal of expense - I have as quietly as possible given him my opinion about it, which I trust will be the means of him abandoning such a low lifed calling, by curing him now he may eventually be led from taking pleasure in such pursuits, gambling is a passion that once takes possession of the soul, is never cast off {{Image|file=Aag-292.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/292}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-293 575]
Wetherstones

[Thursday, 16 January 1862] 14th.[16th] Jan 1862. Rose at 8. Breakfasted at Silverbergs Cosmopolitan, after which started over the hills for "Wetherstones" the latest scenes of attraction in N.Z. here we found, as is supposed 20,000 people, the digging having spread over an extensive piece of ground, gold being found in the strangest looking places I ever saw it obtained from, the flat is well worked but not to advantage, being wet ground & no timber to be had for securing the earth properly, the depth running from 10 ft to 20 ft deep the spurs of the hills have proved the richest places. I met a great many people I know from Victoria, some of them that came over some months back have done very well, they tell me Ive come too late, very consoling I must say, after wandering about for several hours visiting the different hills & Gullies at work, meeting & speaking to a great many we knew, we entered Wetherstones township, a bustling busy place where all the signs of a large rush are to be found, the township is half a mile long being but one street formed of Calico stores, Drinking & Billiard Booths termed Public Houses, found Neds place, on entering it, found it full of loafers & hangers on, lucky & unlucky diggers Etc, I was introduced to Catebena who was playing a match for £5.0.0 aside, with some other professional players he is a fine looking intelligent man, rather melancholy looking with a most engaging manner, at the con- clusion of his game, we had a long conversation together upon various subjects. I let him know I did not approve of Neds present occupation & induced him to persuade him against continuing in it, he admitted the passion for gambling had possessed him {{Image|file=Aag-293.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/293}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-294 576]
Wetherstones

long & had led to the loss of wealth, friends & position his father is a titled Italian nobleman, his brother who lived in Melb. a short time ago in Bourke St. had gone home & at present was one of Garibaldi "aides de camps" he is very fond of Ned & has often told him never to take to such courses as he seems inclined at present to follow. I trust he will be induced to come with me & endeavour to make something in a more legitimate manner. We returned to "Gabriels" about 9.pm spent a few hours at Silverbergs, watching the card & dice players win & lose, one "pigeon" was to my amusement most innovently plucked to the tune of 4 lbs of gold & some notes he had with him, he had worked hard for 3 months & was on the point of returning to Victoria, where he intended commencing business on Castlemaine, poor devil he may wait long before he earns the price of his passage money, we left for Neds tent where we sleep, about 12 pm. [Friday, 17 January 1862] 15th.[17th] Jany 1862 Been raining hard all day Joe & I took a strool up Gabriels about noon could find no ground likely to yield us anything so we purpose taking our things over to Wetherstones tomorrow & set into work there, spent the day in writing up my journal from my pocket book where Ive kept it since leaving Dunedin, had our meals in the Cosmopolitan 3/. ameal - In the evening being privileged in consideration of Ned, were allowed into the back room & witnessed another scene of quiet sharping. Ned didnt come home at all to day I suppose they keep open all night [Saturday, 18 January 1862] 16th.[18th] Jany 1862. Rose early, being a fine day, I {{Image|file=Aag-294.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/294}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-295 577]
Wetherstones Gully

believe an unusual thing in this part of the world - after breakfast we pulled down the tent & packed up a big load each, which we brought over, pitched our tent in a little gully at the back of the township in a at the foot of a high mountain, after erecting it we returned for the rest of the things, put our stretchers up & have made things as comfortable as possible, the tent is 8 ft x 10 ft not much room with three bunks & a small table in it. We were very tired, the hill from Gabriels being like a house roof or steeper, some splendid views of the surrounding country are to be obtained at its summit. My mind gets bewildered with the immensity of the scenes presented the country around looks like a sea of immense billows rolling one oer the other, towards the West are to be seen some lofty ranges covered eternally with snow the first Ive seen since leaving England, this is the middle of summer & I could find some within 5 miles of this place - In the evening Joe & I went down the town, heard a splendid harpist the best I ever heard in my life. I saw an awful lot of drinking going on, visited several places of amusement Free & Easy sort of places, where the company volunteers to sing, dancing rooms I found, on entering three I only saw 4 women & those drunk & of the vilest sort, women are scarce here two arrived with their husbands & families this after noon & pitched their camp near us, causing a great sensation in the neighbourhood - [Sunday, 19 January 1862] 17th.[19th] Jany 1862. Fine morning, a sure sign Im told of a wet afternoon, & so it turned out We went over to Gabriels Gully for the balance of Neds tools, came on to rain just as we had them packed up, & starting, I shall never forget {{Image|file=Aag-295.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/295}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-296 578]
Wetherstones Gully

the labour we had in ascending the path up the hill, the rain made it very slippery. We were both in bad temper, more especially Joe, who on our way from Wetherstones had been victimised by an old man on the path side out of a £1.0.0, a great many travel along this path, the old man had a small piece of Board with a pea & three thimbles Joe had never seen the thing before & much against my wish, he risked a pound making sure he knew which thimble the pea was under I could not help laughing to see the astonished look of Joe on loosing his money, for he is very fond of money & thinks there is none could dupe him, what a gambler (professional) terms a "fly flat" - We were wet through on reaching our tent, & we began to experience the difficulties of life in such a country as this, the cold was intense, & no firewood to be had for miles, & the road to it over steep slippery hills. We gave 6/. for a small bundle of thin dry looking whipsticks, its extraordinary the great dearth of wood in this colony, we are very economical with it as soon as our vituals are cooked the fire is put out, every chip & shaving is preserved bones, old shoes, tufts of grass are all saved past, for fuel I dont know what we are to do in winter, everyone I speak to that have the means intend leaving when it sets in - on changing my clothes, I tumbled into the blankets & read & did a little of my back journal, finished it up to night so purpose returning to the old plan of writing it weekly, its too much useless labour, & not very interesting to go into details so much as Ive done lately, sufficient they are stamped on my memory {{Image|file=Aag-296.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/296}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-287 579]
Wetherstones Gully

I’m not compiling this journal for other eyes – simply for pleasure & as a thing of reference, my life has not been a happy or prosperous one, but a succession of struggles for existence, a time may come when I may be in different circumstances that the varied events Ive related may from their novelty prove a source of pleasure in recurring to them occasionally [Sunday, 26 January 1862] 24 [26th] Jany 1862. Beginning to get a little settled in my new abode, cant say I like returning to my old tent life so well as I did in Victoria the climate even at this time of the year being anything but pleasent one day scorching hot the next bitter cold, & strong winds. Monday Tuesday & Wednesday we went prospecting, sank several holes & fossicked about without coming across anything likely to pay, on Thursday we went into an old hole, & getting a fair prospect we set to & cleaned it out it hardly paid us for our labour, for on washing up yesterday, we only had 1 oz of gold, between us. I suppose we mustnt grumble. One thing Im happy to state – Ive persuaded Ned to leave Catebena & he is now living & working with Joe & I - I find him very much altered, & not for the better, since I worked last with him – our evenings we spend as jolly as it is possible we are surrounded by tents, & most of their inmates are Bendigo men, that Ive known for years, some of whom Ive been {{Image|file=Aag-297.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/297}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-298 580]

Wetherstones Gully. 1862
long intimate with, our tent is crowded every evening & we sing, & chat, & play cards Etc. but I must admit, the general character of conversation & manners would shock too refined minds, it is always the case, when men live together, bound by no social restraints such as the softening influence of female society Etc that the intellectual part of mans nature degenerates & sink into the animal. Ive knocked about the township a great deal in the evenings, visiting all kinds of places, dancing rooms, where is to be seen some fiddler playing jigs & reels. Gambling hells & Billiard Rooms where are to [be] found the usual "hawks" whose faces are as familiar to me from old associations as possible, well known by their long lank fingers & yellow faces a new rush is always the resort of the most infamous characters, blacklegs & fighting men, muster strong. There are one or two singing rooms. Ive heard some very good amateurs sing in them, there is a man in one plays the violin exquisitely, he digs by day & I hear has made a good "rise" & earns 30/. anight fiddling, everything is very orderly & considering the state things are in, very little crime of a glaring nature is com- -mitted. I spent this morning writing to Mother & having £6.0.0 by me I sent her £5.0.0 of it, so I must work & exert myself now for everything is very dear {{Image|file=Aag-298.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/298}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-299 581]
Wetherstones Gully

I wrote to [[Dight-42|Dight]], also - my old "Boss," Nicolls head underground manager on the "Nelson Reef" paid me a visit to day, he came here some 3 months ago & has done very well, he is living about 3 miles from here in Munroes Gully I walked after tea with him a part of his way calling on Mr. Brown one of the Directors of the "Nelson Reef", who is trying his luck here, like the rest of us, he is not doing much, regrets having come. I like him well, one of the best informed men & nicest mannered I ever knew I shall cultivate his acquaintance. Im writing this with the tent full of people, laughing & talking all manner of nonsense - February 2nd 1862. My 23rd Birthday & a poorer man than on my 13th. (my first in Victoria, which I spent on the night in an empty Boiler on Coles Wharf) What scenes & adventures Ive had since then in search of bright alluring gold, the worship of it being mans curse, every noble impulse, lofty as- -piration, principles, feelings, all that constitutes the noblest part of man is sacrificed at its shrine. We have worked very hard this week sank several holes cleaned out & tried others, in dirty wet ground, but to very little purpose, we only got 11 dwts to divide between three of us. We bought a tub for washing our dirt in cost us £1.0.0 being one half of a Hogd every thing is very dear 4/. per pound for salt Butter 4/. the 4 lb loaf 1/. lb for mutton 1/3 & 1/6 for Beef {{Image|file=Aag-299.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/299}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-300 582]
Wetherstones Gully

it costs us a great deal & we dont indulge in anything but the very plainest food. Friday we sank a hole, bottomed in the evening & washed out a good prospect, putting us all in good spirits, when it came on to rain during the night, on looking for our hole next morning we found it regularly swamped with the flood caused by the rains, such is a very common episode in a NZ diggers life, can place no dependence on the weather its too severe for Europeans to live God knows what it must be in winter. I wrote to my sister Mary on Thursday night & enclosed £1.0.0. leaving myself with £1.2.0 all the money Ive got in this world, before leaving Victoria I promised to send [[Rakowski-85|Agnes Rakowski]], a valentine from N.Z. not being able to procure one, I composed one, very like what an enthusiastic lover might write to his mistress, which I enclosed in Marys letter forgetting Miss R.s address. I trust she will take it as its meant, tho’ in rather an indirect form I hope she has sense enough not to take any notice of it, tho’ I would like, or am anxious to know if she thinks anything of me. Oh! vanity. Im ashamed of the small quantity I possess, & yet Id sooner hear or see Isa King for an hour, than live a month with Miss R. Ive spent my evenings in anything but a rational manner, a tent is a wretched place in wet weather, & being without fire is doubly so, so I go from one place of amusement to another, Free & Easies & Dancing Rooms associating with all kinds of company of a questionable character. A new Concert Room {{Image|file=Aag-300.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/300}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-301 583]
Wetherstones Gully

was opened last night, several acquaintance of mine knowing I sing insisted upon my giving a song in the place & being in a daredevil kind of mood I assented I sang "My Village Home" a magnificent Harpist accompanying me on the harp. I was in excellent voice & made quite a sensation. I sang for an encore "In Happy Moments," the proprietor called me oneside & offered me board & lodging if I would consent to sing 2 songs a night, I declined, tho I was pronounced a fool by my mates, there are two other amateurs that have the finest voices Ive heard, one a "tenor" & the other "tenor robusto" quite a treat to hear them, they live near by. I wrote this afternoon to Mr Halley giving him an account of my journey here & a description of the place & my opinions respecting its prospects Etc 9th.Feby 1862. Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday we tried to bail out the claim we sank last week, after working late & early up to our waist sometimes in water, we had to give in without getting to the bottom, we were rather disheartened, in the evening we consulted together to try Wetherstone Flat, a kind of a basin composing about 400 acres of ground surrounded by high hills & situated at the foot of several gullys that have yielded a deal of gold, it is about 10 ft deep, soft sinking but very wet there are several claims taken up & I believe some of them are paying very well, some friends of mine the Beales party are among the number, all the money we could raise (I had none) that is Joe Falder & Ned was £6.5s it would take £4.10s0d for a tin pump, without which we could not attempt to try the place, & the balance we bought a "long tom" with. Thursday we took up a claim & Friday we began a paddock about 8 x 12 square. We found the water too strong to keep {{Image|file=Aag-301.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/301}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-302 584]
Wetherstones Gully

down, so we took in another mate, a young chap, named Bill Hodson (from California Gully) by night we just touched the bottom by keeping the pump going all day I think from the prospect we got it will pay, if we can get to work it fairly. Saturday morning got to work by 4 a.m. after 3 hours work pumping, & bailing with buckets we found we couldnt beat it so had to get two more mates to assist us, these two were half of a party who are intending to take up the next claim if ours turns out pay able, we by dinner time got the water out & "lifted" the bottom about 100 Buckets of wash dirt, which yielded us 1 oz of gold only, tho’ if the water was not so strong I fancy we should have got as much again for the gold is fine & in lifting the dirt out of the water a deal of the gold must be lost. We intend trying it again, we spread a report it turned out 12 oz instead of one, so as to induce other parties to take up the surrounding ground, when the water will be much diminished, 1 oz among 6 of us gave us 12/- each, on paying our expenses we had but 2/. between the 3 of us "bright times" to be hard up in such a damned miserable country, the last God ever created & left it unfinished is the verdict pronounced by all Victorians. I wrote to Mr King (of Sandhurst) this afternoon. I borrowed a book to day, the first Ive seen for some time been devouring its contents, a party leaving for Melbourne, gave me an old concertina he had, which amuses us a little [Sunday, 16 February 1862] 14th [16th] Feby 1862. We (Falder, Hobson, Ned & I) set into work early on Monday morning, {{Image|file=Aag-292.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/302}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-303 585]
Wetherstones Gully

the other two who assisted us last week, wouldnt try it again. We sank a paddock, not so deep by 18 inches as the other, making it easier to work. Tuesday we sank another. Wednesday morning we washed the dirt out of them turned out 1 oz 3 dwts, so poor it quite disheartened us after working up to our knees in water nearly 13 hours a day, sinking, However in the afternoon we thought we'd try another paddock, got it down as deep as the others without touching bottom found we had got into what is termed a "dip" or hollow in the ground. Wherever these occur on the flat, the water is always strong, & so it proved we were unable with the pump & one man beside bailing hard with a bucket to lessen the water an inch, we shovelled away more than 2 ft down the water, & could get fine gold on every shovel full we lifted. I & Bill were in the hole Joe & Ned bailing, when the sides of the paddock from the water undermining them slipped in tons upon tons caved in, we with the greatest difficulty managed to escape being buried alive, fagged & weary we gave up nearly dark when we got to the tent, came on to rain firewood wet had a job to get a fire light nearly 10 when we had our tea, every rag of clothes wet, my blankets being dry I stripped & turned into bed so nice, next morning to put on wet clothes, walked down the "flat" had a look at the claim & not liking its appearance, we thought wd ramble about & try & find some other more agreeable spot to commence operations gain. We visited a new rush, foot of Gabriels Gully, saw many we knew, who didnt speak very highly of it, so we didnt take up a claim. I met Chas Melander there, a friend of Mr. Halleys a Swede, he is a clever young fellow. I used to enjoy his company very much, he is thinking of shifting near us. I hope he {{Image|file=Aag-303.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/303}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-304 586]
Wetherstones Gully

will for he is fine company. We walked up Gabriels Gully & visited several gullies & places without seeing any place likely to "set in" came home by the "Blue Point" at the head of Wetherstones Gully. Friday morning our courage returning we determined to tackle the flat again had our tools & everything ready for a start when it came on to rain, & had to remain in the tent passing the time smoking & mending our clothes In the evening, went to "Kilgours Gambling Hell" – saw lots of money won & lost, went into other places, saw a good fight which lasted about 20 minutes, afterwards witnessed a Billiard match for £50.0.0 aside, heard some songs sung by a professional who has an affection in his nose causing much amusement & giving rise to many remarks of not a very elevating description. Saturday commenced work again, tried to bottom the same dip we were at on Wednesday, but had to give in, how very annoying to know where there is pay able gold to be had & yet unable to realize it, if some more parties were to take up ground around us should be able to work it, but the water frightens them we shall have to give it up & I suppose some one luckier than ourselves when circumstances are more favorable will get the benefit of it. I received a long letter on Monday from [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] he is in steady work in Dunedin & is very comfortable. I answered it on Friday, he informs me Capt. Downs has left the Sarah & Esther, & is knocking about town in a very disreputable manner with Peter Tolin, (one of [the] men who came with us from Melb) they have opened a low restaurant & Coffee Shop near the wharf. Spent to day partly in neighbours tents & partly in {{Image|file=Aag-304.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/304}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-305 587]
Wetherstones Gully

our own, gossiping, smoking & playing cards. We rose very early about 4.am & the three of us started over the mountains for firewood immediately on leaving the tent we had to ascend the steepest hill ever I climbed (I was very cold on starting, but long before I was at the top of the hill I was in a violent perspiration, had to take of my Monkey Jacket which I hid under some stones until my return) on reaching its summit we had a grand view our track ran along the top for some 1½ miles, when we descended into a little valley or narrow one I should say for it took us half an hour climbing on our hands & knees to get into it, when we found ourselves in the the most dense forest I ever penetrated, no sun ever shines or ray reaches the ground, ferns in every variety & size creepers & parasitical plants form a perfect network nearly impenetrable, the whole of it, dont cover more than 300 acres & this is the only wood for scores of miles growing, except in one direction near Tokomiara where such another forest occurs its an extraordinary feature in this country. We gathered a bundle of dry sticks, something like "Whip Sticks" , each weighing about 1 dwt, & then commenced our journey back. We met scores of people on the same errand nobody knows or could form an idea of this going for wood & the difficulty attached to it unless they have experienced it, twice we got our our loads up the hill & lost them, rolling down again tumbling from rock to rock bursting asunder, at length getting them all right we trudged along with our loads, spelling every ¼ of a mile, till we came to the hill, at the back of the tent where I found my coat all right, from this point our labours ceased putting down our bundles into the path which was worn down in the form of a gro[o]ve let them go holding on a piece of rope, this was fine fun, & on shouldering it again at the bottom are then {{Image|file=Aag-305.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/305}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-306 588]
Wetherstones Gully

tortured by remarks from the inmates of tents, you pass by, if your bundle is a light or small one you are asked if you tired, when did you leave Dunedin, if the reverse, its how many times did you go to the forest before you started down hill, as some I know will go back for a second bundle to start down hill with, this wood institution is the hardest work I ever did, & is usually done on a Sundays it was 1 Pm when we got home taking us 8 hours, with economy our 3 Bundles will last a fortnight, to boil the “billy” & cook our meat however cold or wet it is, the idea of having a fire is never contemplated [Sunday, 23 February 1862] 21st [23rd] Feby 1862 Weather been very fine for N.Z. After deliberating on Monday morning what to do, we finally settled to try the Claim on the Flat again we got two other men to join us, & set in on the rising ground, which we have continued upon all the week, except one day which we spent trying the dip again but without bottoming again. We did a little [better] however made 5 oz 18 dwt between the six of us not bad if we could avoid the hindrances we are subjected to from various causes. I had to leave work on Friday, in consequence of a bad hand. The palms of my hand from continual hard work is like a piece of grissel, & when using the pick one day I struck it against a stone, giving my hand what is called a "Jar", it is very much swollen & extremely painful, & will be more so when it begins [to] gather as it is doing Ive not slept a wink for two nights, what an unfortunate wretch I am Im not proud to murmur but really I have cause It will be some time before I can get to work again {{Image|file=Aag-306.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/306}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-307 589]
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one blessing is its my left hand - I received a long letter from Mother, all well at home, but she is very short of money & is at a loss to know how to make things meet. Im sorry I cant assist her God knows I would if I could - she has had a letter from [[Summers-6236|Jane Summers]] (I still call Summers for I cant think she is entitled to that of [[Edelman-278|Edelman]]) she is at present in London, after being in California residing in the States says she is very happy. McDougall paid me a visit to day, he has just come from Victoria, saw my family since Mother wrote to me, staid tea I walked a mile or-two home with him, his mates are living in Waitanana Diggings 10 miles from here - Mother informs me she had a letter from Father he is doing nothing & cannot send her any money Xto Mother she wrote to Cousin Harry for some but he couldnt send her anyX his machine has not been paying him since I left Bendigo [Sunday, 2 March 1862] 28th. Feby 1862. Been a miserable week for me my hand causing me the most excruciating pain. I did not sleep for 5 nights what with the want of sleep & pain Im worn down to a perfect skeleton, my hand gathered till Wednesday when it broke. I gave a doctor 30/. to cure it. I feel much easier since it commenced to discharge & hope to get to work again next week. My mates made about 1 oz of gold each they very kindly offered to divide it with me but I didnt feel justified in receiving it & declined. It produces a wretched state of mind to be laid up useless on the diggins & in a strange place, without a penny to bless myself with, for after settling up last night, I hadnt 1/. left - Ive spent my time reading & rambling about the hills & & gorges around, viewing nature in her most primitive form, the whole of N.Z. according to Geologists is of very recent formation, created in some spasmodic freak of nature. {{Image|file=Aag-307.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/307}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-308 590]
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I received a very kind letter from Harry Dight. He is still in Dunedin working at his trade, he has heard from my couzins Henry & Liz both are well, states that owing to the want of water on Bendigo the mines are laying idle the consequence being, no gold - Im very sorry, for Harry deserves to get on - [Sunday, 9 March 1862] March 9th. Fine weather, for a wonder had only 2 wet days an extraordinary circumstance for N.Z. my hand is still very tender, but I managed to get to work, tho I did not do much, still working on Wetherstones Flat we made £2.15.0 each just enough to pay expenses - poor pay for such hard work & working all day in water, injuring ones constitution we made an effort to bottom the deep ground in our claim, but was driven from it by the force of water. I believe if we could work it, it would pay us for all our labour, not succeeding we have again come to the conclusion of leaving it all- -together & perhaps at some future time when the Flat is more worked & becomes drained to return to it again if it is not taken up etc worked in the meantime. I knocked about the township nearly every night, visiting a variety of places of amusement. The proprietor of the Waverly Saloon desired me to sing & not feeling inclined to sing for the amusement of such a crowd I declined & was leaving the place when he offered me £1.0.0 if I would sing, twice during the evening, wanting a pair of boots very badly I accepted the offer. The Harpist playing a fine accompaniment to me, I sang well & was vociferously applauded, left about 10 pm not well pleased with my evenings work in one sense, one comfort there is no one I care {{Image|file=Aag-308.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/308}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-309 591]
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about here so long as it is not known at home it matters not, its astonishing the number of men who frequent these places. I thought it a pity they couldnt find some more rational mode of enjoyment than visiting these places drinking & gambling - Etc. This morning we went for firewood owing to a fall of rain during the night the hills were very slippery, causing us considerable difficulty in getting our loads home. On arriving at the tents we found a quite a commotion, a band of lazy wretches had been spending the morning pillaging tents & being discovered by some one who brought a few policeman, 5 of the six thieves were caught but not without a desperate struggle in which several were shot down like dogs one of them (who got away) fired 6 shots at his pursuer two of them taking effect, but I hear not fatally, their leader is supposed to be a noted Victorian Bushranger whose life has been long forfeited by the laws, this affair has caused great excitement being the first instance of anything of the sort occurring in Otago before. I went down to the camp & saw the villains handcuffed together, ugly specimens of humanity - March 16th.1862. Fine weather for a wonder Some acquaintances & neighbours, whom I knew on Bendigo named Quinn & Fincher called on Monday morning & proposed forming a large party of 7 men, to purchase a set of "Boxes" & commence sluicing (a kind of gold washing that is getting & likely to be the only pay able way of doing anything worthwhile on these diggings now the gullies & hills are worked out) after some consideration we agreed to join them but first to prospect ground ere we went to the expense of getting the necessary appliances we divided our party, 4 of us going to "German Flat" {{Image|file=Aag-309.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/309}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-310 592]
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I among the number, after scrambling over high hills & getting up to our knees in marshy ground in the gullies between we reached the place, a narrow valley, rather pretty with a creek running in its centre, found a few parties sluicing, on conversing with them we were given to understand that they were only just earning sufficient to keep them (the old story) we prospected along the creek in many places & also in several gullies running into it, but could only just raise the color of gold & not getting anything to induce us to return we bade farewell. We were put on a track back which we found much nearer & easier to travel than the way we went. I met an old acquaintance who was taking his departure for Victoria, Hugh Cameron, he has done very well, had 44 oz of gold on him & he told me he has 100 oz more in Dunedin lucky fellow, he was a shipmate of Neds from Australia & landed here without a 1s/d. We brought home a Bundle of firewood each, my shoulders ached after carrying it 4 miles. Tuesday & Wednesday we prospected about Wetherstones Gullies, at last we made up our minds to set in a gully that had been worked before, & had been very rich we ordered sluice boxes, which cost us £6.0.0 Friday & Saturday we worked very hard & on cleaning up we found we had only 1 oz. 7 dwts between the 7 of us to divide, not sufficient to pay the Boxes, we couldnt expect to do much at first, but next week we will be able to give it a fair trial. I spent to day in a most agreeable manner, a man died a few days ago near us from the effects of cold & fatigue {{Image|file=Aag-310.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/310}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-311 593]
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his tent & things are still standing, his mates if he had any, leaving him to his fate, the police didnt think it worth their while to take possession of the bits of things he left. I on entering it, the day afterwards found 2 Vol of McCaulays Essays which I took possession of. Ive read nothing that so interested me for a long time - Criticisms on great men their lives & writings I like the ones on Hampden, Milton, Cromwell, Machiavelli & Byron the best, more especially on the protector & the Italian which gives me quite a different opinion of their characters than what I had previously entertained Friday I wrote to Mother, Ned & I managed to scrape £5.0.0 to send her, in the letter leaving ourselves quite penniless. Im longing for the arrival of the "Aldinga" expecting to hear from home by her - March 23rd 1862 Weather cloudy & gloomy but attended fortunately with little rain. Worked very hard this week. Monday we worked in the same place as we did last week, but only getting 5 dwts of gold we abandoned it & commenced "paddocking" some ground we were "laid on" to, we sank one 15 ft square & washed the dirt from the bottom on Thursday & Friday & yielded us only 1 oz which so disgusted us, that we divided or broke up our party. Ned, Bill Hobson & I still sticking together Joe Falder, having made up his mind to leave & go to Dunedin where he has £100.0.0 in the bank he intends going to Vancouvers Island or British Columbia, Nt America where great numbers are at present going, owing to reports arriving of large yields of gold being found there {{Image|file=Aag-311.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/311}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-312 594]
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{{Red|Poor Falder was drowned on landing from a boat at Vancouvers Island 1863 J.H.W}} its a great distance to go, but I hear a pleasent voyage across the Pacific Ocean. I trust he may be more fortunate there in he has been while with me, he left yesterday morning. Ned & I have spent to day making a cradle & repairing our tools Etc we sold our Sluice Boxes & Fork for £5.15.0 that cost us less than a fortnight ago £6.10.0 after paying what we owed at the butchers & bakers we found our whole remaining capital to consist of 1s/6d between the 3 of us. Things are looking very bad with us. We shall have to live on short allowance next week if we dont find some gold. I received a very affct letter from my sister Mary, all well at home thank God - she delivered my epistle to Miss R – & thinks it met a favourable reception, my continual ill-luck has driven all feelings of a higher order out of my mind. Im getting quite callous, working, slaving hard enduring fatigue & hardship without remuneration is enough to make a fellow curse himself or whatever influence is at war with {{Red|*}}living. I see around me many of the most abandoned & dissolute habits with not a single care of what the morrow may bring for the successful in whatever they undertake, that it seems some incomprehensible mystery must be employed in the regulating of things on this earth. Its no use railing. I had a letter from [[Dight-42|Dight]] to day, he intends waiting in Dunedin if he gets a favourable reply to a letter he informs me he sent my cousin Liz he is desperately in love with her & states {{Image|file=Aag-312.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/312}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-313 595]
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that unless he gets balm for his wounded spirit he cares little what becomes of him. I answered his letter giving him very little consolation, knowing she has little affection for him except that of a dear friend. He informs me old Downs is still in Dunedin & is getting up a subscription for poor Dave Magher. I trust he may get something handsome, poor fellow he is a cripple for life [Sunday, 30 March 1862] March 29th.[30th] 1862. Weather very unsettled plenty of rain, losing a deal of time. Monday Bill & I with Ned tried a hole in a gully bottomed it but not the sign of gold, the same evening Ned left us to go & work in a claim situated in Gabriels Gully, the owners of which (some Jews) are old acquaintances, wanting a mate & we thought it for the best he should try for if only one of us can do well it will help to keep us going until something turns up that we can all join upon. The next morning he took his blankets & things & left us, being too far for him to walk night & morning. In the next tent to us are living two Greeks, strange characters, (I knew one of them, Andre Rosetta) many years ago on Sandy Creek) they are continually quarrelling Tuesday night hearing high words & fancying some blows were passing, I rushed in to their tent in time to stop, (J.Black (as he calls himself) from stabbing Andrea, cutting my own fingers in wrenching the knife out of his hands, after a few words got them quiet & saw them shake hands. They have been doing very well lately & are seldom sober, their claim is {{Image|file=Aag-313.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/313}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-314 596]
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pay able but not having worked it properly, it is very insecure & wood being hard to obtain renders it difficult to work any further. They offered to let Bill & I join them in it if we liked, which we did the following day & for the rest of the week (though at the risk of our lives (the ground being 30 ft deep & very rotten) we bought a "Tom" giving £2.0.0 & on squaring up found we had £2.0.0 each after paying all expenses. J.Black knowing we were hard up & living on dry bread lent me a few shillings on Thursday very kind of him, & appeared more so to me, from the fact I knew so many old acquaintances from Victoria, who were aware of our position & never offered us a penny, some of whom have plenty & that Ive done many a kind action to Ive got a good memory & perhaps at some future time they may be placed in similar circumstances, & feel the want of a helping friend, gold digging is purely a matter of chance, very different from every other branch of industry. Ned came home to day very downhearted, their claim was swamped out by a flood which came unexpectedly & will take some time before they can get it into working order again, he thinks it will pay well if [they] can work it to advantage, for from a very little lot of wash dirt they got out 1 oz between them, but it was not sufficient to pay their board, perhaps better luck may attend us next week. I received four letters from Victoria this week. One from Harry Vickerman full of his troubles, one of his horses died {{Image|file=Aag-324.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/314}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-315 597]
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& the other is lame obliged to let the machine lie idle. I had a letter from Mr Halley full of gloomy ideas concerning Bendigo & its prospects states that numbers of the Public Co. are defunct the "Nelson Reef Co" is still in existence, crushing for the Public, no pay able quartz having been struck. I wrote to my brother Fred to night Ive spent nearly every night down the township knocking about in the same old vagabond manner in & out of all sorts of places in company with my two Greek mates who are very intelligent fellows, Rosetta especially, he is a fine musician, singing the whole or principal parts of Italian Operas & is well versed in all the Greek & Italian (both modern & ancient) poets & literary characters, he has been all over the world & is full of anecdotes & pleasent stories of people & places he has met & visited - [Sunday, 6 April 1862] April {{Red|5th}}1862 Weather fair the fore part of the week on Friday it changed, & has been raining incessantly ever since, making Wetherstones Flat look like some great bog or slough of mud. Our tents of course were flooded. Monday & Tuesday we all four turned too & brought in timber for securing our ground, being too rotten to work without – it was a fearful job, toiling over the hills, twice & three times a day a distance of 4 miles each way, carrying each a heavy log of wood back Wednesday we commenced to put props in but on going down the hole we found that one half of the claim had fallen in some 10 ft rendering it impossible to work it again except without expending a great amount of labour & time upon it, which after consideration did not feel justified in doing, knowing it would not pay us for our labours {{Image|file=Aag-315.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/315}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-316 598]
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we secured the other half all right, but unfortunately its the worst part. Thursday rumours were about of a new gold field supposed to be situated on the West side of the Molyneaux River about 30 miles from here great numbers started, & after some consultation we drew lots which two of our party should go & see the place, it fell upon John Black & Hobson who at once rolled up their blankets & taking nothing but a pick & shovel, tin dish, & food to last them about three or four days & started. They returned to day, foot sore tired & regularly knocked up with their few days exertions after travelling in company with scores of others about a frightful rough country fording creeks & rivers losing themselves Etc, without hearing or finding the place, the disappointment felt is great, many vow vengeance on the originator of what is nothing more than a hoax, the difficulty is to find out who caused it - In their absence, Rosetta & I were unable to do much at the claim, we washed up the dirt we had got out on Thursday & Friday, which yielded 1 oz 15 dwts, not bad for the work we did, if we had all been at work we should doubtless have done very well, always something turns up to put us back. Ned came home last night, having got disgusted with Gabriels Gully, he had 6s/3d to draw after expenses were paid so he do{{Blue|esnt}} intend going there again, all this is very disheartening. I sang last night at a concert room & was handed £1.0.0 for my services when I left, the money was very acceptable I laid it out this morning in necessaries for the tent, bought a piece of Beef 1/3 per lb - {{Image|file=Aag-316.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/316}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-317 599]
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& indulged in a 2/6 pot of Jam for our supper this evening - I received a letter from Dight during the week, informs me Joe Falder has sailed for Victoria (Vancouvers Island N.A.) where I hope he will be more successful than he was with us on Wetherstones - I got a long letter from Mother, full of troubles which makes me feel my continual ill luck more acutely, she informs me she had just received a letter from Father, & enclosed in it was a draft for £5.0.0 (most wonderful) he has his troubles Im sorry to relate, not enjoying good health & doing very poorly in his line of business (I dont know what line he is in) very little family news of importance. I had another letter from my old friend Burchell, he is studying in London for an M.D. attends lectures on physiology & Anatomy Etc, practices in the dissecting Rooms & has passed an examination in the College of Surgeons (very creditably) he relates how dis- -gusted he was at first in the Hospitals, but now he has become so accustomed to the "horrible" he can eat his lunch along side of a mangled body. I sincerely hope he will get along, & be successful in his new walk of life I spent this afternoon writing to my sister Mary & also to Mr Halley. In the evening in company with John Black paid some Greek friends of his a visit & discovered there was a kind of Freemasonry existing between them [Sunday, 13 April 1862] April {{Red|12th. 1866}} Weather very unsettled & disagreable & likely to continue so, now the winter is so near. On Monday Rosetta & [I] went out prospecting down the Tuapeka River we sank two holes 8 ft deep, but the water {{Image|file=Aag-317.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/317}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-318 600]
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coming in thr’ the gravel drove us out without reaching the bottom, so we came away tired & disappointed, no joke to walk 6 miles & then do a hard days work for nothing - I think if the water was not so strong on Tuapeka Flat & people could work the ground properly they would find some rich deposits of gold - on reaching home our mates Black & Hobson, informed us they had had a narrow escape with their lives the old claim having fallen in from the surface they had only time to scramble out beforehand – so that is the finish to our hopes in that quarter Tuesday we got "laid" on to a claim on 30 ft hill & were induced to commence a hole (Rosetta & I) while the other two drove an old hole near by on prospect Wednesday & Thursday continued driving, & sinking but to no purpose for at the depth of 35 ft we dropd through into an old drive full of water which gave my mate Rosetta a start, the ground sounded hollow & I was sure we were over a drive or near some old underground workings, he would not not believe it until he got a ducking which made him come out with anything but classical Greek or Italian. I really dont know which of the two languages he could swear the best in, but his disappointment was most amusing in its demon- -stration, foreigners cant stand ill luck like Britons our other mates by Friday night had driven some 20 ft without meeting anything pay able they got about 5 dwts of gold - what a lot to divide between four men after a hard weeks work. Yesterday morning Ned came back from prospecting without meeting anything pay able {{Image|file=Aag-318.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/318}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-319 601]
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after some consideration I thought it best to leave my Greek mates (Hobson preferred staying with them. I was not sorry for we wished to get rid of him he is such a fool & always getting into trouble about the township, he fancies he is a good Billiard player & is constantly getting into debt at the various tables about - I paid some of his debts on condition he would never play again. I have taken quite a disgust against gambling as much that I shall show no example to my brother Ned, who Im sorry to see has a predilection for this most pernicious vice, its astonishing what a growing passion it is when once encouraged, far harder to leave off, than drinking - with regard to Hobson he no sooner paid me back what he owed me then he went at it again -) Wright & Hazlett with Bill Dowding (old Bendigo friends) asked Ned & I if we would join them in forming a small sluicing party, they know of some ground at the head of Wetherstones Gully they fancy will pay very well 5/. is all the money Ned & I possess, so we jumped at the chance. Wright bought a set of Boxes which cost him £7.0.0 that are to [be] paid for out of the first gold we get. Bill Dowding very kindly lent me money enough to see Ned & I over the next week in vituals - in the afternoon we went to see the ground & made everything ready for a fair start on Monday morning - Our evenings this week have been passed in the most reckless manner every night down the township visiting every place of amusement free of charge, dancing fighting, rowing & in fact doing everything of the most wild & discreditable character - the nights {{Image|file=Aag-319.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/319}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-320 602]
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are bitterly cold & having no firewood, we are compelled for the sake of warmth to visit the Dance Rooms regular dens they are, every variety of character are to [be] met at them, the most frequented is the “Metropolitan“ kept by nothing better than three prostitutes who occasionally join in a dance a woman being a novelty the attraction is great. This morning we went over the mountains for firewood came on a cold drisely sleety rain that seemed to penetrate ones bones. I was tired when I got home to the tent, being wet through our tent this evening was crowded with neighbours spent it very jolly singing, card playing & reading with a little gambling - Ive given notice to all comers, that this is the last night Ill permit anything of the sort to be carried on in this tent [Sunday, 20 April 1862] April 20th.1862. Fine weather during the week but cold & frosty nights & morning - Worked very hard. We made £4.15s/0d each not so bad if we can continue to do the same for a few months. Ned & I had not much of ours left to day, after paying our shares of the Boxes & other debt,. we got in a few stores for next week & found we had £4.0.0 left I wrote to Mother & we sent it to her - I recvd a letter from H.Vickerman all well on Bendigo but states things are very dull there, men are working on the Reefs for £2.0.0 per week Ill try N.Z. a while longer before I think of going back to work for such a sum. I caught {{Image|file=Aag-320.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/320}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-321 603]
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a severe cold at the beginning of the week, on Wednesday I could scarcely work, but was afraid to give way its awful to be ill in such a place as this, no comfort for a healthy man God knows what it must be for a sick one. There has been several deaths in tents close by us, who were only ill a few days before they went to their long homes where there is rest for the weary, (some comfort in such an idea) my cold I cured in the following manner, my limbs were racked with ague & my head aching frightfully when I walked into a densely crowded Dancing Room where I joined in the dance in the wildest manner, until I was fairly wet through with perspiration, in such a state I ran home to the tent, well wrapped up & turned into bed, next morning I felt weak but suffered no pain. This is a rather dangerous mode & would only recommend to a strong constitution & under similar circumstances Last night I visited the the same scenes, sang two songs for the Benefit of a poor devil who is very ill & hard up. Im happy to say the affair was a success & well attended, the “Talent" engaged being amateurs some of whom were rather mediocre but on the whole it was a good entertainment & would not have disgraced even enlightened Melbourne. Dave Hazlett gave a party at his tent to day, Ned & I were invited bringing our own knives & pannikins, found a jolly good dinner provided with plenty of tea & chocolate - & he had also made an attempt at desert, about a dozen {{Image|file=Aag-321.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/321}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-322 604]
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of us were there, how people unaccustomed to a diggers life would have laughed to have seen us in a tent 12 x 14 ft without a table, some of us seated on Buckets turned upside down some on blocks of stone with an old coat wrapped on it for a cushion, lids of "Billy Cans" & broken frying pan for plates & dishes, however we were all accustomed to the sort of thing & laughed & joked as if we were at a Vice Regal Supper or dinner party, if our mothers could only see us now – how the'd laugh, suggested some - Bill Wright had a pannikin of hot tea in his hand & was going to give us a toast, the vessel having no handle to it, got to warm to hold, burning his hand, he dropped it splashing one or two of us causing us to laugh & the wry faces pulled by those affected. With the exception of this little episode every thing went off first rate, our conversation of course turned as is usual at diggers bachelor parties to the Ladies, we all proposed & drank to the health of the girl we loved best (in tea) we had singing & cards (the usual thing) supper time came round after which we broke up about 8.P.m came home. I intend writing to my father. I commenced a long letter to day I dont know when I shall finish it [Sunday, 27 April 1862] 28th.April 1862 Fine weather during the week, the mornings are fearfully cold & frosty & our work is chiefly among the water standing sometimes nearly all day up [to] our knees & always over our boot tops in it, anything but agreeable it quite frightens me sometimes in the morning {{Image|file=Aag-322.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/322}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-323 605]
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perishing with cold & shivering, & have to walk into a wet "paddock" & commence to bail water out one of our greatest trials is putting on our boots in the morning, they are soaking wet from the previous day & get frozen hard in the tent during the night so in the morning our first job is to thaw them I generally put a lot of hot ashes in mine & shake them about until the frost is out & then put them on - this is only the beginning of winter we have had no snow as yet tho’ I believe plenty has fallen on the higher parts of the country, the hills tops we can see in the distance are covered with "white caps". If I had enough to keep me thro' the winter I would go to Dunedin & spend it there return in the summer - My brother Ned took very ill on Thursday, the effects of a cold & the hardship attending our occupation, he seemed a little better this morning but a change for the worse seems to have taken place this evening. Poor fellow I hope he will soon recover I do all in my power for him & gratify his slightest whim this is an awful country to be ill in - We made £5.0.0 aman this week. Ned out of his share had to pay a man 15/. a day to work in his place since Thursday, which made a hole in our united earnings Monday night I attended a Diggers Meeting at the Golden Age Hotel the object being to nominate members for a Mining Board to be established on these diggins what has long been needed, our various disputes & grievances at present are settled by an Old woman an old Scotch Captain, who knows nothing about mining or anything, a great number of aspirants came forward some who could talk well & some bad, some who were all theory who purposed grand schemes, by which {{Image|file=Aag-323.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/323}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-324 606]
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the fortunate inhabitant of Tuepeka is to amass an enormous fortune. I was glad to find a few sensible practical men among the number, who appeared to know the wants & requirements of the district, there was only one I knew from Victoria, Mr Brodie ex M.P. for Bendigo, he is an auctioneer here - & is not very popular, he could hardly get a hearing, but being rather an eloquent man he managed to wheedle round his listeners, until he became the most popular man of the lot, such is the power of mind & manner when exercised over a mixed assemblage of less intellectual beings. Tuesday night I wrote to Harry [[Dight-42|Dight]] & also to Cousin Lizzie - every other evening I spent at the tent, in company with Ned. This morning I went over the hills for firewood, literally knocked up on my return. I brought such a load my legs tremble still with the exertion. I was home by 1. P.m found several neighbours at the tent & my old acquaintance & one I respect more than any on this place, Chas Malander, a Swede, a fine intelligent young man, whose company Im very partial to, he staid tea with us. Im happy to know he is coming to live in our neighbourhood, so I shall see more of him May 4th.1862. Weather similar to last, but colder at night, the gully where we are [at] work is situated between two very high abrupt ranges, & so formed that we only see the sun about 4 hours aday, the days are getting very short. We go to work as soon as it is day light & dont get back till dark, wet-footed & cold – returning to the tent & then have to light a fire & cook our tea (this is living with a vengeance) {{Image|file=Aag-324.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/324}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-325 607]
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Im happy to state my brother Ned is recovering fast he is not fit to work yet - tho he came to the claim on Thursday & did a little. We only made £3.2.0 aman this week - We had to employ a man to help us but the ground getting poor we discharged him & took in a partner who paid us £5.0.0 for the share - I dont think he will get his money back again he is an old mate of mine on the "Nelson Reef", (Bob Forbes) The "Aldinga" & "Omeo" arrived, beginning of the week. I received a long letter from my Brother Fred, all well at home, it was full of tantalising accounts about various amusements he had been at, what a contrast his pleasures are to ours. Ive seen a deal of Malander during the week, on Monday night he introduced me to the Debating Society just formed in the new Chapel (a calico tent on a large scale, seated with rough boards), the Society has a president & Secretary & Treasurer & numbers 60 members all dressed in diggers rough garments presenting rather a coarse appearance - but; there the comparison ends I was astonished to find many among the number highly intellectual, some I believe who have received University Educations. The argument under debate created a warm discussion & brought forth a considerable amount of sound logic & reasoning power such as I never listened to before. I was enrolled a member, the subscription is 1/. a week, the Society meets every Monday night. Im happy in having joined it, its far better than spending my evenings in cursed low places, one evening at all events is sacred & Im sure Ill be mentally profited by the association connected with such an institution {{Image|file=Aag-325.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/325}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-326 608]
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Malander & I spent last night in each others company discussing various subjects, he has some ideas on some – but on the whole is very enlightened without being Utopian or at all narrow-minded - we visited Webbs Dancing Room to get warm from there to D'Lorra’s, Blue Jacket Hotel, where a concert is held every Saturday night. Id not been in a minute before I was most vociferously called upon to sing - I dislike making a public exhibition of myself but felt compelled to comply, the place is built of Iron & is an excellent one to sing in, & with a good accompaniment I sang the "Old House at Home" which seemed to enter into the hearts of the audience. If I was possessed of much vanity, I should have had it gratified last night, by the expressions of the audience. I was compelled to sing it over again, much to the disgust of the regular professionals engaged at the place who are a worn out set, that couldnt earn a living except where talent was scarce. I never in my life attended so many places of amusement & saw so much life (of rather a questionable character I must admit) on so little money, the four months Ive been here Ive spent 12/- & that for cigars or most of it - I never drink & yet Ive free ingress & egress into every place on Wetherstones, Dance rooms, Singing Saloons, Gambling Hells, & Billiard & Bowling alleys I never play, but enjoy myself studying the various shades of character one meets at these places This morning Bill Hobson (who is living with us but not working with us) & I went over the hills for firewood, suffering the usual fatigue on {{Image|file=Aag-326.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/326}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-327 609]
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such occasions. Spent the afternoon reading a work I borrowed some time ago full of excellent observations on life & manners more especially to young men on entering life, a few good ideas I fell in with I purpose noting - "Mankind in general mistake difficulties for impossibilities, that is the difference between those who effect [&] those who do not - "The more a man has to do the more he finds himself capable of doing even beyond the direst task "All men that have done things well in life have been remarkable for decision of character "Vigour, energy - resolution firmness of purpose these carry the day - more men fail from the want of energy & vigour than from want of talents "Is there one whom difficulties dishearten, who bends to the storm, he will do little, Is there one who will achieve; that kind of man never fails. "Idleness is the greatest prodagality Plato said - Better to err in acts than principle "No human being was ever truly great who had not learned the necessity & acquired the habit of looking facts steadily in the face - "It is better to accomplish perfectly a very small amount of work, than to half do ten times as much "Be punctual, by cherishing that spirit, out of which punctuality grows, that, accuracy, precision & vigour, which makes the efficient man, the determination, that what you have resolved to do should be done in spite of all temptations to the contrary - Nelson said, Ive always been a quarter of an hour before my time, & it made a man of me". {{Image|file=Aag-327.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/327}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-328 610]
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May 11th.1862. Weather very unsettled plenty of rain, accompanied with hail & a slight fall of snow the first I have seen since leaving England – we lost about 1½ days work in consequence. We only realized 1 oz 5 dwts of gold between us by Tuesday night in the claim we have workd the past few weeks & seeing no prospect of the ground improving we left the claim & took up another one in a gully at the foot of Wetherstones running into the flat where some of our party worked before. We have been busy cutting a tail race & making other preparations necessary for working the ground properly - I havent much faith in the spot - our earnings for the week was 31s/-d each just enough to keep us in vituals. Monday night I went to the Debating Society, rather a poor subject under discussion but one which caused an animated debate. Total abstinence or Moderation which, the most beneficial & practical - the argument became one-sided. Drunkenness was supplied for Moderation, no distinction having been drawn between them by those who took up the subject. Malander & I spent three other evenings in each others company adjourning after our strool to some dance Rooms for a warming before making for our homes (no great distance from the townhip) Im happy to say my brother Ned has recovered from his attack of cold & fever - Bob Fincher paid us a visit to day - he has been working {{Image|file=Aag-328.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/328}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-329 611]
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in Munros Gully (3 miles from here) since he left us where he is making good wages sluicing, he stay’d tea with us after which I walked part of the way home with him - I received a long letter from [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] yesterday - he is well in health & {{Red|*}}spent in constant employ at his trade, made many friends & spends his time pleasently, informs me Andrew Smith returned from Victoria a few weeks ago & is now employed as an assistant in the largest Chemist Shop in town at a good salary - I borrowed from a Baker (who has a few good choice books) a History of Hungary - which Ive read with interest 18th.May 1862 Fine weather during the week with the exception of Friday when it rained very heavy & so lost a day - We worked very hard this last week but with little profit we sank a large paddock, 14 ft deep - by the same in the square which yielded us 4 dwts of gold, that so disgusted us that none of us had courage to propose sinking another, so we left it after spending a great deal of work over it - we went on the Flat - where I worked on my arrival in this place, found the ground much worked - our old claim that we could not bottom for water, where the dip was, I was so anxious to bottom I found had been worked out & on speaking to some men near by in reference to it - I was informed that a party of Irishmen had made £450.0.0 each man out of that said dip they did not take possession of it until 2 months after we had left it & owing to some party farther down on the flat who had cut a tail race & partially drained the ground they {{Image|file=Aag-329.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/329}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-330 612]
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were enabled to work it to advantage - how very annoying - enough to make a fellow mad to think how unlucky we are, we sank a paddock about 12 x 14 & 11 ft deep which we worked yesterday it only turned us out about 13 dwts - giving us altogether for our weeks labour 13/. such ill luck making me feel very wretched - we broke up our party & Ned & I are undecided what to do We spent the best part of to day prospecting about & looking out for a place to set into work - we fell in with two acquaintances Tom Magher & Sydney Jack & have arranged to try some old working at the head of Wetherstones Gully - next week in partnership with them - they are wild, reckless chaps but good working men Monday night I went to the Debating Society - The question being which afforded the most happiness to mankind "Hope or Reality" I went with the majority & advocated Hope my friend Melander took Reality & by a plausible kind of logic & possessing considerable oratorial power then on a show of hands being called, it was carried that Reality did, not all the reasoning in the world would convince me in entertaining such an idea - Hope is the very essence of our nature, life would indeed be truly wretched without it - with all its care & trouble sorrows & afflictions, its a beacon on lifes dreary sea - the star of immortality - such a {{Red|*}}discourse as I heard makes me think ill of humanity it proves how much man clings to the things {{Image|file=Aag-330.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/330}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-331 613]
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of this world - for I was sorry to find with one or two exceptions that the whole idea of those who advocated Reality confined themselves to its limited sense & to things temporal - selfishness predominated - for instance all seemed to think that the actual realization of one desire brought with it more pleasure - than the pleasure derived from a thousand or indefinate number of hopes or aspirations - Malander had the impudence after it was over to tell me he was not arguing from conviction - I was annoyed at the sophistry he displayed & rated him pretty soundly 25th.May 1862 Frightful weather the past week as I never experienced before & ever imagine I should - Monday & Tuesday it snowed incessantly creating a most dreary sickening sensation to all located on the diggins here - wherever I turn my eyes the same scene, white white every where & everything - our tents are buried in snow, last night the ridgepole of our tent broke with the weight of snow upon it we were nearly perished getting up to put it all right & beat the snow off the tent - our bit of firewood was buried - we lit a fire on Tuesday dinner time by burning a box we had in the tent, boiled a "billy" of tea which put some life in us. I tasted Brandy for the first time in my life on Monday night when I went to the Debating Society, not many present, being so cold our meeting did not last long, the subject being "Is it just to Prohibit Chinese Emigration into Australia" this subject has caused considerable controversy in Victoria & other colonies - Otago is the only {{Image|file=Aag-331.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/331}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-332 614]
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one they have been excluded from - after anything but an animated discussion it was decided that it should be so that in justice to European Colonists they should be excluded from entering & enjoying the same privileges. Wednesday morning, the snowing having ceased we made an attempt at work & by Friday night after doing a deal of work under very disagreeable circumstances - we found on washing up our dirt we had 5 dwts to divide between 4 of us, disheartened & miserable on Friday night I made up my mind to leave the damned country - but my brother Ned not agreeing I did not like to go without him - he thinks I might go to Dunedin & try & get a situation until the summer sets in & then return & try my luck again - I would not agree to it unless he came also, so there it ended - the winter has set in in earnest, snow covers every hill & even in the valleys it lies several feet thick some places Yesterday we rambled about to find some place to set into work - I fell in with Joe Russell who used to live next tent to me in "Pinch Gut" Gully Bendigo many years ago - he, along with three other men have hired a puddling Machine foot of the "Blue Spur." he thinks they will be able to make good wages at it but they want another mate & offered me a share in it for £10.0.0. Joe advised me to get it if I could {{Image|file=Aag-332.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/332}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-333 615]
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for if we can see the winter over, he is sure we shall make a few hundred pounds in the summer after some consideration I agreed, having £5.0.0 by me I borrowed £2.0.0 from Ned & a Jew named Barnett who keeps a small store near the Machine lent me the other £3.0.0 & he also offered me room in his store to put up my stretcher & come & live with him - to which I agreed, my own tent being too far away to go home every night. I brought up my things to night - so as to be ready & handy for my work in the morning. Last night I went to Malanders & spent the evening with him knocking about the township we went into DeLorras where a kind of Free & Easy is held, it was crowded with men drinking & card-playing we spent a few hours very jollily Im sorry to state Malander & his mates are going to leave the diggins in the morning he thinks of going to Victoria, I bade him good bye to day - he made me a present of what few books he had & some other bits of things This afternoon we spent making slides on the ice & playing snowball like a lot of children it tended to divert us from the misery of our situation - the diggers are leaving fast Im sure upwards of 3000 must have left during the past week - everyone who has the means purpose leaving - lucky fellows! I wish I was out of it. The winter coming on so soon & so roughly gives rise to the idea of a very severe one - frightening many however, Im here now & mean to stick here - {{Image|file=Aag-333.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/333}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-334 616]
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Sydney Jack called to see me this evening he is a queer fish - in fact an extraordinary character - he was born in Sydney - brought up amongst the "blacks" in the bush living when a boy on horseback stockriding - he has been all over the inhabited parts of Australia from Queensland to the western boundary of Sth Australia. Knocked about for 2 years at the head of the Darling with 2 others where they gathered upwards of 500 head of cattle & 100 horses in that time - numbers of which Ive no doubt were stolen from the far inland runs - it took them 12 months to bring them to Adelaide where they disposed of them, horse stealing seems to have been a pastime with him, cattle lifting an amusement - Sydney got too hot for him on one occasion & he went as a seaman to China on a 9 months voyage, found his way back in company with an English gentleman he met in Hong Kong who had an affection in his mouth & could hardly make himself intelligible - however Jack had £200 a year from him for 2 years they travelled the colonies - sometimes living a gay life in the towns & at others far away in the interior - his tales of the blacks & bushrangers, scenes & adventures of the most reckless & extrordinary character would fill volumes, he stole a racehorse from a well known horse breeder in Victoria & brought it to Bathurst NSW where he sold it - the police getting an inkling of it he thought he get out of way for a time, so came to N.Z & camped near us & so we got acquainted, he & his mate Magher have {{Image|file=Aag-334.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/334}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-335 617]
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been very unlucky - the other night I went into their tent & found them at tea their meal consisting of dry bread & tea the same evening I was coming from the township & I saw a man with a load on his back wading through the mud I overtook him & found him to be Jack - he had a side of bacon & a 50 lb Bag of Flour with him I asked him where he got - he coolly informed me he had helped himself to it feeling very hungry this cold weather & not having a penny he went to a store & asked for some food on credit & was refused so he revenged himself in this manner. It wasnt exactly the thing - but I wasnt going to make a fuss about it - Ive done similar things when hard pushed in days gone by & know from experience a hungry belly knows no conscience Ah blush, frown - look with scorn upon the poor writer you who are clothed & comfortably housed & know not what it is to [be] hungry - ye can afford to be honest - circumstances alter cases – perhaps a time may come when I shall look back with horror at connections like Jacks - but I shall seldom find a warmer hearted or a better friend than he would make, about 2 or 3 months ago he had some money & I & Ned were short – old friends living near who I had known for years & that Id done many kindnesses for refused to lend us 5/- when we hadnt a bite of food in the tent Jack didnt know us scarcely - he came to me & put a pound in my hand & told me to come to him again as long as he had any he would share it with me - this is testing what a man is made of - I hope Jack will be lucky & become a better member of society than he has been - Ive read a great deal this week {{Image|file=Aag-335.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/335}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-336 618]

Blue Spur – Wetherstones - Otago [Sunday, 1 June 1862] June 1st 1862. Weather still very unsettled sloppy & muddy every step - got wet through every day Wednesday it snowed all day. I prefer rain to it it gives every thing such a cold "Arctic Region" look food is very dear Bread & meat double the price it was 2 months since 1s/6d per lb for meat & its astonishing what a craving one feels for animal food this cold weather - I can take & make a meal of Bread & a piece of raw Suet that in Victoria would have sickened & disgusted me - Im living with a Jew named Ben Barnett - quite a young chap & the biggest "softy" I ever fell in with he is keeping a branch store on commission. Im afraid his profits are not large, he sells "grog" & I am annoyed terribly by a pack of wild Irishman living near who awake us up in the middle of the night for to give them drink & sometimes on credit - poor Ben is very timid. In such wretches company I dont feel very comfortable, last night 3 of them came, Pat McGar being one, a wild reckless buffer thats escaped hanging more than once - he made Ben get up & cook him a chop & boil some tea. I remonstrated with Ben & told him what a fool he was to be made such a tool. Pat heard me & has long wanted to pick a quarrel with me owing to me stopping him from robbing a drunken man some weeks ago fortunately I had my clothes on except my coat when he came up & commenced to bully me, Ben was {{Image|file=Aag-336.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/336}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-337 619]
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away for some water & the other 2 Irishmen were in the front part of the store - he commenced by telling me he had had it in for me for some time & Id better say my prayers I jumped up & before he could lift his shillalah I caught him a spanking smash with my fist in the neck just under the chin - he appeared astonished, & before he could recover himself I hit him over the face with an empty ale bottle, which stunned him - my blood was up at the time, but I knew if I remained a minute longer his mates who had heard the row in the front came rushing in) I would have been killed, so I got out at the back & made for "French Bobs" tent where I stopped the night. I met one of them last night he was very civil & sorry, but pleaded being drunk as an excuse for his attack, there was something about him I didnt like so I shall be on my guard with "that mob" for the future - My new speculation do{{Blue|esn't}} look very promising as yet, there are five of us mates very decent fellows - We hire two horses for which we pay £10 per week for. (they belong to 2 of our mates the feeding of them is divided between us - they paying an equal share in all other expenses the Machine & Dray belong to a Yankee speculator we pay him (Montgomery) £5 per week for its use - So with one thing & another our expenses are very heavy, after settling up last night, we had only 30/- each to draw, but I think when we get properly to work we shall do better - the weather is very much against us - continual frosts {{Image|file=Aag-337.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/337}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-338 620]
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& thaws, making it frightful dirty & disagreeable to work, our machine is situated at the junction of two narrow gullies, foot of the Blue Spur we have set in a road way into the hill & intend washing every thing before us - we had great difficulty in getting the horses to the place the horse feed we buy in the township nearly two miles distance & have to carry it on our backs - our dray, we had to carry over pieces at a time, it scarcely paid us for the trouble for its of little use - We have ordered a sleigh to be made (£20) or an improved {{Red|*}}plane, that will hold a load of dirt & tip up either side - Monday night it snowed so hard I did not go to the Dbtg Sty -. last night my mates & I went down the township, knocked about among all sorts of places & all sorts of company till 12 pm. the best part of the night I spent at DeLorees "Blue Jacket Hotel" where there is a Concert Room containing the only piano on Wetherstones, a young chap named Crawford from Collingwood plays it he knows several families Im acquainted with there - & knows my family very well, tho’ he does not know my name - nor do I wish him to do so - Im known in this place (except by those from Bendigo,) by the name of Bendigo Jack rather amusing, in after life & in different scenes to refer to, - "whats in a name" 9am when I arose this morning & for a {{Image|file=Aag-338.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/338}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-339 621]
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wonder fine weather - I read until 12 had dinner & went to the township met Ned, he has done nothing all the week, but work hard with no returns - spent the afternoon with him - on leaving him I bought a bundle of firewood 5/. (weighed 60 lbs) must last the coming week through for culinary purposes - I wrote to [[Dight-42|Dight]] Im getting very anxious about mother Ive not heard from them for some time - It fills me with pain not being able to send her some money - she struggling along & no support from either Ned or I. I lie awake at night picturing all manner of wretched scenes at home, perhaps sick, starving - their home sold up, turned out & such like - may God in his mercy be kind to them - I often regret for their sakes I ever left Bendigo I could always make wages & forward them part of it every week - or be near & share with them whatever distress they might be in [Sunday, 8 June 1862] June 7th. 1862 Another wretched week over what with the cold, mud & snow, existence is nearly unbearable - I dont think theres such a miserable country on the face of the earth, if so God help its inhabitants - we get wet through at our work every day come home at dark to our cold cheerless dirty tent boil our billy under difficulties make a wretched meal & then tumble into bed & read or watch {{Image|file=Aag-339.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/339}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-340 622]
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the gambols of the rats that infest every tent in the district, owing to the creeks & rivers being frozen they have taken to the tents - horrible creatures Ive counted as many as 30 running about at a time we are getting so accustomed to them that we hardly notice them now, very destructive they are, eat holes in our clothes & blankets & if we leave any food about for ever so short a time it soon vanishes we keep our vituals in a box - and at night I can scarcely sleep with their noise & squeeking & tearing out chips of the box trying to work a passage through. They run over us at night in crowds, poor Ben is terribly frightened of them he has made a long sack which he gets into on going to bed - Owing to the inclemancy of the weather we got very little gold - we had only £1.13.0 each to draw after paying expenses its very annoying to know there is gold & we have the means of getting it & that the weather should be against us - Poor Ned is doing nothing, his mates & him are living by their wits, their claim being frozen up. Ned is a good billiard player & wins a little money at it - in fact one of his mates informed me, his playing keeps them alive this is an awful state of things - degrading us lower & lower & wonder what Father & those at home would think if they could see us leading the life we do - Monday I went in company {{Image|file=Aag-340.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/340}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-341 623]
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with Mr English (a neighbour of mine, a very nice intelligent gentlemanly fellow) to the Debating Society the evening was spent in business being the last night of the quarter - there has been a great falling off in numbers - natural consequence so many leaving the place - I went down the township last night visited various places of amusement - got a good blowing up from Mrs. Deloree for not coming to see her all the week - bother her, she is rather too amorous & has no discretion - she makes herself ridiculous, her husband is jealous - & many people I know have observed her partiality for me - she keeps the best Hotel on Wetherstones - attached to it is a Concert Hall where I occasionally sing - she wants me to board with her - & will pay me a salary besides if I will accept it to sing every night In my present circumstances, few would decline such an offer - but if I did, I know I should only get into trouble, her husband is a Frenchman & celebrated as a swordsman both in France & Australia & is also of a most revengeful disposition, so I think I do well in keeping aloof from having any further connection with her - there is a very pretty girl named Rose living with her - who also professes to like me (of the two I decidedly like the latter) & its amusing to witness the jealousy of the two women. I didnt get up to day till near 12 am Ned & his mate Haywood, called & spent the day with me - & also had some more friends here my Irish lovers came prowling about this evening but seeing a lot of us they kept very civil -. {{Image|file=Aag-341.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/341}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-342 624]
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15th.June 1862. Another week passed baffling description, of all the misery & wretchedness Ive endured from things external & feelings internal. Monday morning we found our Machine & dam, sluice boxes & cuttings covered with snow took us all day to clear it away & get ready for work again - Tuesday & Wednesday - what with one of the horses being bad, & the hard frost setting in, we did nothing - my mates thought of giving the affair up - but I proposed visiting the proprietor (Montgomery) & coming to some more favourable arrangement. I waited upon him on Wedy afternoon - he wasnt inclined to make any alterations in our agreement - I told him we would give him £5.0.0 per week for the horses & Machine Drays, sleighs, & Sluice Boxes Etc & we guarantee to keep the horses in good condition - I gave him an hour to consider it - on my return he wanted £7.10.0 - I was leaving again when he called me back & agreed to my terms - so we purpose keeping on at it - for I feel confident if we get over the next two months we shall do very well at it. We only washed one Machine of dirt during the week, it turned out enough to pay expenses & gave us £1.0.0 each besides - it takes us half a day (Saturday) to carry horse feed from the township over a very {{Image|file=Aag-342.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/342}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-343 625]
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rough dirty road, it seems hard to have horses & not able to make them bring their own feed - but its rather dangerous, being no road - only a pathway running among & between holes - Monday night I visited the Debating Society (with English) the subject was "Does Otago or Victoria hold out the greatest inducements for intending Emmigrants” from Britain) - Victoria bore away the palm the night was bitterly cold - & I fancy the most of those present were predudiced against Otago - Ive had very sore feet this week - suffering from chilblains - Im generally very careful with regard to my health - but I fancy I brought on this complaint from my own folly in the following manner, my boots get very soaking – every day at my work & through the night they get frozen hard like Iron - & to thaw them so as to get my feet into them I fill them with hot ashes & rattle them about until the leather softens - I feel more comfortable without boots I can run about the snow barefooted - Ive been reading an interesting work by Bulwer-Lytton "Devereux" a delightful thing - giving me a good idea (I dont know if a correct one) of the characters of several eminent men who lived in Queen Anns time - Pope, Bolingbroke Swift Fielding & several others - This morning being fine I went in company with two other men - accompanied {{Image|file=Aag-343.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/343}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-344 626]
Wetherstones: pig hunting

by two good dogs on a pig hunt. We ascended the hills that surround Wetherstones & struck along the ridges in the direction of the "Waipora". After walking up hill & down for several miles across the snow lying on the hills & wading through the creeks & marshes, in the gullies, we at length came to a spot where the snow lay in patches & found some spots where pigs had been snouting up the ground in quest of roots, got onto the track of a sow with a litter of young ones following it about a mile, we espied a thicket of scrub a few yards square - fully confident they were in it, we divided & by going a round about - we surrounded them & sent one of the dogs to rouse them, he wasnt long in doing so when the sow was seen running out towards Bill Harris with 6 little ones, they could run like deer, however the dog pinned the old, one but he paid dearly for his temerity, the pig ripped up his belly with its feet like a knife. I ran & hit her over the head with a cudgel, which didnt take effect for with a loud grunt she pitched right at me & not expecting such an attack, I was unprepared for it, she would have worried me, but for the other dog who rushed upon her thus diverting her for the moment from me - I scrambled up, but not without an effort the fall had stunned me & my face scratched & my eyes nearly blinded with mud. Joe Russell I found engaged with the sow, the dog having {{Image|file=Aag-344.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/344}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-345 627]
Wetherstones: pig hunting

got frightened ran away & it took the three of us to finish her Bill Harris stuck his bowie knife into her two or three times which finished her career he had sent the dog after one of the little ones & now came up to us dragging it with him by the hind leg, having secured it, we set to work to dissect the big one, cut her into quarters, we brought home the two largest & the little pig – our walk back was any thing but a pleasent one - the road being hilly, & rocky & the distance long - however after tea we felt all right & they had a good laugh at my expense 22nd June 1862 Weather similar to last but not quite so much frosty. We commenced work on Monday with every prospect of doing well – when on Tuesday we broke the beam of the Machine. (a piece of straight timber 9 inches in diameter & 19 feet long it was brought from a forest 20 miles away at great expense) this was a severe blow for us, rendering it impossible to go on with our work without it. We deliberated what was best to be done to replace it would take nearly 4 days this time of the year to go for one at Tokomira - I proposed to go to the forest at the head of Gabriels gully & take the two horses & if we could not find one long enough to get two pieces & splice them – we lost no time, an hour after it broke we started, got into a steep gully where the timber grows, & after looking at every tree in the forest (which is not more than ½ a mile square) without finding one suitable - we were obliged to be {{Image|file=Aag-345.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/345}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-346 628]
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satisfied with two short lengths, it was quite dark or at last night had come on when we got there to the top of the hill, the snow was thick, on the ground & the horses dragged their load very easily home - we were very tired & weary on reaching home - & every rag of our clothes, torn, wet, & frozen Wdy we spent in splicing & getting our new beam in working order. Thursday afternoon we got to work again too late to make any thing like wages - we had only £1.0.0 each to draw, after paying expenses which have been heavier than usual horse feed is increasing in price every day - we pay 31s/6d perhundred for chaff & 14s/d- per bushel for Oats, & have to carry it on our backs from the township - Friday we had a dispute with some men working near us, a wild lot of Irishmen with a few Spaniards & Italians - who are sluicing near our dam & are running their sludge into it - we remonstrated with them they were very insolent & their party being twice the number of ours, they got very quarrelsome & threatened to drive a pick into the head of one of my mates, before he had time to do so Jack who is a very strong young fellow, picked his antagonist up in his arms & threw him into the dam - the fight became general. I was armed with a long handled shovel, & managed to hit a couple in such a manner, that they all seemed inclined to renew the attack - my mates {{Image|file=Aag-346.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/346}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-347 629]
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fought like tigers & pitching onto them suddenly they were not prepared for such an encounter the majority being foreigners ran at once, our only ally - was a Bulldog of Joes - who entered into the spirit of the thing dog fully & bit at their legs that it seemed they were more afraid of "Castor" than of us. They went for the Commissioner & when he came, he settled the case against them & made them cut a race for their sludge round our dam - since then they have been very civil - but I dont trust them this morning "Castor" came in with his side bleeding & on examining the wound found he had had a knife stuck into him - this is what I call cowardly & we visited the Spaniard tents but all denied doing the act - I received 4 letters this week - one from Mr Halley, he is very well & still on Bendigo doing very little at the Nelson Reef - sympathises with me at my want of luck - but advises me if Im doing anything or seeing any chance of getting on here not to think of returning to Victoria - the other letter was from my cousin Lizzie, she is not very well & is tired or sick of Bendigo & thinks of leaving for Adelaide - Informs me [[Palmer-21429|Mrs. Drews]] little boy is dead, died from excessive kindness - she saw Mr Halley a few hours before she wrote & he wished I was back - says I could get to the same billet on the Nelson {{Image|file=Aag-347.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/347}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-348 630]
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I had before at the same wages - I dont like the idea of returning worse than I went - my other letter was from my dear old friend James [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], he is still living in Stirling, Scotland, settled down quietly & hopes for the rest of his life Mrs H. & little Sandy are quite well - it was a long, kind, affectionate letter, such as only one dear friend could write to another who had every confidence in each other - there is one portion of his letter - that has led to reflections of a serious nature, since his leaving Australia he has come under the Divine Spirit changing his character considerably judging from the tone of communication he advises & recommends me to search after heavenly things producing as he states a better order of mind - alludes to the death of Jesus Christ his dying for our sins - the plan of salvation - its effacacy - & finishes with an earnest appeal to pray - altogether it was a beautiful letter & coming to me in such an out- -landish place & situated as I am in such unsettled circumstances, it may exercise a good effect. I tried to pray since, a thing Ive not done for many years - in fact Ive lived with & associated with so many sceptics upon these subjects - that my conscience has in a great measure somewhat hardened & renderd {{Image|file=Aag-348.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/348}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-349 631]
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anything but susceptible to things spiritual Fred[s] letter, as usual, full of news principally referring to the various pleasures & amusements himself & other members of my family have been indulging in one comfort in Freds letters - they always show me the bright side of my families circumstances - I wrote to Father during the week & also to [[Dight-42|Dight]] - I received a note to day from Malander - he left here for Victoria, but seeing a good opening to invest his money in Dunedin he is remaining in the province - he has leased a piece of ground in town & purposes erecting Public Baths - I trust he will find it a profitable investment - Joe Russell & I started this morning at 9 am for a bundle of firewood we had to go many miles for it, travelling over hills & gullies covered with snow, coming home it came on to snow. I fortunately reached a range of hills that I could follow & would bring me near home - how I did get here I can hardly tell - I left my wood near a rock I know so I shall go for it in the morning Joe has only just got home - he lit a fire, burnt half his load & took shelter in a hole among some rocks until the storm passed - he would have perished if it had not been for the fire - poor devil he is fast asleep & seems unconscious of his late danger - what a blessing to the weary, is sleep - the most mysterious of natures phenomena & yet the best to man - {{Image|file=Aag-349.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/349}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-350 632]
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29th June 1862 Weather much milder than it has been the past few weeks - spent a deal of time in repairing our works - so as to be better prepared for a renewal of bad weather - we in consequence, did not get much gold we had 31/- each after paying all expenses. Im been a very poor spirits, the life Ive led & am leading is affecting me not only physically but mentally - sometimes I feel after a continued series of disappointment as Ive experienced lately I shall go mad - Poor Ned is doing nothing but working hard with no returns & Im sorry to say or think he is getting addicted to vices that I fear are having had their origin in necessity - I have implored him often, whatever is the consequence to refrain from gambling in any shape or form - this thing itself, makes me regret our ill luck the more - for if we could leave this place & go somewhere he might be freed from his present associations & change or refrain from indulging & feeding the vice, gambling is like drinking, but worse it is a growing evil - & let it get firm hold of a man happy is he who is ever released from its degrading influences - Monday night, went to the Debating Sty – subject - "Are the Nt States of America justified in going to war with the St States" - the debate lasted thro 10 pm when it was settled to the satisfaction of many that they were - the question was very {{Image|file=Aag-350.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/350}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-351 633]
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one sided - the Southerners being badly represented it proved to me however justified they might be - that the usual audience are not satisfied from convictions of their own - but are led by any one possessing a very moderate share or oratorical power & so they vote without thinking over the subject, for the side best buttered & easiest swallowed - Thursday & Saturday nights I spent at the "Blue Jacket" Deloree pleasently after a fashion - Spent the day reading never left the tent - I wrote to Fred & also to Malander There is one thing causes me great anxiety & that is I find my eyesight is getting very defective – some days I can hardly read & if I read or write for an hour or so in the evening, I suffer severely - my head swims & aches & the letters get quite indistinct - I fancy it is the continual glare of light arising from the suns reflection upon the snow - Ive read very little lately - from the cause God grant me my sight - or farewell these visions Ive pictured to myself in the future when I should discontinue my present life & turn to other more congenial to my tastes when an appointment should arrive - 6th.July 1862 Fine weather but bitterly cold & frosty - Made £3.0.0 each this week - but out of that we bought a set of sluice boxes 24 ft long as our cradle but a deal of fine gold - Monday night I went to the Society, subject, which did the most good for Society the "Minister or the Schoolmaster" {{Image|file=Aag-351.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/351}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-352 634]
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much to my disgust the subject was handled in such a disrespectful manner & the character of the Minister treated in such a tone of levity that I wasnt surprised at the Schoolmaster gaining the palm - its astonishing to find a lot of intelligent men so antagonistic against anything appertaining to mans spiritual welfare. With the exception of last night when I paid the "Blue Jacket" a visit in company with Ned & my mates, I spent in the tent, reading when my sight permitted, it snowed all night & to day every thing looked so dreary & gloomy - that I find my spirit affected with it. I wrote a long letter to Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] to day - 13 July 1862 Weather beautiful & fine - the sun shining bright all day - & yet intensely cold Im sure it must freeze about 20 hours out of the day for everything around is frozen up, our Dam & Mill - with water & tail races all choked up with ice - the water holes & springs Etc - we have to take an axe to chop the ice when we want water for culinary purposes - we only worked two days of the week Monday & Saturday, just one Machine of dirt, which fortunately turned out well - giving us £1.2.6 each after defraying expenses every body is idle - passing away time as agreeably as possible under the circumstances seems to be the order of the day, sliding - & playing snowball {{Image|file=Aag-352.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/352}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-353 635]
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cardplaying & drinking - the billiard & Concert & Dancing Rooms are filled night & day - but I observe very little money spending - Its amusing to visit the township & hear the criers & bell men going about praising the places of amusement they represent - the most attractive places are those which hold out the luxury of a fire - Ive been laid up with chilblains. I can scarcely walk or sleep for pain. Ive had to wear old boots with pieces cut out of the side, for many a day, in other respects I enjoy glorious health. In fact since Ive been in NZ Ive not felt the slightest effect from my hardships - Its been a cursed place for many - for Ive seen fine strong men since I lived here, cast down, broken in health & vigour for the rest of their days. Ive had so far a marvellous constitution. I ascribe it to my commencing & getting enured to what would appear incredible hardships - when I was a mere child - so my system has grown to meet the requirements of the life Ive led - pains, rheumatics, cramps & such like are to me unknown - whereas when a full grown man who has had the comforts & luxuries of a home commences on such an occupation as a gold diggers, he soon breaks down & begin to show signs of decay - I received a letter from [[Dight-42|Dight]], on Tuesday, he is still unwell complains of the climate Etc - I wonder what hed say if he had to live in a small thin calico tent {{Image|file=Aag-353.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/353}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-354 636]
Wetherstones: pig hunting

without fire - I guess hed cease to grumble at his present life if he had to live a week with me I visited DeLorees last night got into a scrape about their girl - such a lot of chaps are smitten with her that Im looked upon by many with antipathy, & difficult is my task sometimes to stop their remarks - things are different in such a place as this in comparison to a settled town men here as in all society where there are no women [are] wild & lawless more like brutes when their passions are aroused than human beings with a spark of divinity in them - I spent to day pig hunting near the Tuepeka River had a long chase tracking one over the snow, at length got in sight of a fine boar - he showed fight but Castor got hold of him & we cut his throat, carried the two hind quarters home - we were very tired on reaching here - I went out on Thursday but after travelling many miles & losing ourselves in the bargain without meeting any signs of pigs we came home much disgusted - to day I travelled bare footed over the snow thinking it would cure my chilblains 20th.July 1862 The weather overhead has been beautiful, the sun [shining] brightly - for some 3 or 4 hours a day & then it commences to freeze & everything underfoot gets as hard as stone. We were four & a half days idle in consequence of the frost {{Image|file=Aag-354.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/354}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-355 637]
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it thawed a little on Friday & we managed to sluice a Mill of dirt that we had puddled last week it yielded us 3 oz 10 dwts - which was very good for the quantity of dirt we had washed for it - it was just enough to pay expenses - & give us £1.0.0 each over - not bad considering we are frozen up like some Arctic Explorers in winter time - My leisure time has been spent in a variety of ways – snowballing - pig hunting - & going over the mountains for firewood - sometimes reading & writing - very little of the latter for I find my eyes wont permit me to indulge in my favourite recreation - & my feet with chilblains has prevented me enjoying out door or open air exercise so much as I would like - Monday night I went to the Debating Society,) found many had left, we mustered nearly 200 members some weeks back, now we are about 45 - next week I suppose there will be less.) no subject was discussed all business - it was proposed & carried that we should change our programme for the ensuing quarter instead of debate, have Essays from the members & at their conclusion any thing that had been stated in them that seemed objectionable - to be subject to criticism & discussion - Twelve essays are promised by members - I was induced at the solicitations of several members to become one of the number - I felt thoroughly incompetent for such a task {{Image|file=Aag-355.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/355}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-356 638]
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especially when a man has to depend upon his own brain for matter - there being no such thing as a Library on this place where to gain a grain of information upon any subject - Ive spent hours in pondering over in my mind what to compile an essay upon - my knowledge is too limited to enter on any particular branch of Literature Science & Art - from memory - however I purpose writing what I do know & what I think about many subjects - On the interest Literature Science & Art exercises upon mankind - I purpose dividing my subject under three heads, L.S & A with as many remarks as possible upon each & wind up with their application rather an {{Red|*}}univer[s]al subject - but one must be guided by circumstances - on such an occasion I made a comment, a day or two back & have gathered, arranged & partly written & finished my remarks & ideas upon Literature. Ive not gone into or alluded to any particular author or writer {{Red|*}}& Confined my self to the general importance & effects a study of the higher branches of literature & pursuit of literary habits affords, combined with the pleasure such tasks engender - I found all this comparatively easy. Science & art will give me a pulling up - Ive found time to visit DeLorees three or four times this week - Mr & Mrs White are living with them at present singing for food & drink - I met him several years ago - when he was considered {{Image|file=Aag-356.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/356}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-357 639]
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the most accomplished singer that ever visited Australia he used to be the principal tenor in the first Christy Minstrels that appeared in Europe & America when I heard him first he had a splendid rich full toned Tenor Robusto voice - he is now a poor miserable broken down drunkard, lost his voice at least he professes to sing - & sometimes he even {{Red|*}}un electrifies one sometimes with a few bars of most ravishing sweetness - since Ive been here he has taught me several songs - we have sung several times together - he was very ill & hard-up a short time back & a concert was got up at which I sang for his Benefit - some £30 was made by it & it was thought he would leave this colony & return to his own home - but he got the money & was never sober until it was done - I enjoy his company much he has travelled all over the world in his professional character & is full of anecdotes & comic stories Etc & tells them with that easy well bred air that denotes the gentleman by education - Ned is like myself, doing nothing, frozen out. I hardly know how his mates live - by their wits I think! I spent several hours with them to day at their tent, one of them is a well informed fellow - who has received a University Education (Dublin) but Im sorry to say is a confirmed Atheist - & does a deal of injury to those, less informed he comes in contact with - we had a long argument to day {{Image|file=Aag-357.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/357}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-358 640]
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he quotes Hume & Hobbs - Volney, Voltaire & Payne I retorted with Locke, Bacon, Abercrombie & Watts & other authors whose names have escaped my memory he does not believe in the immortality of the soul on this subject I was more than his equal - for I do, & I left him without a leg to stand upon – he then abused & denied the authenticity of the Bible the fulfilling of profecy seemed to affect him most I alluded to one of his own favourites Volney, who in his Rise & Fall of Empires does more to prove the truth & entire fulfilment of many proficies than any other traveller - I trust I was eloquent enough to overthrow some of his flimsy & superficial arguments - based upon principles not proving – pure hypothesis. July 27th.1862. The weather changed on Monday thaw set in released from bondage - all suspended nature - we managed to get or do a fair weeks work realised about 10 oz of gold - giving us after all expenses about £5.0.0 a man - We were humbugged by Montgomery the proprietor of the Mill) with reference to a dray belonging to the plant - which we use & supposed belonged to him, it appears the dray belongs to another party who claims it, we dont intend giving it up, so a summons was served upon us for its value - & we are to appear at court on the 29th inst - unless we come to some arrangement I waited upon Mr M. to day & have offered to buy the dray, on consideration of his lessening the rest of {{Image|file=Aag-358.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/358}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-359 641]
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the Mill - he is to give us an answer tomorrow & in the meantime we must try & see what the person wants for the dray - it was borrowed by Mr. M. in the first place & the owner has been absent from here several weeks - Troubles never come alone – I received a long letter from my sister Mary that has caused me much pain & uneasiness – she informs me they are reduced to the most extreme poverty so humiliating that she has borrowed £5.0.0 from Dr Droyer - who has attended her through an illness extending over a period of two years gratis. My God it drives me mad to think my mother & sisters should be suffering such poverty & have to struggle in such a manner, while there is a Father & three grown up sons in health & strength living - & not one of the lot able to assist them - Mary says Fred only allows or gives mother, out of his wages, just enough & barely what keeps himself - Mary, poor girl is a poor delicate slender girl, but from the tone of her letters possesses a fine high spirit & considerable intelligence that cannot stand long under such circumstances I rack my brain with all sort of designs & schemes to thinking of some remedy for our domestic trials & difficulties - & have come to the conclusion to try the Machine about two months longer - in that time If the weather holds good, I trust to be able to save enough to take me back to Victoria, where Ill again try for some {{Image|file=Aag-359.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/359}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-360 642]
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employment in Melbourne & live at home & or suffer with them I would sacrifice life itself so they would be benefited & be happy - I wrote to Mother & enclosed £3.0.0 in the letter, all I could scrape together, lived the last week nearly on dry bread in Consequence - My Essay is not one line the more advanced since last week - my mind being too much harrassed & unsettled to collect or arrange an idea properly - I went to see my brother Ned yesterday afternoon, had tea with him - he has got into a very devil may care kind of way, in consequence of our long continued ill luck - they got to work last Monday but did not make enough out of their claims to pay their weeks expenses - I have not left the tent to day except for a few minutes up to Johns tent (one of my mates) spent the day mending my clothes & reading, the latter not much, my sight still being very weak from the effect of the snow - I hope to heavens it {{Red|*}}Just soon recover it again - August 3rd 1862 Weather moderate - the snow all vanished from the vallies, but we had another heavy fall last night, that has given everything a sepulchral look again - I have often heard & read descriptions giving one a glorious idea of winter in the old country {{Image|file=Aag-360.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/360}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-361 643]
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they can take it with all its beauties - I dont care if I never see snow again - We lost no time this week - made about as much as last week say £5.0.0 but we had the dray to pay for which took £2.10.0 each to purchase however its now our own property & we pay 7/6 per week less for the Machine - in consideration, so we had only about £2.10.0 each to draw after all I wrote to my sister Mary & sent her £2.0.0 leaving me again without money - One of my mates & I left home early this morning & went in the direction of the Molyneaux River, (a large river running nearly Nth & Sth through Otago nearest point from here being some 20 miles it runs between high & rocky mountains above this point & little is known of it, a perfect Styx I suppose some day when the country gets better explored something more about it will be known) We crossed Munroes Gully & got upon the mountain fell in with a little copse of timber & after a tiresome beat up we at length got on the tracks of some pigs - we came in sight of a fine young boar & fired a revolver at him which fortunately struck his leg - we had no dog - but after running & sticking to him we got up to where he had {{Red|*}}perched he showed fight but it was no go we quickly cut his throat - & cut him up in two sides {{Image|file=Aag-363.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/361}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-362 644]
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after which operation we trudged home tired out & weary, about 4.P.m when I got here, however we have meat for a week - its astonishing the quantity of meat a man can eat here in winter, the same quantity in Victoria would disgust me - I often take a large piece of suet & some bread for my dinner to work - Monday night - Mr Neil delivered his essay (& a very fine one it was the subject being "On Influences" - I must begin in earnest about mine or I will be behind hand - I went to the township last night - met a great many acquaintances - visited DeLorees staid chatting with Mrs DL & Julia till 1.30 this morning - such fun Mrs D is as jealous as possible of Julia - & the latter is of her - [Sunday, 10 August 1862 (likely)] August 11th 1862 Tolerable fine weather during the week, made £4.10.0 aman - we broke our Beam again - but we managed to buy one from Groves -(who has given up puddling) for £5.0.0 an unlooked for expense - Neds party is broken up. Ned is fossicking & prospecting about I want him to bring up his tent & pitch near mine - he doesn't like the idea - too far for him, from the Township & where there is any life he never seems happy only when he’s in a place of amusement or a Billiard Room. I remonstrate {{Image|file=Aag-362.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/362}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-363 645]
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but he takes very little notice - poor fellow he has become quite callous of his lot - I long for the time when we shall leave this cursed country when perhaps under different influences he may become changed in some of his habits - Monday night a young fellow named Jones delivered an Essay on Self Improvement - a very good one - but from some remarks he made with reference to the harmonising of Science with Christianity led many to imagine he was a sceptic on Biblical writings - some of the members rose & opposed his views at its conclusion - when a very animated discussion arose lasting till nearly 12 Pm On Wednesday night in the same Erection a Tea Meeting was held, the second thing of the sort ever got up in this locality. The place was crowded Jones & I went in to hear some addresses that were made after the tea was over - Revd.Mr. Vicers spoke & he alluded to our society - & damns the institution, but not altogether the manner in which certain subjects were discussed especially any thing bordering on the Theological he at length commenced to condemn Jones Essay & was rattling away unconscious of our presence when Jones whispered he could not stand to be condemned so publicly as it appears {{Image|file=Aag-363.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/363}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-364 646]
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Vickers had misunderstood the application of Jones's objectionable remarks - one would infer both Jones & I were atheists from what he had referred to - Jones is a well educated man & has fine oratorical powers superior to any private individual I ever met with - he spoke well & eloquently for about twenty minutes, before any in the place began to think the whole affair was out of place on such an occasion - after that such a hubbub occurred, we were at length forced to retire highly amused at what we heard & seen - seen such a collection of character[s] for such a place that will never be effaced from my memory - women there known to be prostitutes serving out tea & men, some well known low brutes such as members of the P.R. keepers of Gambling Hells, dance rooms Etc - All my leisure hours Ive spent in writing & compiling matter for my Essay, - my great drawback or one I feel effects me most is my limited Grammatical knowledge - I must really have a go in this, as soon as possible [Sunday, 17 August 1862] August 17th 1862 Been nice weather, but bitter cold & frosty at nights Worked very hard this week - four nights we worked sluicing until 10 pm made nearly £7.0.0 each not so bad if I can continue to do so for the next 3 months I shant care & there is every prospect of doing so - I am {{Image|file=Aag-364.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/364}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-365 647]
Wetherstones

now out of debt & have got a few new pieces of clothing - I have had very little spare time on my hands this week - been glad enough to go to my bed as soon as I got home - Its not pleasent sitting up without fire such cold weather as this so I read in bed or watch the Rats in thousands playing about the tent - or ferociously gnawing away at the Box we keep our vituals in - many times they have succeeded in eating a hole right through the boards which are 1 inch thick no one would credit their numbers & voracity unless they had seen them - they have driven & frightened many out of their tents this winter Ben Barnett the chap Im living with is terribly frightened of them - He has made a long sack in which he rolls himself up in at night - they are very distructive - last week I bought a flannel shirt & left it on a stool, when I got home I found it found in shreds fairly eaten away - I suppose they used it for nests they are rather intellectual, by the bye, they often run away - with Books & Newspapers discuss & distroy matter to an alarming extent This morning Ben & I went over the hills for Firewood - we had made up a large bundle each & were returning & had to cross a rapid running creek on a fallen trunk of a tree, when I slipped my footing & went sprawling into {{Image|file=Aag-365.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/365}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-366 648]
Wetherstones

the water. My bundle seemed to stick to me & kept me under the water longer than I liked - I was near being drowned when I caught hold of an overhanging bough - I was wet through - Ben lent me his drawers & one of his shirts & fasting my wet things to my bundle made the best of my way home carrying my load - I vowed Id never go for firewood again while I had money to buy a bundle in the township on getting home I found my wet things so frozen coming over the mountains, I could not pull them asunder without thawing them at the fire Victorians would hardly credit such a thing could take place in the course of three hours August 24th 1862 The weather has been very unsettled, but the changes have taken place generally at night, so hasnt hindered us from work excepting making everything very dirty & disagreeable we made £7.10.0 aman this week the best weeks work Ive had for many a long time & a prospect of it continuing - On Tuesday news arrived on "Wetherstones" of the discovery of a New & very rich Gold field situated far into the heart of the country - some 70 or 80 miles from here on the Banks of the Molyneaux River it appears two enterprising men (diggers) named Hartley & Riley left here some 6 months ago on a prospecting tour, they travelled and {{Image|file=Aag-366.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/366}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-367 649]
Wetherstones

prospected over many parts of the island that no European had ever traversed before & succeeded in finding gold in many places but in none so rich as on the Banks of the River Ive named near its supposed source - they arrived in Dunedin with 86 lbs (Troy) weight of gold - they also claimed & it was granted them, the Government reward of £2000.0.0 for the discovery - considering the thousands of diggers on these fields who are doing nothing, it isn't a matter of surprise that thousands made preperations for starting away at once - I never heard tell or witnessed such an Impromptu Rush or Exodus in all my Ten years experience of gold digging in three days time I dont think 200 men were left on these diggins - to people who know nothing of diggers & what they are capable & have the pluck of doing - it would appear madness to go to such a place, at such a distance so unprepared - & trusting to luck as many have done & are doing still - It is supposed at present to be impossible for a dray or any conveyance to get there from whatever point they start from - every man that left here carried nothing but provisions in the shape of Biscuits - with a pair of Blankets a Tin dish & a pick & shovel, the storekeepers are making great exertions to get draymen to accept cartage @ £120.0.0 per ton is freely offered - many a load has started & the drayman has no idea what road to take or how he is to get there - {{Image|file=Aag-367.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/367}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-368 650]
Wetherstones

how he is to proceed, the road to where the diggins is situated is supposed to be the roughest part of Otago, over mountains - & ranges Etc & at this time of the year they are covered with snow there is sure to be a lot of suffering - Ned & Jack Heywood (Sydney Jack) called at the Mill on Thursday morning, to bid me good bye - on asking them to show me what they were starting upon I found they had £1.0.0 between them & about 25 lbs of biscuits with a pound of Butter & a little tea & Sugar - this is all they had to start away for a place where no provisions are to be had for money - scarcely enough to last them until they arrived there I gave Ned £2.0.0 & made him buy a lot more biscuits to take with him & also a quarter of Mutton & so they started - they are good walkers & I dare say will be there by this time - although their swags were heavy they were nothing in comparison to some Ive seen many a man started from here with a load of 70 & 80 lb weight, no joke this to carry over hills & mountains, that only a Swiss or an inhabitant among the Andes or Himalayas can have a conception of - I sincerely hope the rush may be a good one, for the sake of those that have gone, but for my own part, I wish {{Image|file=Aag-368.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/368}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-369 651]
Wetherstones

Hartley & Riley had been to Jericho for the next 3 months - here are we just struggled through the worst part of the winter & beginning to do well & a chance of continuing the same - when this rush takes place & upsets all my plans - my mates have got the fever - & want to give up the Machine & start - last week we could have got £30 each for our working share in our Machine & now we could not get 1s/d -. We went to buy horse feed last night at the township & could only get, as a great favour, at a most exorbitant price enough to last our horses 4 days – heres a pretty go! - horses cannot live here this time of the year on what they pick up - let alone do any work with them - One of our mates Joe Poulter at once stated his decision to start, he left this morning with Dowding & Pickett – John & J McEwan the owners of the horses wants Russell & I to stick with them at the Machine for a few days while the feed lasts & perhaps by that time some news may arrive from the rush that will induce us to remain longer - & we may be able to buy some more horse feed, we agreed to this - they promising - if the rush is as good as it is represented, to sell one of the horses & with the other we will pack & all go mates together & be off - to this we have agreed, to day - Monday night I went to the Society likely to be the last meeting that will take place - Gordon delivered his {{Image|file=Aag-369.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/369}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-370 652]
Wetherstones

Essay on the "Gigantic Monsters of the Pre-Adamite World" the matter all borrowed Im sure, from Hugh Miller with general ideas of Cuviers a long discussion ensued - when Jones again made himself very obnoxious by his sceptical remarks on the Harmonising of Science with Christianity - I happen to know that he is not at all sceptical, but strongly impressed with the belief in every instance of what he professes to condemn, he does it simply for debate & to draw a set of people connected with the society out - On leaving Gordons last night (where we buy our horse feed) my mates being inclined for a spree - we all went into DeLorees - stayd there till 2 Am this morning John got as drunk as a Lord & bringing him home it came on to snow - & he wanted to lay down & have a sleep - Joe & I were the only sober ones so we carried him home on our backs - I went down the township this afternoon - I never saw such a deserted place in my life - I walked into, Im sure 50 deserted tents & places in some I found blankets on the beds & books & in one a Boiler with a piece of Beef in it on a fire or what had been a fire. I gathered a lot of Books together - from places I visited I could get any amount of diggers tools - I {{Image|file=Aag-370.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/370}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-371 653]
Wetherstones

spent about two hours at Gordons - singing some sacred music the first Ive heard for a long time - I received a long letter from Mother this week & one from Fred, all well but complaining bitterly of their poverty - August 31st Tolerable fine weather during the week - We worked the Mill until Wednesday when our horse feed being finished we were compelled to give up. On dividing we found we had made £3 – each, very annoying to have to give up such a good paying concern - We turned the horses out on the hills but after an hours feeding they returned to the Stable for their feed, it seemed such a sad sight poor beasts to leave them to their own resources My mates sold Sam to a storekeeper for £80.0.0 who purposes putting a swag on his back & going to the rush with him - We all remained very undecided about going to the rush until Friday spending the two days previous looking around to find a sluicing claim that would pay us to work - without the use of horses - we tried several that I fancy would have payed us but somehow the desire increased within us to go to the rush - so we made up our minds to go with the stream - J. Russell is the only one of our party who intends to {{Image|file=Aag-371.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/371}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-372 654]
Wetherstones

remain behind, we left him the sluice boxes & pump with other articles - that we could not sell - in fact no one is left here who would take them as a gift - Russell is one of these steady going old "coaches" & intends to get up a company or party & try & get a head of water & sluice the ground we have been engaged in puddling if he can do so, it will pay him very well Our new party consists of J.McEwan, J.Dewar (the owners of the horses) myself & an old Bendigo acquaintance named, Nelson - we intend taking a good load each on our back & pack "Captain" with tent & tools - some flour & oatmeal We have spent the last two days in making preperations for starting in the morning - but owing to a foolish thing Nelson did to day will prevent us going till the day after - the most useful thing to take with us is a cradle small light ones - Nelson saw me this morning in a deserted tent, as he thought & took possession of it - & brought it to my tent & left it - about an hour afterwards two policemen paid me a visit & I was accused of stealing the cradle. I told them how it came in my possession – however - thinking the receiver {{Image|file=Aag-372.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/372}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-373 655]
Wetherstones

as bad as the thief I was taken into custody & marched to the watchhouse - I sent for one or two who knew me & after being detained for upwards of two hours I was released & a warrant was issued for Nelson’s apprehension - my mates in the meantime hearing about it gave Nelson notice of what was up & he was advised to hide in J.Russells tent till day light to morrow morning - when we purpose to start him on the road & at a certain point we will meet him during the day - we have finished our packing - we are taking lC of flour & lC of oatmeal, two cradles four picks & four shovels - besides enough biscuits & meat tea & sugar & other little necessaries for the journey - I have met several who have returned from the New Eldorado -(poor miserable barefooted objects) they say it is a frightful country to travel over, no firewood, & not a station or an habitation where provisions are to be bought - they think there is plenty of gold there & easy to be obtained - all Ive seen purpose returning as soon as possible their object in coming back is to provide themselves with the proper appliances necessary for working & living in such a place - most of those who left here first have had to return - not being properly provided with the means of remaining - I heard of Ned from several - when last heard of he was on the spot where the diggins are supposed to be I wonder poor devil how he will get along, he was so ill provided - I spent last night at Neils, in company with the Revd Mr Vicers - a very nice gentleman & one who has taken an interest in me, since I joined the D. Society {{Image|file=Aag-373.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/373}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-374 656]
Wetherstones

he gave me a list of Books he advised me get & study should I ever get settled down in any place a few I name: - "Abcrombies Intellectual Powers" (I have read) "Rogits Thesauras", "Crabbs English Synonims" "Watts Logic" & "Gilberts Logic for the Millions", with many more - I received letters per last mail from Victoria from my couzins Lizzie & Harry, state things are very dull on Bendigo - Lizzie poor girl is not well, & that Isa King for some reason is not to marry Sarjeant Enniss & also W. Edwards is again on Bdg. & is fooling after Isa & they appear to be as friendly as formerly - very singular - after what has occurd - [Monday, 1 September 1862] Sept 1st 1862 Postponed starting to day, in consequence of a heavy fall of snow. I dread risking the hills while such weather continues - we paid 35/- for a bushel of oats this morning our swags are all made up & ready to start Nelson left at daybreak this morning - I rolled up blankets & things, & also 25 lbs of biscuits & some other necessaries this afternoon & went over the hills to a large rock on the Waipora Road where I promised to meet him - it took me nearly 3 hours before I could find him - poor devil he was half dead with the cold, being out in all the snow storm. I advised him to make for Lanes Restaurant for to night (a sod hut built on a most desolate hill top on the Waipora Rd cold, bleak, place - from where the travellers turn off {{Image|file=Aag-374.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/374}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-375 657]
Last day at Wetherstones

to go to the Dunstan Rush (as the diggins are called) if he didnt he could not survive this night Im sure it was 4 pm when I got back - cold, wet & miserable after a good tea at my mates tent I felt all right & came to my own lonely one. I forgot to mention my tent mate Barnett left for the rush 3 days ago leaving me in debt of £3.0.0 besides having kept him the last month in food - this is my last night on Wetherstones - nothing very pleasent occurring since my sojourn on it to render it a difficult matter to leave it – or endear it to my memory - except some very pleasent people Ive made acquaintance with in it - who I dare say I shall meet again, where I am bound for - Manuherikia} Copied from a Pencilled Journal kept on my journey to this place, daily - [Tuesday, 2 September 1862] Sept 2nd 1862 - We left Wetherstones this morning our party consisting of J.McEwan, John Dewar, & myself we had each a good load on our backs – fully weighing 56 lbs each - I had 40 lbs of flour altogether we think we have a months provisions with us, except flesh meat which I believe is to be bought at a station near where we are bound for, our horse, "Captain," is loaded with about 200C of things, including 2 Cradles & a lot of provisions We started at 10 Am, the weather very unsettled, it took us fully 2 hours to rise the hills, the ground very slippery and spongy, on reaching the hill top we were nearly blinded with a cold sleety hail storm which blew in our very teeth, we sheltered behind some rocks for about an hour, without {{Image|file=Aag-375.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/375}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-376 658]
Tramping to Manuherikia

unloading our horse, the only shelter we could find – not a tree or bush to be seen as far as the eye could reach - we at length started benumbed with cold & wet through - reached Lanes restaurant at about 3 Pm, having only travelled (as the Crow flies) some 3 miles from our starting point. We found upwards of 200 people here, all weather bound - some going up & some coming down from the rush. We unloaded & gave our horse the last feed of oats he is likely to get for some time & turned him out to pick up what he could with a lot more half famished looking animals, it was pitiful to see them the weather was so cold & the grass partly covered with frost, they could not leave the place where we left them - we entered the hut built of cut sods & Roofed with canvass, about 5 feet high by some 30 feet long & 12 feet broad with a large fireplace at the far end, but alas! no fire in it, the proprietor informed us we could make a fire if we would go for some wood, somewhere about 2 miles from here - three men volunteered to go & until they came back I & others were in a wretched plight, our clothes being actually frozen upon us. I feel all right now, got my things dry & we purpose sleeping here Im sure there is a hundred people making preparations for sleeping in the place imagine - ye City bred people such a quantity of mothers sons in such a place - to pass the night our beds are likely to be soft, owing to the floor b'g {{Image|file=Aag-376.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/376}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-377 659]
Tramping to Manuherikia

muddy. Ive seen many here I know, that Ive met under somewhat similar circumstances in Victoria & about, entered into conversation with some had long chats about by gones days & comparing notes & observations about rushes & places we have visited since meeting last & all that sort of thing - I hear the rain coming down it must be an awful night to camp out Sept 3rd 1862 Rose early - anything but refreshed with my nights lodging - Went out after the horses found ours had strayd away in company with a lot of others we wandered about the mountains for some 2 hours without coming upon their tracks - at length we saw two tracks leading towards Wetherstones, which Jim pronounced to be Capts & Sams - the latter horse was the one we had sold, but fell in with us at “Lanes” enroute like our own - the two had fraternised & having in their mind the remembrance of their nice comfortable stable on Wetherstones they had agreed to return to it Jim followed & found them standing outside the stable he at once caught them & brought them back making them come the distance in a quarter the time it took them to do it yesterday - we at once loaded & in company with several other parties, we started about 11 am, all annoyed at our delay. Our track took us over a rough swampy country, & yet very hilly, came across several patches of scrub perhaps half an acre in extent, nothing occurred to break the monotony of our journey until we came to the Beaumont River a small tributary of the Clutha or Molyneaux, we had to descend a frightful looking hill to get into the river - the only way to get down {{Image|file=Aag-377.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/377}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-378 660]
Tramping to Manuherikia

to the bottom of the valley was by making the horses jump from terrace to terrace, rather dangerous & rendered difficult by the nervousness of the animals who trembled like leaves & had to be driven by their behind one horse got restles & dragged the bridle from the man leading him & bolted, he didnt get far ere he came to grief by doing some head over heel kind of feat, distroying to some extent the load on his back, but fortunately with none to himself - I have always noticed horses in general on dangerous roads care little to trust to themselves but do things & accomplish tasks far more readily when a man is with them, than otherwise We camped here after fording the stream for about an hour, finding a little wood lit a fire & made a "Billy" of tea - we should have camped for the night at this spot, but the feed being so bad, that after a consultation it was agreed to push on to "Gardiners Station" some six miles farther where we were told good feed was to be had - it was nearly dark when we started, the moon peeping out gave us sufficient light to pick our steps across a long moor some three miles across, without exception the worst piece of ground Ive seen in NZ. the ground being covered with "crab holes into which the horses would sink to their bellies into. we came to a Creek at length that seemed to put a stop to us, it ran over a {{Image|file=Aag-378.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/378}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-379 661]
Tramping to Manuherikia

a flat which had been covered with water at no late period, the poor horses without an exception got bogged & sometimes we thought we should have to leave them to perish - they were so knocked up – it took us 2 hours to unload them & carry the things on our backs to the opposite side - wading through black slimy sludge - got started again every one being in the worst possible humour with each other - more especially those who had proposed our nocturnal journey - no one had an idea of the country we had to traverse that night or we should have camped for the night at the Beaumont - nearly 1. am next morning when we reached Gardiners where we camped - & turned the horses out they didnt commence to feed till daylight being so exhausted - we found a number of people camped here - 26 miles from Wetherstones - Sept 4th. Being very stiff & tired this morning we didn’t feel inclined to hurry ourselves - out of the 6 horses who travelled in company with us but 3 were able to resume the journey to day it was 10 am when we left Gardiners Station which by the way is nothing more than a 3 roomed mud hut on about 10 acres of ground, fenced, & not a 10th of that cultivated - the proprietor has some cattle & a small flock of sheep running on the moors which he occasionally sells some from to the butchers on the diggins. The station is situated in a pleasent valley & to us miserable wretches it appeared like an oasis in a desert or wilderness - we noticed a great difference in the climate to day, much milder, our {{Image|file=Aag-379.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/379}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-380 662]
Tramping to Manuherikia

track lay over an indescribable country, rough broken hilly & rocky ranges, many times perilling our horses necks in making descents where had they slipped would have been lost sight of down precipices & gorges, our greatest annoyance was in crossing the creeks, being much swollen through the snow melting - we adopt a simple plan for safety we carry with us a long length of strong whale line & when the river is to be forded the firstman starts with the line round his body & paid out as he proceeds across, he on the opposite side then holds the end or makes it fast & so we all cross without being afraid of being swept away by the strong currant - We camped, at another, so called, station, kept by a man named Miller, a miserable hut the homestead containing some 3 dirty rooms in which his family lives, situated in a very steep abrupt gorge - I went & bought half a sheep from him, for which we paid £2.10.0 for it weighed 34 lbs at 1s/6d per lb, we found wood here & good feed for the horses - so we made ourselves snug with a good fire, & got hot supper - pitched our tent & gathered a lot of dry grass to sleep upon - determined to make ourselves as comfortable as possible to make up for our last two nights misery, it reminded me of travelling in Victoria - great numbers are camped near us, many I know some going up & others coming down - we are continually pestered {{Image|file=Aag-380.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/380}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-381 663]
Tramping to Manuherikia

by those returning to give them something to eat. If we complied with all the requests made to us yesterday & to day our loads would be light ones ere now - It is very hard to refuse starving men a morsel to eat, but number one must be looked to - rather a selfish doctrine - but under the circumstances, pardonable - Sept 5th Very tired & knocked up, our journey to to day being over an awful hilly country, the path winding in & out among rocks & ravines, camped early after reaching & crossing the River "Teviot" at its junction with the Molyneaux, in crossing in company with others, one horse was washed off his legs, & carried in a few minutes into the big River, where he sunk with his pack on his back the man who owned him had been the road before & had returned & given £60 for the horse & was taking up a load of provisions to his mates on the new diggins, he had a narrow escape for his life, when the animal lost its footing he stuck to him till there was no chance of saving him when he had work to regain the shore - We were very sorry for him, & invited him to partake of us - we let him have enough to return to Wetherstones where he purposes returning in the morning, this & horses breaking their necks in coming down hills sides is a common occurrence the last 2 days - we have met several parties who have lost everything - such are a few of the vissisitudes of a diggers life in N.Z. Sept 6th.1862. On rising this morning the horses {{Image|file=Aag-381.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/381}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-382 664]
Tramping to Manuherikia

were nowhere to be seen. We divided & went in opposite directions & could find no trace of them until some travellers informed us they had seen a lot of horses going back. We at once crossed the river & after a sharp walk caught up to them, we had some difficulty in getting them over the river again, when we did, we were not long in putting their packs on their backs & making a start. I believe there is pay able gold to be found in this neighbourhood, we got the "color" in every dish we tried from the gravel in the bed of the Molyneaux, those who know anything of this part of the country state, that the Molyneaux is auriferous from its source to the sea - a distance of 300 miles, I believe, in all its windings - from this spot our way lay over a level plain some 6 miles long by about 1 broad, the easiest road we have as yet travelled - We reached Capt. Baldwins Station by 2 Pm, situated in a pleasent part of the country, after camping for about an hour - we again got under weigh & commenced to ascend the "Nobby Ranges" or what is generally known by the name of the "Devils Back Bone" - the path was very rough & rocky rending it very dangerous & fatiguing for travelling, our poor horses were terribly knocked up when we camped the spot we camped is amongst a lot of rocks which remind one of a lot of old ruins the weather was bitter & cold snow laying on the ground all round us. We had to brush it off some {{Image|file=Aag-382.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/382}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-383 665]
Tramping to Manuherikia

rocks ere we could prepare our bed - Mr DeLoree & a large party I know are camped alongside, they are returning from the rush - in consequence of not being prepared with tools & provisions to remain, they left the Rush yesterday evening & they inform us a rumour was in circulation that a road for teams had been found from Dunedin to the Dunstan & before many days were over drays may be expected with provisions it will be good job if its true, flour is not to be had except in small quantities then at 3/6 per lb - 7th Up with the sun found our horses had been dissatisfied with their nights locale & had taken it into their heads to carry out the previous nights idea of returning, however after a walk of about an hour we overtook them fortunately they had kept near the track or we could never have found them amongst such a rough country without losing ourselves - We at length got started, the road not improving a jot the better or more easy to travel. I cannot discribe the road better than by saying that it appears to me a miracle how we managed to get to this spot – (the junction of the Rivers Molyneax & Manuherikia our destination for the present) - without either breaking our horses necks or our own - We had a little mishap which fortunately didnt end fatally that occured as follows, a packer with two mules had joined our party in the morning, & instead of them taking the lead, he brought up the rear - I was leading a horse, in front of his animals, the path way being only wide enough to admit of one beast travelling {{Image|file=Aag-383.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/383}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-384 666]
Tramping to Manuherikia

it at a time, we had arrived at a dangerous part of the road where the path ran alongside of a nearly perpendicular hill I had hard work to make "Captain" come along, he was so frightened stopping every now & again when he had to make a jump or steadily balance himself, this annoyed my friend with the mules behind & struck my charge with the whip which made him spring to the side of the hill, the pack coming in contact with a projecting rock made him lose his balance, when he rolled over & over down the hillside which was covered with rocks & Boulders - I had a narrow escape being on the near side. I dont know how I got free, he must have gone over me for I picked myself up, stunned & bruised, my mates had rushed after the horse & reached him just as he was trying to rise at the edge of a rock which had stopped his progress, had he got further than this spot nothing could have saved the beast he would have gone into a foaming torrent below - we found the horse unhurt, but the cradle was much damaged & a bag of flour was broke but being in a very strong bag not much was lost. I was in a devil of a passion & rushed at the Muleteer - who stood laughing at us & was rather insolent, which so angered me I gave him a smack in the face which he seemed inclined to return. I was just in the humour & was walking into him, when some of the party parted us but not before him & his mules got some rough handling this affair delayed us about an hour - we reached the Junction about 5 pm. to get to it we had to descend a fearfully steep hill, at the top of which we had a grand view - at our feet we could see the {{Image|file=Aag-384.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/384}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-385 667]
The Molyneaux Junction

the two Rivers winding their way at the edge of a plain some 7 or 8 miles in diameter which I should imagine had been at some late period a Lake, now tis a level gravelly plain surrounded on all sides, with mountains, more especially towards the West & South where are situated the "Umbrella Ranges", covered all the year round with snow, before the Rivers reach the plain & after leaving it they run through very rocky defiles, where the water rushes & roars over rocks & falls in a truly wild and sublime style, giving one a grand idea of unformed or primitive nature – one remarkable feature in this part of the country is the great dearth of timber Ive not seen a tree since leaving Wetherstones - nor do I see the signs of any from this spot, the fuel we use for cooking purposes is grass roots, sometimes we come across a little patch of dry withered scrub I have burnt more wood at a nights camping in Australia than Ive done for all the months Ive been in N.Z. this dearth of wood I believe is only confined to certain parts of N.Z. Otago more particularly for the North & South islands are full of magnificent forests of very useful timber. We found a great many people camped here, Gold being found on the beaches of both rivers as good at this point as up the Molyneaux 15 miles, where it was first found in pay able quantities by "Hartley & Reiley" the prospectors many I hear are doing very well, those who have tools & a Cradle have nothing to do but to set to work {{Image|file=Aag-385.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/385}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-386 668]
The Molyneaux

& cradle the gravel from the beaches of the River, the climate seems much warmer here than I felt it since my arrival in N.Z. I may here state that on the way hither we met two new acquaintances of some of our party, who have joined our party, so there are six of us now in partnership - Sept 8th.1862. We spent to day in unpacking our tools & cradles & putting them in working order, our biscuits all being done, we broke into our flour & made a lot of Bread (flour & water no yeast) I was the Baker we all went for wood managed to get a small bundle each, about two miles up the Manuherikia) cooking my loaves on a flat stone, by the evening we had everything ready for making a start in the morning. I heard about my brother Ned to day from a party just come from up the River, where he is at work - he has got a claim 15 miles from here out of which he has been making about 1 oz of gold a day, but owing to the scarcity of provisions, it has taken him half his time to hunt after provisions. I must try to find him on Sunday - he expects me & will be at the town- ship, that is forming at the other end of the plain, on that day 9th. Not feeling well this morning, I did not go from the tent, but finished several jobs left undone yesterday. Tom went to Lowes Station, 8 miles from here to buy a sheep for which he paid 1/6 per lb for, he discribes the Road as being a good, one & perfectly level along the Banks of the Manuherikia, he came across several parties at work cradling on its Banks & getting pay able ground, he shot two splendid wild ducks & was told at the Station, the Rivers were full of the {{Image|file=Aag-386.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/386}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-387 669]
Molyneaux Junction

largest eels in the world, his journey took him all day to accomplish - the other four of our party went prospecting, they got gold wherever they tried, but most of the claims are taken up this, E.side of the Molyneaux, many are trying to get at the other side, an enterprising young carpenter knowing that this would be the case, purchased some few boards he saw at a station some miles from here - & is constructing a boat, which to me looks like a Box I went to see it this evening as I mean to cross in it to morrow - it is 8 ft long & 3 ft broad & 2 ft deep, square at each end, he propels it with a paddle like an Indian hundreds here who wont venture in it, but prefer going several miles higher up where there is a small boat that belongs to Frazers Station, & where the river does not run more than 8 knots the hour - while at this point just before entering the gorge it runs at the best 12 an hour - 10th. T.Alexander & I started away this morning early, on a prospecting tour, he & I were the only ones who would venture in the Box. I took off my boots & Coat, determined not to be drowned without making an effort to save myself in case our vessel was capsized - We pulled the boat up the River some 300 yards & then entered pulled boldly into the current & by great exertions landed nearly ¼ of a mile below where we entered - for this accommodation we had to pay 2/6 each, he takes 4 over at a time - pays well tho a dangerous experiment for if cast over, I fear if there is a swimmer living who could escape being drowned in such a place - we prospected for about a mile down the Molyneax found plenty of ground that will pay well to work marked out two claims & returned home just as the sun was setting, the rest of our party where equally successful this side of the river, so tomorrow we will divide 3 this side & 3 the other, making this head quarters, where the horses are to be kept Etc. {{Image|file=Aag-387.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/387}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-388 670]

{{Image|file=Aag-388.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/388}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-389 671]

no II {{Image|file=Aag-389.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/389}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-390 672]

{{Image|file=Aag-390.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=2/390}} END OF JOURNAL 2
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 1863 Otago]
== Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] JOURNAL 3 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-392 673]

{{Image|file=Aag-392.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-393 674]

[Sketch of Hills] {{Image|file=Aag-393.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-394 675]

{{Image|file=Aag-394.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-395 676]

Journal by John Henry Watmuff from Sept 11th 1862 to July 20th 1863 Manuherikia River Otago New Zealand {{Image|file=Aag-395.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-396 677]

Sept 11th 1862 Up early this morning, got every thing ready to cross the river, taking with us a Cradle, a quantity of provisions & half a sheep we embarked in the Box crossed, thank God in safety, shouldered our swags & proceeded down the river to the spot where we marked out the claims yesterday, pitched our tent upon a rocky terrace looking upon the river which at this spot assumes a most sublime sight - running between high steep abrupt rocky hills rendering it a gorge through which the water rushes & roars in truly grand style, on each side of the river, claims are taken up & men busily at work cradling the beeches - we set into work about 2 pm & commenced cradling. I forgot to mention our party consisted of Alexander my old friend, Nelson & myself - by night time we panned off & found we had got 9 dwt of gold for our two or three hours work, the gold is exceedingly fine, so fine it is as impossible to describe it as to save it - We found the tailings after going through the cradle just as good as the next, the ordinary sort of cradle we are using is no use to save the fine gold another thing is, the enormous quantity of black metallic sand, makes it difficult to pan off - I think the only plan to save the gold is with the long quicksilver cradle lined with baize & sheets of copper plated with quicksilver, which at the present time is not be obtained, however, as it is & with the appliances we have we can get plenty of gold, it is the easiest digging ever I heard tell of, there must be an enormous quantity of gold in the bed of this river, at present the river is very low - lower than it has been known since the Island was inhabited by white man. If it will keep so for 6 months I dont care - very little gold is to obtained far from the waters edge, so if the river was to rise God help us – if no more auriferous ground is discovered than the banks of the river - we are living very sparingly as provisions are very scarce - our breakfast & supper {{Image|file=Aag-396.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-397 678]

consists of nothing but Oatmeal & water with a little sugar to render it palatable, at noon we indulged in mutton & a little bread the bread being made of nothing but simply flour & water with a little salt, which we bake on a flat stone rose about a foot from the ground, under which one is obliged to stand by & fill the miniature oven with grass & anything else that will burn. We found this evening a small patch of brush wood about {{Red|*}}& which we scrambled over the rocks for Having copied up my pencil journal of the last few days, I purpose for the future to keep it weekly that is to to make it up to every Sunday evening, circumstances permitting, I brought with me paper, pens, & Ink to last me 3 months no great stock for all the writing I have to do. Sept 12th. & 13 We have been cradling away this last two days got about 3 oz between us. I think we shall be able to do much better when we get better into the work being Saturday we left work early & made our tent more comfortable & washed & mended our clothes Etc I have taken several short rambles in the neighbourhood The country appears to bear one uniform character nothing but rocks & mountains the tops of which are covered with snow, to which I could visit in a two or three hours walk from this - Ive no doubt there is plenty of gold in the mountain vallies & gullies that run from the hills into the Molyneaux. I hear there are several parties out prospecting among these hills, there is some splendid scenery about, of the grand sublime nature - I prefer the agricultural scenery, I like to see a vast expanse shedded with farms & happy comfortable - looking homesteads not an outlandish place like this where a human being could never think of spending more of his existence than would suit his {{Red|*}}convenience {{Image|file=Aag-397.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-398 679]

my mates are very plain matter of fact sort of animals, both low & sensual in their tastes & habits their conversation like the average of diggers disgusting degrading & immoral. It is no use complaining with this state of things if we cant mend it, & until the gold is exhausted & digging for gold ceases to be profitable, its no use to begin it - The search for the alluring metal is the curse of us all. It is degrading to the searcher, is half unhumanising & wholly unsettles him. Did anyone know a more restless being than the confirmed digger whose life, like the pastime of Satan is the going to & fro on the face of the earth I know it will require a great effort on my part if I ever leave a diggers life to return to some settled {{Red|*}}position in the future - such a probability or prospect seems to {{Red|*}}my imagination what an oasis would be to a withered worn out traveller on the Great Sahara - with little chance of ever reaching it - Sept 21st 1862 The weather has been lovely making this "Petra" a little less ugly than it would otherwise appear. Last Sunday (this day week) Alex & I left the hut early & after travelling about 7 miles up the river we crossed at a ferry that has lately been constructed at a township bearing the very euphonious name of "Mutton Town-", where we found several stores & places of business erected perfectly, marvellous this, when a fortnight ago it was supposed no road could be found for a dray to travel, however, we found several had arrived loaded with provisions. Flour 03-00 per lb, Sugar 4/. & a man who had a keg of Butter, I saw him dispose of it immediately at 7/6 per lb., common Salt, rank stuff that I would have spurned for cart grease in Victoria. We found many people there we knew, some are doing well but on enquiring where, they direct us to some unknown out of the way gully or spot on the river, very difficult to discover I heard from a man here that my brother Ned whom he had seen up the river some {{Image|file=Aag-398.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-399 680]

three days before, had informed him he would be at the upper township that day. I at once posted to the place found it more extensive & likely to become a central Depot for stores in this neighbourhood than "Mutton Town" - I had no difficulty in finding him for I met many I knew who had seen him - I found him looking better than Ive seen him for many months he informed he had endured incredeble hardships - on his arrival he was one of the very first to arrive on the river, his provisions were done & he had only a few shillings in money - his mate Jack Heywood “funked“ & returned to Wetherstones. He & Kilgour, a publican swam the Molyneaux at Mutton Town & pushed up the River & got the piece of ground next to where Hartly & Riley last worked - he had nothing but a tin dish & with that alone, the ground was so rich he could make nearly an ounce of gold a day - poor fellow - he had to live on meat alone for nearly 8 days before he could buy flour - he worked the claim for 10 days hoping I would come up & so join him hearing nothing of me he had to take in a mate a perfect stranger to him when I met him he had 10 oz of gold & £5.0.0 & its not so bad for 3 weeks work, & besides he has spent in tools & food during that time £20.0.0, he is living about 9 miles up the river from the Dunstan township as it is called - & about 11 from the same place to where Im located. I persuaded him to come home with me which he did, calling for Alx at Mutton Town where we found him drunk, & had spent about £2.0.0 since Id left him. I bought 20 lb of Biscuit for which I paid £3.0.0 for then crossed the River {{Image|file=Aag-399.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-400 681]

as before & with a great deal of difficulty, & danger being dark we found our tents. Next morning, I wrote to Mother & enclosed a £5.0.0 note in it. I accompanied him to the Junction & crossed in the Box, found a Scotchman in a ragged Red Coat named Graham, by the by a well known character on the N.Z. Goldfields a kind of post & News man on his own a/c who succeeds in picking up a deal of money, he charges 2/6 for the conveyance of a letter without responsibility to the first post Office he can come to, he wont receive an order for letters unless accompanied with 1/. I, out of curiosity asked him (he had just come from Wetherstones) if he had a letter for me & was surprised to find he had one from Fred which Joe Russell had forwarded to me in this manner. I with very great reluctance considering the contents entrusted Mothers letter to his charge for postage at Wetherstones for which he charged me 2/6 - I hope it will go safe I, at this place parted with Ned promising to part from my present party as soon as possible & join him I met here, one of my mates John Dewer who had heard from some friend of his that there was a rush about 40 miles from here up a River called the Kawarra after returning to the tent & mentioning it, it was agreed one of our party should go & try & find the place. Alex agreed to go, he lost no time packed up some provisions sufficient to last him a week, he caught his horse & swam it across for which the ferry man charged him 10/. for the use of his boat rough work in this country to go into the heart of Otago amongst the mountains where a human being never had before - to look for a party of 3 men working in some gully running into the Kawarra, a river which rises in Lake Wakatip & runs something like 40 miles when it joins the Molyneaux some 18 miles above the upper township, he returned last night nearly {{Image|file=Aag-400.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-401 682]

dead with fatigue & hunger, he travelled to Lake Wakatipu, describing the snow as something frightful without meeting a soul at work above the Junction of the Kawarra & Molyneaux, on reaching the Lake which he describes being most romantically situated between high hills covered with snow, he thought he would take a short cut home across the Umbrella Ranges which rise the in the angle, he little thought what he had to surmount the first few miles he found it difficult to travel, his path being continually stopped with chasms & ravines descending one, his horse lost his footing & now lies rotting down some precipice, he saved his food & with it alone he returned, for three nights he has been wandering about, struck the Molyneaux about 10 miles below here - his boots worn out, his clothes torn & covered with mud poor devil he wont be ready to start to another rush in such a hurry - the rest of our party worked away at our claim found last night on weighing up we had made 7 oz 10 dwts of gold for the 5 days work, not bad considering the many stoppages & one thing & another we have had to contend with - I think we shall do very well next week the ground is getting richer & we are getting into the way of saving the gold better - While at work, on Tuesday, I was agreeably surprised to see my dear friend [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] trudging along with his swag, in company with his mates, he informed me he left Dunedin with 3 men & got up here 3 days ago - his mates were new chums at digging like himself & their money was done, they were going to find a claim down {{Image|file=Aag-401.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-402 683]

the river. I walked down with them & finding a piece of ground I tryd was pay able got them started at it, helped to pitch their tent & gave Harry all the money I had £2.10.0, which will get them provisions until they wash out some gold. In the evening I went to see him again staid all night with them, leaving them early the following morning. They only staid 3 days there, they quarrelled & parted Harry went up the River & I heard to day he found his way to Neds. This morning, J.Dewar & I crossed at the Junction & went to see our other mates, found them about 3 miles up from the Junction, they made about 8 oz altogether since we left them, we put our lot to it, found we had nearly 20 oz between the 6 of us to divide - J.McEwan is going to leave us from this forth, he is thinking of getting horses & start packing - Im not sorry he is leaving us for he is a strange disposed fellow, very selfish & exacting but a good pushing hard working fellow one that lets nothing daunt him. We shared our gold & after settling everything satisfactory we went up to Mutton Town indulged in whatever luxurys the place would afford not many we knew passed the afternoon there, found Nelson there he got very drunk, much to my surprise, for I always found him a very steady chap, tho far from being a well principled one - it was quite dark when we reached home - while at the township we witnessed a sad accident, the day being Sunday (which is looked upon as being a holiday on the diggins when if there is a township everybody frequents it on that day to make their purchases for the week meet their friends & hear the news Etc) a great many people were here & toward night - the boat plying {{Image|file=Aag-402.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-403 684]

being the only one, was always too crowded in my opinion to be safe, for the currant is very strong & the River broad, several loads had crossed over all right, when about 5 pm a more than ordinary load returned they had nearly crossed when an eddy, aided by some mismanagement, drew the boat underwater fortunately for some they had passed the centre of the currant 8 men got to the land while 2 went down never to rise again, the bodies being washed down the river & out of sight in no time, it & Poor fellows Id been speaking to one of them but a few minutes before, he was young & full of hope had a good claim, a fine strong hardy looking fellow who little thought his end was so near, it was quite a miracle Nelson & I were not in the boat, he would stay & get another nobbler, which circumstance probably saved our lives, the boat was picked up & was plying as usual an hour after the occurance, we were the first to cross & I need hardly state we were particularly careful - Sept 28th.1862 (Upper Dunstan) Shifted my quarters since I last continued my journal. Last Monday morning not feeling well & being ill satisfied with my mates I left work & thought to pay Ned a visit 20 miles walk, half the distance across the plain was very good walking, but owing to an extraordinary strong wind which blew in my face I had great difficulty in getting along - it was 12 Am when I reached the upper township, when I {{Red|*}}came {{Image|file=Aag-403.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-404 685]

to the township & had dinner at a Restaurant for which I paid 4/6 for, since my last visit to the place it has increased wonderfully the street is half a mile long lined on each side with stores, shanties, Restaurants & shambles – wonderful in such a short time. I saw flour selling at 2/3 per lb (coming down) I did not remain long but crossed the River on to the W. side again & entered the gorge from where issues the River, for miles I trudged along against the strongest wind ever I faced & one or the roughest paths ever I traversed, picking my steps amongst rocks & Boulders I pitied the poor horses loaded with heavy packs, many I {{Red|*new}} [saw] couldnt face the wind which came down the gorge like the blast & the strength of steam from a cylinder. I was in dread of the rocks in the sides of the [gorge] lest they should become loose & roll down & crush the unfortunate wayfarer - no such calamity occurring, I pushed on & with some difficulty I discovered Neds location, it was pointed out to me from the pinnacle of a rock far down by the waters edge, with some difficulty I picked my way down after a series of leaps & gymnastic feats truly marvellous I had the pleasure of dropping on to tent as its inmates were sitting down to what appeared to me a jolly good supper & as such it proved & to which I paid ample justice to. I found Neds mates jolly fellows who made me very welcome. I also found [[Dight-42|Dight]] at home from some muttered ejaculations, which kept issuing from their lips which sounded to my delicate organs like curses & imprecations on some unknown & unheard of creation of the fancy, induced me to be inquisitive & enquire why so much spleen displayed on what generally features good humoured faces, when they pointed to the river – which had risen since morning fully 8 ft. higher than it was, their claims consequently were flooded & now under water - Ned informs me there was a pile of dirt which they could not save, they would not have sold {{Image|file=Aag-404.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-405 686]

for 50 oz of gold, this looked gloomy, but perhaps the river may fall again & so regain a portion of it - I stayed all night with Ned & next morning, in any thing but good spirits I returned to my mates, who I found in a most dejected state. I found our claims entirely covered with water, towards Friday night it began to fall, but up to the present time it is still too high by feet to get to work again - Wednesday morning, Nelson & I took it into our heads to go up into the Mountains & prospect instead of lounging about idle waiting for the River to go down – we were up at daybreak, rolled up 3 days provisions which consisted of a piece of Bacon 1½ lb about 5lbs of oatmeal & a few Biscuits, with a little tea & Sugar a pair of Blankets each & a small 6 x 8ft tent with a pick & shovel & a tin Dish - Knowing we had a rough journey before us we braced up our spirits, but we were quite unprepared for what we encountered. We got upon a spur of the "Old Man" & gradually ascended - but as often descending, down deep ravines & again rising, towards night it became very cold & we looked out for a place to camp, a difficult matter for snow was every spot, the gullies full of drift in which we kept sinking, the peaks were the only bare spots, but the wind was so piercing cold we could not think of camping on them however dry - we found a Rock at last, & with the shovel we soon built up a breakwind & got some stones to lie upon it was frightfully cold & going to bed supperless, except a dry Biscuit, made it one of the most wretched nights I ever passed, in the morning we were so stiff & tired we could hardly walk, it was some time before our blood began to circulate - we would not have come but from the distance the patches of snow seem so small {{Image|file=Aag-405.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-406 687]

that to us they appeared as nothing we had thought of going to the top of the mountain the first day but it was 12 Am next day when we got to the "[http://www.google.com/maps/?q=-45.322703,169.207518 Old Man Rock]" situated I dont know how many thousand feet above the valley below & is seen for miles all round the country. Heavens! what a sight, such a glorious panorama appeared before us that well repaid us for our exertions in gaining this spot it produces such grand majestic feelings, to be perched up in such an exalted position without a cloud between you and such sublime scenery, I can never forget it or the emotions I experienced which are beyond my wretched conception of language to describe, the day (rather an unusual circumstance) was beautiful & bright I could see the great divided range of the Island which appeared to me like a low range of clouds which resemblance arises from them being nothing else than glorious, according to hearsay, for Ive seen no one who has visited the scene the country is being populated it wont be very long before the whole of it is explored, especially if there are any indications of gold - we left our elevated position & following a spur & meeting with some timber an unusual sight to my eyes we found ourselves at night in better quarters than the last night we had a roaring fire & made ourselves comfortable. We had tried during the day to prospect found the color of gold in all the little streams we tried. I believe there is another large river out in this direction but not being prepared for proceeding forth we, first thing on Friday morning made tracks back coming back a different way to what we came - crossed the "Old Man” further South & got upon a spur which brought us within 5 miles from home without much bother we camped for a couple of hours being frightfully knocked up with our exertions to get over to this side of the range before dark. 10 pm when we got home. {{Image|file=Aag-406.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-407 688]

I am fully convinced from the look of the country & the prospects we got, that sometime or another when provisions & other things are favourable for overcoming the difficulties, Ive no doubt a gold field will be opened I was surprised to find Ned at our tent, he had come during the day, he wants me to leave my party & go up to them he thinks [[Dight-42|Dight]] & I can make something there until the river goes down sufficient to keep us, he himself is working some back ground, not very good but better than being idle - I promised if I saw no prospect of the river falling by Sunday that I would leave my present party, this morning came & no signs of the river falling I made up my mind to leave, rolled up my share of the tools & my own bits of things & accompanied by John Dewar, I came up to the upper township, calling at our other mates on the way & squared accounts & took my share of the gold some 3¼ oz. I met my brother Ned & after something to eat we crossed the Molly- (as the river is facetiously called) we were pretty well loaded Ned having purchased a lot of provisions for the coming week & had 9 miles of rough country to travel, made us look around for some means of conveyance, we hadnt travelled far when we came to a group of horses & without any hesitation we caught an old "macker" & making an impromptu saddle with our coats we put the heaviest of our things on his back much to his disgust & also to the owner if he was aware of our doings it was nearly dark when we arrived at Neds tent, found a good supper awaiting us which we soon helped to make less - after tea it was proposed by Ned & his mates I should work on wages with them for a week as they have ground they can work for that time out, if they had assistance I agreed for £1.0.0 aday - I purpose joining [[Dight-42|Dight]] mates he in the meantime is to gather up dirt on a piece of ground near by & when Im done my job help to wash it up {{Image|file=Aag-407.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-408 689]

[Monday] Oct 6th 1862 Weather very fine, summer in N.Z is very fine unattended with fiery hot winds Etc. & very little rain - another peculiarity of Otago is the total absence of any venomous insects or reptiles, or native animals - pigs are found in some parts of the Island (but not within 50 miles of here) plenty of wild ducks, but very difficult to get at owing to the scarcity of ammunition, eels of very large size are found in abundance in the Rivers we occasionally catch them, they are most delicious eating, large & well flavoured. I worked up to Saturday night for Ned & his mates - paid me in gold - [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] gathered up a pile of dirt, we intend cradling this week - Yesterday morning (Sunday) Ned, Harry & I left early & came down to Mutton town, sold my gold at Cohens, found a letter there for me which on opening I found to be from Fred all well at home - but very short of money or hard up as a digger calls it. Mother had received a letter from Father in which he states Uncle Joe is going to be married, this is rather startling news for Father always thought we children might look forward to inheriting his wealth - our chance now is very slight the woman he is marrying being anything but favourably disposed to our family. If father knew how little I cared for Uncle & his money he would not let such a thing trouble him so much as it appears to have done for to confess the truth, I was never very sanguine we should ever be benefited by any of our relatives in Englands money - especially Uncle Joe knowing him to be such an eccentric character & very suspicious, the only thing I regret its probable loss is in case I cannot get on by my own exertions, that I see no way of getting or making my [mother] comfortable in her old age - Fred states the news of this Rush has caused great excitement in Victoria ships are laid on & filling rapidly with passengers from there After finishing my letter I parted with Ned & Harry - they returning home with stores Etc. while I started to pay my old mates a visit & get one of the cradles. I walked down to the {{Image|file=Aag-408.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-409 690]

Junction township (Manuherikia) & found from inquiries that my old mates had left the spot where they were camped & had gone up the River Manuherikia & had taken up a claim upon its banks, some two miles from the township, as it was getting late, I at once started for there, found the road very rough, having gone up the River the opposite side to the one they were camped I was under the necessity of swimming across & wet from head to foot, I presented myself to them I soon stripped & then, being some wood about, a good fire was made & before we turned in my clothes were dried - my friends were very glad to see me, there party was to be lessened next morning, Alex & Maguire, were going to some place 25 miles down the Molly. Nelson & Dewer intend remaining where they are at present, having found good prospects I noticed a great many people were settling down in the neighbourhood, this river not being so prone to rise as the large one - This morning, arose at daybreak, parted with Nelson & John & accompanied by Alex & Maguire we pushed our way down the river to the “Junction” where we crossed in the old "Box" visited our old camping place & they showed me a spot where they had buried the Cradle I came after. I was not long in digging it out after which we parted with mutual good wishes on both sides & then I commenced my journey here, with a cradle on my back - weighing nearly 56 lbs no joke to carry it a distance of 20 miles along such a road. I was regularly dead beat on my arrival home after my days work - however, the cradle which cost me nothing at Wetherstones but the trouble of bringing up is worth to us £10.0.0. I could have sold it for £20.0.0 the day we arrived on the River, but the said River had no appearance of rising then - I stopped at the upper township on my way, had a dinner at a Restaurant, which consisted of a Chop & a Biscuit with a pannikin of tea for which I paid 4/. for - I met Bill Hobson there buying provisions, we were company for each other the rest of the road, being dark when we got {{Image|file=Aag-409.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-410 691]

here, we invited him to stay all night with us, his own party the Bros Beales living about 6 miles higher up the River, where they had a very rich claim, but are now swamped out - they are thinking of going higher up the country near Lake Wakatipu where it is rumoured some parties have pushed their way and are getting plenty of gold - My brothers claim now being worked out he thinks either of going there or else returning to Victoria for a trip & get back in time for the river falling which takes place at the beginning of winter, & rises again at the commencement of summer - the river being fed by the snow melting on the mountains - & from the Lakes Wanaka & Wakatipu. [Sunday, 12th October 1862] Manuherikia Oct 12th 1862
Another change since last I wrote. I think it will be some time ere we change again. Last Tuesday, Harry & I washed up the dirt he collected which yielded 3 oz. not so bad if there was any more, we were now all out of work & could find no more ground pay able, so Ned made up his mind to go home to Victoria, promising to call on his way to Dunedin at my old mates on the Manuherikia & if he saw any chance there he would not go but return for us & settle there for a time perhaps for the summer – & so we parted the following morning. I rolled up a pair of blankets & 3 days provisions & in company with a neighbour, leaving my mate Harry with the tent & things until we returned started on a prospecting trip, a sharp walk of two hours, brought us to the Junction of the Kawaura, a finer river than the Molly is at this point - We found a good number of tents in this neighbourhood & there being a ferry (another Box) we crossed there, & hesitated which way to go. I thought up the Molly seemed the most promising & easiest traversed so my companion proving agreeable, we agreed to follow it up. We had pushed several miles when we came to a [http://www.google.com/maps/?q=-45.002785,169.213922 creek], [https://earth.google.com/web/search/lowburn+otago/@-45.00218075,169.21230418,195.35356272a,1311.60115672d,35y,0.00000001h,59.91331536t,0r/data=CigiJgokCZIUUMtIwzjAEWfTBhfwq0fAGRgmDfLKFGJAIRhqLldILGXA [Lowburn Creek]] running from the mountains where we camped for the night, seeing a light at some distance, I stole to it after dark & found sitting near a fire a party of 2 men camped with a pack horse. I went up to them & they appeared very reserved, can these be the men, thought I, who are supposed to be at work in some of the blind creeks in the mountains & getting so much gold, on my {{Image|file=Aag-410.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-411 692]

asking them where the were bound for, they informed me they had been prospecting & that their provisions running out they were pushing their way back & begged some biscuits from us we gave them two & a pannikin of tea for which they didnt appear to be particularly anxious to discuss, next morning we found them gone & on visiting their camp found some mutton Bones & other evidence of their having made a most luxurious breakfast for such a place - this made us suspicious, & more especially as they advised us not to go up the creek we were camped upon as they had done so & found it fearful travelling & didnt find the color of gold. We tracked them for about a mile up the creek when having to wade through the water so much where the gully became narrow we lost all traces. We were greatly annoyed at being thus done, however, we pushed on up the creek trying several likely looking places could find gold at every bar of the creek & much rougher than any Ive seen in this locality – after travelling in this manner between high mountains & through strange looking passes & gorges we came to an abrupt hill which towered above us like the tower of Babel would have done to the ancients if allowed to finish it, to the skies, we were wet through & tired but having refreshed ourselves with a pannikin of tea & something to eat, we were determined to surmount the hills, after incredible exertions we [http://www.google.com/maps/?q=-44.928444,169.130602 succeeded] Probable spot they were at on ascending Mt. Pisa 44°55'42.4"S 169°07'50.2"E We hadnt seen the sun for hours, but now it was just setting & a sight burst upon our view more grand, more gorgeous than ever I witnessed or could conceive or artists eye desire to gaze upon towards the south, mountains, ravines & rivers with Lake Wanaka could be seen, far to the Nth – were mountains grand & terrible formed of Ice & snow – apparently, we could trace the Basin where lay another Lake from Wakatipu where the Molyneaux takes its source – & here in this angle which I believe from Lake to Lake is about 50 miles distant is a tract of country Im sure in some parts is very rich, this is evidently the part where the gold in the Molly came from - I never began to turn my back to a place with such reluctance in {{Image|file=Aag-411.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-412 693]

my life I certainly will prospect that neighbourhood if ever I am in circumstances to enable me to go about it properly – several places we tried would pay us well to work if we could have remained & had the necessary appliances, my companion who was an old Victorian Bushman didnt understand my enthusiasm at witnessing nature in her grandest form - he thought it damned hard work & people must be damned mad, that would come a mile to see such a damned rocky, mountainous, wear your-soul-out kind of place - such was his idea, on seeing one of Natures finest panoramas. We descended the hill or a spur of the range towards the Kawarra until we found a spot fit to camp at among some wild ruin looking rocks, it was frightfully cold & very little wood to be found we were glad when morning broke, cold, wet & miserable we picked ourselves up of the camps moist ground not waiting to cook any breakfast, we trudged up hill & down hill for some 3 hours during which time I dont think we had travelled 2 miles as the crow flies - some of the places such as chasms & ravines steep, abrupt & precipices & such like is enough to unnerve a fellow - After breakfast we got on to a spur which proved good travelling, had some creeks to cross & at length struck the range bordering the Kawarra - could we have crossed there our way home would have been much shorter but we had to go further down to the “Junction” & [to] cross it was nearly dark & we were still about 7 miles at the least from the tent, so we staid for an hour & rested at a friends tent we found about a mile from the junction after which we pushed for hours Im sure it was 11 Pm when we arrived there - I dont think I ever did such a frightful long & hard days tramping in my life, if any body had told me they had done it I would not have believed or thought it possible for human nature to do it I was surprised to find my brother had returned, he had paid Nelson a visit - & he invited him to remain while he prospected he found ground he thinks will pay us to sluice if we can get Sluice Boxes. Nelson will join us in a set if we would agree to tag the place - after some consideration next morning it was arranged we should leave our present place, seeing no {{Image|file=Aag-412.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-413 694]

chance of making a living, & go there packed up, not a long job for a digger, to pack up his goods & chattels. I was very tired & stiff from my previous three days exertions however I trudged along with nearly 3 qrs of a C on my back reached the upper township by 2 pm - found our way into anything but a respectable place kept by a most notorious woman who boasted to us she had made £3000 the last 6 weeks on this rush, we had a drink & something to eat, left there about 4 pm & pushed across the plain to the opposite side of where Nelsons tent is situated the river, not being so high as when I crossed last week, we waded across getting our things, if not ourselves, over dry. We all slept in the big tent, a part of which belongs to me I was very tired having travelled 21 miles with a big swag - I slept very sound did not rise till 9 this morning - Sunday on rising this morning Harry & I {{Red|*}}commenced & put up our tent while Nelson & Ned went to the Junction to buy provisions for the coming week, they returned by noon, found things much reduced in price, flour 1/9 per lb, sugar 3/., & Mutton 1/2 per lb - In the afternoon, we walked up the River & had a bathe, while I was in the water who should come by & recognise me but [[Niven-74|John Nevin]] & J.Stenson old Bendigo acquaintances, they have been in business in Dunedin but have come up here induced by the reports to try their luck at another kind of metal working - before arriving home we surveyed the route for a water race, to enable us to sluice the ground we are going to take up - we shall have to cut it nearly a ¼ of a mile, there being so little fall in the river at this place - in fact this River runs through a very level flat bordered by barren dry rocky steep hills, - we caught a fine Eel which served us all for supper I wrote to Fred last Tuesday & also to C. Malander {{Image|file=Aag-413.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-414 695]

Manuherikia River Oct 19th 1862 Dunstan, Otago, N.Z. Lovely weather during the week. Monday morning we went to the Junction Township found it a busy bustling place full of stores & public Houses & shanties - any numbers of Bullock teams & pack horses about loading & unloading - presenting such an astonishing contrast to the place there when first I camped on the selfsame spot on my first arrival - found our friends the Blacksmith & Carpenter - from Wetherstones here busy at their trades - they had just received a load of timber from Dunedin fortunate for us we had come to try & get some boards for making the Sluice boxes. We agreed to give £14.0.0. for a set consisting of 2 Boxes 8 ft long which said Boxes in Melbourne would cost about 10s/d-. a Box is nothing but 3 boards nailed together the bottom one being 1 foot broad & the sides 9ins – 2 loose bottom boards or false bottoms as we call them with a lot of auger holes bored the distance of an inch apart comprise our machinery for extracting the gold from the gravel - the boxes are placed in a slanting position with a stream of water running through there from end to end a man stands at top end of the box & shovels in the dirt while another stands upon the Box with a Fork - like a common hay fork with 3 or 4 prongs attached to it, his duty is to rake it & seperate the lumps as the are thrown into the Box by the feeder which is easily done with the water & his fork the gold being seperated from the dirt by this means, it settles down & sticks into the auger holes in the false bottom - about every 3 hours these boards are taken out & cleaned & then panned off & so the gold is obtained, with a good head of water & gravelly stuff 4 men can wash 30 or 40 loads of dirt a day - they were finished by Wednesday night, it took us nearly the whole of that day humbugging helping the man to finish them - & get them home here - one of our party had to go to the upper township to purchase a fork, which cost us £1.0.0. In the meantime we {{Image|file=Aag-414.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-415 696]

commenced our race, over to the gravely nature of the flat over which we had to cut & bring the water it has caused us more labour than we anticipated, the drawback is, the slow rate the water travels in consequence that half of it is lost before it reaches its destination Im afraid it wont answer yet, we tried it yesterday afternoon & the water was nothing near strong enough for our purpose so next week we shall have to widen & deepen it, so as to get more water into it, I hope it will pay us for all this outlay of capital & labour, it cost us nearly £3.0.0 each to live & that on the very commonest fare Mutton, Damper & tea - our evenings we spend in yarning about old times & times to come Etc - playing cards & fishing for eels, the latter are not so plentiful they are getting very frightened & are not easily caught we caught three during the week the smallest was 4 ft long & as thick as my arm - I long for something to read Ive not read a line since leaving Wetherstones I went down the township this afternoon found a deal of drunkenness & Gambling going on, saw some women who have just arrived - not very prepossessing nor do I think, bear the most unblemished character - I went into Cohens, saw some unfortunate pigeons plucked so amiably & good naturedly. My eyes have been extremely weak the last few days. I can hardly see to write & read after dark. I cant account for it. I have met several suffering from the same thing, it is supposed to be the effect of the snow at Wetherstones, the sun shining so brilliantly upon the snow Ive no doubt, for nearly 2 months before leaving there, snow was ever to be seen on the ground & then living so much in the open air as I have done lately, bad food, & wet clothes, & the mind excited combined with great physical suffering & privations must be the cause - {{Image|file=Aag-415.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-416 697]

Oct 26th.1862
Weather been very unsettled during the week. last week it was very hot, this week we had a slight fall of snow a very unusual thing for this part of the country, the Dunstan plain is generally considered by the squatters to be the most wild part for scores of miles around - The winds seem to be the greatest annoyance, it rushes from the gorges like a blast, nothing can withstand their power - every one pitches his tent under the friendly shelter of a hill or rock – even after they cut out a place in the sides of the hills, as we have done, the dust is very painful to the eyes & face - the flat being grassy, formerly I believe, a bed of a Lake - the winds actually rake furrows in it, scattering fine stones about like showers of Hail - We have been greatly bothered all the week, several parties near us are jealous at our taking up a "race" & intend making use of it, we very foolishly neglected to get protection for our work, so on Wednesday Ned went up to Capt. Kadell, the Commissioner, & applied in proper form for the grant of the Water Race, he got the necessary forms which we have to stick up for a certain number of days at the end of which time if nobody objects to us we are considered to have a perfect right hereafter to use & abuse of it - I had to go to the Camp Office with a duplicate of the forms filled up on Thursday {{Image|file=Watmuff-5-1.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=Application for Water Race [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Watmuff-5-1 ''attribution'']}} {{Image|file=Watmuff-5-2.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=Application for Water Race [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Watmuff-5-2 ''attribution'']}} The Camp is situated at the Upper township which is considered the head centre of the Dunstan Goldfields , no joke these 20 miles walk over a stony, gravelly plain, while there, I bought a pair of Boots £2.5.0., & also took out a Miners Right, which cost £1.0.0 a year - unless possessed of this document you can be driven out of any claim however rich, many a poor devil has been forced to leave his claim because some sneaking wretch has discovered the man hadnt a Miners Right - we got our race enlarged & finished by Thursday night - Friday & Saturday we commenced sluicing, & extracted of the precious metal 3 oz 11 dwts not a bad two days work for the four of us. I hope the {{Image|file=Aag-416.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-417 698]

ground will yield as well next week. We have been hard at work to day cutting out a place in the Hill side to erect & fit our tent in, so as to secure it from the winds. Nelson & Ned went for Stores - I long for some books to read, if I find our claim likely to pay I will send to Dunedin for some - A mans mind runs terribly to waste unless its kept in healthy action - by something intellectual either by Society or Literature - I was never more struck by the force of Cicero’s Eulogium on the pleasures & advantages derivable from a study of Literature than at the present - He sais other studies are not adapted to all places & times, but these give strength to youth, joy to old age, adorn prosperity, and are a solace & comfort in adversity, at home they are easy, abroad they are delightful & in our rural retirement they do not forsake us - we can have no better example of the truth of his remarks than evidenced by himself for whilst suffering in exile & adversity, his greatest consolation was found in his love of Literature - [Sunday, 2 November 1862] Novr 3rd [2nd] 1862 Dunstan -
The weather has been better than ever I felt it before in N.Z. rendering everything more pleasent - I never was living in a place I liked better, in some respects, than this spot, we have only to go outside the tent door & we can pick native cabbage, about the size of a lettuce, in abundance we can boil it like ordinary greens or eat it raw like a salad, fine thing for the blood. In the evening after work we wend our way up the river where the scenery is beautiful & fish for eels. Ducks the largest in the world, wild ones, are to be had for shooting, not many are killed for powder & shot is very scarce & very dear, all the week we had eels for breakfast - making our diet more variable than it has been for many months - I went to the township on Tuesday, found a post office has been established, received a long letter from my sister Mary which contains very sad news. My Mother & sister Bessie are very ill {{Image|file=Aag-417.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-418 699]

& Mary herself has only just recovered from a long illness. I am very sad at seeing such, they are very short of money. I dont think the last money I forwarded them could have reached them as she does not mention it in her letter - I answered her letter to day & enclosed £5.0.0 in. I hope to God Ill be fortunate enough to save some money & be able to return home soon, if that cursed River Molyneaux had only kept down Ned & I would have had a deal of gold by this time & been able to have returned & put it to some use for the benefit of our family - however we can only do our best & struggle on - We worked very hard this week, made nearly £7.0.0 aman each - we could save money out of such earnings if provisions was not so dear but it cost us so much to live & Im nearly naked, want new things which are necessary to have in such a country as this - Harry & Ned went to the Dunstan to day, brought me some books, perfect treasures, they found at a store - Nelson & I have been finishing our tent, rendering it as comfortable as possible to make it, under the circumstances - [Sunday, 9 November 1862] Manuherikia Nov 9th 1862
The weather has been very unsettled during the week, very cold in the morning & evenings. The "Old Man" is covered with snow & the wind usually blows from that quarter & it pierces through ones skin like a razor - we lost 2 days work in consequence of the river falling a few inches, causing a stoppage of water in our race - We all turned to & cut a great quantity of sods & to a stranger it must have appeared a ludicrous sight one man cut the sods, while the other three carried them out into the water to make a wing dam to rise the water so that it would flow into our race - we had nothing on us but a shirt & pair of boots, & precious cold work it was wading into the river the water of which is thawed snow from the mountains, every 2 minutes however, we succeeded by doing this, in gaining our purpose - we made during the other four days nearly £6.0.0 each - not much considering the work weve done, however, there are many in the neighbourhood {{Image|file=Aag-418.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-419 700]

who are not doing so well, great numbers are walking about doing nothing - having been driven out of their claims on the Banks of the Molly by the rising of the water - which is higher now than ever - one good has been done it has made some prospect about the country & I hear there are a great number of spots & places about the little creeks & rivers & Gullies running from the mountains that are paying remarkably well - judging from what the storekeepers & Goldbrokers buy a deal of gold must be getting {{Red|*}}sent A party of men took up a claim next to us, last week & got more gold in one day with an ordinary cradle than we have got out of ours altogether, rather annoying for we had prospected the same ground, before taking up our present piece & found it not payable - such is the uncertainty of gold digging, one never knows how near to fortune he may be - I went to the township on Thursday & found a letter at the P.O. from Mother, it had been written a fortnight after Marys I was glad to hear she & Bessie were recovering, she informed me Uncle Joe is married. I sincerely hope he will be happy, tho he has commenced late in life to try the pleasures of matrimony she regrets the circumstances for her childrens sake – for my own part I dont care I want none of their money I would sooner have a thousand pounds of my own earnings than 5000 of anothers - enclosed in her letter was one from my dear old friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] he is still living in Stirling very happy & comfortable so he says – his wife & he he informs me were brought to Jesus at the same time - & there follows an excellent summary on the atonements, winding up with a dissertation on Justification by Faith - & an exhortation to follow in his steps & embrace my Saviour - I was glad to hear such a change had taken place in his moral nature I only hope the changes will be lasting & sincere - This morning Harry Nelson & I went up the [https://www.topomap.co.nz/NZTopoMap?v=2&ll=-45.244334,169.438856&z=14 Molyban]4 Spellings - Malieban, Maliban, Mobiban/r, Moliban, no such creek, but apparently what is now known as [https://www.topomap.co.nz/NZTopoMap?v=2&ll=-45.244334,169.438856&z=14 MANORBURN], there is no other creek anywhere near the area that discharges into the Manuherikia on the south side. The confluence with the Manorburn was the crossing for the new route to Dunstan from Dunedin. {{Image|file=Aag-419.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-420 701]

creek (a tributary of the Manuherikia) some two milesHe is supposedly camped 2 miles from the junction, and that is where the Manorburn creek is, so he probably means he went west 2 miles. from here, for firewood, fortunately we hadnt to cross any hills or creeks in coming back with our bundles - wood is extremely scarce about here, the people in the townships hire drays to go some 20 miles away up the River for it for which they pay as high at £5.0.0 a load. I notice in the township several bakers have commenced business, charging 4/6 per 3 lb loaf - this week (flour is down to 1/6 now -) they say it does not pay them. Nov 16th 1862
A week of annoyance & bother caused by one of those very vexatious & never understood by a third or deciding party kind of dispute - out of which we have come second best as a facetious disposed person on one occasion when having fought a battle with another & been "licked" the particulars of our case are as follows - our claim is at the bend of the River & when we took it up in the first place, we put our four corner pegs in the ground in the usual way – the two back ones about 25 ft back from the waters edge & the other two about 25 ft in the shallow, knowing the best ground was in the water, & thinking when we had worked our outside ground we could devise some means for working that which was under water - the pegs I placed in the water wading up to my middle & building stones around them so that they would not be washed away - we have had great difficulty in keeping them there for numbers of persons are in the habit of going up the River for firewood & to bring it without trouble the tumble their logs or bundles into the water attached to a line & so get it down. These bundles on several occasions have carried away our pegs causing us a deal of annoyance in sticking them up again - last Sunday they were carried away in this manner, & on Monday we noticed them down on going to work, but not dreaming any body ever had an idea of the ground neglected to put them up immediately {{Image|file=Aag-420.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-421 702]

Now it appears a large company has been formed consisting of about 50 men for the purpose of turning the course of the river at this Bend & want to secure all the ground that at present is covered with water - through some underhanded work they have got permission to do this from the Commissioner they of course, want our piece of ground & on Monday tried to get possession of it, by stating we had no pegs, to prove the ground was ours - a quarrel ensued & the Warden was brought down to settle the dispute on Wednesday, after hearing both sides of the case & us bringing several witnesses who proved & swore to seeing us often sticking up our pegs when knocked for weeks before - he declined to give a decision, but thought it best to try the case in the New Court at the Dunstan - the case came off yesterday (Saturday) attracting an immense numbers of miners, this being the first mining case ever tried on these new diggins. We found the Warden the Judge, a jury was formed of three men one of whom persisted upon going to sleep during the trial, much to the annoyance of the Cryer & to the amusement of those present. The Court was a large Marquee & was crowded Nelson conducted the case & was questioned & brow beated the Warden for upwards of 5 hours while the case lasted, but all to no purpose, the decision was against us, when it was known, there was such a yell outside & such hisses & groans the like of I never heard of before - very little would have started the mob to have pulled down the court & illused the Judge & jury. It was a most partial trial, Keddell, in summing up picked out all our doubtful evidence leaving the main facts out of sight altogether – while he went into the justice of the opposite sides case in all its lights, some mention for expenses {{Image|file=Aag-421.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-422 703]

was made by them - I told the Warden I hoped they might get them - & advised him not to come down our way unless he was too hot & wanted a ducking a piece of gratuitous advice he didnt seem to relish, for he had the impudence to inform me he had serious notions of giving me a week in the Lock up - a tent guarded by some old soldiers - that a few diggers would have soon mutilated - it was dark when we got back, having sauntered about the Township talking to one & another - {{Red|*}}and from what we could gather several of the most influential men such as Storekeepers, Doctors, Etc. were interested in the Company, having advanced the money for erecting the dam & making preperations for the work - & I should not be at [all] surprised if the Warden hasnt a feather in the nest - I saw great changes in the township, Really good substantial stores & places are up & in course of erection Billiard Rooms, Concert & Dancing Saloons, Public Houses Shanties, Stores & Restaurants in every direction, men flashing about drunk & gambling - Law & order unknown - giving one an appearance of society on the brink of distruction. I believe a Police Force is to [be] established next week, at present the only thing here in that way are a few mounted troopers, & some superannuated old soldiers who have lately arrived from Dunedin, so it is to be hoped that there will be a change for the better ere long - & life & property less in danger than hitherto. I met Mr Neil while there our late president of the Debating Society on Wetherstones, he has come up here to see if there is any chance of opening business, tho he is not very anxious about leaving Wetherstones as things are "looking up" there - I never saw business so brisk as it is or so much money spending foolishly by lucky diggers, a sure sign there is a deal of gold getting in the neighbourhood - [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]], not being well & not {{Image|file=Aag-422.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-423 704]

being accustomed to this sort of work - he thought it best to take a situation to mind a Store about a mile from here £4.10.0 per week & vituals, he has put a man in his place on wages (£5.0.0 per week) to represent his share in the claim (Jim Elliot, an old Nelson Reef friend of mine) & still remains a partner of ours - My leisure hours Ive spent in reading poetry - having purchased a copy of Byrons & Shakespeares works – for which I paid a good price - quite an intellectual treat, in my present circumstances - The weather has been fearfully hot - for N Z – singular contrast to experience such heat & to see snow on the mountains within a few miles of us Although we have lost a deal of time this week we managed to get nearly 8 oz of gold between us for the weeks work - Manuherikia Novr 23rd 1862
Weather still very warm & sultry reminding me of Australia - but I miss the beautiful clear cloudless skies & that delicious misty hazy atmosphere so prevalent there - & so like what poets & Authors love to describe & prate about concerning the climate of the European South East that land of romance, imagery - We have worked very hard this last week & have met with poor results - only making £4.10s.6d each - I trust we will do better next week - Great numbers of people are daily arriving from the other colonies attracted by the glowing & somewhat exaggerated accounts spread {{Red|*}}& concerning this neighbourhood - its a source of the greatest disappointment to them finding the River they had heard described as being lined with gold, flooded - one thing it has done having compelled people to go prospecting & push their way more into the heart of the country {{Image|file=Aag-423.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-424 705]

& I hear with most successful results in some cases – one man I know named Fox (a prizefighter) whom I met at the Junction of the Kawarra - when I & Yankee Bob went away the mountains beginning of last month - it appears he carried a week or two provisions with him & after enduring incredible hardships, had discovered a small River, running into the Kawarra, only a few miles further on the other side of the range, there where I had visited, & had found gold in great quantities - fine nuggety gold, very different from what is found in the big rivers - the country about the place is now known as Foxes diggings, & everybody that is able to raise a few weeks provisions is gone or going - I feel sorry we came down into this neighbourhood, if we had remained up the river we should have gone there - but we are now quite tied here - provisions will always be dear, there being 60 to 70 miles distant from the Dunstan township & over a rocky mountainous country, that no road can ever be made for a vehicle to travel upon - tis very dangerous for pack horses many places on the road men have to take their horses packs off their backs & carry it themselves - 5/. per lb for Flour is freely offered them. I have proposed to my mates the advisability of trying to purchase a horse & two of our party to start for there - & the other two to remain where we are - we can but make poor wages here & considering what we have had & have to endure, its not worth ones while to risk life & constitution for that, when there are so many good rushes breaking out in the province - We have made many enquiries after horses, but cannot get one at any price - we offered £50 for an old animal, that in Victoria wouldnt bring 30s/.d its owner wanted £60 for it which we wouldnt give - for I felt the beast would drop down dead long before he even reached the "Eldorado of our desires" - Ive spent my leisure hours reading my Byron & Shakespeare - to day I felt an inclination to read the {{Image|file=Aag-424.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-425 706]

the Bible, not having one I tried to borrow one in the neighbourhood, but can it be believed, I could not obtain one from all the tents around, a scarce volume about here This morning Ned & I went to see [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]], bought a quantity of provisions from him & half a cheap sheep for the coming week - Been washing & mending my clothes - I also wrote to Fred Angles (Wetherstones) my old mate, as I have heard he has some letters there for me - & does not know where to address them to, I was surprised, this evening at seeing Tom Downs, (my old shipmate from Victoria who was so ill on the passage) come marching in, he & another man named Campbell arrived on the Dunstan township on Friday night with the intention of trying their luck here – digging - when Campbell took suddenly ill & died the following morning at Kilgours, he was buried this morning among the hills in a hole Tom sunk for the purpose - he had been drinking rather freely on the road up & the exertion & poor living attending his journey & not being accustomed to such - was the cause of his death, Tom is going to stay with us to night, & in the morning is going up the river {{Red|*}}Molyban to some party he knows there & intends joining. I advised him to return to Dunedin again, he is not strong & has never been accustomed to a rough life like a diggers Novr.30th 1862
Lovely weather during the week, very hot one or two days. Worked hard as usual, made £7.0.0 each, if I could see a chance of continuing to do as well every week I would not think of leaving this place - the news from Foxes Rush still continues to be good, gold is found in great abundance in the small streams & crevices {{Image|file=Aag-425.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-426 707]

of the Rocks bordering the same - We have been on the look out for a horse all the week, but cannot purchase one - & we dont care about starting without one – for we couldnt carry up more than a fortnights provisions besides Blanket & Tools - so it would be madness to start without one - many have gone so & have had to return having been unable to remain long enough to do any good before they were compelled to return - this will be remedied shortly for I hear there are many men owning pack horses who are doing nothing else but packing up food & sell it at a frightful price, a packer told me one day this week he made £50 one trip, profit on one horse load of provisions, but on his return, in swimming his horse across the Kawarra - it caught the cramp & to save their own lifes (being in a small boat in which he held the halter attached to the horses head.) he was obliged to let it go & the animal sank to rise no more) he has gone to Dunedin for a couple more horses he owns there & hopes to make his fortune yet, packing - We all went over the mountains (which rise immediately behind our tent) this morning for firewood, it was nearly 4 pm this afternoon when we returned, with heavy hearts & very light loads of what we went in search of – the only thing in the shape of fuel we could find were the fibrous roots growing in the crevices of the rocks - since my return I wrote a letter to Mother & enclosed a £5.0.0 note - Decr 7th.1862
Fine weather, but very windy at times, no one can conceive the force with which the wind reaches down the openings of the mountains, unless they had experienced it Tents & dwellings, unless placed in sheltered position are {{Image|file=Aag-426.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-427 708]

swept away like dust, many a poor devil leaves his tent in the morning to go to his work, & on his return in the evening, looks in vain for it, last night when I came home from work, I found our tent torn up all round the bottom, & all but away, just in time to save us from being tentless. We have had one tent rent to shreds by the wind & dont want another to chance its fate - We take it week about to do the cooking, this has been mine & I find the wind having to do our cooking in the open air anything but an agreeable assistant, especially while baking bread - what a variety of occupations a man must be fitted for before he can be considered a a proficient digger - he must be a miner with a constitution fit to endure the very extremes of toil & hardship - a cook - a washerwoman - tailor, carpenter – & many other branches of the trades & professions – not forgetting & one of the most important in such a place as this a knowledge of pharmacy & Surgery - & Etc. too numerous to enumerate - We have done very poor this week, only made £3.2.6 each or about £1.0.0 over expenses - owing to the river rising & swamping our claims, we have worked up to our knees & sometimes to our waist, every day during the week shovelling out or more properly speaking, fishing out, the gravel to wash - leaving half the gold, we should otherwise have got, had the river been down, the reason of the rising is owing to the late strong winds which melt the snow more quickly than the sun causing it to run down the mountains like an avalanche - Thursday, we were compelled to abandon the claim & were thrown out of work, however, we {{Red|*}}carried [on] & sank 2 large paddocks 10 x 12 on the flats some 100 yards from the River Banks - but after {{Image|file=Aag-427.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-428 709]

sinking down 7 ft deep & coming to the water level of river we were compelled to cease sinking farther, in consequence of the body of water we had to contend with we tried hard to bottom one & had 2 pumps going, but it as was no use, the pumps would not lessen the water an inch, coming in quicker than we could pump it out - We heard of a rush, to day, supposed to be in a gully the other side of the Umbrella Ranges (or the "Old Man" as they are better known by) somewhere about the place where Nelson & I went prospecting when we lived down the Molyneaux, we tossed up who should go, & it fell to Nelsons lot to go - he at once packed up swag & started this evening, he intends only going as far as the township to night & cross the River at the junction if possible - I dont think much of the place, tho I dare say there is gold there, but it is such an inaccessible place to arrive at - however, we are doing nothing & its no harm our going & having a look at it - I received a long letter from my brother Fred, all well at home - his letter is full of news covering Melb’ & its amusements which he describes in a most tantalising manner to me -considering Im living in such a damned place as this is - I rose early this morning & took a long strool – first visited the Manuherikia township (3 miles from here) I then went down the Molyneax some 6 or 7 miles, the River at this point, runs between steep high rocky mountains – making such a din, travelling is a difficult job, just a little pathway winding round about among rocks & along narrow terraces. I noticed a great many people camped along the Banks - who had good claims, before the River rose & who are shepherding the same until the River falls again It is done in the following manner - perhaps a party consists of four men - 3 go elsewhere knocking about & {{Image|file=Aag-428.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-429 710]

search for gold, while one remains to keep possession of their River claims, where they know there is plenty of gold to be had if the River should ever sink to its original depth it was when the Rush first broke out the law requires that one man, to keep possession of a claim, should always be on the ground & he can hold four mens ground by this arrangement. I could see our old claim we first worked, was taken posession of & kept in this manner I called at several tents & spoke to several men I knew & have met before - I had a long chat with a rare old chap - the most veritable philosopher I ever met with geologising among the mountains, seems to be his forte – his mates left him to mind a claim some 2 months ago & has seen nothing of them since, he heard they had made £500 a man at Foxes & had returned to Victoria, it didnt seem to affect him for he is sure his fortune is to be obtained where he is, when the River goes down, I hope he wont be disappointed. I was highly amused at a series of calculations he has made, he knows how many buckets of dirt was washed out of the claim & how much they realized & has calculated the quantity still remaining in the claim & knows to the dwt how much he is to get from it I asked him if he had ever been digging before, he replied in the negative, poor fellow, when he has been digging as long as I have – he’ll know how much dependence there is to be placed on a foot of ground - & know many a bitter disappointment - he was very communicative & walked to the Township back with me - where I regaled him with a nobbler of Bdy. he had been a Tutor to a gentleman in England in his young days, & in his {{Red|*}}change {{Red|*}}setting in life had still remained his companion & acted as Tutor to his children, until they were sent to {{Image|file=Aag-429.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-430 711]

College, he then fancied he would like to travel found his way to the South Sea Islands & left there for Otago, some of the sailors leaving the ship allured by the gold discovery, he was induced to join them, & so found his way here - he lives by washing the gravel back from the waters edge & manages to eke out a miserable existence - I left him promising to see him again - 14 Decr.1862
Weather fine, but hot. Nelson returned to day, having knocked about the other side of the "Old Man" ever since without discovering anything in the shape of a pay able gold field, a little gold had been found in a gully, but of no consequence, giving rise to a report that had induced a great many to go over there to see the place - poor devil he is completely knocked up, came home with his boots in pieces - has had hard times, describes the county he has travelled as something fearful he went fully 20 miles further than when he & I went in that direction During his absence Ned & I worked very hard but to little purpose, owing to our claim being still under water - we made 2 oz. 5dwt between us just enough to pay our expenses - Last night we went to the township, noticed great improvements good substantial buildings going up in every direction. I fancy this place will go ahead more than the upper township, being more central that is should the Molyneaux fall at present the Dunstan is the main business place, being a kind of depot for stores, & the {{Image|file=Aag-430.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-431 712]

nearest point goods can be obtained by parties from Foxes - I went up there one day this week & was astonished by the quantities of horses & men engaged packing, going & coming all hours of the day. I met many I knew who speak very highly of the Lake district, as it is called. I tried to buy a horse while there but was unsuccessful - we must really make an effort to do something better than weve done the last fortnight. To day we all went for firewood, called at [[Dight-42|Dights]], bought some provisions, spent the rest of the day washing, mending, & playing cards for want of something better to do 21st Decr 1862
Last Monday we held a consultation, what we’d best do for the future, when the following resolutions were made & agreed to - that two of our party should go to the Foxes on the Lake District, the other two to remain where we are, dispose of half our claim, still remain & for the future whatever we make a record to be kept & after all expenses, the balance to be equally divided, not being able to buy a horse here Ned proposed starting at once for Dunedin, & there to purchase one, the difference in the price we {{Red|*}}should have to give for one there will pay his expenses & he being the best walker in the party & feeling inclined for the trip, will undertake it willingly, before night we sold 2 shares in our claim & tools for £12.0.0 to Jim Elliot & Jim Jinks old friends of ours. [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] & I are to remain & represent our 2 shares as it fell to Nelson & Ned to be the two who are {{Image|file=Aag-431.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-432 713]

to go Foxes. - early on Tuesday morning Ned left us for Dunedin, a distance of 110 miles from here over a very mountainous country, no joke to walk this distance in hot summer weather - tho is preferable to winter when the snow is on the ground - he expected to reach town on Friday morning - I hope he will get back safe & sound, he took about £25.0.0 with him, & he has 11 oz of gold in Dunedin which he sent down when he left us up the river for Victoria, but changing his mind he left it there - knowing it would be safe in the Govt Treasury I expect him up in a day or two - the news still continue to be good from the Lakes a party that use[d] to live near us, left some 5 weeks ago & have made £400.0.0 each & have [sent] for some friends of theirs also camped near us who started for there yesterday - I hear food is much cheaper there 3/- per lb flour, mutton 1/9 per lb - we are paying 1/0 for flour & 1/0 per lb for meat - Nelson & I with our new mates, commenced work on Wednesday together the River having fell considerably - we made £4.0.0 & that was £8.0.0 for it to divide between our party of four - I received an affectionate letter from my sister Mary that afforded me more pleasure to read than {{Red|*}}ans {{Red|*}}most I receive from home - all well, thank God – no news about Father - I received a newspaper from Fred in which I noticed his name as having sang at a Concert in Melbourne - Last night my mates & I went down to the township for a spree - visited every place of Amusement consisting of Public Houses (calico ones) Dancing Rooms & Singing Saloons - made ourselves {{Image|file=Aag-432.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-433 714]

very notorious, by our bad behaviour, got into several broils & scrapes - the police interfering in our case we were to compelled to beat a retreat to civilized people, diggers when on the loose must appear perfect maniacs, we danced & I sang everywhere or was compelled to do so, being so well known as a squaller - I received a long letter from Fred Angles, he is thinking of coming up here but cannot at present as he is trying to get out a patent for a cradle which is to extract the gold from this black sand, he is quite a genius, I should like to see the little man & have a good laugh at him - he tells me his daughter Mrs Bignell has arrived from Victoria. Fred wishes she was far away, her husband murdered a man in Bendigo in a fit of jealousy, brought on by her light giddy conduct poor devil, he wasnt hangd but got 7 years hard labour in the hulks for his crime. I knew the parties well, years ago they were neighbours of mine, & many a flirt Ive had with her, she has only been on Wetherstones some 2 months & has scraped acquaintance with some unfortunate German & is to be married to him next week. Fred condemns such behaviour, but she is only his step daughter & he cannot control her - Thursday evening I was surprised to see Bill Wright (my old mate in Wetherstones) Dave Hazlett, old Fawcett & his son, pay us a {{Image|file=Aag-433.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-434 715]

visit. Our tent is on the road side from Dunedin so our tent is the first calling place for Bendigo folks we know) they have just returned home from Victoria & are bound for the Foxes - they left next morning Dave after leaving Wetherstones went to Bendigo & worked there for a time & was full of news - Wright has got married since his absence - they all left next morning. Dave tells me Isa is still single & often spoke to him about me. Ive often thought whether she thinks of me, there can be no doubt tho we may never be to each other as we were of yore there is that passed between us which can never render us forgetful of each other - 28th Decr 1862
Being Christmas week & living in a Christian Country (if not Christians) & it being usual at such a time to enjoy oneself to the best of their power, we have done nothing in the way of gold digging, what little we did was only what was necessary to keep the claim) Even in the wilderness we found ways & means to make the time pass pleasently several Storekeepers & leading men at the township got up a lot of sports, consisting of Running Jumping & Wrestling, throwing the Hammer, Putting the Stone Etc. Etc – with, horse racing, the first days sport consisted of nothing but the latter, of course nothing but Hacks ran, causing more amusement & as much excitement as if they were "thorough breds" running, the following day (Saturday) was devoted to Athletic Sports, which was surely worth witnessing, there being some of [the] best Athletes in the colony present many whose names are well known all over {{Image|file=Aag-434.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-435 716]

Australia, but many who came thinking to bear away prizes were greatly disappointed, by three Maoris brothers - the eldest one bearing away the prize for everything he competed for, he threw some of the best Cornish & also Cumberland wrestlers there are in the colonies - most astonishing fellows, they are neighbours of ours - & have made a deal of gold on the River - their manner of living surprises me. Ive gone into their tent many times during their meals & have found taking nothing but tea & Biscuits - I met a great many people at the sports I knew, among the number Joe Poulter, one of my mates at the Machine (Wetherstones) he spent last night at our tent - he is mates with Dowding & Pickett & is working in Pipe Clay Gully somewhere up in the Mountains near the Kawarra - where they are doing very well - they have sent 36 oz each by escort to town for their last 2 months work. Christmas morning I went up to see [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] at the store - found him very busy, selling drink, to swiping diggers most of whom got drunk, & disgustingly beastly, which so disgusted me I left during the afternoon, but not before having had a X mas dinner with him, which consisted of 2 stewed Sheep heads with some Currant dumplings. I took a walk afterwards up the river & gathered a bundle of firewood & reached home with it just at dark, immediately afterwards, much to my delight, my brother Edward arrived from town where he had left only the morning before - he has had a pleasent tho to most people[s] thinking a rough trip of it - since leaving - he was some days in Dunedin where he enjoyed himself - he found the {{Image|file=Aag-435.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-436 717]

man who had the horse to sell - & bought it for £45.0.0. his expenses were over £10.0.0 so the beast has cost us equal to £55.0.0 it is a fine gray, & is well known as one of the best horses in the province, I hope he will prove a good one to us. Ned & Nelson are to start in the morning for Foxes, we bought everything theyll require & packed up to day. The cart horse & fittings & things will cost us about £100.0.0 £25.0.0 each, leaving us with little of our savings I sincerely hope they will for fortunate & that during their absence we who are left behind may be ditto, there is one thing, connected with arrangement I dont like & makes me feel uncomfortable - & that is Ned & Nelson going together - somehow or another they were always quarrelling & could never agree & Ned is so wild & impatient that he wont subject himself to anything like control, they both like their own way - I should like to have gone with Nelson - but we agreed to toss up who was to go & it fell as we are, I feel sorry Ned is going - for he & I have seen & so many trials & suffered so many hardships together & both of us trying for the same object, that we love each other perhaps more than most brothers do he is a fine manly spirited chap, would do a good turn or share his last 6d or last bit of food with the greatest stranger, if he thought he wanted it worse than himself - I went up to [[Dight-42|Dights]] this afternoon found his Brother Jack & [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] there with him they have been at work on the Tokomiria diggings but are now enroute for Foxes, they purpose starting in Company with Ned & Nelson in the morning - {{Image|file=Aag-436.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-437 718]

Manuherikia River Jany 4th.1863 Dunstan, Otago, NZ Ned & Nelson got away about noon on Monday reached the Dunstan township by night, & I heard they met several they knew & got spreeing about. Ned slept with some friends of his there & did not wake up till near 12 next day & found he had had his pockets picked of £10.0.0 & to make things worse, Nelson did not know where he was or where to find him, started early without him so Ned on waking up, was to afraid to lose Nelson to think about his money & his pea jacket he had lost to look after it, but pushed on & overtook Nelson just as he was swimming “Nobby” over the Molynuex at the Kawarra Junction - I was very much annoyed at hearing the above particulars. I think Ned ought to have been more particular what he was about to have subjected himself to such an inconvenience - [[Dight-42|Dight]] is still at the store, so I put on a man on wages to represent his share in the claim (£5.0.0 per week) we worked very hard & Im happy to state with tolerable good results, on squaring up last night, after paying our man his wages Id £15.0.0 to draw - or like £10.0.0 ashare, the best weeks work Ive have for a long time, my new mates in the claim are fine working fellows, suit me all to pieces I hope Harry & I will be able to continue to do as well, so that we can keep our other {{Image|file=Aag-437.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-438 719]

mates out prospecting, until they get onto something good. Good news still continue to arrive from the Lake district, tho’ Im afraid the place will get overdone by the great numbers of diggers who are daily flocking there - The Molyneaux still continues to keep high, so I see very little chance of doing anything upon it for some months to come - I went down to the township yesterday & spent about £5.0.0 on myself in clothes I required - I paid £2.10.0 for a pair of strong working boots & a £1 each for a couple of flannel shirts - In the evening in company with my mates, I visited all the places of amusement – 1. am this morning when we got home to day I spent rambling about, from one friends tent to another - called at Ikes tent, his wife has just arrived from Wetherstones, a Sydney native young & very pretty, tho’ far from being what she ought to be, a good virtuous wife - Jany 11th.1863 Weather very hot. Heard to day by “Swiss Bob”, who has come down from Foxes, about Ned & Nelson, he met them on the Arrow River, but as all the ground was taken up there - they were purposing leaving & going further towards the Lakes - Bob tells me great numbers of people are there knocking about & have to return owing to the scarcity & dearness of provisions, he says, there is a deal of gold there & nearly every day some new gully or creek is being found with rich payable ground in them - {{Image|file=Aag-438.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-439 720]

he gives a frightful description of the country about there - travelling is fearful work, the tracks are strewed with dead horses & many men have met with fearful deaths, on one track he travelled, there is [a] deep narrow chasm the bottom of which through the mist rising from the water below cannot be discerned, this is crossed, by jumping over the narrowest parts - the week before he crossed it a lamentable occurance took place, a party of three men with a packhorse had to cross it, the one who was leading the horse leapt over with the halter in his hand, the horse in jumping made a bound, which dragged the man backwards & he failed to recover himself ere he was hurled headlong down its depth along with the horse, his mates looking down could see his body writhing in agony & were unable to reach him to render assistance if it had been possible or of use, they tore up their blankets & twined them so as to form a cord, but it proved too short it was the night of the following day before a rope could be got to go down to the man - alas, too late, the man was dead - died a fearful death nearly all the bones in his [body] broke it is supposed he lingered nearly 30 hours after he fell - several other cases of a similar nature has taken place within the past few weeks. Bob has [been] up to Lakes & beyond them amongst a chain of mountains that run nearly N & St which he describes as being as being in many places comprised of nought but immense Glaciers, & worse to travel than any {{Image|file=Aag-439.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-440 721]

part of the Alps or Pyrenees, he has seen - I can believe, (but wouldnt have done if Id not taken a trip when I did in that direction) that such is the case – perhaps in after years when the country gets settled & well populated, Australian tourists, will often visit this part of N.Z. We had to take in another partner this week, owing to our ground getting deeper an making more water - we made 11 oz of Gold between us @ 73s/9d per oz, give us after dividing trifling expenses in workings £8.0.0 a share, leaving us £11.0.0 to draw after paying our man his wages - Enlivened myself this week by visiting the township twice with my mates - Wednesday night we got into a nice row through one of my mates getting drunk & with it quarrelsome - about a dozen of us were together, & we found ourselves in a dancing or Free & Easy sort of place, full of people, Jim got tight & some fellow endeavoured to rob him, however he was not so far gone, as to not know what the fellow was doing, so he struck him, quick as lightning a low blackguard mob of thieves & sharpers, rushed upon us & we seemed likely to get the worst of it when a lot of neighbours of ours came to our assistance we were not long in carrying all before us, & when mens blood is aroused by wrongs real or imaginary, there is no saying what the result may be - the owner of the place, who is known to be a vile character, & is well known for lightening mens pockets of superfluous cash or gold, was the first to feel our power, he saw his comrades & chums {{Image|file=Aag-440.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-441 722]

getting second best of the fun, so he had to fly for his life - & then commenced our work, we distroyed every bottle of grog, every thing in fact that would bend or break was distroyed & at last some more furious than others, began to pull the place down - & in less time than I could write an account of it, the whole place was demolished, a number of police came from the upper township when it was all over, but nobody knew or would not know, how the row commenced, so they returned it was 5 am next morning when we reached home - tired sore & our clothes tore to ribbons, some with bleeding faces & black eyes, my severest sore is on the shin where some one must have kicked me, most unmercifully - Last night I went down called on Mr Brown (formerly one of the Directors of the Nelson Reef Co) he has a carpenters shop there & is doing very well making cradles he is a clever man - possessed of a vast amount of knowledge, but yet so quiet & unassuming in his manner that it is a pleasure to be in his company - I always feel a better & cleverer man after spending an hour in his society - if Im in doubt upon any question I appeal to him, & he soon clears up whatever mystery may be attached to it in my mind No letters this week - {{Image|file=Aag-441.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-442 723]

Jany 18th.1863
Weather lovely, past week - No news from Ned & Nelson. Been annoyed considerably this week by our neighbours who are turning the river - they have accomplished their object, but in doing so they have cut off our supply of water for sluicing purposes, & we can can claim no compensation unfortunately for our loss, but can compel them to cut us another race, which they have have done, but in such an unfinished style that it took us three days to complete it & render it of use to us – no joke the loss of 3 days work for 5 men – the rest of the week we managed to make about £4.0.0 aman. Harry Ennis found us out some few days back having just arrived from Victoria, & being “hard up” we allowed him to work in our claim for until he got a few Pds, on Monday he left us bound for Foxes Rush, having business at the upper township at the Camp in reference to our claim I accompanied him so far - when we parted, he is an old chum of mine & a strange fellow, he was born & brought up a gentleman was educated at Dublin University - but being a wild scamp he got into difficulties & had to leave there in a most summary manner, he is without exception the hottest brained wild & most reckless devil ever I knew strong as Samson with a constitution like a horse – nothing is too difficult for him to accomplish when only physical force is required, on leaving him & doing my business I took a strool about the township, in search of my partner Jinks - who had been on the "spree" for some days & had paid a man wages to work his share in our claim during the time - I found him very {{Image|file=Aag-442.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-443 724]

happy, half drunk in a brothel or low drinking place - It was with the greatest difficulty I got him away from the township before dark, he left us with about £40.0.0 in his pockets, while crossing the plain on our way home, he got so tired & sleepy he would lie down, where he fell asleep, I doing the same - but not before Id felt his pockets in which I found all the money he had was some £3.10.0 having spent the rest, the 2 days previous - we roused up about 11 pm & pushed on the Manuherikia township, found the punt on the opposite side so couldnt cross, & Jinks wouldnt think of swimming the River & then have to walk 2 miles afterwards in wet clothes - so we turned into the Royal Hotel, the Landlord is an old friend of mine, & he was entertaining some friends of his so we were invited to join them, 3 the following morning before we retired to our “shake down” I arose about 6 & took a bathe in the River & Jinks & I crossed, went to Ikes for breakfast, played a few games of quoits with him & got to our work about 11. am Tuesday, after our rambling. I find I spent a great deal of money, more than I feel I am justified in having done - Visited the Lower Township again this morning, found 2 letters at the P.O there for me forwarded from Wetherstones where they had been lying about a month, they proved to be from my couzins on Bendigo, nothing particular in them - I received a long interesting letter from Mr Halley, on Monday - {{Image|file=Aag-443.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-444 725]

Jany 25th 1863
Very hot during the week. We lost some more time, through the Compy humbugging us with our water Race - on Thursday I went to the Upper town (Dunstan) to lodge a complaint against them at the Wardens, found him so engaged with Major Ric[h]ardson the Superintendent of Otago who is making a tour of inspection on the various Goldfields, that I could not see him, & was informed by a "sub" he would not be disengaged for some days - how well as the immortal portrayed such like in alluding to "The laws delay", The "insolence of office" Etc - whilst at the camp I met Bill Hobson lodging about £150.0.0 worth of gold for transmission to Dunedin by Escort he has left the Bros Beales at Foxes where they have been at work doing very well, & is now enroute for Victoria to spend it - Ill bet he’ll be back in a couple of months, hard up with not a shoe to his foot. German Charlie left here with over £400.0.0 Im positive he will kill himself drinking before it done if some kind friend doesn't relieve him of it - Its very annoying to see such men so lucky. Ive seen it so ordained for years on goldfields - I seldom saw a drinking man ever get more gold than enough to keep him “stringing” on in expectation I called at the P.O while there & recd a long letter from Mother, which on opening I found contained one from my Father some 20 pages closely written {{Image|file=Aag-444.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-445 726]

he is well in health, living in Manchester, where he is acting as agent for something or somebody which said occupation is not very remunerative. Uncle Joseph is married, since which event he seems to have alienated himself from the rest of his relatives. Father writes rather despairingly with respect to our “expectations” coming to anything from that quarter (I think it is very wrong & cruel for parents to bring up their children with the idea of inheriting living people(s) wealth, as we've been always led to expect,. nothing good comes of it, it misfits & unsettles young folks mind(s) & tends to check many a rigorous exertion) he alludes to cotton famine, states we can have no conception of the sufferings the Mill operators in the Manufacturing districts are enduring. God knows judging from the reports we read in the home papers they must be fearful & should tend to teach us a lesson in the thankfulness to providence for keeping us from knowing the extremes of wretched poverty - there is also (as usual) a deal of advice to us “boys” with a great deal of religious matter – throughout - Mother read it prior to sending it me - & of course there are plenty of comments upon it in her letter. She is very short of money & desires me to send her some if I can - states Fred is not acting altogether the “thing” towards her - Our party made 6 oz of gold this week, but having some extra expenses to meet it lessened {{Image|file=Aag-445.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-446 727]

the division considerably. I suppose we must be contented, great numbers are returning from "Foxes" the district get to overstacked & I hear there is a deal of suffering up there - most of those returning are settling down on the Banks of the Molyneaux taking up claims which they intend shepherding until the river falls - & in the meantime are building huts & rendering the caves habitable for their winter sojourn, getting in provisions while they are cheap & collecting firewood. We have heard nothing of Ned & Nelson - I think they cant be getting gold or else we should should have heard from them - Harry & I had a long talk this afternoon about our position & prospects & came to the conclusion it would be for the best, to take a claim on the River & give a man wages to shepherd it for us - for very few likely beeches on the River are now unoccupied & our claims will be worked out in a few weeks & should Ned & Coy come back unsuccessful, they will naturally blame us if we hadnt secured a River claim for the Winter to fly to there is a spot we know of not taken up, some ten miles down the Rocky Gorge from the Junction township, where I know some men got fine prospects only a day or two before the river rose - so weve agreed to take it up, & we know a man who will shepherd it for us for £3.0.0 per week & half a share when the ground is workable the river is expected to fall in about 6 weeks or 2 months from this date - {{Image|file=Aag-446.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-447 728]

Manuherikia River Feby 1st 1863 Dunstan, Otago, N.Z Weather still very pleasent We made £7.10s.0d a share, not bad. I feel sorry Ned & Nelson left us, if we had stuck together & worked as we were doing we should have had a nice sum of money each by this time - I received a short brief note from Ned per favor of a friend in which he informs me Nelson, [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] & J.Dight & himself after knocking about a considerable time together at length settled down by a small stream called Blue Stone Creek (a tributary of the Shotover River) where they found some fine gold, they at once commenced to turn the course of the river so as to get to its bed - when just as they had finished, a gale of wind came that melted the snow on the mountains causing a flood which swept away the dam bank, but not before they had ascertained there was a fine lot of gold to be had if they could get at it - from the tone of Neds note I should imagine he was very sanguine of success & they purposed making preperations to winter on the spot, such as laying in a stock provisions & firewood – the winter is the time when they are likely to do well as the rivers are very low at that time & the beds where the gold is deposited are then easily worked - I sincerely hope they will be successful - I replied to his note to day giving him my opinions upon the matter & also related what we had been doing & purpose doing for the future - & also an account of {{Image|file=Aag-447.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-448 729]

the money Harry & I have made since they left - I have visited the Lower township nearly [every] evening the past week, last night I went to “Jones” (Royal Hotel) & in company with my mates spent a jolly night together 1 am when we forded the River on our way home - this morning I wrote to Mother & enclosed in the letter a draft for £5.0.0 After posting it Harry & I, in company by the man weve employed proceded down the Molyneux where we have taken up a claim we were well loaded carrying a tent & tools with a fortnights provisions, & the road being frightfully rough & rocky running alongside a steep hill side at the foot of which rushes the Molyneaux, the longest largest & most rapid River in N.Z. near to the claim we took possession off, we found a small cave in which 2 or 3 men might live very comfortable in, we soon cleaned it out, & after refreshing ourselves we had to hurry back for if night overtook us, t’would be impossible to travel the track - we reached the Junction just as the shades of night were enveloping everything in darkness - the man we have engaged seems a decent steady man with no more thought or idea about the future, than an animal, so long as he can get a belly full of vituals & plenty of tobacco, I believe he can make himself supremely happy - happy mortal that so little can contest. I dont envy him - It has just struck me that tomorrow will be my 24th birthday, how time flies, I feel Im getting well on in years, without much improvement in my worldly circumstances, gaining experience - but of rather a questionable character - {{Image|file=Aag-448.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-449 730]

Feby 8th.1863
Weather commencing to get very unsettled, verging into Autumn, sure herald of Winter how I dread its approach, with its snows & frosts its bitter winds & all its wretched concomitants, it was but yesterday when we had a slight fall of snow, & last week the heat was most intensely hot for two days - We sold a fifth share in our claim last Monday for £6.0.0 & for the weeks work we got £7.17s.6d a share not bad. I only hope the claim will continue to hold out so good until its finished - Tuesday, I went to the upper township to buy a plank for a false bottom for our sluice boxes our old one being worn out. I paid £1.0.0 for the bare board, 12 ft long by 1 ft broad & 1 in thick & then had to carry it over the plain a distance of 8 miles on my shoulder against a strong head wind. I was very tired when I reached the Manuherikia township with it where I left it at Mr. Browns, the next morning early I went for it, & borrowed an inch auger from him to bore it, it took me till 3 pm ere I had finished it having to bore 360 holes in it. I wouldnt live at that township for the world - 3 days of the week there is a strong wind blowing from the hills & the ground being sandy & gravelly, everything is buried in clouds of dirt & dust - tis frightful such as no one can conceive - whilst engaged in work there, I got into conversation with a [[Peel-1401|young man]] who commenced business as a Butcher next place to Mr Browns. I could tell he was a Yorkeshireman by his accent & being born there myself I asked him what part he {{Image|file=Aag-449.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-450 731]

came from when he informed me Halifax (my native place) he said he was a printer by trade but his father was the largest butcher & one of the wealthiest there & so finding nothing to do on the diggings in his own line, & knowing a bit about butchering he had been induced to open his present shop - one question brought on another & at length when we mentioned our names to each other, we discovered we were second couzins, his name is Alfred Peel, his mother was a couzin of my mother, but his mother having married a man in a position her friends didnt like, her & her family appear not to be known much by us - I have heard the name often mentioned - but was not aware of the relationship he seems a very gentlemanly young fellow & has received a good education, he has been in the North Island when he left & went to England & has only lately returned from there again. I noticed when in the township that a small Library had been opened, to which I became a member the stock consists of about 100 Books all novels of course - I got for a start one of Levers – Jack Hinton. I find some portions very amusing & all readable - I have been a great Novel Reader but am beginning to get tired of them, the mind craves for something more substantial. I was much put out yesterday with [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] giving up his situation, from some trifling cause or another, he had £4.0.0 aweek & his food, we paid a man £5 per week to represent his share which is about equal, & he had far easier times than as a digger for he is not accustomed to the work - the fact is he is terribly afraid Ned & Nelson wont do much where they are, & he wants us to secure two claims on the {{Image|file=Aag-450.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-451 732]

Molyneax for winter, at present we are paying a man £3 per week for sheperding a claim, & if he sheperds another the loss of his earning nothing & his keep besides will involve us into a great expense & should not the river fall as low as it was when we first came upon it, we shall be left penniless in this neighbourhood in the depth of winter, however, he cant see any such probability as the river not falling & I could not dissuade him to the contrary, so he went down the river this evening to take up a claim alongside of the one we have - so here we are 4 in a party & 3 out prospecting. I am the only one that (I know of) is earning anything, & should none be fortunate & our claim fail us, we shall all be doing nothing & what little cash we have saved will vanish like smoke - I wrote to Mother to day & sent £5.0.0. - 15th.Feby 1863 Weather getting more unsettled, beginning to be very cold at nights - It has been snowing heavily on the hills, every morning, the snow is to be seen still travelling towards the base of the "Old Man" the hill tops have all got their wintry mantles on hoary, stern, & grand they look thus robed - what a contrast to the weather for the past 3 or [4] months, scarcely a shower of rain having fallen, & yet the air beautifully clear & bright some days so intensely hot that we have had to leave our work in consequence - We have worked very hard in the claim this week, up to the knees in water all day long, from early dawn to dark making our existence none of the most enjoy able coming home to the tent wet through & then have to turn to & prepare our tea & do our cooking Etc {{Image|file=Aag-451.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-452 733]

We made £5.10.0 a share this week, a great falling off from last week, & yet we washed nearly twice as much dirt. Harry came up the river yesterday for his stores for the coming week, he says its awful dull living down there with nothing to occupy his mind with, no books, no society, no work to do, but making his cave as comfortable as possible - he is very sanguine about the claims & thinks the water will be low enough to work them in a month or so, the River having fell some 2 ft this week - I still regret his having left his situation & tried to persuade [him] to come & work in the claim in place of the man we are employing it would be a saving of £5.0.0 aweek – Im not at all sanguine about the River for Ive been told on good authority that the River for the last 16 years was never known to be so low as it was when it was rushed last year - it may be another 16 years ere it is so low again & unless it is as low as last year, there is little chance of there being much gold obtained, for none can be found far from the Banks - I recvd a short note from Ned on Friday, he is well in health & still on the Blue Stone River the party hes with, are turning the course of the stream but have met with more than one reverse since commencing the undertaking - they had one time got everything in good working order, & had got a few pounds weight of gold enough, he informs me, to pay their expenses from settling down up to time he writes, which must have been considerable - it must be very tantalizing to be so situated to know there is so much gold near them & at times to have it in their {{Image|file=Aag-452.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-543 734]

grasp & then to be snatched from their gaze by a flood sometimes of an hours creation. We must hope, they will eventually succeed in accomplishing their object. Ive been reading a fine story called by called Jane Eyre by Currer Bell, generally I dont care for female novelists, but there is something so thoroughly stirling about her works that no one can help liking & admiring the vigorous composition of this womans works - Ive been to the township several times during the week, but have always been glad to get away from it as soon as possible - tis built on a sandy point at the Junction of the two Rivers & there is always a strong wind blowing raising such clouds of dust, that nearly choke one - South Australia where I lived several years & is proverbial for its dust is nothing in comparison. Its a mystery how people exist there - 22 Feby 1863
Strange climate this. The last few days have been the hottest Ive experienced in N.Z melting the snow which fell last week & causing the river to rise higher than ever, upsetting all, [&] every bodys ideas respecting the falling of the Molly Three of my mates got on the spree this wk & staid away from their work 2 days causing myself & man to be idle, much to my disgust, another day was lost owing to the river rising & flooding our claims. If my mates go away again, I shall put men in their places & {{Image|file=Aag-453.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-454 735]

& deduct their wages from the gold we obtain if Id not been sober & staid at home we should have lost our tools, Pumps & Boxes, Etc. It was with great difficulty I secured them - the balance of the week we were at work we made £4.7s.6d a share - Harry has paid me several visits since I last wrote - he is always full of new ideas & proposing plans & solutions that if I was to entertain would bring us to wretched straits, gold digging is a new & novel occupation for him - & everything seems gold that glitters to him, he is exceedingly flighty & to such a degree that Im afraid hell never be a prosperous man unless Dame Fortune plays a trick in his favour – My old friend George Fowler paid me a visit the other night, he has just arrived in this neighbourhood from the Woolshed diggings where he has been at work for a long time, meeting with very poor success - he is a fine gentlemanly fellow - well educated & all that sort of thing, but quite out of his element on the diggins, I used to know him when he was in good circumstances in Bendigo - but through a series of speculations he was induced to enter in by friends he came to grief such are the ups & downs of life, he is possessed of nothing now but his blankets & what he stands in. I gave him a start & put him in the way getting a living, near the township - Great numbers still continue to flock hither, the newspaper reports I think {{Image|file=Aag-454.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-455 736]

must be greatly exaggerated, there would be good diggins for 5,000 men but when 50,000 are upon them tis impossible for all to do well - Im afraid there will be a deal of suffering amongst the diggers when the winter sets in - [Sunday, 1 March 1863] {{Red|27 Feby}} 1863
Weather very unsettled, lost two days work in consequence of heavy rains however, we managed to make £6.3s.0d a share, our old Bendigo friend Tom Meston arrived here from the Tupeka on Tuesday & we have taken him in partnership with us in the claims we are shepherding on the river Moly’ the man we had employed to shepd one of our claims left us very unceremoniously yesterday so to secure the claims we thought we couldnt do better than to take Tom with us, he being a very steady fellow & one we all like - Ive visited the township several times during the week, spending my evening with Mr Brown when I met some neighbours of his a [[Proctor-5947|Mr Proctor]] (who I discovered to day to be an old playmate of mine when boys together in Adelaide he is a Watchmaker & Jeweller & is carrying on business here in that line) the other person [[Bloxham-226|Mr Bloxham]] is tentmaker & like his great master St Paul, a preacher, of the Gospel, its a treat to me to meet three such fine intelligent minds Brown with his quiet unassuming manner, & well stocked mind, Bloxham with his spiritual eloquence & sober mind, & Proctor who is full of the philosophical & scientific more theoretical than practical) all form such a contrast & such a perfect whole as to render their society very agreable & interesting Proctor is an electro Biologist & can also exercise a great influence {{Image|file=Aag-455.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-456 737]

over the minds of many by the power of Mesmerism, he can by a single pass of his hand, render Bloxham completely subservient to his will & make him do the most extraordinary things whilst in this state. I was always very sceptical with regard to this deprivation of a mans mind or will by the simple action of another mans will - by such means, I know there are none but doesnt exercise some influence upon the mind & actions of another, but always to a limited extent & within the power of the person so influenced to cast it off when his will like, but by this power of Mesmer, we find a man deprived of all power of intellect & volition a mere machine a tool who can at the purpose of the Operator, whatever it is at command - without power to desist, this is a most extraordinary power - there must be some principle in it, beyond human mind to fathom or analyse, we talk & think & discuss upon predestination & free will Etc. & here is a power which man has discovered which, if progressed & more practised would tend to distroy all notions preconceived of these questions - I should like to know more about it - it may be an evil power & do a deal of harm - it may be the reverse, & I hope it is! Mr Brown is teaching me phonography, tho very simple as a principle & a knowledge of it easily acquired, I fear Ill never be any good at it, Im not constitutionally adapted for a phonographist, my sight is failing me rapidly. I believe it is the climate - for Im not adduced to any view that precludes such effects. The thought of losing my sight causes me to feel very wretched, after working hard all these years & endeavoured to improve my mind so that at some future time I might enter into another sphere of life & thus to lose the most useful & necessary of my senses is awful to contemplate - I received a letter from home on the 23d all well Bessie is enroute for Echuca (where she is going to stay with Mrs. Dewar for a year-) she is at present at {{Image|file=Aag-456.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-457 738]

Bendigo staying with Lizzie Vickerman, I think it will do her a deal of good going to Mrs. D. who is a nice ladylike person & a most accomplished woman. Ive no doubt Bessie['s] mind & manners will be much improved by the association of such a woman - I also recd a letter from Fred, full of news of a certain nature relating to amusements Etc at present to be enjoyed in Melbourne he thinks of trying his luck in N.Z. heaven help him if he comes here - he dont know when he’s well of. I went to the New Chapel this afternoon at the Junction township (the first place of worship Ive been in since leaving Melb) It was very hot & some dolt was preaching or trying to do so, making some feel desirous of leaving the place, but I didnt like to do so an opportunity arose, I noticed a man on the same form with me asleep, who awoke at the singing previous to the sermon, which he very vociferously joined in, but instead of his song being to the praise of God it was to Bacchus. I helped him outside, quick, & so got away myself - spent the rest of the day at Bloxhams - [Sunday, 8 March 1863] March {{Red|6}}th 1863
Beautiful weather after the rain we worked very hard at the claim, but with poor results, made £4.2s 6d ashare we shall have to begin to think of getting another one this being worked out, at least what is left will hardly pay us work. I was very much surprised on Thursday by my brother Edward putting in an appearance he having come from Shotover, he has a very severe cold & is far from well - his object in coming down was to see me, respecting future arrangements with our {{Image|file=Aag-457.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-458 739]

party as to the best plans of operations for the coming winter, he has not received one of the three letter(s) I wrote to him. He informs me they knocked about the Lake district for some time without finding a place to settle down to work in that seemed likely to pay, until they found gold in the Blue Stone Creek, the water was to high an it to work it to advantage & they were obliged to take in two partners, J.Dight & N.Rowitt to assist them in turning the course of the stream, they succeeded in doing so several times, but always something turned out to put them back, for they could never get properly to work at it - however they managed to get about 50 oz of gold between them, they are still sheperding the claim until the winter sets in so they can work it to better advantage Ned cannot agree with Nelson so Ned thinks it better we should dissolve partnership. The gold they got up there has only just paid their expenses. Ned brought down about 12 oz with him, leaving the horse in his mates care - Nelson is agreable to part with us & I believe Ned came down for that purpose & ascertain how we had done during their absence & let us know what they had done, before the winter set in & all communication was stopped to the Lakes. Since they have left Harry & I, I have saved on our partys a/c about £50.0.0 clear of all expenses, Ned has about £40.0.0 worth he & Nelson got, so we are about square, & couldnt part under better circumstances, we divided our stock which amounted to £30.0.0 each. Ned states Nelson has about the same amount by him when he left – so the only difficulty arising now is in reference to the horse I wrote to Nelson & informed him of the state Ned found us in & the amount I made on the Co a/c during his absence & all particulars, & we made over our 3 shares in the horse to Dight & [[Rowett-151|Rowitt]], who will not hesitate in buying our shares for a reasonable price as they have {{Image|file=Aag-458.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-459 740]

had the use of the animal ever since they have been with Ned & Nelson - & so ends some more bright hopes – we are once more together & not a 1/. the better off than when we first proposed the breaking up of our party if we had stuck together, as I wished, & worked our claims we should have had a nice sum of money each by this time - poor Ned is the worse off for when he went to Dunedin he drew out his 13 oz of gold he had there & through being extravagant, {{Red|*}}since he is no better off than Harry & I, however its no use regretting the River in another month or so will be down & we’ll soon pull up for the lost time – We have money enough to see us through another 2 months & pay our sheperding expenses which by the by are very heavy - & if the River dont go down early we shall have some rough times - Yesterday afternoon Ned & I went to the Upper township to give our letter (to Nelson) to some one bound for the place he is settled in - we entrusted it to the care of a packer we know - the rest of the day & night we spent as pleasently as it is possible to do on such a place we visited every Dance Room, every Singing Saloon Free & Easy, Billiard Room & Gambling Hell in the place - staid at Kilgours to the close of the night heard some good Amateurs & tolerable professionals there, amongst the number one of the best violinists I ever heard in my life, in fact except Hauser & Poussard - Ive never [heard] such a one - he has been offered the best engagements in the colonies, but declined accepting them, he thinks there is no life like a gold diggers & only plays when he gets hard up, as he is at present. Ive met him on several diggins during my tr various travels - & have spent {{Image|file=Aag-459.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-460 741]

many a pleasent hour in his company, it was nearly 3 am this morning when we retired to rest on the Stage of the Concert Hall where Kilgour had made us beds - we rose about 8 am & after breakfast we made for home arrived here about noon. Harry came up to day says the River is falling. I didnt notice it when Ned & I walked along its Banks from the upper township. March 15th.1863
Weather fine, but beginning to find it very cold nights & morning. Ive been very much annoyed this week our claim is nearly worked & is very poor & because our returns were small for the work we did on Monday, the 3 other shareholders with the usual perversions which characterises diggers of this class - thought that by a good spree & getting drunk would turn their luck, they were away for 3 days, leaving me with the claim. I wouldnt put men in their place for they ground is now too poor to guarantee getting gold enough to pay their wages - they returned to work on Friday morning after spending about £10.0.0 {{Red|*}}@ so our weeks work didnt amount to much £1.15.0 a share - Ned went down the river on Monday with Harry to see the claims there, we have taken up, he retuned last night & is of the same opinion as I am with regard to the River claims, they are rotten sticks to depend upon, the water will have to fall 10 ft perpendicular before we could work our claims to advantage. We think now Ned is {{Image|file=Aag-460.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-461 742]

with us, & doing nothing he had better look out for another claim (he doesnt like sheperding so we shall let Tom & Harry do that) we saw a chance of buying a share in a claim for £3.0.0 which claim stands well, being next to one that is yielding a deal of gold, we bought it to day, & Ned is to commence work on it in the morning. There are four shareholders, good working chaps & they hope to bottom in about a fortnight if its a duffer it wont ruin us & if otherwise will be a cheap bargain. Ned & I spent this afternoon & evening at Mr Browns, he has been giving me some more lessons in phonography. I had been going ahead too fast, so he insisted upon me returning to the rudiments 22 March 1863
Weather very unsettled. notice the snow getting down nearer the vallies & plains every morning, all the hill tops of the surrounding mountains are covered with the white element. Our claim is getting very poor we only made £4.7.0 a share, leaving a deficiency of 13/- in in the wages we pay Elliot for working our second share, so we were obliged to discharge. Ned will work for the future in the claim in his place as he was obliged to give up the share we bought last week, in consequence of the Molyneaux rising higher than ever, the claim being situated directly at the junction was swamped & all the work they had been engaged at for the past week distroyed, very disheartening for they had nearly bottomed & had found gold in the sinking warranting the idea of its yielding rich returns when they get to the bottom - great dissatisfaction, accompanied with nearly an universal panic has been caused by this last rising of the River, every one thought the river was settling down for good & those who had the means laid in stores & made provision for the winter, spending {{Image|file=Aag-461.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-462 743]

in many cases, their all, & now the River is as far off falling as the day it rose - to all appearances - numbers have given up claims they have shepherded for many months, thoroughly disgusted with the prospect of continually having their hopes deferred I went down to the township last evening & met a party of Bendigo men who had just arrived, amongst the number I met{{Red|*}} an old Californian Gully chum, Jms Furner, from of whom I heard the painful intelligence of J.Hannan Stuarts death - which occurred in the following manner, Furner & Stuart left Bendigo together as mates for N.Z. the[y] left Melb in a fine ship & had a pleasent voyage until reaching the East coast of this Island when they experienced very rough weather accompanied with a heavy rolling sea causing the ship to role fearfully - they had got within about 12 hours sail of Port Chalmers & were looking forward with such delight on landing in Dunedin the following day & meeting some of the old Bendigo friends they knew were residing there - it was evening the sun had just sunk in the West amidst a dark lowering sky, when Stuart came on the quarter deck & joined Furner, he was in the habit of keeping a journal, like myself, & had just made an entry, their conversation turned on their arriving in Dunedin the following day & he alluded to many friends he should meet Etc. when the ship gave a fearful roll, causing Stuart to lose his footing & having his hands in his pockets at the time, he failed to recover himself ere he slid underneath the railings of the Poop into the Ocean, never to rise again until the Sea gives up its dead - poor Stuart. Furner says he met his eye as he slid from him & heard him exclaim My God save me - it was past all human power to save him the ship was under close reefed topsail running before a strong wind, no boat could have lived in such a sea & being dark, or nearly so nothing could be done to save him. he was a fine clever intelligent young fellow, about my own age, & when in Bendigo inseparable companions. Poor Jim! I cannot refrain dropping {{Image|file=Aag-462.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-463 744]

a tear to his memory, little did I think when we spent the last night in each others company at Mrs Kings prior to my leaving it would be the last time we should ever see each other, many the bit of fun & jolly nights weve spent together & the pleasent hour to ourselves in one or another[s] company, he was engaged to a very amiable girl who lives in Eagle Hawke who I believe was greatly attracted to him & the feeling I know was reciprocated Furner has possession of Stuarts journal, which he very kindly lent me to read, to day. I find my name {{Red|*}}down in nearly every page in some way or another, his last entry particularly when he wondered if he should find me out on his arrival & if so if I should have altered as he had heard Id had some hard times since leaving Bendigo, for which he sympathises with me - he had no relatives in Australia, he came to the colony as a Middy in one of Greens Ships & had ran away some 7 years ago, with the idea of making a fortune at the gold diggings, he had met with indifferent success & still hoped on thinking something would turn up in his favour so that he could return to his friends at home in a respectable manner, he has a mother living in Aberdeen, Scotland, who will mourn his loss - 29 March 1863
Weather fine. Our party doing nothing in the way of making money. I myself have been out every day prospecting in the neighbouring mountains & gullies in company with two men from other parties, living near, could find the "color" of gold wherever we tried but not in sufficient quantities to pay working. I lived at the township 3 days at Foynes Restaurant, it being near the neighbourhood I have been prospecting, than our tent. Yesterday, I went to the Upper township & feeling {{Image|file=Aag-463.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-464 745]

thirsty I went into a "shanty" & was surprised to find it kept by my old mate Tom Magher, having heard some strange stories concerning him, I asked him for the particulars & rather shocking they were & not of the most creditable description. When I left Wetherstones I was aware he was head & ears in love with a pretty woman at Webbs Hotel, a Barmaid, who called herself a widow. Tom took her for his wife but not before she informed him her husband was alive & that she was divorced from him & was at present doing a 3 years sentence in Dunedin gaol after the wedding they went to Dunedin & lo! they met the husband who for good conduct had got out of gaol 12 months short of his term of sentence, a quarrel ensued & at last a compromise effected, & all became friends again & singular to state the three left town together enroute for the Dunstan they travelled for two days in company, when Tom & the woman managed to give the exhusband the slip the Coach passing at the time, the[y] took passage in it, & got up here some 3 days before the X husband who found them out living at a Hotel, he enquired for her, & she, on making her appearance, received two stabs with a long knife in the body, she is a very plucky woman & tho bleeding profusely she held on to him preventing his escape, he was captured & sent to Dunedin again the next day. She was attended to by doctor & as soon as she was able to travel, Tom & her went there also. No time was lost before the trial came on, & the unfortunate wretch was sentenced to 7 years transportation with hard labour, he had just finished telling me when she came in. I knew her well many a dance Ive had with & many a narrow escape from getting a broken head through her partiality to Toms & mines company in Wetherstones, she is one of [the] finest women I ever met in my life, but not much accounts one who could not hold up her head in any other society but that found upon the diggings. I stayd dinner & tea {{Image|file=Aag-464.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-465 746]

with them, glad to get away found it a gambling place, she doing all the blinding, with a smile to one & an encouraging look to another & looking amouratory to all she manages to wheedle many an unfortunate poor devils money out of him, she will keep Tom as long as he is of use to her & then leave with what she can scrape together - On reaching home we had a squaring up, as usual on a Saturday night, found our united earnings for [the] week was but £3.0.0 which Ned & Meston got from our old claim, the other men who had shares in it, Jinks, MLachlan & Peter Haggatt (the last named is the celebrated "Samson" of Australia, a man who throws the heavy & light hammer further & also the stone than any man on record, ever did since the day of Robert Bruce - although he is so big & strong he is one of the lasiest men I ever worked with. I knew him on Bendigo when he was a gaoler there, he has about £200 worth of prizes he won in Scotland & England as evidence of his prowess as an athlete) I have been much annoyed this week by the pertinacity of my brother Ned displayed in playing Billiards, he has lost a deal of money this week I have begged & prayd of him to disist in encouraging the passion for gambling I would sooner see him a drunkard, there is a chance of him being reformed, but a reformed gambler, is a rare person to meet - Spent to day at the township at Foynes & other places - Noticed the River has gone down a few feet since last week - April 5th.1863
Weather fine. Last Monday, I met the men who hold shares in the claim, we purchased a share in {{Image|file=Aag-465.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-466 747]

at the junction of the River Manuherikia & Molyneux some time back, they thought we might get at it again as the River was going down - I, doing nothing, agreed, so we {{Red|*}}commenced the first day lost in getting pumps & tools upon the ground we had an awful hard job to bail & pump the water out of paddock, we had sunk & when out we found the sides had slipped in with the action of water that it took us till Friday night to get it in the same order as when we were last driven out of it - during the night the river rose again several feet flooding the claim with the paddock as much as ever, which so disgusted us with our bad luck, as we are pleased to term it, that we purpose abandoning it altogether this is very disheartening. [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] came up from the claim he is shepherding down the River, with the information, they are once more swamped. Im sorry we ever had anything to do with River Claims, what with loss of time & cash actually paid away & spent amounts to nearly £200.0.0 by a rough calculation we made to day - Tom Meston & Ned only made about £2.0.0 out of the old claim, so they have given it up, being worked out. I wish we had another claim like [it] to commence work at Im sure we took out £1000.0.0 of gold out of it. I regret much we didnt all stick & work it between us instead of going about in search of a shadow & so lost the substance - the other men who worked with us have done well out of it & one has returned to Victoria. Friday night had a consultation concerning our future course - our money is getting down, Ned having spent all his, Harry hasnt much being very extravagant when he has more than will keep him Tom has none - having only lately come here & since our claim began to get poor - we settled for Harry to go to go down to the River Claims for another week. Ned is going to look for a situation at some of the claims on Golden Point near the Township. Meston the same - {{Image|file=Aag-466.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-467 748]

Saturday morning, I went to see some German neighbours of ours two of whom I was out prospecting with last week, they are doing nothing still, but were thinking of prospecting the Flat close to the tent, & knowing I had sunk a hole in it {{Red|*}}during the summer, they wanted me to join them & to bottom a hole - I thought it would be useless trying, unless we could make up a large amalgamated party & first cut a race from some point of the River into the Flat, where a fall could be obtained to drain the ground, for my own part Im convinced there is good gold to be had if the ground was only drained & could be worked, however, we commenced a hole near the edge of the flat where we thought it was shallow & bottomed it at 7 ft on a rise the bottom dipping into the flat, we found gold on the rise & if there was a greater thickness of gravel upon it would pay to work, the water coming in too strong for us to bottom the dip we had to give it up, more firmly convinced that if we could get into this deeper ground more in the flat we should get more gold – we got 4 dwt out of the few Bucketsful of dirt we washed - considered by those who know of it to be a very good prospect. I proposed the plan of amalgamation & several parties living near (principally Germans) at once joined in the plan, my mates dont care about the scheme - they would sooner be lounging about I think we held a meeting this morning & Ten parties of 4 in each party joined for the purpose of cutting a race from the River into the Flat, all claims are marked & pegged out & have surveyed the line of Race. Im afraid the only drawback will be the very little fall there is to be obtained for the drainage, it will not prove effective but will assist in rendering the ground more easy to work. Im elected Manager & am to have {{Red|*}}my shares & simply to look on & see the work is done properly & all do an equal share & to get the necessary protection for our work in case it is any good so no other parties may take advantage {{Image|file=Aag-467.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-468 749]

of our labour - last night I went to the Township had tea at Christy Foynes. My second cousin Alfred Peel has entered into partnership with him, they are doing a good business - I dont much like my relative, he is a young Yorkshireman & very close & near, but a very pleasent fellow - but Christie is the man who draws the business & through whose good natured style of doing things makes the place attractive there is a very nice young woman living with them - Jenny Woodhouse - like all my lady friends on the diggings a something singular about her, we are good friends from a strange cause - Christie informed me he engaged her at the Dunstan where she had a small store, & had to give it up because her husband used to drink all the profits so she left him & took her present situation at the All Nations the other day when there, some man came in & enquired for her, she came out to see him & in a few minutes time Chris & I heard her screaming - we rushed out & were just in time to stop him from striking her by planting my knuckle on his nose, which staggered him, he rushed at me in a most frantic manner, tho’ thoroughly powerless owing to his passion rendering him an easy mark for another well timed blow on the face, some of the boarders rushing out collared him & made a football of him to the waters edge, where some people interfered or he would have got a ducking. Jenny is pretty & very kind to those who are boarding & she is a universal favorite, the consequence is that a deal of jealousy is displayed by a good many. I gained an enemy by the affair for the fellow swears he’ll take my life. Jenny thanked me for my presence at such an opportune time, but was very quiet when pressed by those around as to who the fellow is - she has promised, to take a walk with me tomorrow evening when she is to tell me a strange tale being her lifes history so far - April 12th.1863
Weather very unsettled, cold & sleety hail showers - {{Image|file=Aag-468.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-469 750]

bitter cold in the tent during the night, the mountains surrounding are covered with Snow - giving everything a desolate appearance - Ned & Harry have been all the week at the claims on the River shepherding. Meston got a job for a few days, by which he earned £2.6.0 not much to divide between four of us. The party Im connected [with] are getting on fine with the Race. Forty five hard working men can get through a deal of work more especially as they are equally interested there are some Ive had to bossuh "bossum" a bit who will skulk. The race when finished will be about 9 ft deep about 12 ft broad at top tapering to about 4 ft at bottom. It is about 350 yds long. Ive had to make several trips during the week to the Upper Township to see the Commissioner about our ground & Race, got the necessary forms posted up for protection no objections have been made as yet. I had quite an adventure last Monday. I had just arrived on the Dunstan township on the way to the camp, when a fellow with close cropped hair & looked like a prig just out of gaol put his hand on my shoulder & with an exclamation. “Ah! Harry Miller I apprehend you in the Queens name for deserting the - th Regiment, on the 20th.Jany 1863, quartered at Auckland”. I looked my astonishment & tried to shake him off, but the fellow was as strong as a bull & had got a “professional” grip of me, so that I couldnt well do so. “Your names Harry Miller” says he! Ill be hanged if is, says I. Your 5ft 8 in high, right, thought I. You 'listed in the town of Limerick at the age of 18, went with your Regiment to Bombay, from there to Auckland 15 months ago, deserted & was traced to Otago with three others - Of course I protested & swore & wrestled with him & should have got away, but I {{Red|*}}ceased struggling by feeling the cold steel of the barel of a revolver stuck in my ear, not feeling comfortable {{Image|file=Aag-469.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-470 751]

I listened to what he had to say. “By Gar sure an its no use kicking up a bobbery at all, at all - faith an you know me well, you spalpeen, its Sargeant Cleary, come along “wid ye! a crowd had gathered round who soon would have released me, but I explained to the mob it arose from a mistake many were present who knew me for years past, & woudnt let the policeman take me - (by this time several had come to the spot attracted by the crowd, they threatened to blow out the brains of any who attempted a rescue & not liking the looks of the firearms they were allowed to march me off to the Camp with the crowd at my heels kicking up a great row - on my arrival there I was handcuffed to a long chain along with a lot of vagabonds who really deserved being there - I was left about an hour in this position but guarded by the Sargeant (who it appears has been sent here to look after deserters from the Nt Island where there is a War at present with the Maories) who questioned me respecting my fellow deserters. Mr. Kiddell the Warden & Magistrate of this district, was sent for & he at once had me released & reprimanded the Sargeant for being so hasty in arresting men because they happen to have a straight figure & walk "a la Militaire" - Kiddell knew me long before I was accused of "deserting" he it was who settled our case in court some months back when on his visit to our claim we threatened to duck in the River, he hadnt forgotten my share in the affair, & wasnt particularly civil to me, however I got him to settle the business I came about & wasnt long walking across the plain home, called at Foynes had tea there, took Jenny out for a walk, crossed the River without being observed at Franks Ferry rambled up & down among the rocks & along the River Banks till 11 pm listening to Jennies life & adventures. I could scarcely credit one so young could have gone through the scenes she has, a tale of sin & sorrow {{Image|file=Aag-470.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-471 752]

pleasure & crime & related by her with a singular pathos rendered it more melancholy than does most stories of this sort. It appears her mother, who she can only remember & was reputed to be very beautiful, was seduced by some nobleman, in Yorkshire, he, to hide her shame, or his own, induced his valet to marry her soon after she was confined of a daughter (Jennie) Her father set her mother & her husband up in business in an Hotel her step father was very unkind to her mother & didnt live long, didnt improve his behaviour to the child - however she grew until she was about 16 when a wild young fellow took her fancy & she thought he was all that perfection her stepfather had other views respecting her, than to allow her to marry him, there was a gentleman in the habit of calling & staying at her fathers house for a few days at a time, who pretended to be very kind to her & proposed for her, her stepfather insisted upon her marrying him to which with some reluctance agreed to, her lover being a sailor & was away at the time, they were married at once & she was taken to London, found her husband the possessor of a handsome house, beautifully furnished & was in the habit of inviting a deal of company {{Red|*}}not always gentlemen she wasnt long in discovering that her husband was a noted keeper of a gambling hell where nightly "pigeons were plucked", he instructed her to play cards, not to play fairly, but to play to win, at the end of 12 months she became such an adept at the art, she could beat her master – many a time she admitted to me she has helped to pluck a victim who was induced to try his luck - sometimes they had bad luck & she discovered he was not only thoroughly unprincipled towards others, but towards his own property, she overheard him bargaining with an old {{Red|*}}"rascal" for a certain price, for the opportunity {{Image|file=Aag-471.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-472 753]

of seducing her, he was to be allowed free ingress to her room that very night, she lost no time, but packed up what jewellery she had obtained & with a small sum of money left her home found her way back to her stepfather, who on hearing her tale only laughed & called her a fool & went with her back to London where he made some apology about her misunderstanding the theme of the conversation she had overheard - she lived with her husband some few months longer when he was arrested one day for an extensive forgery he was connected with & also a robbery in which both husband & stepfather were concerned in the former was transported for 10 years, the father getting off through some flaw in the evidence, after the affair her father drove her from the place & she went to Manchester & turned Milliner & Bonnetmaker, her beauty was her curse there, & she went to Liverpool as I could gather from her with some friend she had made, & while there had met her old lover, who was in a liner plying between England & America & in an evil hour was tempted by him to leave England in a ship bound for N.Z. she soon discovered he was not all her fancy painted long before she arrived, & having no legal claims upon him on landing had to {{Red|*}}pay her own way, he came up to the Dunstan & opened a shanty & then sent for her, she came up, he pretended to be engaged in shepherding a claim on the River but in reality was living upon her earnings, she took in dressmaking & sewing & could have made a deal of money if it had not been for him, he used to spend what she made & go away for days spreeing about in places of amusement until she couldnt stand it. Peel, my cousin met her & knowing her fathers place in Yorkshire & something about her engaged her with a good salary to go with him & Christy & help in their business, & such is her story so far - {{Image|file=Aag-472.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-473 754]

what will be the finish God knows. I pity her lot for it must be a miserable [one], she isnt above 25 years of age & when younger & before {{Red|*}}hasnt so much trouble, must have been an extraordinary lovely woman she is a Brunette with a clear skin & complexion large full eyes & small grecian nose - & pretty mouth to see such a wreck in such an outlandish place as this is seems strange - had she been ambitious or naturally bad, few women have had such an opportunity of gratifying their vanity as she has – The man I struck the other day was the man with whom she came from England with Tuesday night I went to Bloxhams, met several young fellows there, for the purpose of getting up an Intellectual Society of some sort. I forgot to state we met for a similar purpose last week, when our number was only five, now we have 35 names on the Books, all intelligent, well informed men, we visited the Chapel committee & obtained their permission to use the Chapel for a place of meeting. Bloxham was elected, (Proctor the treasurer) & President & I Vice President, our meetings to be held every Tuesday evening & to be called the Manuherikia Mutual Improvement Society. We got on so far that a subject was proposed for discussion for the following night viz, "Which is the greatest source of Evil Riches, poverty or Intemperance" the former & latter were eagerly taken up by debaters & not one could be found willing to take the hand of poverty & make a show of it. I was at {{Image|file=Aag-473.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-474 755]

length induced to accept it. I feel I can speak most feelingly upon the Subject, & Ill eat my head if I cant prove poverty causes more Evil than either of the other two heads - we broke up at 11 pm I found at Bloxhams a parcel a/d to me from my Wetherstones friend Mr. Neild containing a few Books & my Essay on L.S. & Art I wrote when there - on opening I found a few remarks & also some parts marked for correction & a few words of praise & encouragement, which coming from such a man is very gratifying - I made the acquaintance of a young man who is at present living at Foynes named Frank Perrin, an extraordinary clever young fellow - he has only lately left Oxford University where he gained a degree, studied for a doctor & is possessed of an MD Diploma, his conversational powers are wonderful, can quote & make allusions from all the ancient & modern writers upon most subjects, get him upon poetry as I did last night & one might imagine they were in reality passing a night with the poets. Shakespeare, Milton, Byron, Dryden Pope Couper Shelly Shuller, Goethe Moliere, Dante are all particular & intimate friends of his. What attracted me to him so was the total absence of arrogance so often displayed by clever people to those whom they must know are greatly their inferior in intellect & he has the knack of making you feel interested in what he is stating, & endeavours to make you as well acquainted with the beauties & merits of his favorites as he is himself, he is a gentleman in every respect but should have been born to plenty of money & not to be compelled to have to make it, he would make a splendid orator or lecturer - fancy such a {{Image|file=Aag-474.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-475 756]

man working for a lot of illiterate brutes, wheeling a barrow all day on a plank as he does - I became acquainted with him in a very singular manner, about a month ago I was cooking at the fire near the tent, when a man came up & seeing I was short of wood opened a conversation on the subject, he asked me for a piece of bread stating he had had nothing to eat all day (it was then 4 pm) I gave him some with some meat, after he had finished he asked me for a sack which I lent him he leaving his swag with me - he didnt come back for hours & when he did he was loaded with a sack of firewood, he must have gone fully 5 miles for it, he offered it me, but I refused taking it, for I had told him if he took it down to the township he could get 6/- for it. I gave him 5/- for it, he pitched his camp under a rock near out tent & the next day he went for another load of wood & took it [to] the township & disposed of it to a customer I told him off I introduced him to Foyne who promised to try & keep him till he got something to do. I fortunately heard of a job that he could do & got him to do it, his fine manly independent spirit led me first to admire him - nothing of a loafer about a man who after travelling a day on foot with nothing to eat, thinks {{Image|file=Aag-475.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-476 757]

he has placed himself under a compliment for a piece of bread & repays it by what is often a good days work to procure, a sack of wood but to continue his story, he is a sort of a Judge in Dublin, & grandson or a descendant of the Celebrated Frenchman Due de Perrin, [Jean Baptiste Perrin] who wrote the Fables bearing his name - he is a younger son & with £100 was sent out to the Colonies with letters of Introduction to the great nobs of Sydney. On his arrival there he was courted, flattered, & treated everywhere, but no signs of his friends getting him a situation until his money was done & his clothes beginning to look seedy, he was offered a billet in the Horse Police, which so disgusted him he left Sydney never he hopes to return to it again, he next tried N.Z. visited Sir G.Gray the Governor, but he was so battered & looked so beggarly, he was taken no notice of but advised to turn Volunteer & fight the Moaries, considering he had no interest in the cause of the war & very little honor to gain he declined, but worked his way to Dunedin, where he landed with 2s/d- in his pocket & commenced to tramp the roads the following day, he begged his food along the road & did any little job he could to draysman & carrier he fell in with for a meal - he is now quietly settled down to his work & intends when he has £100 to leave for India where he has many friends & relatives - I have spent several hours in his company to day (Sunday) {{Image|file=Aag-476.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-477 758]

April 19th.1863
Weather fine but cold & frosty. Been hard at work all the week with my men at the "Race" hope to be finished with it next week - Three days Ive spent up to my middle in water standing in the River & considering the water is thawed ice, no wonder I felt {{Red|*}}much paralized & fatigued & suffered from cramp Etc we have had to put a wing Dam in the River at the head for our "Head Race" we tried Stones & Sods but the current was so strong they wouldnt stand so we bought a lot of Sacks & filling them with Clay we succeeded in accomplishing our object - by {{Red|*}}advancing our Dam Bank, Bag at a time - while engaged in this work, on Thursday, I was hailed by a man from the opposite bank of the River, if I could inform him where he would find a crossing place, he had a "swag" on his back & looked footsore & tired as if from a long journey, so instead of directing him to the point some three miles distant, I waded across & brought his swag over, then returned & carried the man over on my shoulders. I had not observed him very minutely, until he began to thank me & enquire for Tom Meston (my mate) I looking more intently at him, he at once exclaimed, Watmuff! is it possible! it is you who has been so kind! dont you know me - Ah! too well I knew him & wished Id drowned him for the injury he did me in {{Image|file=Aag-477.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-478 759]

estranging Isa Kings affection from me. Yes this was Edwards who traduced me & did all in his power to lessen me in the regard of the only being Ive ever loved & to a certain extent succeeded, the bitter pang I thus experienced is past & on reflection Ive often thought it was the hand of providance that robbed me of her - & that Edwards was simply an instrument, but a bitter one to me I turned from him with disgust, but when he began to acknowledge how he had wronged me & excused himself on the score of prior claim & deeper love for Isa, I pitied him, but had I been in his shoes I would not have dared to face one I had so traduced, as he me, but would have slunk away cowering with shame & self reproach, & yet he coolly informed me of his having just arrived from Victoria found himself on landing possessed of few pounds Stg. which he soon hoped to make more, by resorting to his old detestable habits of gambling, in two days time he was a beggar having being flushed of every penny he could raise, he left Dunedin & made for the diggins where he arrived after a tramp of four days - fell in with a soft fool on his arrival who took him to his tent & not only fed but clothed him, & who could ill afford to do either - Meston is an old friend of his & I believe is under some compliment to him, but Tom went to see his brother at the "Shotover" the same day he arrived & has not returned. It afforded me some pleasure to have such a {{Red|*}}glum revenge, feed & clothe a man who at one time I believe would have shot me like a dog - we try & be friendly to each other in the {{Image|file=Aag-478.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-479 760]

tent, rather awkward, considering there is no third party with us. I told him to day he must exert himself & try & do something, for my money is nearly done & I cant offer to keep him [[Dight-42|Dight ]]& Ned have been down on the River claims all the week Harry came up to see me last night he is in good spirits, says the River is again falling, he went away down again this afternoon & took Edwards with him, we supplying him with tools & necessaries to enable him to commence digging with, he expressed his gratitude to me along with a lot of claptrap sentiment, felt much easier on his departure — thinking not only of my own release, but of the happy one Isa King must have had in getting rid of such a character. Tuesday night I went to the Dbtg Society found nearly all the members, & the Chapel nearly filled with visitors, after a prayer had been offered up, the Subject was opened. Riches & Intemparance, made the worst possible cases out, & it was considered all up with poor Poverty. I had thought & well pondered over my subject & was prepared to prove that more sin & sorrow, crime & misery & all their attendant evils could be traced more from poverty, than from Riches. Intemperence I entirely expunged from the debate, considering it as only one of the Evils arising from the other heads & not in itself a fit subject to clash with the other two, this after being made apparent was considered to {{Image|file=Aag-479.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-480 761]

[be] enough not to recognise it, & after being put to the meeting, it was carried that Intemparance should be withdrawn from the debate - after gaining this point it resting entirely with the speakers whose side could excite the greatest amount of sympathy it was no difficult matter - to talk an audience into a horror of poverty & showing all the suffering caused by it - the Debate lasted over 4 hours & being at length put to the meeting, it was carried by a majority of 13 that Poverty was the cause of more Evils than Riches - in spite of the old proverb - that money is the Root of all Evil, giving perhaps I may live to see the subject in a different light, its one subject so subtle in its nature & in which one can never measure its length & depth - that it would require more profound resources & thinkers than met last Tuesday night to arrive at a proper estimate of the Evil arising from this question Last night I went to the township, being wretchedly cold I went into a New Dancing Hell that has just opened, heavens! what a scene presented itself, a long low narrow ill lighted room, several hundred people trying to Polka & Waltz most of them in big hob nail boots, a Band of three stuck in a corner, a party of Bullies & prostitutes, fighting & swearing in another corner, card sharping & quarreling in another part of the Room, all seemed so like pandemonium that even to me I who has been long accustomed to such sights paused & reflected before being plunged into its vortex. I met one or two I knew & after getting ourselves in a good {{Image|file=Aag-480.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-481 762]

perspiration rushed home to our several tents, this is what we term going out for a warming - & acts as an apology for a fire, a thing rarely seen at a tent except for cooking purposes, a shocking scene was enacted in the place just as I left, two men had been playing cards, one thought he had been cheated, & accused the other of so doing, words came to blows & one gave the other his death blow – & so the world jogs along, one man killing another, envy, malice, passions of the worst sort all in direst array against each other - [Sunday, 26 April 1863] 2{{Red|7}} April 1863
Weather very, very cold & frosty ice on the water every morning, increasing in thickness every day. My week cooking, so have to get out of bed first to prepare breakfast shivering with cold, our blankets quite wet owing to the frost settling upon the tent & over warm breaths thawing it as it forms, my first job on rising is to collect the Boots, (which are frozen as hard as a board) sling them upon a string & hold them over the fire till the frost leaves them, not very pleasent, afterwards, to put them on in this state with tender feet, owing to the chilblains Meeston returned from "Foxes" on Wednesday & left the next morning for the claim down the river, which he is to assist in shepherding. I received a long letter from my brother Fred yesterday, pretty well at home - I was pleased to find enclosed a note from my sister Bessie who informs me she is living with Mrs. Dewer at Echuca, on the River Murray, & is very happy & very comfortable, speaks very highly of Mrs D. as being such {{Image|file=Aag-481.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-4xx 482]

such a nice amiable lady - My leasure hours, this week, Ive spent reading, 1 vol. Dickens, All the Year Round – Heathen & Holy Lands By Capt Briggs & am at present engaged with Fullums, Marvels of Science - Our German Confederation, as our large party is termed by our neighbours, have dissolved into separate parties of four, the work on which all were engaged being finished, we had a great difficulty to get the water to run there being so little fall in the ground through which we have had to cut the Race. I had to go to the upper township, to get a Certificate of Protection for our work, the Commissioner refused to get it until the Mining Surveyor had visited the works & reported upon them - he came on Friday & ascertained all was right that our race didnt interfere with others "rights & interests" so it was granted - Yesterday, my three mates (all Germans, with long unpronouncable names, & myself, commenced a paddock on our ground, which we bottomed & washed some two loads of wash dirt from off the bottom which yield us 1 oz 13 dwts of gold, that will pay us, if the ground will turn out all as good, & it is to be hoped it will, & better, for we can sink 5 paddocks & wash the dirt from them in a week - however, next week we will be able to give it a good trial. Last night Ned, Harry & Tom came up from the River, we spent the night at the township knocking about in all sorts of places, found ourselves at about 1 or this morning at Mrs. Boswells place where we had supper & a jolly bit of reckless fun, which now as I think of it arose from dispairing, desponding spirits on all our parts - for we found on squaring our accounts to day, we havent enough money to keep us in vituals another week - out of all the money made, Ive only £1.0.0. left. The River is falling fast that is some consolation, if it falls as much next week as it has this, my mates say they will be able {{Image|file=Aag-482.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-483 764]

to commence work upon the ground - & I hope to make enough that will keep them sheperding, in case it does not - I spent this afternoon at Tom Meaghers not the most respectable place in the world - my only inducement for going was in hopes of meeting B.Barnett who owes me some £4.5.0. I saw him but I couldnt see a chance of getting any money from him, he being "hard up" & is thinking of going back again to Wetherstones on leaving there - I went to Christys, had tea there & flirted with Jenny Woodhouse - bother the woman I am afraid she is getting "too fond" of me, vanity, & women make such fools of themselves when they let their passion get the better of their reason. Owing to the Inclemency of the weather, our M.I. Society didnt meet last Tuesday. Frank Perrin came as far as the River {{Red|*}}levee with me this evening, the punt got snagged, as I was crossing, & left me but one alternative, either to stick to it or swim. I did the latter, with my clothes on me, & before I reached my tent my coat was frozen hard on my back, however I wasnt long in changing, unless I get to the township after tea, I invariably turn into bed & either read or write there - as Im doing at present - [Sunday, 1 May 1863] May 3rd 186{{Red|4}}
Weather bitterly cold & snow on the ground & freezing & having to work, often, up to my knees in water makes me feel it most acutely If any body had told me what I should have had to endure in this colony I would not have believed it possible for human endurance. My German mates & I made £2.15s.0d each for our weeks work. I am very much disappointed for I had expected the ground to be much richer {{Image|file=Aag-483.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-484 765]

if it was summer time I know it would pay us well, but what with frost & snow, which takes us half our time to combat with its impossible to work any ground to advantage - provisions are rising in price, we cannot live on the plainest fare & that of the poorest description under 35/- or £2.0.0 per week, so after my store bill was paid last night I hadnt much left of my weeks earnings to divide with my other mates, who have been shepherding our claims on the “River” all the week, the River showing no signs of going down & our money all being done, they agreed, being a majority, to abandon the claims, which we have kept so long and at such expense, nearly 6 months at an average cost per week of £10.0.0 not taking into account the amount of time we have lost in connection with them - on our meeting on Friday night we looked like a lot of convicts that have just had a sentence passed upon them, for we had all built our hopes upon the River Claims, & now we find ourselves without a Pd Stg between the four of us - badly clothed, & in the depth of winter in one of the [most] inhospitable climes in the world - Its enough to break ones heart – for two pins yesterday morning I would have packed up my swag & gone to Dunedin & trust to providence for my future - but that I felt I should be acting cowardly I would not have hesitated could I have persuaded Ned to go with me, our plans for the future are rather vague. Im to continue with the Germans, Ned is going to try & get a job in some of the claims on Golden point, & is staying at the township to night at Foynes so as to be near the place at 7 am tomorrow morning. Tom Meston & Harry are going to try the Malieban (a tributory of the Manuherikia) about a mile from this. I wrote to my sister Bessie & also to Fred this week. Last night I went down the township, visited all the places of amusement, fell in with Mrs Magher, went home with her, stayd at their place all night & had breakfast with them this morning, {{Image|file=Aag-484.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-485 766]

on leaving their place I crossed the Mka & knocked about the gullies & hills looking for firewood found it hard travelling owing to the snow - got home about 3 pm wet through – with about 50 lbs weight of wood, roots & fibres, which I gathered from between the fissures of the rocks - I went again to the township this evening, as far as Foynes, saw Jennie Woodhouse who rated me terribly about my staying at Maghers all night & never coming to see her - Etc. Etc - I arrived home by about 7.30 & have been in bed ever since - [Sunday, 24 May 1863] 24th. May 186{{Red|4}} Three weeks since I continued my journal, so I must tax my memory & endeavour to recall to mind in what manner Ive spent the time. I may state we have no lack of the ups & downs, (more downs than ups) that usually fall to the share of those who are in Fortunes black books. I worked one week more with the Germans & only made £1.15.0 each which so disgusted me that I intended to have given it up but fortunately I fell in with a "Cake" named Louis Weller a Frenchman I knew on Bendigo who I sold my share to for £4.0.0. poor devil, he worked one week at it & had £1.0.0 for his share, so poor that his mates wouldnt work the ground any more so Weller was left sole proprietor of the "Works & claim of the "Great German Confederation Co" - he tried to induce others to work it with him but no one cared to do so, & now he has abandoned it, the work of 40 men & nearly two months labour thrown away, such is the uncertainty of gold digging - On my leaving the claim I went down the township & got some employment in a claim there, made £3.10.0 for my weeks work, Ned did the same - we boarded at Foynes which cost us £2.0.0 each, being too {{Image|file=Aag-485.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-486 767]

far to go night & morning to our own tent, we slept in an old abandoned tent of Mr. Browns that was formerly used as a carpenters shop, strange quarters, & used by any stranger who has no other place to sleep in, we were disturbed nearly every night, by some one coming in & making up an impromptu bed in it, sometimes a drunken beastly creature would come rolling in who had been perhaps bundled out of some shanty. I need not not state the place was filthy dirty, what with rats & sleeping on the ground, it was anything but an enviable place to pass night after night in, our evenings we spent visiting, on the cheap, all the places of amusement – dance Rooms frequented by all kinds of characters mostly drawn together for the sake of warmth, heaven only knows, the scenes Ive witnessed in some of these places perfect pandemonium, that would make refined human nature revolt at - drunkeness, prostitution, & the most beastly licentiousness may be seen in its {{Red|*}}lewd & most disgusting aspect - I was amused by the Bellmen, who are engaged by the Shanty & Hotel keepers to puff up the respective merits of the houses they represent - crying out in the following manner – Walk up, be in time, step up to the Royal Saloon where is to be found at all times a roaring fire & plenty of hot water - & a host of amateur & professional talent an always on hand to amuse amongst the number the far famed Larry Doolan who will sing Pat from Mullingar & other Irish & Comic – Songs - Etc Etc – the great attraction however is the fire & hot water – Brandy hot being the beverage usually indulged in by the many frequenters of these places - when Im very cold I sometimes indulge in a glass of fiery stuff & I must say with all my temperence ideas I feel none the worse for it, at night all is bright & gay, in {{Image|file=Aag-486.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-487 768]

the morning is the time to see the other side of the picture to see men just crawling out of their tents trying to get on what were wet boots over night but in the morning like cast iron with the frost, & what with chilblains & other evils arising from hard living & want of warmth our sufferings are pretty considerable, its laughable to see the numbers washing themselves at the Rivers edge, in the grey of the morning. Ive seen a great deal of J.Woodhouse lately, we have got to thick, took her out in the evenings several times for a walk to the annoyance of scores of others who are supposed to be madly in love - another scene occured in connection with her the other night I happened to be absent at the time but heard of it from others. The man who calls himself her husband paid her another visit & asked her for money, she gave him £5.0.0 - all she had, on receiving it he told her he was going away, but before he left he would leave her a legacy by which she would remember him, he caught her suddenly by the hair & dragged her out into the street & began to hit & kick her most unmercifully her cries soon brought assistance, & from what Ive heard if ever a mortal got his deserts, he did, after nearly killing him, they threw him into the River & it was only after a deal of trouble the policeman got him out & saved him from being drowned – he told her he swears to settle that tiger who took her part on his last visit, meaning me - he says he knows me & has been on the look out for an opportunity to do me an injury - Im not afraid of any man & such a Curs threat as his, I dont care a rash about - however Ill be on my guard against a surprise Ive been twice, since, I last wrote, to the Debating Society. Last Tuesday evening a member, Mr. {{Red|*}}Aton - {{Image|file=Aag-487.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-488 769]

a Blacksmith delivered a Lecture, On "Man as Man" & the object of his Creation, the place was crowded & the lecturer was listened to with the greatest interest, he pointed out mans moral, social & physical constitution his powers of loving hoping & reasoning, his imagination & understanding, his power & will over outward nature Etc his lecture was delivered extempore dividing his subject & treating each in a masterly & graphic manner, occupying about 3 hours & I must say I was never more interested in my life, whether from the fact of knowing the man so well & being proud of his acquaintance I know not, but I know that whoever had heard him must have been surprised at seeing a common working man possessing such an intellect & exercising such an influence over his listeners he is a self taught man & when little over 22 years of years he delivered a lecture in the Mechanics Institute in Birmingham England, Lord Brougham being in the chair at the time, & that great man said at the conclusion of his lecture, he was the brightest example he had ever met, of what force of will could do in developing the intellect through application & close attention to study & observation, he was young at the time & the flattery he received did him more harm than good, he got connected with a bad lot & led a dissipated life so much that his friends & patrons lost confidence in him, his health fled him & he was induced to emigrate to Australia, & soon after his arrival he became alive to his sinful course & through this became a converted sinner, & with conviction the best parts of his character was formed, a true believer a pious Christian he preaches very often in this neighbourhood & I believe has done a deal of good - I feel it is a blessing to be acquainted with such a man, more especially in a place like this where man has no moral restraint but what very light conscience imposes upon him. I really feel my mind has been greatly improved in mixing with such characters – if I had not met with them, I should indeed have been miserable, without Books, without society is to an intelligent mind to be downright wretched - {{Image|file=Aag-488.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-489 770]

The past week Ive spent rambling about the neighbourhood prospecting & visiting acquaintences & hear if there is anything going on new ground, new rushes, or a chance of getting into anything that we might improve our condition pursuing. I spent one day at Robt Finchers he has a share in a share up the River & is doing pretty well, wanted me to stop in his neighbourhood & prospect, offered me food & lodgings to live with him until I struck something - I declined of course couldnt think of deserting my own mates. The next day I went down the Molyneaux ([[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] had gone back to our old claims with the idea the water was low enough to work them) to see Harry got within a mile of the claims when I met him coming up loaded with some things that had been left there, he being quite satisfied nothing could be done there - he is very sorry he did not take my advice & let the River claims alone months ago when I informed him of my opinion on the subject we should not now be living from hand to mouth, hardly knowing where the next meal is to come from - our walk home was anything but a pleasent one, the road being a frightfully rough and dangerous one, a false step in some parts would have precipitated us into the River Molyneaux, which ran boiling & seething along at a terrible rate below us - On Thursday, a large party who have taken up a claim & have procured protection for a race Etc, on the Maliban Creek, offered us two shares in it for £10.0.0, the money not to be paid until the claim is in working order & the gold obtained from it. T.Meston & [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] having nothing to do, we thought the best they could do was to get the shares there will be 3 weeks work to do before the ground can be got in working order or expect any returns Ned & I are to try & earn enough to keep us {{Image|file=Aag-489.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/98}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-490 771]

all in provisions I hope we shall be able to do so - I am in great hopes about it, & trust we wont be disappointed I received a long letter from mother a few days ago, all well at home, but she complains about being very short of money & having the greatest difficulty to make ends meet I wish to God I could relieve her it affects me more not to be able to do so than all my troubles & disappointments which are nothing in comparison to the anxiety I experience on her account. I havnt anything & cant send any money, & we owe a Storekeeper in our neighbourhood a deal of money – I dont know what the devil we are going to do - I have not read much lately The “History of Hungary” being the only work Ive perused & a newspaper whenever I could get hold of one [Sunday, 31 May 1863] {{Red|June 1st 1864}}
Weather awfully cold & frosty. Spent the week looking for employment at the claims near the township but could not get any, owing to so many having to stop their work through the frost, the Ice carries gold away & the dirt wont part freely in the Boxes - Tom & Harry are working away at the "Grand Junction Co" claim, their race is nearly finished - Ned & I with Stenbeck, a Swede, & Black Jack formed into a party & took up a claim on a piece of ground alongside our old claim that pd us so well when we first came to this place - We intend making a start on Monday. It will take us a few days before we can get the ground into working order, the weather being so against us - I been to the township every day during the past week spending an hour or two at Proctors & other acquaintances, but most of my time at Christies with J.Woodhouse for want of something better to do {{Image|file=Aag-490.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/99}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-491 772]

I earned £1 yesterday at Gardiners store, assisting Our Debating Society Meeting was postponed on Tuesday owing to Professor Bushall, an Electro Biologist, being in the township that night & delivering a Lecture. I being a priviledged mortal was admitted free & so I witnessed the entertainment which I must say was very entertaining & instructive, he showed to us the force of electricity & the purposes it could be applied to, tho he admitted it is a science which is only in its infancy but wound up by stating that ere long it will supersede Steam as a motive power, he concluded the evening by putting a number under a mesmeric spell - & causing a deal of amusement by rendering those who succumbed to his influence "laughing stocks". 22 went up to be operated upon, myself among the number, he was successful with four, failing to get over me that time with his arts & sciences. I was nearly getting into a precious mess last night. Id been to tea at Foynes & Jennie & I afterwards went out for a walk unobserved as we thought - we walked along the Manuherikia Banks for about a mile then turned off into the plain, the wind blowing rather cold we made for a lot of rocks where we found a little cave the mouth of which opened onto the plain so that we could see anything or any body that passed, the moon was very clouded sometimes shining very brightly & at others quite darkened, we had been sitting here something like an hour when I thought I discerned a shadow of a man who must be hiding behind a rock. I left Jennie & crawled out very cautiously, managed to get up the rocks without being observed & crept along till I reached the place where the substance of the shadow must have been, looking down I could see a man with a gun in his hand, apparently waiting for us for we must have passed the spot, unless we had gone {{Image|file=Aag-491.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/100}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-492 773]

up the rocks as I had done, not an easy thing for a woman to do - I was within 25 yards of him, with nothing to protect myself in case we should meet. I was in agony lest Jennie should get frightened & come out so I thought Id steal up to him & run the chance of a struggle with him, if I could get but another few feet near him I could have jumped upon him from a spur of rock overhanging him & in the surprise he would lose his presence or mind & perhaps drop his gun - all this passed through my mind like a flash & had intended to act upon it, when in stepping from a ledge of rock, a stone rolled away & made a noise causing him to look my way which so alarmed him not expecting anyone being there he slunk away, but not before I picked up a stone & hit him with it. I could hear the "thugh" & he made an exclamation & afterwards took to his heels & I got a glimpse of his face at one time & could swear to him being the fellow who persecutes Jennie. Poor Jenny she was in an awful state, more on my account than her own, she knows his nature so well that she knows he laid wait for me to carry out the threat he made some months ago when I stoped him from beating her - Its a wonder to me how the fellow can be hanging about without being observed, he must have seen us leave Christies & so dogged us, he couldnt have chosen a better time or place if murder was his object, for even if wounded it would have been a simple matter to have carried one to the Molyneaux & dropped me in & no chance of my body ever being found. The fellow I believe is vile enough to commit any crime. Jennie thinks it will be best never to be seen together again. Im sure Im agreeable. I got such a “turn” last night that I wont get over in a hurry. Im not going to live my life for a woman, I like, but could never love or ever have any sincere regard for - that she likes me Im sure - she never seems satisfied unless Im {{Image|file=Aag-492.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/101}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-493 774]

near her, & she makes me swear positively on leaving her to come & see her again. Im an awful softhearted kind of a fool especially to women, this is my weakness, & Ive often been told will be my {{Red|*}}curse & so I thought last night, but Ive certainly learned a lesson I hope Ill be profited by in future - [Sunday, 7 June 1863] June 7th 186{{Red|4}}
Made a resolution, which I pray God I may never have occasion to break, & that is never to dig, at least for gold again. The weather has been very cold & frosty so much so that we could not do anything at the ground Ned & I took up, the water races all frozen up, Sluice Boxes the same, so that we could not wash our dirt we sluiced one day & only succeeded in obtaining 13 dwts of gold & it took us 4 days to gather that dirt Friday afternoon I was on the Boxes forking, the sides of the Box, being slippery with the coating of ice, my foot slipped & I fell a distance of 14 ft alighting on my left arm causing it to swell terribly & rendering it perfectly useless as if it was broke, I could not sleep for pain last night, so yesterday I made up my mind to leave the diggings & go to Dunedin, so disgusted was I at the ill luck Ive had lately, that I no sooner had made up my mind that I rolled up my swag & was only prevented for starting away at once, by my mates who insisted upon remaining a day or two, & all the money I had was 4/. not much to go 120 miles journey in the depth of winter upon, & my arm in the state it was I fortunately acted upon their advice & went to the the township, where I fell in with a party of Cornishmen who were on the lookout for a {{Image|file=Aag-493.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/102}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-494 775]

claim. I induced them to come at look at mine which they did & told my reason for leaving was having hurt my arm & gave them to understand we had done so well in the ground around, which was true but I didnt tell them how poor our piece turned out last week, after some bargaining I sold my share for £6.0.0 & Stenbeck sold his for £5.0.0 Ned & Jack would have sold theirs for 5/- if they had wanted them poor devils they are regularly swindled out of their money unless the ground turns out better than it did with us - with my money I paid all my debts, squared up with my mates & found myself possessed of 18/. Ive a few more debts, but my share in the tools & interest in the G.J.Co. claim, will cover them - I regret very much leaving Ned behind but I couldnt persuade him to join me - he intends to stick to the Diggins until he makes a "rise" I got him to join our Dbtg Sty. & introduced him to all my acquaintances. I trust he will be induced to cultivate his mind, he is very quick & could learn anything if he had only the inclination, he could learn more in a week than I could in a month, the only thing Im afraid of is, his propensity for gambling, he'd play a game of Billiards if it took his last 1s/.d he never appears to be happy unless he is playing - Ive done my best to wean him from such pursuits begged & entreated him to give up waited & watched for him, secret of nights & brought him & persuaded him away from such hells as gambling houses - I trust all my exertions have not been wasted, for I fancy he is losing taste for play, curse gambling I say I hate the word & all connected with it. {{Image|file=Aag-494.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/103}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-495 776]

My mates are very sorry Im leaving them they are fine fellows & would willingly give me their last shilling. I hope they will be fortunate when Ive left them. Ive no doubt of it, when their Jonah has left them, for I am one. I went down the township last night bade adieu to all my friends & acquaintances Bloxham, Proctor, Aton, Cameron, Foyne & Peel who I shall always remember with regard I feel sorry at leaving friends like these, & again there are others that I am right down glad of parting with conscious that [this] reflects little credit to me. Jenny & I took a short strool together she was in an awful state about my leaving she clung to me & embraced me in such an ardent affectionate manner declaring I was the only being on earth she lived for Etc, making me downright miserable at the melancholy state she was in I was in a predicament she wanted me to take her to Dunedin, she offered me money enough to pay our fares down in the "Conveyance". I shrank from the base idea of becoming so connected & I confess I proceeded to my shame to do more than I ever meant to execute in order to pacify her, Im sorry I ever became connected with her. I was attracted towards her from compassion in the first place & gradually our acquaintance ripened into friends[hip] & we became very intimate, perhaps nothing tendered so much, as the partiality she always displayed toward her me in preference to the many admirers she had, & there is nothing {{Image|file=Aag-495.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/104}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-496 777]

{{Gray|a man falls}} : : : : : : : : : : : : {{Green|by which he falls from}}
that tends to lower the dignity of a man & {{Red|^⋏}} {{Gray|fall from}}
his height than to have his vanity flattered by a woman. This woman loves me would {{Red|*}}work {{Red|*}}and do any thing for me & I only pity her. Poor Jennie, I do pity you yours has been a hard chequered life with few rays of sunshine to light your dreary path. Would that I could do something for you, anything & everything I would do but what you want, love, impossible, its a passion I never knew, in all its intensity & warmth such as I could or feel Im capable of doing. Isa king is the only being I ever felt my soul was in connection with. Ive laughed many times at the feeling & emotions I experienced whilst in her "thraldom" - where are all the hopes & fears the restless nights and wretched days, the jealousies & heartburnings, Etc. all passed, & my heart as free & as careless as if I never knew of the existence of such a passion What a mine of affection one thrusts from himself through circumstances. Jennie loves with an intensity unequalled, a gem cast on the earth with a coat of dirt, passed by unheeded, uncared for, & for ever lost, here I have found it & would throw it further from me, a time may come when I would sacrifice life itself to be loved by some other being as this woman loves me What a strange thing the human heart is I left her very sorrowful promising to write to her occasionally from Dunedin, she entreated me to take a few pounds from her. I shrank from her money as from an adder, she was very much hurt she may want it herself soon - & so we parted what will become of her, poor shipwrecked girl {{Image|file=Aag-496.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/105}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-497 778]

I spent this morning mending my few rags, or my mates did it for me, my arm being, I am afraid broken & I am now ready to start in the morning Stenbeck is going also so we shall be company for each other. And here I am after 11½ years "gold digging". O, cursed occupation & pursuit, putting up with hardships & sufferings such as none can have an idea of, unless they had experienced a similar life, at the age of 24, broken in health & spirits, with impaired sight from exposure, nothing but rags to my back & only a few shillings in my pockets, uneducated unfit for any other occupation but what I have been accustomed to, abandoning an occupation that has had for its object "a shadow" know no trade, have acquired no business habits – I feel rather castdown in looking toward the future, but not disheartened. I fancy I shall have many a hard struggle, many a hard task to learn ere I can work myself into the kind of position I should like to get into, but whatever course, Ill never dig again except from the direst necessity The thoughts of my mother & her pecuniary unmans me somewhat for while digging I could generally send a little now & again to assist her in keeping a house together heaven only knows what she will do, however I hope the step Im taking will be for our mutual benefit I feel it will, although all is uncertainty before me, if I had {{Image|file=Aag-497.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/106}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-498 779]

devoted as much perseverence to some other more legitimate occupation than what Ive done I know I should be in a very different position to what Im in at present. Im getting tired of writing but from this time forth I hope to write about something different than hitherto, but before concluding I must certainly sketch my present abode our tent is 12 ft long by 10 ft broad & in the centre is only high enough to stand upright in. Made of grey calico - this place serves for 5 men to live & sleep in, winter or summer, our sitting & dining room by day & bed chamber for night, a lot of dry grass strewn on the ground serves us for our bed (Ive seen a horse have many a better one), our cooking utensils & in fact all our furniture consists of a Frying Pan a large "Billy" & one spoon - a pannikin & knife each - each man has his own blankets in which he wraps him- -self up in at night without any regard to any one else for my part mine is not sufficient to keep me warm these cold nights so I have to put on all the clothes I have, previous to "turning in" & in the morning reverse the usual order of things, by undressing myself I hope to God I may never have to live in such a place & in such a manner again - Im afraid I will not start in the morning. Stenbeck called just now, & says if Ill wait till Tuesday he will go to town & be company for each other he is well known in Dunedin & may be of service to me so I think Ill wait though I dont much like him, he is a very self-important fellow, a Swede by birth, an acquaintance of Chas.Melander through whom I became acquainted with him, now for Bed my arm is paining me severely. ==112 Miles to Dunedin== June 14th 1863
In Dunedin (living with Chas. Malander at the Public Baths, Charlie being the proprietor,) where I arrived after a long walk of 112 miles, having taken {{Image|file=Aag-498.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/107}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-499 780]

four days to accomplish it. I will endeavour to relate the various events of the last week. Last monday being wet, & Stenbeck not being ready, we did not leave our tent till 10 Am Tuesday, it was a lovely morning but very cold owing to a severe frost setting in however we trudged along at a good pace, carrying our swags, which weighed about 40 lbs each, our road for several miles lay along the Banks of the Manuherikia some 5 miles until reaching Lowes Station, where our road turned to the right - (or I should say to the East) our troubles then commenced, in the walking line - the road being over what is called the Rough Ridges, a chain of rough abrupt hills very stony & difficult to travel over, no scenery of any consequence to vary the monotony of our dreary tiresome walk until crossing this range which is some 10 miles across, where we entered upon a large Flat some l½ miles broad, on crossing brought us to McPhersons Station, here we determined to camp & boiled our "Billy" made some tea & having some Bread & Meat with us we made a hearty dinner, we thought we had enough food to last us 2 days, but if our appetites had been always as it at that meal, Im afraid we should have been very hungry the end of the time. Some waggons camped along side of us, empty, bound for town. I entered into conversation with the drivers discovered them to be the men we had bought our horse "Nobby" from, these waggons make a great deal of money when the roads are good but being the reverse of that this time of year. I couldnt get the soft side of them by prevailing upon them to give me a ride in their waggons to town after some barganing we at length came to terms, for them to carry our swags & allow us to sleep under their waggon at night - for 15/. each, very cheap, but under the circumstances, it left me with but 3/. to live upon. I didnt care, for I could not have carried my swag any further for I discovered what I had suspected to be true, my arm was broken, before leaving the diggins I went to {{Image|file=Aag-499.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/108}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-500 781]

a Chemist & he said it was only a sprain, stupid donkey, to resume my journey, we agreed to the terms, & started away on our journey, being moonlight & the ground frozen hard we got a long distance by the time we camped for the night – which we did at a place called "Drunken Womens Creek" the cold was intense & we had hard work to keep our blood in circulation by walking fast, alongside of the waggon, it was now we felt, the advantage of the waggon for if we had not joined it we should have been in a wretched plight, not having a tent with us, & the ground being covered with snow, & not a stick of wood to be seen the whole days journey except a Bundle the drivers had in the waggon, only used sparingly to Boil the "Billy" for Tea. The waggon was drawn up by some rocks for shelter from the wind, which cut through one like a knife. We shovelled away the snow & lit a fire, & after drinking a pannikin of hot tea, we felt considerably comfortable & prepared our bed under the waggon - not being room inside there being the driver & some four more passengers who were paying 30/- each for the priveledge. I shall never forget the misery of that night it came on to snow & what [with] the cold & the snow thawing & running under us & the pain of my broken arm constant rendered it the most miserable night I ever experienced – glad I was when morning broke & sun arose - what a scene presented itself, hills & vallies covered feet thick with snow, the poor horses had not stirred away from the waggon the road could hardly be discerned, & to make things worse we could not light a fire, not having a stick of wood & none to be obtained for 20 miles distance. We started on our journey about 9 am - & it was long ere I could get warm by walking, the road over which we travelled that second day was far worse than the day before - in fact, indescribable, up hill & down hill crossing frozen creeks on the Ice, many places, deep ravines & gorges, the road winding about hill sides in a frightful manner, narrow roads, with precipice on one side which had the horses shied or slipped would have been their death & the waggons distruction, the roads here & there in some of the worst places have been made passable & barely so, by the Government, but it will be long ere {{Image|file=Aag-500.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/109}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-501 782]

there will be a good road in these parts, no land or any- -thing to induce people ever to settle down in the neighbourhood I believe there is a Station (Valpys) about there but I did not see it from the road about every few miles on the road side is to be found what is termed an accommodation tent where is to be obtained food, by paying dearly for it, but all sell & forms their chief trade drink, or vile spirits for which they charge 1/. a nobler, it was 10 pm when we got over this rough part of our journey & reached a little Public House called the Halfway Hotel, here we found the country much more open & had distant views of snow clad mountains & extensive moors & plains, bearing the usual, Otago peculiarity woodless I was greatly knocked up & worn out on reaching this place although through the kindness of the driver, I had ridden several miles in the waggon. Poor Stenbeck was done up & on reaching the Camping place sat down & got so numbed & was so tired it was with the greatest difficulty I could rouse him from his deathlike stupor. I got him a nobler of Bdy which I am sure saved his life & got him into the waggon & wrapped him in his blankets. On turning out the horses we tried to light a fire which after an hours time we got to burn & made some tea, after partaking of some, I felt much refreshed - it was frightfully cold freezing hard, snow & ice all around, not a blade of grass to be seen. I got some empty corn sacks out of the waggon to sleep upon & by blankets being dry I felt pretty comfortable under the waggon & slept pretty soundly til about 3 am next morning, when I awoke the cold being so acute I turned & tossed & gazed out on the scene around through the spokes of the wheels, & thought of Sir John Franklin & other Arctic Explorers & thought over what they must have endured in colder regions than these - & tried to draw comparisons, by thinking how comfortable I ought to feel & trying to make light work of my sufferings - all to no purpose. {{Image|file=Aag-501.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/110}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-502 783]

I could not feel warm enough to sleep & getting afraid I should get frost bitten, I arose, being moonlight I could see for miles around, so I wrapped my blankets round me & wandered forth, not seeing the horses near the waggon, I went in search of them wandered about till daylight & was returning back, making sure the horses were lost or had gone on their way to Dunedin lured by the remembrance of the warm stable there – with out taking into consideration the position their masters might be left in - I got into the road & found their tracks in the snow, after walking about 1½ miles I found them sheltered under the lee of a rock. I wasnt long in heading them back & received the thanks of their owners, who had also been on the lookout for them. The sun rose bright & beautiful & with its genial influence dispelling the many morbid ideas Id entertained the previous hours a great number of Drays & Waggons were camped at this place about a mile distant, saw the Mail start from the Hotel (a 4 roomed board & canvas building) this conveyance makes the journey from Dunedin to the Dunstan in two days, changing horses every 10 miles, it only conveys the mail & some half frozen passengers, the fare I believe is £6.6.0. (I forgot to state that the day before, while camped at McPhersons, an old Scotch shepherd, set my arm in splints made from the boards of a gin case. I had bound it pretty tight ever since it was broke & had been very careful with it & the bones had commenced to knit & I believe now is getting quite strong, the cold weather I experienced being in my favour) We yoked up the horses & started again about 9. Am after eating a cold breakfast without tea or coffee through not having any firewood, (my fellow passengers were very kind to me, made me share with them in their vituals, if they hadnt I should have starved, for money I had none, 3/. being the price of a 3 lbs loaf of Bread & 1/6 per lb for meat at the accommodation Stores on the road-) our journey {{Image|file=Aag-502.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/111}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-503 784]

the third day was much more pleasent than the two previous ones, the road for several miles on leaving our camp having a downward tendency began to see more grass & less snow, untill at length we could only see it in the distance or in small patches the climate being much warmer as we drew nearer to the sea coast, about 11 am we had a narrow escape we came to a deep gully with most abrupt sides at the foot of which runs a swift creek, running amongst rocks & forming little cascades, giving the place a most romantic appearance the name of the spot is the "Rock & Pillar" from the peculiar shape of some rocks in the neighbourhood We descended into this place by a road cut out of the hill side very narrow with a steep precipice on the off side. We were all in the waggon, when something got wrong with the "Break" & one of the horses shiing at the same time, they all started off at a terrific pace, but was brought up at last by a turn in the road & it was only by a miracle the waggon was stopped from going over, by one of the near side wheels coming off, throwing the vehicle on its side nearest the Bank, it did not detain us more than half a hour & were not long in getting out of this exceedingly romantic spot, a few more miles travelling over a tolerable level moor, brought us to a River called (I think) the Waipori, here we found a little township consisting of a couple of public houses a Butchers & a Bakers, a Blacksmith shop & some dozen other places - about a mile from the Township there is a large squatting station (Campbell Thompsons) where I heard Tom Downs was working at. We camped here some 2 hours, so having time, I paid him a visit he was exceedingly glad to see me, & on parting he insisted upon me receiving some money from him, which I accepted not much, but enough to last me a week or fortnight with economy, he also told me if I should {{Image|file=Aag-503.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/112}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-504 785]

run short in Dunedin to call at a friends of his whom he would write to & request him to furnish me with whatever I should require, he has been making about a £1 aday for several months, working at his trade (carpenter) at this place & has a good sum of money, now lodged in the Bank - One never knows who are his friends unless he meets them in adversity. I always knew knew Tom for a goodnatured fellow - although I never thought of putting his good nature to the test, he has greatly improved in his appearance since I last saw him, when he was on board ship. I used to do whatever I could for him & he admitted he was glad to find me "hardup" so that he could return the compliment, I cant say I sympathise with, after an affectionate farewell I returned to the waggon found all prepared for a start. (Tom informed me his father Capt. Downs, has turned out very bad, committed some felony in Dunedin & had to make a "Bolt". I believe he is now in Queensland, tho’ he visited Melbourne first, & landed just in time to see his wife breathe her last, he ill- -used his children so badly that the eldest left home & I heard is now on the streets there, sold up everything & left his family to their fate. I dont think Tom knows of these things although he admitted he has sent a deal of money there to support his young brothers & sisters I was very sorry for Toms sake to hear of these things). We travelled on again till 8 Pm over a somewhat level country (for Otago) resembling some parts of Victoria where the ground is "Bog holey", but without that colonys fair forests. We reached a deep dismal dell of a place called Lees Creek where the Waipori Road branches off from the Dunstan Road,- found a little Public House here & all of us partook of a stiff nip of Bdy that did us a deal of good, we ascended the hill, the town side of the Creek at the top of which we camped & here for the first time for many months, I saw Trees growing, what little there is about the Dunstan is dry {{Image|file=Aag-504.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/113}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-505 786]

rotten stuff resembling withered "Tea Tree Scrub"- & looking as if it [had] been scorched many years ago, for the distance of 100 miles that we had travelled I never saw a stick growing that would make a penholder - the country to this point bearing one uniform character, barren & desolate & ever will be, the ground being too hilly & rocky for cultivation & too cold & bleak for pastoral purposes except in summer time, about a dozen more Teams were camped near us & here I spent my pleasentest night since leaving the Dunstan, the climate being much warmer & having plenty of firewood, & we had a fire such as Ive not seen since leaving Victoria We made plenty tea & had plenty to eat & had a good wash a luxurious Id not enjoyed for some days, slept, sound, did not wake till 8 am next morning & on rising found passengers & carters all absent looking for the horses, all returned with blank faces. I started away & knowing the tracks I soon came upon them bound for Dunedin. I walked on thinking of overtaking them, when I met the Mail the driver informed me he had passed a lot of horses some 5 miles ahead enroute for town I returned to Camp, found that they had caught of their 8 horses, 2, these had not strayd but preferred, coming according to habit, for their morning allowance of corn, the road being down hill for some miles the drivers yoked up one horse in each waggon, presenting a curiously odd appearance however, we rattled along & by 12 am reached the Taieri Plains (Taireie) where we found all the horses looking very wistfully at a stack of hay in a farm yard, over a fence, we caught the beasts & after giving them their accustomed feed for which they appeared to be very grateful {{Image|file=Aag-505.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/114}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-506 787]

for, they were yoked up & soon were trotting over the plains in grand style - from Lees Creek to town is 20 miles & after ascending the mountains, we had about 10 miles of level road running between fine farms being on each side & what to appeared nice comfortable homesteads, how I thought of the happiness there must be & the comfort - in these places - when comparing the kind of places Ive lived in lately - These Taireai Plains are about 3 miles broad & run from within about 10 miles of Dunedin to the Molyneaux River about 50 miles in length - the Waihola Lake being about the centre this tract of Land is all taken up & mostly under cultivation being the only portion of Otago that I can hear of being of any use to settlers the proprietors are mostly Freeholders, being Scotch & Irish but by far the larger majority being the former they are a peculiar people & look with the greatest suspicion upon Victorians in particular & Australians in general, quite a sudden contrast after descending the hills & coming upon such a place - everything looks so happy & cheerful & the climate of the vally is so much warmer than what Ive experienced all tended to make me more cheerful & happy & fancy I was getting to a civilized community once more on crossing the plain we had again to get up into the high places, by ascending a very steep abrupt hill on reaching its summit we had a grand view of the surrounding country, our road was easy from this point, along the tops of high lands, but good soil & a great deal under cultivation with here & there some good substantial built houses, it was night when we began to descend the hills into the town of Dunedin which lies at the foot of the range which encircles the coast, the town presented a {{Image|file=Aag-506.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/115}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-507 788]

a pleasent & novel appearance to me, the hum of voices the rattle of the vehicles, the lights & animation that were apparent, all of which affected me considerably. Within the suburbs we parted from the Carriers & our fellow passengers, fine fellows they are - with good wishes & regards from all – shouldered our swags & after traversing some streets, none of the cleanest by the bye, found ourselves at before a long low building, lighted in front with lamps bearing the inscription Dunedin Public Baths, we walked right in & soon met my old friend C.Malander, who made us both extremely welcome & very sorry to hear of our continued run of ill luck, we sat down to a good tea, after which he insisted upon us accompanying him to the Theatre which we did though one act of the play was over when we got there, saw my old juvenile favourites The Marsh Troupe performing in the "Sea of Ice" what a strange sensation I experienced, on again walking crowded streets & looking into shop windows Etc - I felt like some being that had been shipwrecked for years among a lot of savages & then been suddenly transported in sleep & then dropt into the busy haunts of civilized man - Dunedin is very much improved in size & importance since I was last in it, hills have been levelled, new streets formed Public Buildings, fine shops & houses Etc going up in every direction. I observed there are a great number of diggers knocking about {{Image|file=Aag-507.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/116}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-508 789]

town waiting for new rushes to break out & many who have the means spending the severest part of the winter in ease & comfort. Im sorry to see or hear of very few like these, for most of them are "hardup" & living a regular hand to mouth kind of existance, getting a days work now and again. There is a deal of work going on here but there are too many looking for it, the labour market is overstocked. On Saturday, I took a walk about town to have a look at things Called to see Mrs. Greenwood, an old lady who owns a few houses & with their rent & what her husband earns who is a carpenter is very well off. [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] knew them many years ago in Melbourne & when he lived in town used to board with them. Harry told me to call, which I did I felt at home immediately, with them - they knew all about me. Harry must have been very lavish of his praises, for if I had been their son, they could not have made more of me - Mrs. G. is the most motherly goodnatured easy comfortable middle aged woman I ever met, the neatest cleanest & the most orderly of housekeepers & a thorough good Samaritan, she knew I was coming to town & knew I had left a coat & vest in Harrys box which said garments she had got out, mended & brushed she also gave me a couple of shirts, some collars of Harrys & a necktie or two, found me a a decent pair of trousers which she had washed & gave me, such kindness I never experienced, my heart was in my mouth. I felt she had no right to be kind to me & was cross I do believe, but the only way my passion could have vented itself would have been in tears, it was with difficulty I could {{Image|file=Aag-508.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/117}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-509 790]

could thank her for emotion, she said if I wanted anything not to be ashamed to ask her for it. I told her how I was situated & showed her my arm she put some clean bandages upon it, & examined it & declared my fracture as being already well (rather an extraordinary cure to take place in 8 days, of course I had my own opinion about it) on leaving them I felt ten times better & even cheerful, such kindness as this Ive never met with before, it reconciles one to a selfish world meeting such characters, she invited me to dinner on Sunday, an invitation I accepted dressing myself in my new clothes, I purchased a new hat & a cheap pair of Boots, & friends Id met the day before did not know me when I presented myself to dinner. Id had my hair cut & indulged in a bath, & was considerably altered, so much so they immediately pronounced me a gentleman & I often had to talk roughly & assume a vulgarity to make them comfortable. I spent the afternoon with them walked about the hills & looked over their garden Etc, till tea when after partaking of it, a gentleman named Oliver (a merchant in this town & formerly of Melbourne), a tenant of Mr G. called in & after conversing for awhile asked Mr G. if he knew of a man who could excavate a piece of ground at the back of his house & build a room for him, the job would only be short, & thinking I could do it if my arm was a little better, I immediately induced Mr G. to recommend me, which he did Mr. 0. seemed rather surprised at me {{Image|file=Aag-509.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/118}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-510 791]

thinking from my appearance I was not able for the work, however, he told me I might commence in the morning. Ive got a few shillings left enough to purchase a Pick & Shovel with & I can live at Malanders for a few days longer without wearing my welcome out. I felt quite happy at having something to do. Im terribly sensitive about becoming a burden to anyone - I would take to roads again than be so - Ive met several old Victorian friends & acquaintances, some appeared glad to see me, while others knowing I was hard up seemed to avoid me as if I wanted to borrow or beg something from them - Thank God Ive a spirit above a "Loafers". I called on A.Smith he is managing a large Chemists business here his master having gone to England. Andrew gets a very handsome salary, on his discovering I was not a "lucky digger" it struck me that he was rather cool & distant in his manner – this sort of thing annoys me, if people one has learnt to like would not change in their manner because of reverses of fortune it would be far better, for I have noticed, that when a man requires assistance, if he has any spirit, he rarely seeks it from the hands of those whom he might expect it from, however, it is gratifying to find there are some people in whatever circum- -stances they meet in, whether in affluence or the reverse are still the same - June 21st.1863
Most horrible dirty weather such as is only to be found in Dunedin - when during the winter months {{Image|file=Aag-510.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/119}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-511 792]

its always raining, the soil being sticky clay & the streets not properly made, the roads & streets are in an awful state - the ladies go about these when necessity compels to go abroad, in short dresses to their knees with Wellington boots on their feet its a common thing to see them, & often seen, stuck fast & have to leave their boots fast in the mud - Monday was so wet I could not commence my job. I purchased some tools & made a start on Tuesday, but what with wet I only could make four days work during the week 8/. per day, 32/. my job is not finished. - The place Im working at is situated on the hills that surround the Town & looks down upon it, to build a house a place or terrace has to be cut out of the side of the hill. Im doing an excavation to make room for the erection of other apartments to Olivers house, which I am to build Mr. Greenwood having lent me the necessary tools Ive finished the excavation, the hardest part of my labour. Stenbeck & I are still living with Malander our evenings we spend partly in doors singing reading & cardplaying, (a number of Swedes meet here & pleasent folks they are, they sing some beautiful constructed pieces of their national music very well, some of which I admire better then much Italian music I heard) We knock about the town a great deal, & I often meet many I know but as a rule fail to recognise them, for Im generally dressed so shabby with scarcely a decent rag upon me, that I dont wish people to write to Victoria & state they had seen Mr. W. walking about Dunedin ragged & hard up Its a paltry kind of pride & I must admit Im ashamed of having such weaknesses. Friday night I was passing {{Image|file=Aag-511.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/120}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-512 793]

the Club Hotel when who should I meet face to face & before I could avoid him R.Parker who I had known on Tuepeka & Manuherikia the latter place he had the richest claim there on Golden Point, he told me he had been married that day & had invited a large party to meet that evening at the Club, & he insisted upon me going in. I declined making as my excuse my toilet & costume an old pair of moleskin trousers with an immense patch on the knee a thick pr of Boots on & an old Pea Jacket he would not take no for an answer, & I only got from him on condition I should go home & change my clothes & return - I had no idea of doing so, but on telling Malander, he insisted upon me donning a handsome suit of "Black" belonging to him, which I did I felt rather strange & awkward in my new clothes but soon became accustomed to them, on entering the Room where the company was assembled, I found every one were strangers to each other & things looked uncommonly quiet & miserable Parker & I tried to infuse a little life in the party passed the wine about which had the effect of loosening the young ladies tongues and after some persuasion I induced a young lady to play a set of Quadrilles & with a little flattery upon her playing which she could swallow in wholesale doses, was induced to preside nearly the whole of the evening at the instrument everybody soon got sociable & of well disposed towards each other [a] few got fast & furious & all rose to depart to their respective homes with regret about 4 am next morning. I got regularly sold, as follows - I had been introduced to a very beautiful girl, as I thought by the name of Miss Tuckwell. I paid her a deal of attention, sang several songs for her & danced very often with and altogether doing a tall amount of flirting to which she didnt seem at all indisposed to discountenance, until our leaving taking when I insisted upon seeing her home - a Buggy having come {{Image|file=Aag-512.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/121}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-513 794]

for her. I led her out but at the door was met by a gentleman who I thought was rather familiar with her, judge my astonishment on her introducing me to him as her husband, who is Superintendant of the Detective force of the colony - I roared with laughter at the mistake Id made all the evening in mistaking a Mrs. for a Miss – however it didnt affect me much, for taken altogether it was the pleasentest night Id spent for many a long day This morning I went to Church, on coming out I met Mrs Greenwood who invited me home to her house to dinner after which I left & was walking about Princess St when I met an old diggins friend R.Hill, he left the Dunstan a few weeks before I did & is working in town. I went to his house & was introduced to his wife, mother, & sister & other members of his family, all very jolly people in rather humble circumstances, but good natured & proved very friendly to me I staid tea with them & afterwards went to Chapel with Miss Hill & Dick & his wife, on coming out we took a long walk Miss H is a laughing very pretty girl about 18 - 28 June 1863
Another dirty disagreeable wet week, nothing but dark clouds overhead & soft puddles & mud underfeet only made £2.0.0 for my weeks work I have tried hard to get into some regular employment, advertisements of all kinds Ive answered, storeman- clerk, caster, supercargos purser, but to no purpose as yet, however I dont despair I can scarcely hope to be more fortunate than others - & I think I have much to be thankful for so far since I left the diggins. My arm is still very weak, being compelled to work while it was knitting being the cause {{Image|file=Aag-513.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/122}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-514 795]

I left C Malander to day, it was presuming too much on his kindness to remain longer more especially as I am now earning a little money, & getting a few decent clothes to my back I have taken up my quarters in a Scotch family named Murdoch. Their house is built like most others in Dunedin in a nice Elizabethan style two large rooms on the ground floor with a large attic above, access being gained by a steep ladder from the first room - this house like many more this time of year is surrounded by a sea of mud of sludge Murdoch is a watchmaker & lapidary by trade but on his arrival in this colony finding no opening for his trade he invested his capital in a couple of horses & drays, he can hardly make a living with them owing to the bad roads & the high price of horse feed & so he is compelled to let his attic, it contains 2 other lodgers besides myself who pay 6/. aweek for sleeping, each providing his own food which Mrs. M cooks for us, there is [a] cupboard with three shelves in it each lodger having his own appropriated for his food & crockery - I went to a Grocers near by in George St to buy my things for next week, the person who kept it, is Thomas Field who I have known for years, having lived next tent to me on Bendigo for years, when he was very poor & was often under compliment to me - he was surprised to see me & invited me into his back parlour where I met Mrs. F. & the little ones - everything about the place bespoke success & easy circumstances, he told me he sold out of his business just after I left California Gully & came over here opened a little grocers shop & met with the most {{Image|file=Aag-514.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/123}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-515 796]

astonishing success, he soon got his place enlarged as his business increased & now he has a fine shop with a stock of goods worth £1000 & is doing an excellent trade he inquired into my circumstances & he promised to exert himself to get me into a billet, he would have given me one if I had known anything about the business & so we parted. I dined in a Restaurant to day in the arcade & who should I meet in the place loafing about but my old mate Bill Hobson poor devil the money he made on Foxes he returned to Victoria with spent it in a short time had to borrow money to bring him back landed here without a penny in the middle of a severe winter since that time he has been loafing & sponging about town for a bare existence, eaten up too much with disease for hard work & not well enough educated for anything else, he was in a truly pitiable state, he commenced to tell me of the sprees & the manner he had spent his money & looked upon his present position as quite a matter of course kind of thing & spoke happily of the future happy fellow to possess such a disposition. I wrote at the beginning of the week several letters, one to my brother Ned, & to Proctor – Foyne - & Mr. Halley also a short note to Jennie & one to my couzin Liz on Bendigo This evening I went to Chapel met the Hills & spent an hour or so with them afterwards - - July 5th.1863 -
Weather tolerably fine for Dunedin - Worked very hard, built two small rooms at Olivers, finished my work on Thursday, made £2 for my four days work. Friday I spent looking for work in company with John Aitkin, we put in two tenders for {{Image|file=Aag-515.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/124}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-516 797]

contracts I hoped we should have got one of them - one was for an immense excavation & the other to rise a lot of houses to the level of a street near which they are situated, they having been built before the street was formed, we were disappointed, the one for the excavation was the lowest tender - & not being known it wasnt accepted. I answered an advertisement for a grocers assistant, & I think I could have got it but I didnt like the mans manner or his terms. I referred him to A.Smith, having been to him previously & threatened to punch his head if he didnt give me a good character, which he did & so spared me the necessity of putting my threat into execution Mr. Field recommended me to a Mr Watson a printer who wanted a Collector or Canvasser, had an interview with him liked each other & came to terms, he is to give me 5% on all work I obtain & 2½ % on all work that comes into the office with my board & lodging. I accepted the offer immediately thinking it a good thing for me if only for the sake of a home. I packed up my things & left Murdochs last night & took up my quarters here - find everything very comfortable so far Mr. & Mrs. W. are rather eccentric folks & are very religious. Mrs. W & I are very good friends she has been very confidential, told me the strangest tale ever I listened to in connection with her meeting with Watson - Etc. as follows - she was born & brought up in London & knew Mr. W. relations who were always talking about him, tho’ absent at the time in N.Z. she heard what a good man he was, & having made a vow she would never marry a man who had ever any connection with a woman - she cried "Eureka" & unknown {{Image|file=Aag-516.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/125}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-517 798]

to her friends & relatives she left home in search of this wonderful man (who by the by is a very plain ordinary looking mortal) first landed in Melbourne with no money took a situation in a confectioners shop there - saved money (amid many severe temptations which she bored me with a recital of their details) and started for N.Z. visited several ports & was a long time before she discovered him, found him at last an Editor of a Newspaper at ChristChurch (I think) made herself known to him & the object of her leaving home Etc & threw herself upon his protection after {{Red|*}}ascerting that he still had the desired charms to her mind the poor man became her husband shortly afterwards & he informs me he has had no cause to regret the step. I met the Greenwoods yesterday they were very cross because Id not been to see them during the week, they still told me, If I wanted a home anytime I could always find one at their house - I received a short note from my brother Ned, during the week, he informs me they have got the works on the Mobiban finished & hope to begin next week. They have got good prospects out of the ground & hope to make £6 per week out of the claim, he states Harry is very unwell & not able to work. I hope he will soon recover for its a hard lot to be ill on the diggins, no attendance, no comforts nothing to have for money supposing he has any - Ned writes very hopefully & sympathises with me in falling in with something {{Image|file=Aag-517.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/126}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-518 799]

to do. I received two long letters from Jenny that rather astonished me by their fervour too sentimental, that to one not knowing her would be considered the essence of all thats ridiculous, she says her heart is breaking since I left, day & night she has no rest thinking of me - she is thinking of coming to Dunedin shortly. If she does I shall leave this place - at times I fancy I should like her to be down & have thought or been tempted to send for her, but fortunately have thought better of it. Poor Jennie she bothers me considerably. It is not in my nature to be cruel or unkind to any one, but there are so many considerations at stake. Pleasure & inclination whisper, encourage her, enjoy her, interest, however, & the best attributes of my nature, hold out strongly against such a course - & prompt me to keep her at a distance. I wrote to her to day, a very cool note, but so delicately worded as not to cause her pain & yet strongly protesting against encouraging a passion which can only bring misery upon us both - I received a long letter from Fred, & one from my sister Bessie she is still living with Mrs. Dewer at Echuca, she informs me if I would return home Mr Dewer would perhaps find me a situation in his store if I had the passage money I would return there - Freds letter gave me the "Blues" he gives me a doleful account of home, Mother having hard work to make ends meet nothing makes me feel more wretched than not being in a position to assist her {{Image|file=Aag-518.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/127}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-519 800]

pecuniary since Fred is sick of Melbourne & wishes to leave it, if he had had as much knocking about as his brothers he would be more satisfied. This morning Mrs. W. & I went to the Presbyterian Church heard rather a prosy kind of sermon which had a narcotic influence upon me, found it raining heavily on coming out got wet through before we got home. We had a job coming home wading through the mud at the top of MacLaggan St. where Im living, it cleared up in the afternoon, so I went to see the Campbells, Jim C. & [[Niven-74|J.Nevin]] are in partnership, have a large Blacksmith Shop & Build Casks & Carriages Etc, they made me very welcome & insisted upon me not making myself a stranger & let by gones be bye gones. I was rather amused at the contrast of our last un- -pleasent meeting, on which occasion nearly four years ago, I was nearly murdered by him & others of his family on Bendigo. Friday night I went to the Theatre, saw the Marsh Troupe perform. I have spent a deal of time at the Hills they are very jolly people I have had to use spectacles since I came to Dunedin, my sight is so impaired that I am afraid unless it improves, I shall never be able to do anything that will require too close application. I cannot read or write after dark for more than an hour or so & even then my sight begins to get dim & clouded - July 12th 1863
Weather, as usual in Dunedin this time of the year wet, dirty & miserable. Commenced {{Image|file=Aag-519.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/128}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-520 801]

upon my new duties most assiduously on Monday morning carrying with me a portfolio containing samples of the work we can produce at our office Bill Heads, Costers Books, Forms & Placards of every description. I think Ive been in & out every place of business from the smallest shop to the largest establishment in the town, found every thing thing in the way of business very dull nothing but complaints, all this making me rather despondent, for I worked hard & talked hard pushed & did my best, & only succeeded in getting very few orders the per- centage of which gave me £1.0.0 however Mr W. seemed very well satisfied with me – if he was, I wasnt, the fact is Dunedin is too small a place to make printing pay there are so many here - & the larger places of business send to Melbourne for their printing, I intend trying to combine something else with my present duties. My leisure hours I spent reading Mr. W. has a very good Library & I find him like most of his profession very intelligent & well read. Mrs. W & I are very good friends, she bores me very much with her twaddle, an infliction I submit to with a deal of impatience at times, she has a delightful little couzin who often comes & spends an evening with, one of the prettiest girls I ever met with but a devil of a tongue & temper of her own - but yet, something very plain & straightforward about her, which makes her rather charming, it generally falls to my lot to see her home, no joke on a winters night climbing up the hills {{Image|file=Aag-520.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/129}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-521 802]

hills which encircle Dunedin. This morning I went to the Wesley Church just off Princes St heard a very good sermon, preached by a Mr Harding, after the service, I met Mrs. Greenwood went home with her, to dinner, found a great Surprise awaiting me. [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] had come down from the diggins the night before. Ned had informed me he was ill & so he had been, but the thought of becoming helpless on the diggins so frightened him that he roused up & started for town with only a few shillings in his pockets, he called on Tom Downs on his way, having business here, accompanied him down. I found them very comfortably smoking in Mrs G parlor quite at home - We were very glad to see each other, he informed me that the Claim Ned & he were engaged at on the Moliban Creek was a "Duffer" before he left there they had worked a week in the claim washed a great quantity of dirt & only got a few dwts of gold I was very sorry to hear of it, for Ned had such high hopes of making a "rise" he will be greatly cast down - after all the labour & expense they had been it renders its failure all the more disheartening. On finishing dinner we three took a ramble about town visited several acquaintances, had tea in the Excelsior Cafe & then parted for the night A terrible accident happened in the Bay eight days ago, an Emigrant ship {{Image|file=Aag-521.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/130}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-522 803]

had arrived at Port Chalmers, some of the passengers (among whom was the Master of the College who had been sent out to fill the office, with his family), immediately the anchor was dropped, got into a small steamer that plied between the Port & Dunedin, they had proceeded but a mile or two & coming on dark, the helmsman didnt notice another Boat bearing down upon them – until they came in collision when the boat with the passengers sank immediately twelve bodies went down never to rise again, alive, they were recovered some days afterwards, the funeral a public one, was held on Wednesday, the sympathy was universal every shop & place of business in town being closed. I went to the Church in the Octogon, where the bodies were brought in one at a time & the burial service read over them I never witnessed, & hope never to do so again, such an impressive & solemn ceremony. The Organ playing the Dead March as the bodies were carried in & out, the Church & its approaches was crowded with people & amongst that vast assemblage of thousands not a dry eye could be seen - The Head Master & his family, all perished & were buried in one grave - the procession to the Cemetery was over a mile in length - [Sunday, 19 July 1863] July {{Red|20}}th.1863 Fine weather during the fore part of the week But on Friday it came on to rain & has never ceased since, making everbody & everything extremely disagreeable. Business very bad, & especially in my line hardly got a percentage order those I did did not give me much Im {{Image|file=Aag-522.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/131}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-523 804]

beginning to think I must turn my attention to something else. I met Field on Friday & he is wishing to extend his business, by establishing an out door connection. I proposed he should engage me as traveller after some conversation we at length arranged that I should devote two days of the week to him to which I agreed at 5/- per day and a commission on all the regular customers I secured him. Im to commence next week. I know no more about the Grocery trade than my pen does which he knows but he is to supply me with a list of his stock & the prices so I dare say I shall manage to get along. Ill do my best I can [do] no more, Watson is quite agreeable he thinks the remaining four days of the week will do for canvassing for him. Monday afternoon I met an old acquaintance of mine from the diggins "Nicholls" we spent the evening & night together in the following very questionable manner. We went to the Theatre to hear a Miss Aitken a celebrated Scotch Tragedienne, she delivered a lot of selections from the best authors in a style which gave me quite a new idea of what effect good readers may produce on their listeners It was an intellectual treat & I enjoyed it, the pleasure I enjoyed was marred in going after the performance was over, with my companions to a Fancy Ball or more properly speaking a Ball Masque, for most at it were in plain clothes & just hid their faces with a mask. The company there we found was anything but select, most of the females being well known prostitutes. I met [[Dight-42|Dight]] & Downs there & we {{Red|*}}staid to 4 am Tuesday when they left to seek lodgings I remained with my friend, because he had drunk too much & was incapable of taking care of himself & I knew he had a lot of gold & money upon him, he would be gallant & go home with {{Image|file=Aag-523.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/132}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-524 805]

a woman he met at the Ball & going with him along with a party consisting of low blaguards, on arriving at the place drinking commenced in earnest, & I soon found out their game, which was to rob my friend. I was sober, not having tasted anything stronger than cordials so on the first attempt I interfered & received rather unexpectedly a crack on the head which soon made me look lively. I picked up a loaded whip (belonging to a detective who was lying on the hearth very blind drunk locked in the arms of a girl who was ditto) & the first who approached me I sent sprawling, a jew fired a tumbler at me but fortunately shattered a fine Pier Glass instead of my head, during the row & confusion I managed to rouse Nicholls & we beat a retreat through a glass door, which looked more holy than righteous after our exit. We both got some nasty knocks before we got away, on doing so, we went to a hotel & got Nicholls a bed. I left him & went down to the sea beach & washed myself & having a pocket comb I soon looked decent. Put in an appearance at Watsons by breakfast time gave them to understand I had staid at a friends home all night. Nicholls went to Melbourne that day where I hope he will be more careful of himself & find a friend who will stick to him as I did - he was very grateful & we parted good friends - Friday night I went to hear a lot of men playing upon a number of Bells producing the most exquisite music I ever heard, they call themselves the Lancaster Bell Ringers. This morning I went to Chapel. In the afternoon I went to Malander, found Minnie Crawford with him I used to know her husband on the Tuepeka who left her in a most disgraceful manner Charlie is very fond of her, & I believe he keeps her. We all went out for a walk, took a Boat & had a sail around the Bay, enjoyed ourselves very much. I received a most reproachful letter from Jenny yesterday entreating me to send for her so that she may be near me, reproaches me for want of feeling in not reciprocating her passion, thinks to pique me by informing me she has had several offers of marriage Etc. I strongly advise her to accept one of them {{Image|file=Aag-524.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/133}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-525 806]

{{Image|file=Aag-525.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/134}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-526 807]

[Compare with drawing from the [https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/otago-witness/1864/05/28/25 Otago Witness, 28th May, 1864, page 25], The scene is almost identical but from the opposite direction, clearly the Pier, Vessels and buildings of Dunedin. Even the detail of the ships replicates, (but from the opposite direction) On the 25th June 1864 he received from Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] some newspapers, it is possible he adapted from the newspaper drawing.] {{Image|file=Aag-526.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/135}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-527 808]

{{Image|file=Aag-527.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=3/136}} END OF JOURNAL 03
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 1863 Otago to 1865 Melbourne]
== Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] JOURNAL 4 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-528 809]

{{Image|file=Aag-528.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-529 810]

{{Image|file=Aag-529.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-530 811]

{{Image|file=Aag-530.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-531 812]

Journal Kept by John Henry Watmuff Dunedin, (Otago , New Zealand), & Melbourne from July 27th 1863 to [November 5th] 186[5]. {{Image|file=Aag-531.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-532 813]

Memo [Sunday, 26 July 1863] Dunedin, Otago. N.Z July 27th [26th] 1863 Weather, been very wretched, nothing but rain, mist & fog dirty streets, sloppy walks Etc & many other inconveniences to contend with of a like character, in this glorious place More changes, since, I last wrote, in my affairs, query, are they for the better. I’ll take the benefit of the doubt & try & think so. Last week finding travelling & canvassing for a printer was anything but a payable game, having only made a few shillings by the orders I received, I accepted an offer from Mr Field the Grocer to travel two days of the week for him. I made my first assay in the Grocery Line this week, furnished with a long list of the stock & the prices attached, a day beforehand. I went into the quiet places & made a monomanic study of my list & when I commenced I was pretty well posted up in the thing & could talk shop like an old hand. Tuesday & Thursdays the days I travelled, the rest of the week I devoted to my other master, the printer, earning from him something like 4/6 over my board which rather dishearted me. I receive 5/. a day from Field & a slight commission so I made about a guinea for the week. I was knocking about during the week & I fell in with an old acquaintance of mine named Waldbeeke, a Frenchman, he had, like myself, been unlucky on the diggens & left them in disgust, came to Dunedin looked for work & couldnt get any, & having some well to do connections in St America "Valpariso" he was determined to go there, more especially as there was a Brig sailing for there to day he & I talked the thing over & seeing little prospect of doing anything here, I agreed to go with him, if we could get a Berth on board, he is a sailor & I have some knowledge of a ship or what I dont know could easily learn, the Capt has been advertising for a Crew so I changed my clothes, on Friday afternoon putting {{Image|file=Aag-532.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-533 814]

on my old moleskins & Blue Serge shirt which Id still by me, & we presented ourselves at the shipping office. Walbeeke showed the Captain his last discharge & he was shipped as an Able Seaman. I not having a discharge had to "spin a yarn" how I had made several voyages, so I had, little ones, on the coast, but not having any intention of following up a seafaring life I had neglected to procure mine from the last ship I sailed in "The Sarah & Esther" at length I was shipped as ordinary seaman on Board the Brig "Guatemala" bound for S. America We were to get on board the following morning at Day Break, Walbeeke went on board at once. I going also, but not having my "kit" ready, I left him to go for it, & so all was settled & I was in a fair way of leaving the land of my adoption bent on seeking my fortune in another quarter of the Globe. I was returning home to Watsons for my things & dictating in my mind letters to Mother & my brother Ned when I met Mr Field. I informed him I was leaving Otago & should not be able to travel for him anymore, we had a long conversation together & he was very sorry I was going for I had given him satisfaction during the short time I had worked for him, having been very successful in procuring him the custom of some good families, he at length made me an offer of 30/. per week & my board & lodging which is equal to that sum in Dunedin - I hesitated some time about it, for I knew nothing of the business, & the hours are very long from 7 am to 9 pm & on Saturdays till 11 & 12 pm. however, I came to the conclusion that I had better accept it, for I should pick up a knowledge of the business, which would be a more legitimate thing than anything I am acquainted with & besides, I should also get & acquire business habits which would gradually wean {{Image|file=Aag-533.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-534 815]

me from the Monomania I have been this many years I am to commence on my new occupation in the morning (Monday) On parting with Field, I went to Watson & told him was going to leave him, he was very sorry to part with me, for we liked each other & Mrs. & Mr W. had began to look upon me as one of the family. Walbeeke came ashore in the evening to call for me to go on board with him. I informed him of my new projects, & told him to throw the Capt off my scent, if, he would have me, I having signed articles & rendered myself his property, & so we parted, he did what I wished & had the pleasure of seeing the vessel sail away this morning. I longed to be on board & I believe if the ship hadnt sailed so early in the day I should have gone on her. I felt in such an unsettled & uncertain state of mind, arising from the ever craving desire for excitement & change so inherant in ones nature who has long followed a gold diggers life, what a trifling circumstance changes a mans destiny. I was never more struck with the force of the idea than as exemplified in my own case, in connection with the proceeding events I have been relating - I left Watsons yesterday morning & took up my quarters at Murdocks where I am to lodge, Field not being able to accommodate me in his own house, for some weeks. Saturday afternoon I earned 5/. chopping up a load of wood & doing some little jobs at Haggatts the Solicitor, better than being idle - in the evening I went to the Theatre, saw George Coppin play "Paul Pry" I met a Manuherikia acquaintance, Sargent, who has just come down, tells me the River Molyneux is higher than ever & nearly everybody is leaving it This morning I went to the Roman Catholic Chapel to witness High Mass, it is the first time I ever witnessed the ceremonies of the Romish Church, which {{Image|file=Aag-534.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-535 816]

I must say are very grand especially when accompanied with good music as on this occasion, but however a being possessed with a grain of common sense can be influenced by a religion of such a ritualistic discription surprises me. I observed a priest walking up & down the aisles with a Fire Billy full of water in one hand & an ordinary looking paint brush in the other, which he every now and again put into the water & then sprinkled over the people & it was most absurd to see the way the poor heathens tried to catch the falling drops. I objected to receiving a shower Bath & when he came near where I was sitting I drew my coat over my shirt collar & front to save the starch - Washing is very dear in Dunedin, I paid 9d for my only white shirt to be got up - I went to dinner at Malanders & had tea at Dick Hills where I met [[Dight-42|H.Dight]], after tea took a strool together parted at 8 Pm & made for our respective homes - I forgot to mention I have seen Miss Morley several times during the week Mrs. Watson I fancy has some designs on me with regard to her couzin, who by the by, is one of the loveliest little women I ever met. Tuesday night I was keeping house Mr. & Mrs W. being out & Lizzie called & a pleasent evening we spent together all alone its very hard to keep heartwhole when our affections are not engaged, & being of a susceptible temperament I found it rather hard to keep from getting sentimental I saw her home & the night being dark I had all the romance drenched out of me, by the rain which fell in torrents on my way home wetting me through she lives some two miles from the head of MLaggan St. the road being narrow & running through a very lonely gully & up hill all the way, so much for young ladies, now for bed & another existence in Dreamland - {{Image|file=Aag-535.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-536 817]

Dunedin August 2nd 1863
Regular N.Z. weather during the winter months, rain hail frost & snow, no pleasure in being abroad, in fact no one thinks of going out except on business it is a common thing to see a lady walking about, when its fine overhead, as it generally is in the mornings, beautifully dressed, but with a pair of top Boots on her feet & short petticoats coming very little below the knees, & one sees on these occasions such a display of legs & ankles - I commenced on my new duties last Monday morning. I got on far better than I thought I should half of my time is taken up travelling for orders & soliciting patronage Etc the rest of the time I am kept in the shop assisting the other shopman, a nice young chap Beckingsale, in serving the customers - I often get laughed at by them, by the awkward manner, I have in wrapping up parcels. I cannot get ½ lb of tea & coffee & other things in the papers that are cut for them I always have to take the next size larger & so on - but every body must have a beginning, & I dare say Ill soon be equal for this sort of thing. Field likes me to keep travelling that is what he principally engaged me for. I like the business very well if we had not such infernal long hours. When the days work is over, perhaps after travelling over many miles of country around the hills which surround the town & where the bulk of the population live or reside Im terribly knocked up & am glad to get to my bed. No time for recreation for when we put up our shutters its time to go to bed & not go out visiting, it was 12 pm last night when we closed, which on doing we found Mrs. F had provided a {{Image|file=Aag-536.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-537 818]

nice supper for us. I was too tired to enjoy it, received my salary which with the commission amounted to £2 making my situation worth about £3.5.0 per week Field pays 7/. per week for my lodgings at Murdocks - I am getting uneasy about my brother Ned, not receiving a letter from him for such a time. I suppose poor fellow he is doing nothing & dont like writing until he sees of some chance of getting into something remunerative. I shall send for him to come to town now Im settled, he might get a job here & if not my salary will keep him during the winter months. Things are very dull just now, being the middle of a severe winter There are great numbers in town hanging out waiting for new rushes to break out & in the meantime many are living like the chameleon, on air, or next thing to it there is [not] a quarter of them at work nor is it procurable. I have to put many off I know, who are continually pestering me for the loan of a few shillings. It is very hard to refuse to lend, or give, a man money to procure a meal - but Im often under the necessity of doing so, much against my nature - [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] is working at his trade I often see him This morning we went to hear Dr Burns preach, he is a nephew of the great poet & resembles him in appearance, judging from the portraits I have seen of him, the Dr was partly with the Cargills the Founder of this colony, he is a fine venerable looking old Scotchman & is beloved & respected by all classes here. I saw [[Mollison-45|Jessie Mollison]] at Church with [[Niven-74|John Nevin]]. I believe they are to be married shortly, at last. I did not speak to them but when in Church I was struck by a singular coincidence, one of the psalms {{Image|file=Aag-537.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-538 819]

sung, was one Jessie & I used to sing a portion of as duet when we belonged to Mr. Nishs choir on Bendigo years ago. The last Sunday previous to her leaving there we sang it & I have not heard it since until this morning, the congregation didnt seem to know it well & when the Duet part came in, she took up her old part I was sitting two seats behind her & it came at once to my memory, & I let out & the harmony was first rate, at its conclusion she being surprised looked round & we smiled & recognised each other - tho I had not an opportunity of speaking afterwards dare say we shall meet before long - [[Niven-74|Nevin]] is exceedingly jealous & never introduces or takes her anywhere where she might meet any one, he fancies she likes After dinner, I called at Campbells they were out but I found I.Hallowell there, he has just come from Victoria I used to know him well & was very intimate with him on Bendigo, on parting with him I took a walk, being a fine day, up by the Barracks and along the top of the range of hills - the view of the Bay & shipping & the Pacific Ocean in the distance was truly grand - returned at sunset, had tea at a Cafe, went afterwards to Melanders found him out spent the evening with Minnie Crawford who is still living at the Baths & assists in the establishment. I think she is very fond of Charlie, but he does not appear to appreciate her partiality, poor creature, it seems a pity such a pretty goodnatured thing as she is should be deserted by her husband & lead the life she has done. I dont think she is above 20 years of age. I knew her husband years ago in Melbourne & also in Wetherstones, where he was engaged as pianist at DeLora’s & became enamoured with a girl living there, & eventually took her to himself & lived as man & wife, while their acquaintance was forming. Minnie Crawford his wife was on the way from Melbourne to join him {{Image|file=Aag-538.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-539 820]

On her arriving here, she staid in some boarding house & not having any money she sent up word to him for to send her some. The only acknowledgement she received was that he had left the place with a girl who passed for his wife, hard up & ill with not a friend & being pretty, temptations soon came in her way & she became what she is, a fallen angel. Charlie has been a good friend to her & tho he says he has never had improper connection with her, but always gives her a home when she wants one August 9th 1863
Miserable weather, getting more accustomed to my new vocation. I should like it well but for the long hours. I went to the Theatre on Tuesday night saw Clarence Holt in Richelieu Miss Aitken as Julia, it was 9.30 when I got there so I only saw the last three acts. I heard Dr Burns this morning, took a walk about town in the afternoon. Spent the evening at Hills, met [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] his job only lasted a few days. I hope he will get into something constant. I have not felt well the last few days, slight attack of fever & ague August 16th 1863 Been horrible weather, snowing one day, thawing & perhaps raining the next, not half the streets in Dunedin being macadamised the roads & by ways are nearly impassable, our orders we receive for Groceries we have to carry out on our back, our storeman not being able to do the work himself I didnt fancy doing it, but when I saw Field himself starting away with a Basket load I did not {{Image|file=Aag-539.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-540 821]

hesitate, being a work of necessity. I have been very unwell with a severe cold & violent headache, if I had a home I would not have gone to work cold feet & dirty muddy clothes & long hours & no rest knocks up a fellow - We cant get a man to stay above a month at at a time, usually leave, worn out, or tired of the job I received a letter from Fred & another from Bessie, she is very comfortable & happy at Mr Dewars. Freds letter gave me the Blues things at home are not in a prospering state I long & yet dread to hear from Mother. I dont expect to do so until I have written to her & Im not inclined to do so until I have some money to spare to send her Ive made up my mind to leave this colony as soon as I can save a few pounds Stg enough to carry me over, every shilling Ive as yet earned Ive spent in necessaries with very trifling exceptions. I have no clothes fit to stand such inclement weather as we have had, & to procure them will cost me all I earn for some weeks to come - I received a letter from Mr Halley, he informs me Isa King is married to a Mr Lay of Castlemaine. I trust he is worthy of her for I know of no woman more capable of rendering a man happy than Isa. I should feel proud if ever I should get a wife, tho’ she was far from being perfection, there were many things in Isa’s I didnt admire, but to do her justice I never met her equal. Whether I ever shall is questionable - I was fond of her loved her {{Image|file=Aag-540.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-541 822]

as any boy ever loved a girl I was astonished yesterday by my old friends Christy Foyne & Alf Peel paying me a visit. They had just arrived in town from the Manuherikia, having disposed of their business some time back there - but what was my astonisment when they informed me that Jenny Woodhoouse had come to town with them having left a good situation to do so in their company, with the purpose so they stated of seeing me - submit to all the hardships & privations of such a journey. I could not leave my business to go with them but promised to call the next day (today Sunday) on them. I went after breakfast. Jenny was frantic at seeing me, & into [fell] into my arms in the most melodramatic style, I can’t say I was pleased at that sort of thing. We had a long serious conversation together & I gave her to understand I had no notion of living with her, she was very hurt at what she termed my coolness, she has spent all the money she had saved, in her expenses down & buying clothing Etc - she informs me her board is paid for the coming week, & she now intends looking out for a situation - I think I can get her one, I must do what I can for her as its my own folly getting entangled in such a manner I must suffer the consequences. What a silly thing a woman is who lets her passion get the better of her discretion O' how I could love such a fond devoted woman were she what she ought to be, if I was alone in the world with no one [to] throw discredit by upon my doings I fancy I could make a good woman of her in taking her to myself in spite [of] all the spots & blemishes upon her, she is really beautiful {{Image|file=Aag-541.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-542 823]

& some 2 or 3 years younger than myself but lacks a great disserative tact, talent she has, but whats talent without tact, a lovely flower severed from its stem - I wish Id never seen her, when will I ever learn to acquire a little sense - I went to the theatre on Wednesday night to hear the Celebrated Christy Minstrels who are at present on a Tour round the principal towns in the Australian colonies. I never listened or heard such splendid singing before. I was rather disappointed at their individual voices except the Principal Tenor Stewart, who has the best voice I ever heard but the perfect harmony of their voices in concerted music was something to remember nothing has ever been heard like it in N.Z. [Sunday, 20 September 1863] Sept {{Red|12}}th 1[20th]863
How time flies. I had given up all idea of continuing a journal any longer, it being nearly five weeks since I wrote last, for on looking over my journal I find there are many portions of my life where Ive been led away by surrounding circumstances into the committal of many errors of judgement & done & been guilty of many acts that does not reflect much credit upon me - Ive had so many vile associations & being away & free from social restrictions I have indulged in excesses of not the highest moral order & find Ive glossed over in my journal many passages of my life that I should have made stand out prominent to serve me as a lesson in the future & to avoid falling into the committal of the same again - my life perhaps {{Image|file=Aag-542.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-543 824]

considering the many temptations, & privations & associations will perhaps bear as favourable a comparison to others who have not been so situated as myself who have no excuse in plunging into sin & crime & having kept a journal so long I do not like to destroy it & yet if I keep it, it must ever be a reproach to me - as not containing the whole truth although there is nothing in it that is not so, without even the slightest tinge of colouring - If I do anything Im ashamed about, I dont like to relate it if I want to record anything thats to my credit, I call myself egotist & refrain so it is not so easy to keep a conscientious journal even of ones own life, however now I have started i[t] once more Ill endeavour to keep it for a while longer - I have stated it is five weeks since I last wrote, it is not difficult to recall to memory how my time has been spent, suffice it to state, that for 15 hours a day Im engaged in the Shop, going out for orders returning, making them up, & sending them out to their destinations wet or dry, hail or rain the same thing the same round of monotonous work. Im getting to be quite a smart shopman can tie up a parcel of Tea as well as anyone - I left Murdocks, again, last night. Mrs. F has been confined of a little boy & I am for the future to lodge in the house viz. a stretcher which is brought into the shop when the shutters are up, a most unwholesome bedroom {{Image|file=Aag-543.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-544 825]

fragrant with the perfume of cheese & bacon & other highly flavoured edibles. I wonder Field is not ashamed to expect a man to live in such a style I would rather be as I was when I left the shop I could do what I like, but now I must tell him when I go out & he has to sit up for me until I return, he always likes to see every one in bed. Mrs. F. told me all this. I do dislike her she is a nasty cantankerous creature tall & gaunt, with an angels face & a devils heart, so soft & catlike in her mode of speech but so like a tigress when she does not like anyone, she is awfully mean & skinny in her providing for us, she hates me, thinks Ive too great influence over her husband & am far too independant in my manner, she serves in the shop sometimes during Fields absence & it annoys her terribly to see the customers prefer being served by me than her, after they leave the shop she will come & rate me for being too liberal & having too much to say to them & all that sort of thing, which at first annoyed me, now, it amuses me, she tells F. I insult her & he talks to me & I explain & all is right, he knows she would ruin his business if she wasnt stopped, & she has such influence over him that I pity him sometimes for being so henpecked, she gives us oatmeal porridge for breakfast, a little of it is very good but every morning is rather too much & I objected, one day I saw a pan of bacon on the fire, so I went & helped myself to a rasher or two, it had been cooked for {{Image|file=Aag-544.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-545 826]

their breakfast & not for the shopmens & she came out in a towering passion & abused me terribly I stood it quietly for a short time eating away, she standing by with the dish in her hand when I rose from my feet & very deliberately helped myself to another rasher from the dish in her hand, she was speechless with range & went into her own room, on Field coming in I told him all about it & gave his notice to leave, he wouldnt hear of it, but he promised his wife should not interfere with me anymore & on that condition, I agreed to remain & he now sees that we have different provisions made for us breakfasts. The other meals we have together They are not very sociable for after the shop is closed, they sit together in a snug little room while I sit in one that is used for dining room & kitchen in company with the servant a little chubby Cornish girl & as ugly as a woman can be, my sight will not permit me to read without using glasses, which I have had to obtain if [I] use them for more than half an hour at a time they make my head ache. I often help Field with his "Books" do all the posting Etc he means to make over the Book Keeping to me shortly, altogether. I shall take fine care I do the work during the day & not after shop hours as he does - What a long dissertation on the shop & my master & "missus" I have received no letter from Ned since I last wrote, but I have heard that he is at present living over the Umbrella Ranges, "Old Man" at a diggins lately discovered called Campbells Crest {{Image|file=Aag-545.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-546 827]

& that he & party are at present snowed in along with a number of other parties in the same locality, & that all communication is stopped between there & the Dunstan. I hope to God they have a good stock of provisions. I am & shall be very uneasy about him until I hear of his safety, more especially as I hear nearly every day of parties being lost in the snow there. Many bodies have been discovered of people who have perished having lost their way in snow storms. I wrote to Mr Halley & also to my brother Fred. I cant write to mother until I hear something of Ned. Jenny is still in town. I paid for her two weeks board & lodging at the Geelong Boarding House, until about three weeks ago, she got a situation the other end of the town. I was very glad she got one, knowing the people I know she will be comfortable. I have not been to see her since she entered upon her duties but I have received a note from her nearly every other day. I replied to one, very briefly I hear there is some fellow who is greatly smitten with her & came down from the Dunstan on purpose to push his suit, he wants to marry her. I strongly recommend her to accept him, he knows nothing of her antecedents & thinks she has never been married, owing to my neglect or coolness I think she will accept him I would not be surprised if she does. I must go & see her this evening last Sunday night I went to tea at Hills, spent a jolly evening there flirting with Sarah & another young lady. Met [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] poor devil he is out of work again, he is thinking {{Image|file=Aag-546.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-547 828]

of going to Queenstown on the Lakes & join his brother Jack & [[Rowett-151|Rowitt]]. I advise him not to do so until the winter is over say in another 6 weeks. This morning, as per advertisement, I went to witness Grand Mass in the Roman Catholic Chapel, the performance consisting of the usual holy show & the Christy Minstrels being engaged to sing Mozart 12th Mass, the latter part of the entertainment was truly grand & beautiful I shall never forget the treat as long as I live. Stewart the Tenor & Rainford the Bass, with Moloyn being the principal vocalists I have often heard tell of this mass & I have heard some of the music sung before but it failed to excite anything like enthusiasm in me, but to day I could perceive the beauties of this finest of the great composers pieces I had to pay 1/. for admittance, & the place was crowded, even the building outside the walls was hemmed in with people [Sunday, 4 October 1863] Dunedin October 1863
About a fortnight since I continued my journal & to state the truth I have very little inclination to continue it, for my life has so much sameness about it that the continual recital of my present mode of existence makes it a most uninteresting task & another reason is I have so little time to call my own that I begrudge the time it takes to write the little I do. I have often heard people say they haven't much time. I thought it all nonsense, but I now find there are some {{Image|file=Aag-547.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-548 829]

in the world who have only time to devote to business & none for pleasure or recreation 'tis very late when we close & having no place where I can be by myself makes my present existence nearly unbearable as to think of improving my mind, thats quite out of the question Ive given up the idea & so vanishes the fairest hope I had in abandoning my hitherto nomadic life. I’ve not read a page of a book or even a newspaper since living with Field I feel I am an exemplification of of the old adage All work & no play makes Jack a dull boy I am getting dull & stupid, cannot con- -verse or dis[ser]tate with half the vigour & force I could when mixing with some of the bright spirits I met & associated with on the Dunstan In my last entry I stated I was going to see Jenny. I did so & found her just married or else living with the person I alluded to, they took handsome furnished lodgings not far from here, tho’ I did not know her whereabouts till last Tuesday when I received a short note from her stating she wished to see me very particularly so after closing the shop I visited her found her in most comfortable quarters she seemed very sad & melancholy & was not well, her reason for wanting to see me was to break to me as she thought, the news of my brother Neds death - she had received a note from some one on the Dunstan & in it was an account of his being lost in the snow storm – it is needless to state how shocked & greived I was, but a reaction took place which compelled my grief as follows before leaving the shop Field gave me a letter, being dark I hadnt observed the writing or opened it, while at {{Image|file=Aag-548.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-549 830]

Jennys I did so & found it bearing a later date than hers, in fact it was from Ned, who was alive & well. It appears the two letters I had written to Ned were a/d the P.O. Manuherikia Ned at the time was snowed in Campbells, but his mate managed to get from the place & found his way to the township Ned had requested him to call at the P.O. which he did, & got my letters the man in company with an old friend of mine named Bullock endeavoured to find their way back to Campbells, in doing so, it came on to snow, & night coming on, the[y] lost sight of their land marks & getting bewildered they lost them- -selves among the Umbrella Ranges. Neds mate got knocked up & could not wander further & sat down requesting Bullock to leave him & try & save himself. Bullock states he carried & dragged him for miles, until nearly exhausted he was compelled to leave him to his fate & there on some spot unknown lies poor [[Cordts-25|Nicholas the Dane]] - I knew him well. Bullock after the most incredible suffering found himself at the {{Red|*}}lonely tent of some prospector the following evening, having lost through the frost some of his toes & three fingers, he is now in the Dunstan Hospital, my letters are now in the possession of the dead man - an a/c of the circumstances appeared in the papers since. - Many people on the Dunstan thought it was Ned that was lost for what reason I knew not – & so it came that Jennys correspondant made the mistake & wrote in such a manner. Ned is now on the Dunstan, having made his escape from Campbells one clear day in company with another mate, who was nearly sharing the fate of Nicholas, getting cold & numbed he wanted to fall asleep. Ned had some difficulty he {{Image|file=Aag-549.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-550 831]

states in keeping him moving, he thinks Nicholas's body wont be found until the summer sets in & the snow melts off the mountains. Campbells is situated where Nelson & I once went out on a prospecting tour on the occasion of the river Molyneux first rising shortly after our arrival in that neighbourhood Wednesday night after closing the shop I went to see how Jenny was she not being well when I called on her the night before found her very unwell staid all night with her nursing & giving her medicine Etc. she is living alone, her husband, or whoever he is, having left her & gone to the diggins. I think he has left her for good. I am sorry for her for I know it was only in a fit of spleen, that she {{Red|*}}accompanyed him & he, knowing she didnt love him left two days afterwards I dont know what she purposes doing, being a good needlewoman I have no doubt she will turn her attention to what she is capable of doing - Enclosed in Neds letter was one from my sister Mary that he had received about a month ago she wishes we were both back again in Victoria, not half so anxiously as we do ourselves for we are not doing anything at present or see any chance of doing so, to tempt us to remain in this province for my own part I cannot send any money to mother, my own expenses & having no clothes & wanting so many little necessaries I am always short of money. I mean to leave this place as soon as I can save up a few pounds to enable me to return home decently. Last Sunday afternoon Tom Downs & [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] & I took a walk, visited several {{Image|file=Aag-550.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-551 832]

acquaintances, after which we took a boat & crossed the pretty Bay of Otago landed at the foot of a flight of steps which on ascending led us to a the top of [a] hill, beautifully situated & nearly surrounded by water. The grounds are nicely laid out in some parts & are called the Vauxhall Gardens, a beautiful view is obtained from this place that well repays one for a visit after partaking of some refreshment & having had a pleasent chat with a pretty Barmaid, we returned arrived in town about 8.Pm, called at Jones & had tea there, then rambled about the streets till nearly 11 pm [Sunday, 11 October 1863] Dunedin Oct 1{{Red|2}}th.[11th] 1863
Lovely weather the fore part of the week – but it came on to rain on Friday & we have had nasty times since. Tuesday & Wednesday I spent very pleasently, being slack in the shop I went to see if I could do anything amongst the Farmers, Tuesday, I went out on the Teire Road & was’nt very successful, the next day I had quite a treat, saddled my horse & with a few samples, I rode out to Andersons Bay, did not stay long there, but pushed on to the "Tomahawk Vally" the road laying along the seaside made it very pleasent, visited a number of Scotch families "Old Identities" as they are called, found them very friendly & hospitable but very difficult to do business with, they have Butter & Eggs to sell & want a good price for them & yet haggle with me concerning the prices of my goods I at length came to terms with them got a lot {{Image|file=Aag-551.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-552 833]

of good orders out of them. Friday, I spent in taking them out in the Cart the road was a fearful one & coming on to rain made it worse & my horse jibbing every few yards nearly drove me mad. Wet through, splashed with mud & tired I reached home wishing the Tomahawk Vally & its inhabitants at the North Pole I wrote to Mother last Sunday & also to Bessie - [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] got into a good billet last week but left it to go to a better one some 35 miles from town on the Mungatuha Mountains he intends calling at the new gold field lately discovered on the Teiri River the rush has caused a great sensation in town great numbers have left town for there the reports are very encouraging. I wish Ned was near here so he might go & try his luck at it. I have got the "gold fever" on me a complaint I thought I was cured of, but no! here I am suffering from it & long to shoulder my swag & pick & shovel & have a try, & its only by a great effort I can refrain from following the bent of my inclination in this respect I can scarcely withstand the temptation, if Harry sends me favourable accounts of it I might go. Curse gold digging I say, there is an infatuation about it, nobody can understand but those who followed the occupation. God knows I have known privations & dangers in connection with it that ought to deter any sane man from becoming a gold digger {{Image|file=Aag-552.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-553 834]

I wrote to my mother & also to my sister Bessie last Sunday night. I got up early this morning 8.30, for Sabbath Day, took a strool along the sea side, moralising over a copy of Youngs Night Thoughts I had with me, called at a photographer on my way home, & had my "phiz" with all its marks & blemishes conveyed on glass, called to see Jenny in the evening, the said portrait tumbling out of my pocket, she picked it up & nothing would induce her to give it up & so went my 10s/- worth of vanity - [Sunday, 18 October 1863] Oct 17th.[18th] 1863
The weather has been truly wretched all the week & in my situation I get the full benefit of all the miseries attending the same, travelling for orders & then again delivering them, sometimes cannot get within a 1/4 of a mile of the houses & so have to load myself like a patient ass that I am with them on my back, no joke sometimes when I have a Sack of Flour to carry or a Bag of Potatoes Etc. Etc - Wednesday I went to the "Tomahawk" had a fine ride, fell in with a fine {{Red|*}}dashing girl on the road, on horseback, she appeared to know me, & the road being lonely I got into conversation & soon became very intimate, she is a daughter of one of my [[Henderson-24126|customers]] & is known in the town & for miles around by the Sobriquet of [[Henderson-24129|"Bonnie Annie" (Henderson)]] she is the best rider the greatest flirt & wildest girl in Otago, not {{Image|file=Aag-553.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-554 835]

more than 20 years of age a good bold handsome face & a fine full figure, which figure could be seen to advantage in her riding habit - she told me I had been much spoken about in her neighbourhood & admitted having come out for no other purpose than to meet me, many would have felt flattered by such an admission & I was a little, but her railing I was not prepared for she laughed & chaffed me about my bad horsemanship asked me if I could box & fence {{Red|*}}sevens Etc. which I was not modest enough to deny. I seemed to get more into favor & by the time we reached her fathers farm we were as jolly as two lovers, her mother told me she couldnt manage her, all her sweethearts & admirers she drove away by her Amazonian manner - & no wonder - on leaving the place I wanted a kiss & for my pains I was near getting a blow that might have felled an ox I, by a dexterous move succeeded in catching her hand & by screwing her arm round I rendered her powerless & took half a dozen kisses from her, she looked mortified & father & mother were delighted & clapped their hands & praised my pluck & so I left them, having to visit them yes- -terday. I found her spiteful, & having a desire to kiss her I tried it on & it was only after a most severe struggle I got satisfied, having to come into town & her horse being lame she accompanied me in my "Trap" found her very sociable & friendly, told me a lot about the various beaus she’d had & how she had served them Etc, she made me laugh about one she {{Red|*}}scared named Dodd, Andrew Smiths master who is at present in England, he courted her for five years & as a last resource adopted an old {{Image|file=Aag-554.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-555 836]

ancient poets (Oved) advice flew to tears thinking with them to melt her stony heart. This so disgusted her she threatened to horse whip him if he ever apd her again & so the poor gentleman left the colony & I hear he has found a wife since his absence & is on his way out with her it would fill volumes were I to write down all she told me & all I heard about this girl & her pranks There is some beautiful scenery along the road & she made me stop at many turnings wherever a good view could be obtained - it was not very nice after such a pleasent drive to have to turn to & go behind the counter & dole out parcels of groceries till 12 pm, but there is nothing like mixing the sweets & bitters together & take the pleasure & pain as philosophically as possible, in this world, for taking our lives throughout I think were we to keep a record of all our pleasures & pains the majority of mankind would find that more of the former falls to our share than the latter, but we are so fond of nursing our sorrows & afflictions & making more of them than they deserve that is the cause of much of mans repining. Pleasures we take as a matter of course & think we [are] justly entitled to all we can get, & we never think of putting them in view of the reverse & strike a balance - I received a long letter from [[Dight-42|H.Dight]], he is comfortably settled in his new situation & is hard at work erecting a Store or Hotel, he informs me the {{Image|file=Aag-555.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-556 837]

Rush at Tieri is not much a/c, he found very few doing well, but saw great numbers walking about idle on the whole he winds up by stating, I had better remain where I am than venture on gold digging in that quarter until something better breaks out Novr.22nd 1863 A Month & more since I continued my journal my reason, I had no time, or when I had, had not the desire, & so I make excuses for the occasion but having kept a journal so many years I feel that I am neglecting a necessary duty by not continuing it, such is the power of habit. The duty is not always a pleasent one, for on referring back it brings to my mind many unpleasent reminiscences of the by gones. My object in first comencing a diary was with the desire to improve myself mentally & I believe nothing has tended to do so more than this very thing & I would advise anyone who has not secured the advantages arising from a regular education when young, to adopt a similar plan. Nothing like writing much tends to improve one in their Caligraphy & Orthography far more in my opinion than reading - I have met many people who could converse well & some who could get upon a platform & deliver a good Lecture or address & are not able to sit down & write & dicate a letter that would bear inspection. But leave reflections & turn my attention to my duty & note down in some degree how time has passed or how I have passed my {{Image|file=Aag-556.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-557 838]

share of it since I last wrote, I am still at Fields the Grocers, George St. Shopman, Traveller & Bookkeeper alternately, working away like a poor drudge, longer hours than ever. I may state in reference to long hours I have done my utmost in endeavouring to get an Early Closing Movement. I could get plenty of sypathisers amongst my fellow sufferers, but not enough working even to get up a Committee to organise the thing, so I have given it up in dispair having fully resolved to leave the town of Dunedin with those who are satisfied with their lot in it, to their fate - I have heard no- -thing from Ned direct, last week I got a note from Procter informing me he & Fowler were working together on the Manuherikia, he states my brother Ned had left the Molyneaux & had gone up to "Foxes" to see Nelson & ascertain if there was anything to be done in that locality I hope poor fellow he will not come to grief but that he may be fortunate to drop into something that will repay him for all his late illuck. I wrote to him addressing the letter to Queenstown - I wish he was in town near me. I have saved about £10.0.0 & in a short time I hope to have sufficient money to take us both out of this infernal country I received a long letter from Bessie, she is still with Mrs. Dewer at Echuca, but from the tenor of her diction I should infer she was getting dissatisfied, & feels she is trespassing {{Image|file=Aag-557.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-558 839]

on her kind friends good nature too much - to such a degree that she is on the lookout for a situation as a Nursing Governess Poor girl I am sorry she is so situated as to have to do anything of the kind at her age. I cannot bear to think of it, it drives me mad to think I or her brothers & not in a position to keep her from having to take such a recourse for a living, to fill up my cup of misery I recd a long letter from my Mother, full of troubles she is greatly in debt & is afraid of an execution being put in the house. My sister Mary is very unwell & her little school in consequence, is falling away. Ive pondered well whether to send what money I have to her, but after serious consideration I have come to the conclusion it is better to keep it until I hear from Ned whether he is agreeable to leave with me, if he is not, I shall return to Victoria alone Jenny has been living in town at the same place until within the last fortnight. I went to see her often, she has recovered from her illness & looked as beautiful as ever, the person who I thought she married, proves to be some friend of hers who had known her for a long time & being under compliment to her was very kind & left her some money, he wants to marry her, but she does not like him well enough for that, however on his leaving Dunedin he went to the Dunstan & managed to get her a good situation there she left her. We had another affectionate parting, which I sincerely hope will be {{Image|file=Aag-558.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-559 840]

the last of the series, she gave me a silver hunting watch before going to keep as a memento & so we parted good friends & thoroughly understanding each other & the line of conduct we are to pursue toward each other for the future, if I never see her again I will always think of her as the kindest, best natured, & the most self sacrificing being I ever met, all she wanted from me was to live ever near me & be, as she often & in my opinion very foolishly remarked become my ministering angel Etc I know & feel I shall never meet another woman so devoted & sincere in an attachment for me - I got a note from her a few days since informing me of her safe arrival & enclosed in it was £2.0.0 money I had lent her, or given it, for I never expected it back again & had she been in town I would not have taken it from her, for Ned informed that many times he had gone into Foynes Restaurant hungry & had no money or if he had could ill spare it, & had his meals & she being waitress there would never take money from him, knowing how he was circumstanced & she had to pay it out of her own pocket sometimes, & any friends of mine who happened to be "hard up" she would always give them a meal out of regard for me - I have seen several old acquaintances lately, J.Falder, Fawcett, Wright, & others, they have been very unlucky lately & purpose returning to Victoria. I was greatly surprised {{Image|file=Aag-559.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-560 841]

on Saturday last by seeing Frank Perring come into the shop. I thought it was a ghost for I had heard he was lost in the snow & a body had been recovered resembling him so much that several identified it as his cor[p]se - Poor fellow when I saw him first footsore & weary he was a fine manly handsome fellow, fatigue & hardship attending life as a gold digger in a severe climate like this has done its work. Poor, thin, worn out & emaciated he came to ask me for a few shillings to carry him to Waikouitti where he hopes to get a job to help to execute the new pier at present being formed there, about 50 miles up the coast from here. I gave him all the money I could spare & also some few necessaries out of the store, he told me on parting he knows of the existence of a rich gully somewhere in the Umbrella Ranges, but he cant get there or at it for some months to come until the snow clears away, he intends on his return to let me know & we may go & work it together he must have some foundation for his belief for he is the last man I know capable of telling me a falsehood or misleading one in anyway - another surprise I had far exceeding & more agreeable than the previous one, I have experienced, about a month ago, I was taking out a load of groceries contained in a Basket which I had on my head, it was a wet dark stormy night & nearly 10 pm - when a man accosted me {{Image|file=Aag-560.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-561 842]

by asking if I knew where Mr Fields shop was. I told him I could show him the place – which I did not being far from it at the time he then asked me if I new J.H. Watmuff who was living there. I was sure I did & looking into the face of my friend who had commenced to laugh most immodestly. I discovered him to be my dear old friend, J.[[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] who had landed that same day from a ship from Glasgow & having fell in with A.Smith late in the evening had learned from him where I was living & had at once posted down to see me, rather singular that he should drop upon me at such a time we were very glad to see each other & it wasnt long before I visited him & his wife & family at their lodgings, it is nearly three years since he left Victoria for Scotland where he has been located ever since, but his business not being remunerative enough & longing to visit Australia again, he gave it up & came out to this colony induced by the reports of the gold discoveries & the hope of making a fortune, like everybody else, he is trying to get into a situation of some kind. I hope he may succeed, for it must be a source of great anxiety to his mind, being unemployed with a wife & two children & not possessed of much money. I have been to see them very often. {{Image|file=Aag-561.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-562 843]

Mrs H. has greatly impoved during her absence not only in appearance but in her manner she is really a pretty ladylike woman & having mixed in better society at home than she did in Australia has tended to their improvement - I have seen [[Henderson-24129|Bonnie Annie]] pretty often lately & have carried on a most violent flirtation with her, not of the most creditable description either, she is as wild as ever, cares for no one, & is reckless of consequences, full of romance & passion – & yet with all a little matter of fact. I one night went to their place after leaving business & walked the distance, 7 miles after 9 P.m. & stayed with her till near 1 am. I know it was nearly daylight when I got home, & not being able to get inside the house, I climbed over the fence & slept in the stable until it was time to resume business I have been twice to the Theatre since I last wrote, on one occasion to see [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]], on the Prince of Wales Birthday which was observed by many as a fete day - I wrote to Mother & also to Fred about a week ago - The weather has been fearfully cold, wet & miserable lately [Sunday, 6 December 1863] December {{Red|4}}th [6th] 1863 Three weeks since I continued my journal I never was so indifferent to continuing it than I have felt the past four months I cannot help it. I have to work so hard & such long hours & that I have no time {{Image|file=Aag-562.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-563 844]

or when I have, I have no inclination for when I have any leisure, I generally feel a craving for some excitement to work off the morbid feelings engendered by my occupation. I have been very ill during the last fortnight the weather being so severe & continually abroad & getting so often wet through & hanging about in wet clothes, & having very uncomfortable quarters to live & sleep in, brought on a severe cold accompanied with ague. I bore up as long as possible, but at length had to give up work, but having no bedroom, but the shop, I had to turn out. I laid down one day on the hay in the Stable & feeling worse, I dragged myself into the street (Mrs. Field having informed me she could not do with sick people about the place,) having with difficulty dressed myself, I went to the George Hotel & got a bed, but could not sleep for pain In the morning I went forth & reached A.Smiths shop & he made me up some physics & told me to get home & keep my bed. On leaving his place I felt such a sense of loneliness as I never before experienced I felt I would sooner have died in the streets than go to any of my acquaintances in such {{Image|file=Aag-563.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-564 845]

a state & become a burden to them. I crawled about feeling so weak & ill that I had not energy enough to form an idea what to do with myself - while in this state I met [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] I had not seen him for some days & he was not aware I was so ill, he insisted upon me going home with him to his house – which I did, a bed was soon prepared & I was got into a persperation which I firmly believe saved my life & with his & Mrs. H. kind nursing & care I soon recovered I lived with them several days, they are living about 1½ miles out of town, in a Cottage beautifully situated on a sideline on the Valley of the Water of Leith. I pray God may bless & reward them for their kindness to me. Poor Jim is still unemployed & his means are getting very reduced, & he is very low spirited. I hope something may turn up in his favour I am still very weak, but I intend resuming my work in the morning, but I am sure I will never take such an interest in the business again while with Field as I have done. I can never forget their unnatural behaviour towards me as long as I live I think Field is sorry for he has been very kind & tried to make up for his wifes hard – -heartedness by many little actions, for the {{Image|file=Aag-564.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-565 846]

fortnight I was away, he only stopped one weeks salary, even that with my physic & other matters makes the loss in a pecuniary sense of my illness a serious matter, however I feel thankful to providence for his kindness in so soon again restoring me to health & vigour I was looking over the paper containing a list of unclaimed letters & saw my name advertised I made application at the P.O. & found no less than three there for me from H.Vickerman written in the Hospital Bendigo, where he has been confined for some time, owing to his lame leg having broken out again poor fellow he will think it very cruel of me not having answered them. I wrote to him immediately & explained to him how it was I did not receive his letters ere now. My letters are always a/d to Fields & he must have forgotten the address Lizzie is living with some Doctors family in Sandhurst & is very comfortable. Uncle Charles has left Bendigo for Adelaide having deserted his children in my opinion in a shameful manner (Harry in the Hospital & Lizzie in service, I am surprised at his want of affection, for his children are well worthy of all he could bestow upon them I met Dave Hazlett & Pickett last night, they had just come down from the diggins having lost nearly all they made up there before. We went to the Theatre together saw [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] & Clarence {{Image|file=Aag-565.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-566 847]

Holt in Belphegor the Mountebank, after the performance, being too late to go to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] I accompanied them to their tent which they had pitched in the Scrub, near the Cemetery by the Robin Hood Hotel, & stayd with them all night, rather novel to me after living the last few months in a house. After having breakfast with them, I came to the Shop & dressed myself Dave & I took a strool, met Mr & Mrs Hamilton going to Church, but being late, we all went visiting called upon several acquaintances & parted about dinner time. After dining Dave & I called for A.Smith & we took a long walk, being a lovely day we enjoyed [ourselves.] The scenery around Dunedin is beautiful & I never remember viewing it to such advantage as I did then. We called at Dumas’ on our road they are a family we knew on Bendigo very nice people, they insisted upon us staying tea which we did & afterwards we all went together to the Wesley Church Bell Hill & heard the Revd. Mr. Harding preach an excellent sermon delivered especially for the benefit of young men & one I shall not forget in a hurry. We parted & went to our several homes after the service was over [Sunday, 13 December 1863] Decr.1{{Red|2}}th.[13th]1863 Quite a sudden change in the weather, the last few days not a drop of rain having fell quite a treat to see nice clean streets - My time spent much as usual, rise in the morning at 6.30 open the shop at sharp 7 am close at 9.30 in the evening, so I have no time for {{Image|file=Aag-566.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-567 848]

pleasure or recreation, always in the shop or else out for orders and delivering the same never go anywhere for a change, & never keep or go into company. The pleasentest part of my occupation is travelling. I have a fine horse to ride & all my customers in the country are always very glad to see me & make quite a fuss of me, of course, I get myself well posted up in local news so I am looked upon as quite an oracle by a lot of these simple Scotch farming folks, in fine weather this travelling is delightful, but in wet weather, horrible, the country being so rough & hilly especially about the penninsula in the neighbourhood of the Tomahawk The land there is cut up in small blocks of about 20 acres, & being densely timbered to a stranger appears a cold uninhabited district & one is astonished to find buried in such a forest such a number of little homesteads. They cultivate a few acres, keep a few cows have poultry & what with hard work, & not having many wants they appear to be the happiest mortals in existence, most of these Scotch settlers come from the far North of Scotland brought up hardy, frugal & simple, they are perfectly happy, & appear contented but can mortal want more on this earth Sunday is the day I enjoy. This morning I went to hear a popular preacher who has lately settled in Dunedin, named Connebee. I liked him {{Image|file=Aag-567.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-568 849]

exceedingly so much so that I also went to hear him this evening. In the afternoon, I saddled my horse & rode out to Andersons Bay, waded through the water to the foot of a pathway which led into Vauxhall Gardens where I found a great number of people enjoying themselves. The Gardens are beautifully & romantically situated on a high piece of ground thickly wooded & nearly entirely surrounded by the waters of the pretty Bay of Otago. These grounds are the only ones ornamented & laid out for pleasure in the province The usual mode of arriving at them is by taking a Boat at the Jetty & sail across, & a lovely sail of two miles it is, on a fine day, it is fully 5 miles from here by land the scenery is really charming & well repays the labour of a visit refreshments are to be procured & another attraction are the very pretty barmaids there, night is the time to see them to perfection there is a dancing pavillion erected & a good Band is engaged, about twice aweek & then is the time for fun. After leaving Chapel this evening I joined a party of friends & we took a walk for an hour or so, along the road which runs along the top of the hills which surround Dunedin being a nice mild moonlight night & the company pleasent I enjoyed myself very well - but to come home to such a cursed place as I am living in is horrible, my home is under the counter in the shop - {{Image|file=Aag-568.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-569 850]

[Sunday, 20 December 1863] Decr.{{Red|19}}th.[20th] 1863 We have had lovely weather during the past week with the exception of one wet day, Friday, Time slipped by as usual, working hard but little time for pleasure or recreation, except on Thursday St Andrews Day, which was observed by the Scotch as a Fast Day, & out of respect to them nearly every body else made a holiday of it, few I think fasted, but every one appeared bent on enjoyment & pleasure - We closed the shop about 10 Am when I left it determined to enjoy myself for once. I met pretty Liz Morley & took a walk with her to the wharf where we met her Father waiting for her in a boat to take her home, they wanted me to go home with them, but I couldnt see - a long pull down to the Heads, where they live, & {{Red|*}}see {{Red|*}}any chance of getting back the next day so I was forced to decline, on bidding them adieu, I met John Nevin & his wife Jessie, they were uncertain what to do with themselves for the day, so we agreed to take a boat & have a sail on the Bay, we soon put this proposal into execution & we were soon sailing along in gallant style {{Red|*}}we made for the Gardens, arrived there at dinner time & after refreshing ourselves with the good things that were to be procured for love & money we rambled about the peninsula admiring the charming & romantic scenery of that neighbourhood I never felt so lighthearted & happy. I was more like a child than anything else. Id run & bound & sing & shout, roll on the grass, climb trees, quote from my {{Image|file=Aag-569.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-570 851]

favorite authors & conducted myself in other forms of insanity, at length tired out we returned to our boat & returned across the Bay. I accompanied my friends home & had tea with them, & staid till nearly 10 pm at their house talking over old times & laughing over the little jealousies that once affected each of us John & Jessie appear to love each other & are very happy I hope they will long continue to be so united, on leaving them I went to the Theatre, just in time to see the Burlesque of Cinderella, [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] as usual being the life & soul of the pieces, she sang & danced & appeared more piquant & irresistible than ever - I met old friends there, Hazlett & Pickett & my old mate Joe Russell who has just come down for a few days from Wetherstones, where he had been located ever since I left him to go to the Dunstan, he tells me he has done well & at present possesses a claim that he employs about a dozen men to work he offered me ₤4.0.0 per week to go up with him & help to work it for him. I wont go to the diggins again for any consideration, more especially as I have come to the determination of leaving this colony & return to Victoria in about a fortnights time when If all goes well I shall have about ₤15. by me, enough to see me home how Ill fare when I do get home, Ile leave to the circumstances I spent the night, I met my friends, at their tent on the hills, slept as sound on the floor as if I was on a feather bed. I have heard nothing from my brother Ned since I last wrote. I think it very cruel he has not written to me lately. {{Image|file=Aag-570.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-571 852]

Decr.27th.1863 Being my last week In this Colony the fates have determined to make things everywhere bear their pleasentest aspect, so that I may leave it with favourable impressions. Weather beautiful - friends & acquaintances agreeable & pleasent, my mentor more than usually kind offered to increase my salary if I would remain, but no, my mind is made up, no Israelite in the wilderness ever yearned to leave it for fair Canaen as I do to leave this country for sunny Australia what with the hardships & misfortunes I endured on the diggins, the long weary trying hours of my occupation as a grocers traveller & assistant in Dunedin as tended to so disgust me with all & everything connected with the province, that if ever I arrive in Victoria I shall always think & look back with the most intense disgust at the place where two of the best years of my life have been wasted, my constitution & spirits in a great measure being broken & all for nothing the little glimpses of pleasure I have had have been of a very questionable character & can only be considered such through contrast with the misery I have endured. This being Christmas week has been a very busy one for us in the shop working every day from 6a.m till 11Pm. & last night Saturday, it was 12 before we closed the shop & 1 ere I sank to rest, dead beat & tired, to my bed {{Image|file=Aag-571.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-572 853]

under the counter in the shop the air pregnant with the odour of cheese & bacon & sundry other things of an odouriferous nature not pleasent to my olfaction or tending to improve one’s health, however it was my last night, & use being second nature I have begun to get accumstomed to my quarters & was not long before I was oblivious to odours, counters shops & everything else connected with this material world - Friday the 25th. being Christmas Day it was observed as a holiday, tho’ by the majority of the inhabitants of Dunedin who are Scotch it was not looked upon as half such a holy day as their patron, Saint Andrews, day, however Mr Field shut up, for a wonder, & I was let at liberty. I felt like the prisoner of Chalms who after getting his liberty after being incarcerated for years, his friends & relatives being dead & gone, he longed to return to his prison, so with me. I wouldnt have cared to have kept the shop open all day. I went to see [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] early in the morning & prevailed upon him to spend the day with me, to which he agreed he dressed himself in his "kilt" & we walked thru’ the town until arriving at the Tomahawk Valley Road {{Red|*}}where we made up our mind to go out & spend the day with the Henderson girls, being a lovely day & the roads clean, for a wonder, we enjoyed our walk the road for about a mile is perfectly level, when {{Image|file=Aag-572.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-573 854]

it begins to get hilly but passing through a well cultivated country till arriving at Andersons Bay at the head of which is situated a pleasent looking little Hamlet. After a further walk of half anhour from this brought us to the sea beach at a point where the sea runs inland into a basin around which is many a happy looking little farm & homestead, romantically situated, the road from there is very heavy travelling being knee deep in sand however we soon got into a better road & I should state better land, for the road there is none, the ground being densely timbered & difficult & expensive to clear, about the first patch is situated the farm of the Hendersons on a slope of a hill looking towards the sea, they made us very welcome & regaled us with scones & milk & strawberries & cream, we kissed the old women but the girls came in for a double share of them soon got at home with the family after we had refreshed ourselves the two Miss Hs Jim & I started out to see the lions of the neighbourhood, they showed us the best scenery took us into Caves & Grottoes waded barefooted through creeks & in the sea where our path led us there rolled down sand hills romped & were as merry as a pack of children & we enjoyed ourselves as men can only do with buxom country {{Image|file=Aag-573.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-574 855]

Scotch lasses. I stuck to [[Henderson-24129|Annie]] all day while Jim took charge of the quiet girl, who I found as full of fun but not as reckless as Annie - Annie & I got sentimental & on hearing I was going to Melb’ she got quite spooney. I was a little soft myself, & I dare say there are few men who could resist the attractions of such a creature, bold, hot, reckless & passionate, pretty, a good figure, with no control over her emotions, renders her very irresistable to a man anyway susceptible to female charms, it was nearly sundown when we arrived back at their house, had tea with them & made a most affectionate adieu, [[Henderson-24129|Annie]] walked a mile or two on the road with me, when we parted, as is usual on such occasions, with thrilling kisses & fond embraces on both sides, & so ended our amour, not the first on her part & I hope not the last on mine though I hope the next fair being Im so situated with will be mine for ever. Jim & I trudged on quietly for some time when he commenced laughing over our days sport I soon caught the spirit & joined him & ere long I soon shook off whatever melancholy I had about me, at Andersons Bay we turned off the road & went into Vauxhall Gardens {{Image|file=Aag-574.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-575 856]

found great numbers there who had been enjoying themselves all day. We found a boat here & a smart breeze blowing, soon wafted us over the Bay to Dunedin, being tired, on landing we went to the Persian Cafe, found my pretty friend duly installed there (Minnie Crawford) as head waitress & evidently in her proper sphere - she was very kind & soon provided us some refreshment which after partaking with a long chat with her we left each for his home at about 10.30 Pm & so passed, without exception, the pleasentest day Ive spent in N.Z. [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] & Tom Downs hearing I intended leaving Dunedin came to town yesterday to see me off, we were very glad to see each other tho’ our interview was very short I being very busy. I also received a letter from [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] from Queenstown (on the Lakes) where he & J. Dight are working at present, he informed me my brother had been up there with them, had met Nelson & he had got ₤14 from him in consideration of the two shares in the horse we purchased when we were mates together. I was glad to hear that affair was settled, after receiving the money my brother Ned left them & tramped the road to Invercargil (province of Southland) & [[Rowett-151|Rowitt]] further informed me that he had succeeded in gaining employment {{Image|file=Aag-575.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-576 857]

in a Ginger Beer Factory & was getting good wages & what was pleasenter to me hear that he had renounced all ideas of ever visiting the gold diggins again. I do hope, he will remain steady & adhere to his resolution.- I bade Mr. & Mrs. Field adieu this morning, the former I shall always esteem & think well of but the latter is the most despicable creature I ever came in contact with & shall ever remember her with abhorrance - my fellow shopman Beckingsale was very sorry at my leaving, he is a nice fellow very honest & upright & one who will succeed in the world & will do honour to any position he may rise to, on leaving the shop I went at the invitation of Mrs. Greenwood to spend the rest of my time at her house, which I have done & will sleep to night here, with [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] who always lives with Mrs. G when in town she is a dear good old soul so disinterestedly affectionate & kind, she has no children of her own, & so feels a pleasure in looking after the welfare of other peoples, when in need of assistance I wish I could pay her a fitting tribute of respect & the esteem I hold her in with my pen in these pages, I can never forget her, for I never met her equal as a noble minded woman, in a humble way one of those creatures Dickens would have {{Image|file=Aag-576.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-577 858]

made a true character of, a kind of pattern & type of a rare class, whose name would have become a household word, may God bless & prolong her life & may she never know the taste of sorrow. I went out for a short time this afternoon & visited a number of friends & acquantances to all of whom I made my adieus, spent a couple of hours at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]], who is very much cut up at my leaving. I was glad to hear Jim has at length got into a good Govt. Billet at a good salary & likely to be a permanency. I forgot to state I saw [[Henderson-24129|Annie Henderson]] yesterday while on business in the town, she went & had her likeness taken which she sent me today rather strange for a girl of her fickle nature to do. Ill be bound in a weeks time she will forget there is such a being in existence as myself Mrs. G wishes to know how much longer I am going to keep her up writing my Journel & putting down all my notes on human natur[e] my bed is ready & a neat one it is, clean sheets with a white counterpane, such a bed as I have not slept in for many a long day - I wont have such a pleasent one tomorrow night - {{Image|file=Aag-577.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-578 859]

[Monday, 4th January 1864] Jany 3st 1864 / On Board the S.S. "Alhambra" bound for Melbourne - On the morning of 28th.Decr.. I {{Red|*}}packed up my things & took my passage, paying £5.0.0 for it & that only in the Steerage, at 2 Pm in company with Andrew Smith (who has left his situation & is now with me enroute for Victoria) & [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] we went on board a small Steamboat which conveyed us to Port Chalmers where we found the Alhambra all ready for sea, before leaving the pier Hazlitt, Picket & Downs & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] came to see me off. I dont think I was so affected in my life, the last eye I met was Jims & I could see it glisten with moisture, I gazed long after them, & thought for the time of nothing else but them, but there is an end to everything & I saw my friends no more, I then had time to look around at the lovely scenery surrounding the Bay of Otago an hours sail brought us at length to Port Chalmers when our little steamer give us its freight of human cargo, a wild rough looking lot of diggers who lost no time in choosing their berths, many a fight & many hard words were indulged in before every- -one was suited. Harry stayd with me for about an hour until our anchor was weighed when he was obliged to return & we parted. The afternoon was very dark & gloomy & it was with the greatest difficulty we got outside the Heads before dark nearly all the passengers were seasick & had taken to their Bunks. Andrew Smith & I stuck on deck {{Image|file=Aag-578.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-579 860]

although the sea was breaking over us very heavily - I had got an idea into my head that seasickness was in a great measure nothing but affectation & {{Red|*}}it might be avoided by resistance, however, I discovered it was no such thing for after pacing the deck some hours we were driven at length to the side of the vessel & there, oh heavens! to disgorge we were very quiet after this & continued our walk but had to succumb at last through sheer weariness & then again & again my belly rebelled against my head, so after taking a stiff glass of Bdy I sought my Bunk in the Hold, a dirty hole it was, but I felt so bad, I could have crept into a dog kennel if nothing better turned up. I slept pretty sound & rose next morning about 7 pm & came on deck the sea looking frightfully wild & rough, the sky dark & angry with not a glimpse of sunshine & to make things worse I was lamentably seasick about 6 pm we reached Bluff Harbour, the Port of Southland, whose capital & only town is Invercargill situated on a plain sound 20 miles from the Bluff here we cast anchor & landed mail & passengers & embarked ditto for Victoria, it was with the greatest difficulty we did this without accident the sea being so rough & the wind so high, by 8.30 Pm we up anchor & left this dangerous place which appeared to me like an open roadstead with no shelter from the strong S.W. gales nearly always blowing there - I would willingly have {{Image|file=Aag-579.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-580 861]

remained a couple of days, here so I might have gone & seen my brother Ned at Invercargil Nothing occurred after leaving there to break the monotomy of our lives for the next 3 days having fine weather, but head winds, no land or sail to be seen, tho I may mention that the morn of the 31th. was densely foggy & the sound of the fog horn bellowing through the gloom every 1/4 hour produced a strange sensation - before reaching Swan Island, (a very memorable place to me) we overhauled the Ship "Champion of the Seas" she left Port Chalmers 8 days before us & had had very rough weather, we hailed her but soon left her behind, nothing like a Steamer to sail in I will never sail in anything but one if I can help it, wind nor tide ever puts them off their course, our Capt., J.McLean, or better known by the patronomic of "Hell Fire Jack" the name he gained when he sailed the Aldinga a boat that used to make extraordinary trips from Vict to N.Z. is a fine fellow. The 1st & 2nd Engineers are nice fellows I got very intimate with them, they are both good singers & it is quite a treat to listen to them they very kindly lent me Books to read. We have made very little headway the last two days, the wind being dead ahead. We hope to reach Port Phillip Heads tonight (Monday) the light at Cape Schank I hear is to be seen through the glass - Tuesday morning ({{Red|4}}th) entered the heads about 10 Am. the day frightfully hot, reminding {{Image|file=Aag-580.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-581 862]

me forcibly Im not in N.Z it took us four hours to reach the Hobsons Bay Railway Pier where we landed - & taking the train was soon in Melbourne a cab brought me home. I had not heard from home for a long time & did not know whether my family lived here or no, however I knocked & was soon had my doubts cleared away by being embraced by my dear mother, no language can discribe the feelings I enjoyed at once more beholding those who are so dear to me. I found my mother pretty well in health, but very much altered, getting grey & very old looking, my sister Mary is well & not much altered. Fred the same as ever. Bessie is still at Echuca with Mrs Dewar [Sunday, 10 January 1864] Jany 1{{Red|1}}th.[10th] 1864 Weather has been very hot, making it rather trying to one having come from such a cold country as N.Z is. Since I returned home I have been very happy & done nothing but enjoy myself tho’ I intend to commence in the morning & try & get some employment, my mother is greatly in debt & it is only with the greatest struggle her & Mary can keep house & make things meet I hope to God I may soon drop into something profitable for I have no wish to travel again the only good I ever derived from rambling about was that it gave me a greater relish for home. Wednesday morning I went to the Melbourne Cricket Ground to see the All England Eleven play, they play {{Image|file=Aag-581.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-582 863]

well, but not caring or knowing much of the game it did not interest me, tho’ I found plenty things novel that did in the company surrounding Apple & Nut Stalls, Aunt Sallys & other swindles were in profusion, reminding me more of a fair at home than anything else - later in the afternoon I left & called upon [[Dight-43|Mr.]] & [[Trebilcock-575|Mrs. Dight]] found them very glad to see me & of course had to answer the most unaccountable questions respecting their boys, all of which I did as satisfactory as possible after tea I went to the Hay Market Theatre, to see pantomine of Cinderella with the opera attached the principal vocalists being the Emma & Celia Howson with their father, the former has a fine sophano voice & will with more experience prove a fine singer. I was highly delighted with the performance but more particularly with the singing Thursday morning Mary & I went to Nt Melbourne to Mrs. McDougalls, had dinner with her & stayd there nearly all the afternoon, spent the evening at home Mary & Fred singing very well, my sister has a very superior Mezzo Sophano voice a Mr. Ambler, who boards with us, sang, he has a splendid Baritone voice. Ive seldom heard a better, twas quite a treat to me - to spend such an evening & when I drew comparisons between my past life & what it ought to have been if circumstances had permitted me live at {{Image|file=Aag-582.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-583 864]

home instead of roving what a different being I might have been Friday I spent writing to J [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], [[Dight-42|H.Dight]], Ned, [[Henderson-24129|A Henderson]] & my sister Bessie. In the evening I went to the Theatre Royal, to see the Pantomine of Lallah Rook everything was most gorgeously got & I could not conceive anything more magnificent in the scenic & spectacular line. Saturday it rained all day, I stayd at home reading. To day, Sunday Mary & I went in the morning to St Marks Church heard the Revd Mr Barlow preach a most peculiar sermon. I did not like him, he reminded me of some stucup orator Ive heard somewhere. In the afternoon Ambler Fred & I took a walk visited the Cemetary found my brother Charlies grave (for the first time) After tea Fred & I took a ramble about. I was quite astonished to find Bourke St crowded with people on a Sunday evening, disgracefully so, in my opinion, mostly young girls & young {{Red|*}}men the principal portion who dont appear to be the most respectable inhabitants of Melbourne on arriving home about 9 pm we had some sacred music, my sister singing & playing selections from the Messiah. I have been suffering very severely all the week from the effects of a violent cold I caught on board the Alhambra S.S. {{Image|file=Aag-583.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-584 865]

Melbourne
Jany 1{{Red|8}}th.[17th]1864
[Sunday, 17 January 1864] Weather, been very hot, but not so oppressive as I expected to have found it. I have been looking out for some employment all the week but have not been successful as yet, not my fault, for I have been out before 8 am every morning, & looked on the lists of "wanted" which appear in the Argus daily. I answered one or two advertisements by letter but no reply. I made personal applications for two but I would not suit for one & the other would not suit for me, being rather a menial job, tho I could have had it had I chosen. I have been very unwell all the week suffering through my own cursed folly, teaching me a lesson Ill not forget in a hurry - I went to the Haymarket Theatre, on Tuesday night, heard E.Howson & W.Sherwin in the Opera of Bohemian Girl she sang well, but the rest were abominable The remaining evenings I spent at home with Mary & Mother. Saturday afternoon Mary & I went to a Promenade Concert in the Botanical Gardens, heard some good singing, all the eclat of Melbourne was there some lovely women I noticed. We rambled about the gardens admiring everything we looked upon the Gardens are beautifully situated & very tastefully laid out, they are a long walk from {{Image|file=Aag-584.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-585 866]

our house & we were tired on arriving home Sunday, this morning I went alone to St Peters Church, heard Mr. Handfield preach an excellent sermon, & also so some fine music, there being at this Church, the finest Choir in Melbourne most of the vocalists I heard yesterday in the Gardens being paid members of it. In the afternoon Mary & I again visited the Gardens for a walk they are free to the public on Sabbath In the evening we had some visitors, Mr J.J. Clark, friend of my sister, a very gentlemanly well informed & I should think clever young fellow [&] Mrs. Morris an old friend of our family’s I believe. I had to see her home, away in West Melbourne it was after 12 Pm when I got home Jany 25th.1864
[Sunday, 24 January 1864] Still idle, doing nothing. I have made many applications for situations not a day passes without trying some place or another, but there are so many applicants & numbers on the look out for employment that unless a person has good references or some influence tis a difficult matter to get anything to do. I wrote to Mr. Field last week requesting to furnish me with a testimonial of character & I also wrote to [[Froggatt-267|Mr Froggart]] of Bendigo for the same purpose. I am still far from being well but I fancy my complaint is on the turn - Monday night Mary, Fred & I went to a {{Image|file=Aag-585.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-586 867]

party at Morriss’ - did not get home till day- light next morning. I never spent such a jolly night there was all sorts of people Actors & Actresses first rate company & every body appeared to do their best to please their neighbour free from restraint or conventional routines. After I finish my hunt for work in the morning, which is over by about 10 Am I usually come home & read & write & look up & practice arithmetic & Bookkeeping things Im rather backward in a knowledge of - I spent most of the afternoon at the Public Library, a fine resort, for folks who have nothing to do, it is a beautiful building & well stocked with works on most every subject & every conveniance for reading – below stairs are two large apartments full of sculptuary & works of mediaeval art by the best masters & free to the public. This morning Mary & I went to hear Mr. Barlow preach, after dinner we had some singing, Ambler singing some pieces from the Oratorias. In the evening I took a walk, home by 9 Pm found Mr Clark here he appears to be a constant visitor at our house. I cannot say I altogether like him I believe him to be very talented & clever in his profession (an architect, in the Govt. employ with a salary of, I believe, £450.0.0 ayear) but very egotistical & self opinionated, & displays a deal of affectation, in endeavouring to persuade {{Image|file=Aag-586.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-587 868]

people he has no self esteem & yet I never met one I fancy, is so fond of approbation. I dont think he is as fond of his bed as I am, or else he would be in it ere now, he dont seem to think people want to go to bed - for he never thinks of going till close on 12 Pm - Feby 2nd 1864
Weather been very hot during the week. I have been ill, at the beginning of the week. Sunday night I felt bad & the next day had an attack of Colonial Fever, which has left me very weak but thanks to my dear Mother & sister Marys kindness & attention I was up by Wednesday - It has affected my other complaint, of the spine, very much having put it back. I have not got anything to do yet, tho’ I have tried hard & answered advertisements, & never neglected an opportunity of any description in the pursuit of work - The little money I had on landing is done & it will gall me terribly to become a burden to my already overburdened mother - I am getting tired of rambling about town. I have visited the Liby Police Courts & other public places until I am afraid the police will imagine me to be some vagrant. I went with Fred to the Theatre last Thursday night to hear the Opera of The "Night Dancers," I liked it very well {{Image|file=Aag-587.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-588 869]

there is some pretty music in it - I have read a great deal lately – some of Miss Bremers works, Essays on various subjects by W. Fox - varied with Lallah Rookh & some of Longfellows poems – I received a long letter from Beckingsale, my fellow shop- mate at Fields, I was very hurt by a reference he made in his letter concerning a circumstance which happened the day I left Dunedin I left Fields on a Saturday, during the afternoon a customer came in the shop & I took an order from him about two hours afterwards, having some more orders to deliver, I took his one, on arriving at the persons house, I found no one at home so I opened the door & put the goods inside & went my way – the people say they never received the goods & positively refused to pay. I had often left goods at the same house & in the same manner before, & how it turns out, that these goods are denied puzzles me, unless someone watched me leave them & then on my leaving took them. Mrs F who always hated me is making the most of the case against me & has dared to make some observations in reference to my want [of] principle, honesty, Etc Charlie does not doubt me but seems to think as I do concerning the case - & it was out of pure friendship to me he wrote to {{Image|file=Aag-588.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-589 870]

to ascertain if I could throw any light upon the subject. I answered immediately & gave him all the explanation I could in the manner. I suppose ere long I shall hear more about the affair, if it is not settled to my credit I will return to Dunedin should I have to work my passage there I received a long letter from [[Dight-42|H. Dight]] written in Invercargill, having left Dunedin a few days previously & taking this route to go to the Lakes where he [is] going to join his brother Jack & [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]], he had met my brother Ned he is quite well & is at work in a cordial Manufactory there, I am surprised Ned does not write. Harry also met C.Foyne who is thinking of visiting Victoria shortly - To day is my 25th Birthday, I seem to be getting worse off every year, one consolation tis next to impossible to get much worse We had a lot of visitors to day T.Grimwood & G.Ramsden & JJ Clark Feby 7th.1864 Weather very hot, I am still very unwell & weak & if I had plenty of money would take it easy for a month or two. The worry & anxiety of my position tends to make me worse. I have answered advertisements by post & {{Image|file=Aag-589.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-590 871]

1864 also in person several times this week – but all to no purpose, my money is done & what clothes I have will soon begin to get seedy. I cannot bear to become a burden to anyone & yet mother & all at home do their utmost not to let me feel my dependant state. I would not care if she could afford it or had some regular income, for she & the rest of the [family] have had plenty of assistance from me. My sister Bessie came home from Echuca last Tuesday night she has greatly altered since I last saw her, when she was a little pert slip of a girl, she has grown into a nice pretty lady like girl. I ought to be proud of my sisters, few brothers have such I wish I could do something for them, this infernal teaching harasses the soul out of them. Thursday, Ambler & I went to hear "Maritana", Howsons, Sherin & Wharton being the principal vocalists - This morning, my sisters & self went to St Marks Church, got wet coming home been raining ever since. G.Ramsden & Grimwood came in the afternoon stayd tea & spent the evening with us. Friday my sister Mary gave her school children a little party in the evening some children of an older growth called & several young ladies, among the number a [[Flett-546|Miss Flett]], sister to Mrs {{Image|file=Aag-590.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-591 872]

White, an old friend & neighbour of my mother she is a very nice young woman. I had the pleasure of seeing her home - Feby. 14th.1864
Weather extremely hot & I feel it far more than the regular denizens of the town, coming from such a different climate as that of Otago is. I am beginning to recover my health fast, getting quite strong. I have not yet got into anything as yet, but have a prospect of a situation in a good firm here (Levy Bros,) to proceed to Tasmania. I am to have a decided answer to morrow. I hope to heavens I may get it. I am fairly sick & worn out with anxiety in searching for employment, gaping into shop windows gazing into peoples faces, passing time away in the Police Courts or knocking about with others like myself who I meet regularly in my searches for work. I went in company with Fred one night to see Barry Sullivan the Tragedian, as Falconbridge in "King John" he is considered by many to be the best actor ever we have had in Victoria, for my part I think he is not worthy of comparison with [[Brooke-2053|G.V. Brooke]]. I never witnessed such an artificial actor in my life every word, look, gesture, attitude appear to me so studied there wants more nature or natural manner, in my opinion, in his acting before he ranks as a first rate actor {{Image|file=Aag-591.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-592 873]

in my estimation. Friday evening my sisters went to a Mr. Allens in Collins St. I went about 8.30 for them & was induced to remain till 10 Pm. there is a Miss Allen, a very nice ladylike girl. I enjoyed myself very well, on arriving home we went afterwards into a neighbours house, Mr Whites, who is leaving here for NZ in the morning had supper with the family & made our adieus, 12 pm when we left - Saturday evening Fred took me to hear the Opera of Maritana, the Howsons, Sherwin & Wharton - being the principal vocalists. This morning Bessie & I went to St Peters Church, not to hear Mr Handfield for that was impossible from where we sat, near the door, but the singing After dinner Bessie & Mary & I took a walk around Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening I went to St Peters Church with Ambler met two young ladies, friends of his instead of going to Church we took a pleasent walk in the gardens till 9 Pm when we saw them home - & did ditto for ourselves. I received a long kind letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Wednesday himself & family were quite well when he wrote. Mrs. H was on a visit to the Hendersons at Tomahawk [[Henderson-24129|"Bonnie Annie"]] sends her love to me (rubbish). enclosed in the letter were two testimonials of character & ability, one from himself & the {{Image|file=Aag-592.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-593 874]

the other from Mr Field, both of them very flattering. I wrote to Mr. Halley during the week to procure me a reference from [[Froggatt-267|Mr Froggatt ]]- I met young Collier the other day he has taken to the stage altogether now, as an actor, he is waiting for Chas Kean, the great actor, to open his engagement next week at the Haymarket Theatre & where he hopes to be one of the company, he informs John King, Bellas brother is playing at present on Ballarat - I have been spending a deal of time this week at my books, teaching myself Book Keeping - Feby 21st 1864
Very hot during the week, was greatly disappointed last Monday at not getting the situation at Levy Bros. It appears the vacancy was filled up by the same party who was in the billet before who had been induced to return to it again I have made application for a dozen situations since without success. I am regularly down hearted on my ill luck, without a shilling to bless myself with my few clothes getting very shabby & the poverty of my mother & sisters all tend to make me feel my position, as a dependant upon them the more acutely & still they wont hear of my leaving home for the Bush again, where I should have no difficulty of helping myself if not those near & dear to me {{Image|file=Aag-593.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-594 875]

Tuesday, my N.Z friend Foyne called upon me he had just returned from there with the intention of going to England, where he sailed for yesterday in the "Lincolnshire" I knocked about town with him during the week & my sisters & I all went down to Sandridge to see him off yesterday afternoon, he informed me he had seen my brother Ned in Invercargill where he was at work, in a Bowling ally he had hired as soon as I got his address I wrote to him. David Hazlitt & Pickett also arrived here from NZ during the week, they purpose going to the New Rush at Woods Point If I had a few pounds I would go with them - I met another old Bendigo friend yesterday Donovan, he got disgusted with gold digging some two years ago & came to Melb in search of em- -ployment, got "hard up" & had at length to carry a hod for a mason, but owing to some rich friends here he soon got into something better he was a clerk at one of the Suburban P.Courts but left it & is now an articled clerk to Edwards the Lawyers, he & I were very intimate years ago & I have assisted him more than once, but on hearing I was hard up, he did not express much sympathy or evince any desire to assist me but appeared very indifferent & careless about continuing the acquaintance, nothing but {{Image|file=Aag-594.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-595 876]

what I expect from the world I could curse it & all in it of but for the sake of one or two I have met in my life who are different & in whom the milk of human kindness flows - [Sunday, 6 March 1864] March 7th 1864 More low spirited than ever, still nothing to do not a sixpence or have had one for weeks, or else Im sure I would not now be in town, a burden to those at home as I feel I am, not that they ever hint at my being a burden, but the opposite, they all treat me with kindness & seem never to do enough for me. Tis singular I am so unfortunate. I am as energetic as the {{Red|*}}ordinary run of men, not an advertisement appears in the papers, but what I answer either in person or by letter as the case may be, but all to no purpose, the fact is unless a man has interest and I have none or a friend or even acquaintance in Melb’ who can assist me in any degree many a time I return home fully determined to roll up my blankets as I have done many a time before, & take to the Bush or the diggins Oh! Father & Guardians, if you could feel as I do, how bitterly you would repent bringing up your children without some tangible way of earning a livelihood some trade or profession or education, it is purely a matter of chance if such neglected ones either sink or swim. I have but to {{Image|file=Aag-595.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-596 877]

take my brothers & self as examples. My only object in coming back home was with the idea of correcting the evils of my past life & endeavour to become a respectable member of society & not to wander purposeless, as hitherto, through life, as an outcast - I make the best use of my time, by endeavouring to improve my mind – reading, writing & arithmetic with a dabble into "Morrell" form my studies so in a measure my time is not misspent I received an affectionate letter from C Beckingsal last week. He is still at Fields says business is very dull, but what was more satisfactory to me he informed me the affair he alluded to in his last letter had been settled & that I was found to be right it appears some children had seen me leave the goods & had taken them - I also had a letter from [[Dight-42|H.Dight]], he is still living & working with his brother & [[Rowett-151|Rowitt]] near Queenstown on the Lakes Otago he is doing nothing, but just making a living he informed me Nelson is doing 2 months in Jail there for personating a policeman also that Cameron & Proctor are up there & begged to be kindly remembered to me Harry had just received a note from my brother Ned informing him that he {{Image|file=Aag-596.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-597 878]

was still living in Southland, but I was sorry to hear he had been unwell & laid up for three weeks with a severe sprain. I wish he would write to us, tis very wrong of him he knows how anxious & uneasy Mother gets when she does not hear from her children when absent - I was greatly surprised on Thursday week by my cousin Harry Vickerman paying us a visit, he had just come from Tasmania where he he has been living with his sister Mary Ann (Mrs. Peat) he only stayd a day with us & then left for Sandhurst where he was going to his sisters Lizzie’s wedding, which took place yesterday the 6 inst) the man she married is a Mr. Holme, a Swede, & a painter by trade & I believe can give her a good home & make her happy I wish her joy & hope she may be happy. I am sure she will make a good wife. Fred has taken me several times to the Theatre, once to the opera & again to hear or see Miss Cleveland (Mrs. Vincent) a new star & judging from her acting & the houses she draws is likely to become a great favourite with the public the piece I saw her in was "Lear", a drama of the very sensational order with the "agony" pretty well piled up in it. [Sunday, 13 March 1864] March 14th 1864 Been very hot all the week, still out of work beginning to take my ill luck as quite a matter of course. I have answered numerous {{Image|file=Aag-597.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-598 879]

advertisements but there is always something to prevent me being the lucky one chosen from the numerous herd who present themselves for selection I have passed much of my spare time this week helping Picket & Hazlett to break in a couple of young colts they bought after reducing them to a managable state by yesterday, they packed them & made a start to the new rush at Woods Point they had not got a mile from the town when one broke away & nearly smashed everything that was on his back we were some three hours before we caught the beast & adjusted the load again after doing which I bade them adieu, if I had had £2. I should have gone with them, they wanted me to join them but I did not like to put myself under a compliment to them - I hope they may be fortunate - On Wednesday night having a ticket given me I went to an Amatuer performance at the National Hall. I never sat out such rubbish or ever heard such a low lot, at the conclusion of the Drama or farce, more properly speaking the forms were cleared away & a Dance ensued to which I stayd at till nearly 3 the following morning, if being excited & in a wild reckless jolly state can be called pleasure then I had enough of it, rather a rag tag lot were there & I was more than once getting into hot water through dancing with girls who preferred my company to others there {{Image|file=Aag-598.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-599 880]

[continuing Sunday, 13 March 1864]
1{{Red|4}}/3/64 Thursday morning Fred & I went to the Haymarket Theatre to see Mr. & Mrs. Chas.Keen perform he taking the aged Lear & she playing the "Fool" it was a frightful hot night & the place was densely crowded. I felt rather disappointed with the great man for the first three acts. I had expected to see a different man, having fallen in the folly of others who minds are associated, with the idea of an actor being a fine man with a commanding appearance & a voice deep & loud like a Stentor / I had no idea of an actor without these qualities, until I saw Keen when all my disappointment vanished. I saw & felt what I never did before, concentrated intensity of acting, a being who appeared to enter thoroughly into the character he wished to portray, it was really astonishing the effect he produced under the physical disadvantages he suffered from, bad appearance, bad voice & well up in years - Mrs. K played well, what a charming actress she must have been when younger. I received a letter from H.Vickerman on Friday informing me of Lizzies wedding (last Saturday) which he states was rather a quiet affair, as such things ought to be in my humble opinion, he went to see [[Froggatt-267|Froggatt]] on my a/c. who has promised to do what he can for me that is if he hears of anything likely to suit me on Sandhurst he will exert himself to obtain it for me, he has considerable interest there & I never knew him promise what he didnt seem to perform {{Image|file=Aag-599.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-600 881]

Harry informs me A.Smith through influence he can command has been appointed Manager or Agent of a Branch of the Bk NSW @ Raywood lucky fellow - Saturday night [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] & I took a long walk together visited Fitzroy Gardens much to the annoyance of many a loving couple whom we disturbed by going & sitting upon the same seats Etc. Jessie is a nice girl, one of the pleasentest & most agreeable creatures I ever knew always in good spirits full of fun & jolly & yet possessed of plenty of good sense, is well informed & reasons in her arguments like a Lawyer - all without displaying anything like pedantry, a real sterling woman who would make a good wife, lucky will be the man who gets her we are very often in each others company in fact we have quite a penchant for one another. I am sure nothing has so tended to reconcile me to my lot here than her acquaintance & her smiles which drive my melancholy away & makes my present position endurable - Spent the day reading until the evening when Bessie & I went to St Peters Church to hear a very interesting discourse delivered by a Missionary. I forgot to state Mary & I went to a party at Mrs. Morris on Monday night rather a mixed lot were there, actors & actresses, but all jolly folks there was a pretty married woman there, who I am vain enough to say was so foolish {{Image|file=Aag-600.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-601 882]

as to pay me the most marked attention, I was invited by her husband (the latter appears to be a most {{Red|*}}excesive looking creature) to a party at their place on Emerald Hill next Monday night [Wednesday, 16 March 1864] Wednesday March 17th.1864 Since I last wrote the weather has been beautiful & fine but rather hot, still doing nothing or any prospect of having anything else to do, answered several advertisements, for young men who are expected to be able to do everything from cleaning Boots to Keeping Books, for a few shillings weekly without effort - I met John King this morning poor devil, he informed me he took to the Stage when I went to NZ. but by his own account he has, been an actor out of luck & is very little credit to the profession, he was in Sydney a few months ago, & reduced to great extenuation & at length had to pack up his swag & tramp back overland a distance of 600 miles, cadging his food on the way, he is now looking out for a situation or like "Micawber" waiting for something to turn up Monday night Bessie Fred & I went to the Griffins party on the Hill Mr G is Rly Station Master there arrived there about 9 pm, met several we knew Mr & Mrs. Morriss Mr. & Mrs Fitzgerald (the Actors) being among the party, there was plenty to eat & drink fruit Etc in abundance, plenty of singing and dancing with parlor games & plays of forfeit {{Image|file=Aag-601.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-602 883]

Mrs. G annoyed me by her attentions. I tried to think it was her usual manner but, no, she was not so with any other gentleman - Mr. G Im sure must have observed us for he watched us very closely - on making our adieus, we gave each other a hearty kiss. Im sure there was a row on my departure – what asses women (or some) are – 5 next morning when we arrived home, had a row with the cabman who brought the party home for his exorbitant charge, so he would not take what we offered him, which was very fair, the consequence was we let him go without – I suppose he will summons us – being very tired next day I did not go out much, in the evening I & [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] took a strool together, visited some friends of her remained an hour or so there with them & then returned home - To day, in my liesure hours, I dug up my mothers garden - & did sundry other little jobs about the place - [Friday, 18 March 1864] Friday 19th.[18th] March 1864 Lovely weather the past two days, spare time spent in reading writing & arithmetic, no work - Yesterday afternoon, I went to hear a Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, playd some beautiful selections from the works of the best composers. If my mind had been more settled, I should have enjoyed myself very much, nothing affords me greater pleasure {{Image|file=Aag-602.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-603 884]

than listening to good music, & especially under such circumstances, lolling upon the grass & basking like a butterfly in the sun, the air filled with soft & rapturous strains of exquisite music. After tea Mrs. Morris & Mrs. Griffin called at our house after remaining about an hour, Fred saw the former & I the latter home - it took us two hours or more to walk to Emerald Hill. I believe Mrs. G is "daft" she is more poetic & sentimental, than all the "etherealities" I have ever met with put together nothing but poetry & sentiment & love, of the latter) its purely platonic, so she has it, a feeling I cannot understand existing with any degree of propriety behoving a married woman (with two children) & a young susceptible creature like myself there is something very attractive about a charm or spell which I feel enslaves me when in her company, on parting I feel a disgust towards her & to myself – very strange, but true. - This morning after taking my usual hunt after employment, I spent a couple of hours at the Public Library & ditto at home with my lessons, singing & teasing my sisters this evening - Monday 22 March 1864


Weather very unsettled, still unemployed - Saturday morning rambled about town little in it interests me, my mind being in such a muddle & my spirits so depressed by the many {{Image|file=Aag-603.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-604 885]

disappointments I have received lately are all tending to make me very downhearted more especially as my mother & sister Mary have so hard to work & struggle to keep a home together - I went into Mrs Whites about 3 pm, saw [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]], we went out for a walk, visited Mrs. Woolfs garden in Nicholson St. once a splendidly laid out & well stocked garden but now going to ruin. We romped & playd about like a couple of children, eating fruit & climbing up the vines & trees after the choicest & most dainty we could find, her jolly & buoyant & merry spirits soon roused me from my depressed state & soon dissipated my gloom, there is something very fine & noble in Jessies character something so much to admire & love, a true woman full of kindness & sympathy - serious & candid & free from all affectation except a desire or a tendency to be satirical, bitterly so, to those who lay themselves open to ridicule, but to me she is ever good & kind, seeing her is like a gleam of sunshine during a storm - In the garden we visited are two Alloes in flower, quite a rarity. Jessie was women enough to wish for a flower I soon gratified her curiosity by clambering up the long straight stem, with no little difficulty, it did not repay {{Red|*}}us for the trouble, the flower looked better at the distance, they consist of nothing but a lot of small bulbs in clusters - on leaving the gardens I went home with Jessie to her sisters {{Image|file=Aag-604.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-605 886]

Mrs. Whites where I stayd tea - after which I took my leave & with Fred went to the Royal Theatre saw Barry Sullivan & Miss Cleveland in Bulwers play "Lady of Lyons". he is the finest Claude this country has seen, I like him much better in high comedy than in tragedy. Sunday afternoon Bessie & I took a walk around Fitzroy Gardens, being a lovely day we enjoyed our ramble. In the evening Fred & I went to the Catholic Chapel, heard some good singing & also Ten chapters of "Mathew" read the priest was still reading on when we got sick of the sermon & left, crossed the road to St Peters Heard Mr. Handfield preach an excellent sermon came home & found, as usual, a number of visitors - This morning I went after a job as storeman. I would not suit, they wanted a giant, properly speaking they wanted a person that could do two mens work for one mans pay. I then walked to Richmond to see a friend of mine named Whit, who had an idea he could get me a situation, imagine my disgust on discovering the billet to be that of a "Boots" & general utility man about a hotel – I can write no more - (Sunday) March 27th 1864 Lovely weather during the week, what a glorious contrast between this climate & that of N.Z. Victoria is a paradise in comparison Still no employment, tho’ I have answered several advertisements both personally & by {{Image|file=Aag-605.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-606 887]

by letter - I received a letter from [[Froggatt-267|Mr Froggatt]] at the beginning of the week - sympathising with me in my misfortunes, he has heard of nothing as yet likely to suit me, but he states that if I am obliged to take to digging or hard work again - that he will take me on again in my old billet on the Nelson Reef at the present rate of wages (£2.15.0 perweek I am sure it is very kind of him to make me such an offer, but I have no desire to accept his offer. I dont think I could stand the work now & the principal reason of my declining it is, that I fear that if I once more commenced my old life I shall never have spirit enough ever to abandon it again - he forwarded me a very flattering testimonial of character which may be of service of me - Tuesday night Mrs. G called & I saw her home – sentimental as ever - Wednesday evening I went into Mr Whites to see Jessie, found her alone. I had a very bad headache - which she cured by by a process of her own, bathing the head in Eau de Cologne – a very pleasent operation, when one is ailing, to have the head manipulated by such fair fingers - I left her about 10 Pm walked over to North Melb to Mrs. Morriss who was giving a little party Fred & Mary were there - & the usual set I did not enjoy myself very much, suffering from a bad cold – 4 am when we got home - {{Image|file=Aag-606.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-607 888]

what a lot of humbug there is at these affairs, nothing but affectation - if a person howls, screams & makes a squeak its called singing & it is most amusing to watch people screw up their features into an extatic grin & pronounce it beautiful - charming, Etc - Good Friday was observed as a holiday. Fred & I took a long walk about the suburbs. Spent the evening at Whites’ a Mr Clarke, a relative of theirs, a squatter, was there & also a [[Pethebridge-39|Mr Petherbridge]], draper, the latter is an admirer of [[Flett-546|Miss Flett]] & is paying the most persevering addresses - to her, she treats him shamefully, that is if she means to give him encouragement. Yesterday afternoon she & I went down to Abbotsford together & visited a Mr & Mrs Drake who keep a large school down there, they were very kind to us gave us plenty of fruit out of their garden, made us stay to tea after partaking of same we left for home having spent a pleasent afternoon with them, after seeing Jessie home I went to Smith St & met Mrs G who had been to see some friends in this neighbourhood & was returning home to Emerald Hill, we had not gone far before we met my mother & Bessie who thought it rather strange, I should be in Mrs. G company at such a time & place so far from her home - on parting from my folks we took a long strool together saw her home about 11 March 29th 1864 (Tuesday) Very hot the last two days. Yesterday, Easter Monday, was a general holiday, in the morning, in company with Ambler I visited the Herald printing office {{Image|file=Aag-607.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-608 889]

per favour of the manager & for the first time in my life saw a steam printing machine the mechanism of which was fully explained to me it is truly wonderful what science has done for humanity in this respect when one imagines the vast amount of information daily diffused amongst the population the benefits arising must be invaluable - In the afternoon George Johnson & I went to Studley Park for a bit of fun found enormous numbers of people picnicing in the most enjoyable manner possible, laughing, larking, dancing, Kiss in the Ring Etc everywhere - without any regard to the dust, which rose in clouds, & the intense heat of the north wind blowing. We went in for a bit of fun & soon made ourselves at home among many a pleasent party of merry romping girls - I did not know a soul when I went on the ground but I knew scores ere I left it - I escorted one very pretty girl home just as darkness was shedding her mantle over the scene, on parting from her I made for our place, tired, dusty & dirty - & was not long ere I went to bed. Tuesday, this morning applied for two situations, no success about 50 applicants for same. Im getting sick of seeing the same faces continually, this afternoon I have spent reading Rbt. Owens "Foofalls on the Boundaries of another World", a work I am reading with interest, giving rise as it does to a train of thought on theory of the spiritual life of man on earth. This evening Mary & I took a walk around town, called at Whites on our way home to see if Jessie had returned from Ballarat, where she went on a visit yesterday, she had arrived when we left - as we did not stay long {{Image|file=Aag-608.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-609 890]

[Friday, 1 April 1864] (Friday) April 2nd 1864 Still no employment. Im miserable at my long continued waiting for something to turn up. I dont know what will become of me at last. I try to banish thought, but our poverty is such that it racks me to the heart, to be leading such an inactive & unprofitable existence - Wednesday afternoon I spent with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]]. I am getting too fond of going to see her, what folly my foolish vanity leads me into I sometimes think she likes me far more than an ordinary acquaintance - for her own sake I hope I am mistaken, for whatever feelings I entertain toward [her] I shall never reveal, it is her extreme & disinterested kindness & sympathy towards me which draws me to her, our conversation & manner is as free & as unconstrained as that of an affectionate Brother & Sister however I must admit in justice to her that I am quite unworthy of the affection of such a noble hearted girl her friends wish her to marry [[Pethebridge-39|Petherbridge]] who is really a decent fellow & in a fair way of doing, having a good drapery business of his own, she treats him sometimes with the greatest contempt. I, on our last interview, persuaded her all in my power to accept him & think no more of me. I hope in time she may see the propriety of the step. Wednesday evening, I went to Griffins on Emerald Hill, met Mrs. Morris there staid about two hours with them - Mrs. G made me {{Image|file=Aag-609.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-610 891]

promise to meet her as last night in Fitzroy which I did with great reluctance, we took a long walk before seeing her home, very wrong, this sort of thing curse my weakness, or hers. I really dont know which is to blame the most - she is a poor weak silly thing, her husband is an excellent man she admits but he is so cool & unimpassioned that she declares him repulsive - he is never jealous of her, she goes when & where she likes & returns home whenever she chooses, he never asks her any questions - she is quite the reverse, full of ardour hot & passionate in her nature, likes to love & to be loved & does not appear to be particular either as in my case, she is or affects to be jealous of me & yet with all she is intelligent & well read, full of romance & poetry, & what is more, is continually harping about morality & platonic affection Etc the fact is she is a half bred Frenchwoman & resembles them in her abandoned & flippant yet philosophical style & manner - Feeling a strange sense of uneasiness concerning my brother Edward, to day. I could not rest until I had written to him although my last to him is still unanswered, tis very strange he does not write. I trust nothing may have happened to him - I received a long letter from H.Vickerman yesterday, poor fellow he is not well in health, & can, when well, get very little work to do, he advises me to come to Bendigo again he said I should have no difficulty in finding work on the Quartz Reefs where I have worked before & he thinks it is preferable to my present inactive state - I cannot go. I have not a sixpence to pay my way there - {{Image|file=Aag-610.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-611 892]

& to go up there penniless & have to sponge upon friends goes somewhat against my grain - This evening I spent with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] - there is an awful storm raging outside at present. I never saw more vivid lightning during some of the flashes I can see for miles - (Wednesday) April 6th 1864 Weather unsettled. Still no work. I have made personal applications & written several in reply to advertisements but to no purpose, goodness how much longer am I to be like this - I have many a time lately returned home after fruitless errands with the determination of packing up my swag & penniless start into the bush & take my chance as many a better men than I have had to do, but a word of kindness from mother, sisters or [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] has filled me again with hope & reconciled me to try the town again. Saturday /3rd inst Pickett & Hazlett called on me they have returned from Woods Point, having killed one of their horses on the road spent all their money & altogether have met with nothing but misfortune In the evening Fred took me to the Theatre where I saw Mr & Mrs. Chas Kean perform in the "Corsican Brothers" & afterwards in the "Jealous Wife" I never witnessed such complete finished acting before he is a wonderful man to have gained such a reputation under the physical disadvantages he labours under with a poor voice & not the most prepossessing figure for the stage. Sunday afternoon Bessie & I took a walk, after tea we went into Mrs. Whyts. I thought Jessie rather cool towards me - perhaps it was because [[Pethebridge-39|Mr Petherbridge]], who is paying the most constant {{Image|file=Aag-611.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-612 893]

court upon her was present, but there was nothing in her manner toward him that would lead me to think she was giving him encouragement - Monday evening, Mary & Fred went to a party at Mrs. Morriss I was invited but did not go until late, 12 Pm, In the meantime I went to see [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]], we took a delightful walk through the Fitzroy Gardens sat down under a lovely willow, talking in the most honied tones such as only those who love can understand how many times we kissed & swore we loved each other heaven & the willow only know We spent a couple of hours in the most rapturous & blissful state possible I, in forgetfullness of all my troubles & she with regard to the wisdom of our proceedings in our present circumstances I scarcely know how we got home & how I got to Mrs. Morriss afterwards, I was in such an ecstatic state of bliss - that we are doing wrong in nurturing affection that will come to nought, we are both aware, at least we both admit it, but there are moments when passion takes precedence of discretion - & so it is in our case. I am sure on reflection we shall laugh at ourselves & our folly - Wednesday morning T.Grimwood & I went down the Yarra to fish. I dont much care for the sport & soon abandoned it & whiled away my time in trying to compose sonnets to [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]], what shall I say, beauty she has not much but merit, few compare, sense, plenty, except in one case & that is allowing herself to love me, however I spoilt nearly all the leaves in my Pocket Book & after all only managed to erudite some dozen lines which from fear of being quizzed too severely at {{Image|file=Aag-612.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-613 894]

by her, I consigned to the flames on my arrival home Tom was no more fortunate than I, so we came home early when feeling tired through being up all the night before, I turned into bed & slept Thursday morning I wandered about the town till dinnertime trying to find or hear of something to do - In the afternoon I went to see a Mr Hand who is an accountant & commission agent, he wanted a partner, finding he wanted some £25. as well & not being in a position to beg, borrow or steal such a sum, I had to give up all idea of it - I called to see Jessie in the evening, we took a strool & visited a Mrs. Chains on leaving her we went to the Fitzroy Gardens for a couple of hours - Friday, spent the morning in town, afternoon at my lesssons Etc In the evening Ambler Fred & I went to see Barry Sullivan in Bulwers play of ‘Money.’ Alfred Evelyn is one of his best characters, but he is awful stagey, we got wet through walking home. I met D Hazlett in the morning at a Horse Sale, heard some voice bellowing out the good qualities of some horse on looking at the person I recognised in him my old N.Z. mate Jms McEwan who left our party on the Dunstan, on the River rising, he has been in Melbourne a few months, horse dealing. Saturday I went about as usual in search of employment found none, spent the afternoon reading. In the evening {{Image|file=Aag-613.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-614 895]

I went to Whites was introduced to a Mr Clarke, a half brother to Mr. White. Jessie I found suffering from a sore knee poor girl Im very sorry for she is in great pain, however she managed at the table & we spent a pleasent evening together Sunday April 10th 1864 Spent the afternoon at the Fitzroy Gardens. Grimwood called & stayd tea, after which he & I went to St Peters Church from here we went to a hotel in Smith St kept by some friends of G’s named Brintana, there are three daughters, rather pretty girls, of course I made myself agreeable & had on leaving a most pressing invitation to come again. I called to see [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]], on my way home, her leg is still very painful Thursday April 14th 1864 Lovely weather during the past few days still no work, very disheartened, writing & applying for situations is horrible work & what galls me most is my mothers patient hopeful consolations to me when I know she is head over ears in debt & still getting deeper in it with no prospect of them being paid. I feel that it is criminal living & loafing at home under such circumstances I really must take up my bed and walk - or in other words roll up my swag & take to the bush. God only knows how I recoil at the idea of again leading my old vagabond kind of life, yet whats a fellow to do! Last night Mrs Morris & Mrs. Griffin called at our house the {{Image|file=Aag-614.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-615 896]

latter for the purpose of informing me that there was a vacancy in the Booking office at the Rly Station Emerald Hill where Mr G is Station Master, thru’ Mrs G influence who got a letter of recommendation from Mr G to the Secretary of the M & H B Rly Co which she gave me for my benefit, so this morning I called at the Rly office with it & was introduced to the Accountant Mr Wakefield who by the way is a Wroite, wearing hair down his back like a woman a most eccentric looking individual however, he desired me to remain, which I did for about an hour until the Secretary T.Finlayson came, when I was introduced, after looking at me as one would do if purchasing a horse, they told me to write my address, which I did in a frightful manner, & that if I was required they would send for me. I left the office in poor spirits for I have little faith in such peoples love of correspondence, but yet it does not belie Mr Griffins kindness, he gives a party this evening, my sisters & self are invited, & I have no doubt we shall spend a pleasent evening. I met John King on Tuesday, he is doing nothing, like myself looking out for employment, tho’ I dont think he cares much about work, he informed me his sister "dear Isa" had just been confined of a son & heir & that she is doing well, I should so like to see & congratulate her. I shall never cease to love her, my heart will never love so {{Image|file=Aag-615.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-616 897]

freshly & with such holy pure emotions again Im afraid as it did Isa, she is the bright green spot in my life, time has worn off the feeling I used to have for her & I may meet another I could love but with a different sort of love to what I entertained for her, my love for her was too ethereal in its nature Im afraid ever to have been realized or enjoyed by me. Tuesday April 19th 1864 Weather getting cold - soon have the winter with its rain & chilling blasts. I heard from Mr. Griffin that I am not [to] fill the situation he tried to procure for me but I am to have the first offer of filling the next vacancy that occurs. I enjoyed myself very well at G last Thursday 5 am next morning when I got home. Saturday evening having had free passes sent us Mother Bessie Fred & I went to the Theatre I had made an appointment with Mrs G so I left them & met her. I dont like this clandestine meeting with married women & I have told her so but it only inflames her the more. I have never done her any wrong so far, our affection has been purely platonic, but platonic affections are dangerous things when married women are concerned. I feel wretched in her company not only at the fear of discovery but from a sense of the very dishonorable position the result may place us in after to night when I have to meet her, I am determined to be firm & to advise her not to meet me out again. I was a fool in the first {{Image|file=Aag-616.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-617 898]

place for encouraging such an intimacy. Last night [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] & I took a long walk rambling through Fitzroy Gardens, a place where many a tender scene is being enacted, a spot that must have a peculiar interest to thousands of lovers for it is the place where all flock to. We received a letter from my Brother Edward to day, the first for many months, he is still living in Invercargil N.Z. ill, & he says he thinks he is suffering from disease of the heart brought on by the hardships he has endured in N.Z the past two years, poor Ned. God grant his fears are groundless - he informs us that he has not received one of the letters Mother & I have written to him. Very strange for I wrote twice my- -self & posted them he further informed us he had written & sent money to mother, but she has never received one or the other from him Mother & I wrote to him this afternoon - [Saturday, 22 April 1864] Saturday April 23rd 1864 Weather miserable still no employment, met Mrs. G once or twice since I last wrote, & also been out for a walk with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]]. Last night having 4 Dress Circle tickets sent us for the Theatre, George Ramsden & I availed ourselves of them taking Bessie & Miss Reilly with us, to see Mr. & Mrs. C Kean in the play of the Gamester. I never witnessed such consumate acting in my life, in the last scene more especially so touching & heartrending. {{Image|file=Aag-617.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-618 899]

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we were engaged at something improper tho I may here state that during our whole acquaintance nothing of the sort ever took place & Im sure never would, & I have heard that many have been accused of criminality by them when none existed to extort money - I knew at once they would pounce upon us & I had not a penny of money on me. I had just time to tell Mrs. G to make off as fast as she could & I would give the police a chase after me. I left her going one way & while I went another with both police close upon me when I had run some hundred or two yards I looked around & found one police hesitating whether to follow or not the other was not 5 yds from me & so I continued my running hoping Mrs. G would have had time to get away, tho’ I feel positive the other policeman returned after her. I was in {{Image|file=Aag-618.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-619 900]

[The top half of this page is missing.] - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - clear
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be to me for the future. I trust Mrs. G will be cured for penchant" toward me - Tuesday 26th April 1864
Weather still unsettled, went after a billet this morning, 30 applicants, no result, wrote in answer to one or two advertisements no reply as yet, nor do I expect any I have been so often disappointed that I getting hopeless if I hear of nothing this week I mean to try the diggins again & stick to them & give up all idea of ever settling down in society again. Last night I spent at Mrs Whytes, with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]]. To night I went to a little party at a Mrs. Gardners next door to Mrs Whytes [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett ]]& [I] left early & took a short walk together, there is a [[Dalgarno-226|Capt Dalgarno]], who commands a fine ship called the (1867) Capt D lost his ship on his voyage home at the Auckland Islands & suffered great privations - himself & another I believe were the only survivors) {{Image|file=Aag-619.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-620 901]

"Invercauld" who appears to be very fond of Jessie, she came out from England with him some years ago, & he wishes her to marry him & return home with him. I hope I dont stand in the way & I gave her my advice which she asked. I like her very well but as for thinking of any thing serious with regard to me would be downright madness & I told her so, she hesitated some time but at length told the Capt not to think anything more about her, for that she could not love him Etc Etc - I parted with her in a most sentimental mood -
Saturday 30th.April 1864
I have something interesting at length to relate. I have actually got something to do & feel more settled in my mind with regard to several things that have tended lately to make me {{Red|*}}writhe. I went after a situation about a fortnight ago I was told to leave my address which I did & I had forgotten the circumstance when I was sent for on Thursday It appears the man who got the billet didnt suit, so finding me out he asked me to go on trial for a couple of days which I did, found the place in a St in Collingwood, a Grocers Shop the man has two places of business, & he wants a manager for this one. I commenced yesterday morning & he appeared to be very well pleased with me, the hours were long from 7 Am till 8 Pm & 11 Pm on Saturdays. I didnt like it but it or anything was preferable to doing nothing & loafing at home living on my mother. I was very tired and weary on leaving this evening, on arriving home, my mother came to the door, & informed me that Mrs. G was inside, Mother has an idea that everything is not as it should be between us, and advised me not to see her I walked down to the Rly Station hoping to see her when [she] {{Image|file=Aag-620.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-621 902]

was going home for I cannot feel satisfied until I have seen her & explained my part in the transaction of the other night - Fred saw her home, I missing them by some means - she confided the whole affair to him & informed him that she thinks I acted cowardly in leaving her, as I did, God help us, had I been captured what a fearful expose there would have been – the charge of cowardice galls me, it is the first time it was ever applied to me - although my conduct on the occasion might have appeared so to her, I thought I acted most prudently at the time, making sure that during the time the police were after me that she would have got away - I didnt think there were others near, at the time - I feel hurt at the stigma, I feel & know few men more courageous (or foolhardy is the true conception of the word in the sense she views the matter in) than I am, as many acts in my life were they known would verify - I will admit I have not courage! to commit crime - but I do know I have often risked my life to save another & perhaps placed in circumstances would do so again in a just cause - I found Mrs. G object in coming to our house was to bring me a letter from the Secretary of the Melb. & Hobsons Bay Rly Co informing me that having been recommended by Mr. G he offered me a situation in the Goods Dept. the salary for the start, being very low, only £50 a year - I have thought it over, the salary is nothing, but then it may improve, the hours are short, from 9 to 5 & leave {{Image|file=Aag-621.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-622 903]

on Saturdays at 12 am - & it may get me into something better & besides being far more respectable than being behind a Grocers counter from daylight to late at night doling out pounds of Sugar & Salt, Etc so I think I will accept the offer. I was merely informed I should be required on Monday morning at 9 am when I should be enlightened to my duties I called on my way home & informed Mr. Brown that I was going to leave him so soon - he was sorry at my leaving him but stated that if I did not like the Rly. I could come back to him I am sure I ought to be thankful, for the kindness shown me by people who are really nothing to me - This being a busy day, Saturday, I went to Browns & helped him - Thursday evening, I took a walk with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett ]]- [Sunday, 8 May 1864] May 10th.1864
Weather beginning to get very cold, sure approach of winter, but what a contrast to the winter I spent in NZ on the Dunstan surrounded by snow & frost & living in a little tent, with no fuel to warm me & hard up, living a miserable life I went last Monday morning to my new situation at the Rly my duties at the present, are confined to keeping a record or list of all goods coming into the Sheds from the different vessels at the Pier - not very difficult work, but trying to my weak eyes, having a deal of writing to do - the Sheds are very large, there are about a dozen delivery clerks, with one or two invoice & endorsing clerks, a Superintendent & an Overseer {{Image|file=J_H_Watmuff-Misc.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=Railway Pier, Sandridge, (now Port Melbourne)}} Tuesday night I went with Fred to hear the Opera {{Image|file=Aag-622.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-623 904]

of Faust. There is some lovely music in it, but Squires Escott & Wharton, the principal did not know their parts or else were in bad voice for it fell very tame on my ears the Byon Song of Marquisites & a Baritone Song (Medallion) pleased me the most, & the Soldiers Chorus, I must not forget to notice is a magnificent composition - Wednesday night [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] & I went to a concert in the Orderly Room, a tame affair staid the dancing afterwards. I was surprised yesterday when waiting the arrival of a train to meet [[Dight-42|Harry]] & John Dight & [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] who had just landed from the "Alhambra" from N.Z. they had been working up at the Lakes, before they left which they did on raising as much as paid their passages I was very glad to meet them, & so ends all Harrys & my grand hopes & expectations that we had better than two years ago poorer men & I am afraid not much wiser now than then I received a letter from Ned, he is still in Invercargill - complains of ill health, poor fellow I wish he was out of that cursed country. I fancy he will not be long before he leaves it judging from the tone of his letter. I had also a letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], he is still in his billet, getting on very comfortable, family all well. [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] & I have lot done [a lot] of flirting this week, scarcely a day passing without being in each others company [Saturday, 21 May 1864 ?] May 21st 1864 A fortnight since I continued my journal negligence, emanating from from idleness, for I have plenty of time my duties at the Railway are very light, & so is my {{Image|file=Aag-623.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-624 905]

salary. Spent the most of my spare time with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] much to the disgust of [[Pethebridge-39|Petherbridge]] who is awfully jealous of me. I can’t make her out, she encourages him & makes him believe he is not indifferent to her, but yet lavishes her love, which she does not hide, on me, I mean to leave of going with her so much for the future. I should be very sorry to be the cause of her losing such a chance of getting a good husband & a good home as she will by marrying Mr. P. she is a fine jolly girl & I like her very much, but it is impossible for me to be serious with her, in my position I feel so unsettled. God knows where I may be in a month. I may take a dislike to my present billet, & be off to China or the South Sea Islands, for all I know - Tuesday night Jessie & I went to see Barry Sullivan in "Ruhelem", he was very fine. We went to a Tea Meeting together on Wednesday & did any thing but behave ourselves [Saturday, 28 May 1864] 127 Johnston St Fitzroy May 28th 1864 (Melbourne) Weather very unsettled during the week, been busy at the office, having lots of vessels at the Railway Pier discharging their cargoes. I am getting better acquainted with my work but I find myself lamentably ignorant on the simplest subjects connected with mercantile routine, little boys of 13 know 10 times more than I do. Customs, Entries, B/L, Invoices Books of this & that, are all foreign to me, things I never heard about on the diggins. Tuesday being Queens Birthday was a holiday. I spent the morning in writing to Father gave him a long account of how we are situated, requesting him if in his power, to asssist us by sending mother {{Image|file=Aag-624.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-625 906]

some money to live upon, my sisters school is not much, does not pay for the trouble attending it - In the afternoon I went to Emerald Hill, to see the Griffins spent the afternoon with them Mrs. Morris was there. Mrs. G & I managed to have a few minutes together, she is in an awful state lest our affair gets wind. I impressed upon her the necessity of behaving ourselves for the better in future - she wished to meet me again but I could not agree - I would not have gone this time but I had heard that Mr. G had said that I was not so fond of visiting him as I used to do, now he had got me into the Railway - Last Saturday night Jessie & I took a strool together she was very cool & very strange in her behaviour to me we parted in the same spirit, no explanation being asked or given. Sunday night I met her with Mr. P. Monday night she went to a concert with him. Tuesday she went with him & spent it at his fathers house. Wednesday night I thought Id go to see her, which I did, she was very cool & distant but looked sorrowful & {{Red|*}}conscious, she knew her behaviour must appear very cruel to me, & I fancy my looks led her to believe so, for after talking about an hour on indifferent subjects I asked her the cause of her altered manner, whether she had become engaged to Mr P & if so to tell me, she threw her arms around my neck & confessed such was the case, her friends had advised her to take the step that she had had a hard struggle to conquer her passion for me, but hoped I would forgive her, it was a most {{Image|file=Aag-625.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/98}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-626 907]

affecting scene - for I really was spooney on Jessie - I put the best face on the matter & advised her to take the step & not to think any more of me - while we were sitting locked in each others arms Mr. P called at the door, I wiped her tears away & we had a most affectionate last silent parting at the back of the house, she was opening the front door for him to come in while I was vaulting the behind fence to get out, she spent last evening at our house till 10 pm when a message came to say that Mr. P was at Mrs. White so she went to him - We had a joyful surprise on Tuesday by my brother Edward, the long looked & anxiously waited for one came home, thank God, he is in good health & looks remarkably well & handsome - of course he has no money but I hope he will soon get something to do in Melbourne - & everything will go on well for the future he seems very unsettled & restless, & likes to be on the move he has led anything but a steady life lately, had a great many ups & downs. May 31st 1864 Weather very fine for this time of the year. Saturday night in company with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]], my sisters & brother Ned & I went to town, visited Paddys Market & had fine fun, on reaching home & getting rid of the others Jessie & I rambled about until nearly 12., she was agitated & I was distressed, we came to the conclusion at last just to continue for the future as friends – tho if I were to hold out any hopes & my being in a position to marry her, Im sure she would wait for me – but I have no such desire, & I do not mean to prevent {{Image|file=Aag-626.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/99}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-627 908]

her marrying Mr. P if I can help it. Sunday morn Mary & I went to St Marks Church heard Mr. Barber preach an excellent sermon. In the afternoon we took a long walk. In the evening I did ditto. G.Kelly, an admirer of Bessies, & G.Johnston came to tea. Monday I went to Dights, found [[Dight-42|Harry]] & John D. were going to join an evening class at Mr. Ross’s an old officer in reduced circumstances, a nephew of Ross the Arctic Explorer, they asked me to go with them which I did. We are to meet three times a week, & learn Book Keeping & Arithmetic, terms 2/6 per week. It will tend to keep me from visiting Jessie & that is something gained, on coming home I found my mother had gone to Whytes, & I was fearful lest she might cause some unpleasentness, for she is very hot & hasty & ill brooks any slight upon any member of her family she knows how soft Jessie & I are together, but I cannot make her understand how Jessie can love me & yet be prepared to marry P. found all very composed when I got there had some supper & left about 11 pm. June 4th.1864 Melbourne Saturday afternoon, just returned from business what different hours & what an altered life I am leading to the rough wild bush life of a few months back, if I had only a salary I could live upon I should be very comfortable, in my new life, always something or another to annoy one & make him dissatisfied {{Image|file=Aag-627.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/100}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-628 909]

troubles of ones own making or anothers creating tho I must say from a long experience that if all our griefs sorrows & afflictions Etc could be traced to their source we should find that the majority of them are of our making - why have we all these troubles in a world where everything seems so beautifully arranged and ordered, why is human nature always so perverse and distorted, Gods highest creation & yet his meanest, when we come to analyse mans mean & pitiable mind, with all its selfishness & paltry motives - I have not seen Jessie since Tuesday night. I fancy from something I heard that my mother & her have had some words, tho’ what about I can’t make out. I may see Jessie to night & will get it out of her - Wednesday & Friday nights I spent at the Evening Class, on coming home last night found our house full of visitors, Kelly & Caffyn the great English Cricketer, among the number. I dont think he the latter is a gentleman, very little to say, but rather conceited, his great desire all the evening was to call our attention to a magnificent diamond Ring he wore – we spent a jolly evening singing & talking Etc - Poor Ned is still doing nothing he has tried hard to get a situation, I hope he will not be so long idle, as I was, for we are very poor, I dont know how my mother keeps a home together, she is considerably in debt, my sister Mary works hard teaching & does not get well paid for that, tho she never grumbles {{Image|file=Aag-628.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/101}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-629 910]

I do nothing to help, my salary not sufficient to keep me in food & clothes. I regret now leaving Browns, for I see little prospect of getting an increase of salary for a long while to come - I have just seen Jessie, found her greatly troubled, through me not going to see her lately, during the afternoon I had sent her a "Bouquet" she thought by me not taking it my- self I did not purpose seeing her any more, I could not ascertain what passed between my mother & her the other day. Something has been said of an unpleasent nature, I am sure. I feel very sorry , she (Jessie) told me that she had been & seen my mother during the afternoon & apologized for what she had said, what that was, I would like to know, Mrs. Whyte was out. I staid with Jessie about 3 hours. I dont know what she thinks of Mr. P- but after the demonstrations of affection she continually displays towards me, I do not envy his state of mind, that is if he is aware of our connection, & he cannot be blind to the partiality she affects for me. [Sunday, 12 June 1864] 11 June, 1864 Sunday finished Telemachus, wish I had it to read over again, being a wet day I spent it reading Longfellows poetry. In the evening, Edward & I went to St Peters left before the sermon, having a bad headache, the effects of a severe cold I am suffering from, Monday & Tuesday evening I went to school, I am making great progress in Arithmetic & Book Keeping. [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] & I are at the same desk Mr. Ross gives us the credit of being his best boys - {{Image|file=Aag-629.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/102}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-630 911]

the other scholars are studying to pass the Civil Service examination, he wishes Harry & I to try & do likewise he thinks we would pass after another six months steady application. I pay him 2/6 per week small the sum is & I can ill afford it, so I am determined to make the best of my time in acquiring a knowledge of what I know I actually am deficient in, & not spend a lot of time in studying what is of no benefit to me, but yet necessary to have on passing the examination. Wednesday evening having had a a deal of writing to do at the office, my eyes which are very weak, being sore I did not go to Ross’ as usual, so I went into Mrs. Whyte, found Jessie very jolly entertaining a lot of company, that left shortly after my arrival, so Jessie & I were left together. I was in a nasty mood, very satirical & indulged my bent very extensively at her expense, she was all goodness & did her best to dispel my spleen, but having a presentiment Mr. P was coming, which he did at his usual hour (9.pm) after closing his shop (in Eliz St), he was shown into the parlour, Jessie & I whispering away all manner of rubbish till I left after keeping poor P. above for half an hour On Thursday evening on arriving home my mother informed me that my brother Edward came home about noon & hastily packing up his things, bade adieu to mother & my sisters, telling them that he was sick of being idle in Melbourne, any longer he had not 1/- & mother had nothing to give him, he called on me at the office about 2 hours previous & asked me if I had any money. I had not a 6d. but told him I had a few shillings in my desk at home that he could {{Image|file=Aag-630.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/103}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-631 912]

get if he liked, he walked out of the office without saying a word, & that is the last I saw of him, he said nothing about his going away, nor has he taken the money from my desk, he told mother he had an idea of going to Geelong or up the country with some cattle dealers - Poor Ned, I suppose he got disheartened, all of us being so very poor & not seeing or meeting with any thing in town to suit him, he feels it hard being without money, he is fond of billiards & rather prone to games of chance & skill & there are so many inducements & temptations in Melbourne, that it must have been doubly hard for him to be without money to spend than myself. I love Ned dearer than any of my of my family, having been so much together, & suffered so many hardships & privations together. I feel his loss now very acutely, feeling that it was the only chance we might ever have of getting him to ourselves & reform him & wean him from his speculative propensities I pray God to keep him, watch, & guard him from all temptations - I wish I knew which way he has gone - I hope when he returns that he will be changed for the better, he possesses the noblest attributes of a man, if only they were directed in a proper channel - would lead him to become a thoroughly good man Mother has been greatly upset since he left, he might have told his plans & where he intended going to, instead of the Cock & Bull tale he told her, she is very anxious about him & in great suspense. Friday evening I went to school home by 9.15.Pm Met Miss Rielly, who had been to {{Image|file=Aag-631.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/104}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-632 913]

see Mother & during a conversation in which Jessies name was mentioned, Miss Reilly heard all about what passed some days ago, between them, both have hot tempers & mother provoked Jessie & she retorted Etc. I was very cross when I got home - & had some words with my mother upon the subject, for which I am very sorry for now - [1864-06-19-Sunday] June 18th.[19th] 1864
Lovely weather during the past week, the English Mail arrived on the 12th. bringing us no letters, but a few newspapers, mother is very much cut up at my fathers neglect, he might write oftener, even if he is not in a position to send her money. Monday & Tuesday evenings I called upon Mr. Ross, but that gentleman having received a large sum of money by the last mail has been on the spree ever since & unable to give instruction in consequence, he is a man that has seen a deal of service in the navy received many wounds, fought four duels in his young days & a little drink makes him mad, he married some girl very much beneath him in position & his relations cut him, he quitted the service & came to Sydney where he obtained a Professorship in the College his besetting sin, drunkenness, was the cause of his losing that & several other situations, until he was compelled to leave Sydney, he has been but a short time in Melbourne & is at present in very poor circumstances, it is a great pity that a man possessing such talents as he does should be so devoid of self respect. Wednesday evening I spent with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] Thursday evening Fred & I went to the Howsons Benefit {{Image|file=Aag-632.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/105}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-633 914]

to the Theatre Royal, they performed "Der Freyshutch" & the last Act of Maritana the two Miss Hs sang very well but John Howson their uncle, who used to be considered the best Tenor in the colony, sang wretchedly he has lost his voice I feel very much for an artists downfall the house was crowded & they must receive some considerable benefit from the performance. Friday evening several visitors dropped in, sent the evening very pleasently singing Etc - Saturday, left the office at 12 am, spent the afternoon writing & reading & gardening, spent the evening with [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] took a long walk together in the Fitzroy Gardens - 10 pm when I left her, found a very pretty girl at our house, Miss Crispen, I had to walk home with her I received a couple of newspapers from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]. I am surprised he did not write - [Sunday, 26 June 1864] June 25.[26] 1864 Weather has been unsettled during the week, very busy at the office, several large ships at the pier, my duty is to render a continual statement of goods arriving from the various ships, in the sheds so that I have a great deal of writing to do which does not improve my sight. I often feel I shall have to give up my situation in consequence. I will have to discontinue going to Ross’s for the future, for after writing at the office all day I cannot read or write at night. I went two evenings. Oh why am I so tired, me that was so ambitious & desirous of pushing myself on in the world to be thus checked at the {{Image|file=Aag-633.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/106}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-634 915]

very outset of life by the greatest of afflictions, Melbourne observed Thursday afternoon as a holiday the funeral of a good man, the Honble. Richard Heales taken place, he had been the Chief Secretary, a temperate & able legislator & about the most honest man in the Government, respected & honored by all classes however their political tendencies may have differed from his he died at the early age of Forty two (42) the colony will miss him, I took my sisters to see the procession pass to his last resting place in the Cemetery, it was the longest ever witnessed in the Australian colony, every shop & place of business was closed, in the evening [[Flett-546|Jessie Flett]] & I took a walk together Friday night Fred & I went to hear the Opera of the "Prophete" performed by Lysters Opera Company. Escott & Durand sang beautifully. Squires & Wharton sang well there is some lovely music in the piece, I must try & hear it again - I received a note from H.Vickerman, he is still the same cross grained peculiar fellow as ever he was he is living at Piggotts, Long Gully Bendigo, doing nothing on the look out for a situation, poor fellow he is a cripple & he finds it hard to get into something that will suit him, he informs me Bessie Piggott is dead poor girl I remember her when she was little more than a baby 10 years ago & many a romp I have had with her, he has seen nothing of the Kings for a long time Mrs. Hooper is as jolly as ever, Lizzie is very comfortably settled, he also informs me that J.Stewart has joined the Christy Minstrels as 1st. tenor, strange the tenor that left them was the same name {{Image|file=Aag-634.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/107}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-635 916]

Saturday evening I spent at Mrs. Whytes - Sunday morning I went to Church. In the afternoon Fred & I took a walk to the Fitzroy Gardens met my sister Mary & her friend Miss McLaurin, who induced us to extend our rambles, after tea I was surprised by my old friend James Stewart calling. I had no idea he was [in] town, he is quite a swell to what I remember him when he used to work in Bendigo Creek gold digging like myself - he informed me he has been with the Christys 3 weeks, during which time he has sang at Bendigo Castlemaine, & Geelong, causing quite a sensation with his singing, he is receiving £5 per week & all expenses paid he leaves tomorrow per Aldinga for Adelaide where they have a long engagement. I was glad to hear he has been so successful, we went to hear Dr. Cairns preach, after the service we returned home, he sang some beautiful pieces for us, "Comfort Ye" from the Messiah being, I think his masterpiece, he is much improved since last I heard him, when we used to go to Pollards together, he tells me he was an articled pupil of Pollards for 3 years - July 1st 1864 Friday. This being a holiday (Seperation Day) & having nothing particular to do I thought I would spend a few moments in writing for the sake of practice, I have nothing of importance to note but being very methodical in my habits I like occasionally to write down an epitome of my doings & thinkings, & record whether time as been misspent or {{Image|file=Aag-635.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/108}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-636 917]

otherwise. I seldom allow myself to commit any very heinous sins, nor yet do I give myself the credit of being particularly virtuous either in thought or deed. I have my loose lax notions on many subjects I should be [more] particular about, this is a common failing with man – has to imagine he is no worse than his neighbour - this idea is extremely foolish - thinking because there are worse in the world than yourself, that you are better than others, for we deceive ourselves awfully in thus drawing comparisons between the worst of our race instead of the better. Monday morning I staid at home, a Swiss gentleman Mr. Tunustein spent the evening with us, Tuesday evening Fred & I went to the Theatre to hear the Inscrutable Barlow it is many years since I saw him before, & he amused me as much as ever by his comicalities. Wednesday evening I went to Ross’s Evening Class. I had to leave early, my sight not permitting me to see longer. I am afraid I must give it up. Thursday evening having an order sent me for the Theatre, I took my sister Bessie to hear the Lyster Opera troupe in "Le Prophete", the same piece I listened to with such pleasure last week. I enjoyed it much better last night - I went to the office this morning found it closed, on returning home I met the Volunteers going to Emerald Hill, a Parade or a Revue being held there I met Miss Prender and a young fellow named Henry Clark, who had just returned from NZ where I knew him slightly in Dunedin, I after parting with Miss P. I {{Image|file=Aag-636.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/109}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-637 918]

accompanied Harry to his home, the "Fortune of War" Hotel which his mother keeps, he introduced me to his sister who invited me to a party at their house this evening. I went about 9 Pm left about 12 enjoyed myself very so so everybody being strangers to me, however I have the happy knack of making myself at home wherever I go & the rest of the company were very cross at my leaving so early - Saturday 2nd. home early from the office, spent the afternoon reading went into Mr. Whytes in the evening - Sunday 3d Went to St Peters Church in the morning heard a sermon on the parable of the "Prodigal Son", by Mr. Handfield, remained at home in the afternoon our house being full of visitors who dropped in among the number were Mr. & Mrs. Wollaston, shipmates of ours from England, after tea H.Clark called for me & we went to the Wesleyan Church Lonsdale St. met some lady friends of his, Miss Finnagens, two sisters, whom he introduced me to, enjoyed a pleasent walk home with them. July 10th.1864 Lovely weather during the week. Very busy at the office Wednesday & this evening I spent in Whytes, Friday evening Fred & I went to the Theatre to see the play "Henry the 4th." Barry Sullivan as Hotspur & Lambert as Falstaff, it was a treat, not soon to be forgotten - Saturday afternoon, we went to St Kilda to find a Mrs. Walker who owes my mother some money, after a long walk we found her house, but were unable to get {{Image|file=Aag-637.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/110}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-638 919]

any money from her so we had but the pleasure of our walk to compensate us for our pains - spent to day reading, went to Lonsdale St in the evening - met my new friends walked home with them - Mary & I took a walk in the afternoon, met George Ramsden, who came home to tea with us - July 17th.1864 Weather very cold, but tolerably fine on the whole, The E Mail arrived at the beginning of the week, & as usual brought us nothing from father, but a few newspapers it is not the thing him not writing if even unable to send mother any money, she feels his neglect in this respect bitterly, it appears to me very unnatural that they should be so separated in their old age - I have no patience with my father I know of no plea that could exonerate him in the course he has taken a man with his abilities & such a thorough knowledge of business ought to be in an independent position if he had remained in the colony, & not have been idle I am sick of thinking upon the subject Tuesday & Thursday evening I spent at Finlays, several amateur vocalists there, managed to make time pass pleasently singing. I have been several times into Mrs. Whytes, she is very anxious about her "gude mon" who is in N.Z. & is expected home daily. This evening Jessie & I took a long strool together talking on indifferent subjects Friday night Fred & I went to see B.Sullivan in the play of "Love" a beautiful piece, but excessively romantic & overdrawn & bordering on the improbable. Sullivan was {{Image|file=Aag-638.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/111}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-639 920]

was grand in the character of Huon July 23, 1864 Weather very unsettled, the beginning of the [week] being ushered in with heavy rains to such an extent that the River Yarra overflowed its banks, all the low ground about Richmond being covered with water scores of houses distroyed between town & Emerald Hill the road was impassable,. the township with its 10,000 inhabitants being completely severed from Melbourne by a sea of waters, a vast amount of property has been distroyed in consequence of this flood the company I am employed by are great losers, traffic being suspended for a while. In the Dpt. I am engaged in suffers, all the clerks sitting looking at each other - doing nothing I am happy to state the flood is subsiding now, when I hope to see everything go on as usual next week. Last Sunday being wet I never stirred out of the house, Monday evening I remained at home - Tuesday evening I spent at [[Dight-42|H.Dights]], on arriving home found our house full of visitors, who stayd till late, Wednesday night I spent at Whytes till 10 pm, Thursday night I went to St Kilda to try & get some money from Mrs. Walker, succeeded with a deal of trouble in getting settled with her. I wrote to Harry Vickerman, last Monday, on Bendigo enquiring whether he had heard or seen anything of my brother Edward it is very unnatural on his part, not writing & letting us know where he is. Mother is continually anxious {{Image|file=Aag-639.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/121}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-640 921]

about him. I have received no reply from Harry as yet to my communication - I went out this afternoon about 4 Pm for a strool met my sisters in town walked home with them, called at the Telegraph Office, to see if the Alhambra was in sight, Mr. Whyte is expected from N.Z. in her - [Saturday] 30th July 1864 Weather fine. Busy at the office. Last Sunday afternoon I took a strool about Fitzroy Gardens, met G. Ramsden came home and had tea with me after which, we went to Lonsdale St Church, heard an awful long sermon, which George said had no limit to it & thanked God audibly when it came to an end, an old lady in the pew, who heard seemed so shocked & drew in her skirts as if their contact with such wicked wretches as us, would damn her, we saw the Miss Fannagans home, & accompanied George a little way home afterwards, I receivd a long letter from Harry Vickerman, he has heard nothing of Ned. I think he must have left the colony, Harry & a lot of friends have been out to Bullock Creek, a long account about the Piggotts a long account about his sister Lizzie & her husband, Uncle, he informs me, is still in St Australia, Martha is likely soon to give birth to another little ‘Smith’. I have been into Whytes several times, Mr. W. came home last Sunday to the unspeakable joy of Mrs. W. & little ones, I notice great preperations going on for the approaching wedding which is to come off on the 11th.August,. Friday night I spent at Finlays "squalling" with several others there {{Image|file=Aag-640.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/113}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-641 922]

[Sunday, 31 July 1864] Sunday. Last night I went into Whytes. Jessie was all alone. We had a long talk about things past present & future, bade her adieu, as I dont intend seeing her again if I can help it before she is married - I am getting sick of Melbourne, my salary is so small & I see very little chance of promotion that even if a vacancy occur there are so many who have a prior right to it, that my case seems hopeless, my clothes are getting shabby & I dont know how I can procure new ones. I have been thinking very seriously of going to the diggings again but when I suggest such a thing at home, my family go on so that I am obliged to abandon the idea. I went for a walk this afternoon with Harry Clark, after tea we went to Church heard the Revd Joseph Dare preach an excellent sermon, after which we met the Misses Fannagans, jolly girls, we accompanied them home. [Saturday, 6 August 1864] August 7th 1864 Weather very fine. Been disgusted all the week by my mother & sisters accounts of [[Flett-546|Jessie Fletts]] wedding preperations, every day my ears have been pestered with accounts Bonnets, Laces, Flowers, Mantles Dresses Etc Etc. I never hear anything about the ceremony its seriousness & responsibilities Etc it is nothing but vanity, vanity, How shall I look! What a stir! what {{Image|file=Aag-641.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/114}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-642 923]

will people say! & think! everything is to be on a grand scale, wedding breakfast, wedding or bridal tour My God! What a different prospect of waiting to become my wife, whatever can have made Jessie so thoroughly worldly & craving for display, she that is so naturally simple in her tastes and desires she that professed such contempt for such things, & was always so sarcastic & bitter in her remarks to any who she met that happened to be fond of parade & show my sister Bessie is to be one of her Bridesmaids. Mother & Mary are going to the wedding I am invited but I wont go - Wednesday evening I spent at Finlays Thursday evening I went to Harry Clarks mothers who made me very welcome, Miss C. sings & plays, so I managed to pass a pleasent evening Friday night I went to see Barry Sullivan in the play of “Hunchback” This afternoon, Saturday, I went to the Public Library read for a couple of hours, went into a Barbers shop & had my hair cut, coming home, the Barber is a phrenologist & passed a fine eulogium upon my perecraniums. I had a fine bit of fun out of him August 14th. 1864 The weather has been very unsettled during the week [[Flett-546|Miss Flett]] was married on Thursday after the ceremony was over her husband & self, went to Geelong, to spend their honeymoon. We were surprised on Wednesday by my couzin Mary Ann Peat paying us a visit, her {{Image|file=Aag-642.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/115}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-643 924]

husband & self have been living in Launceston the last 7 years and are now going to Adelaide to settle down. Peat left on Friday morning. Mary Ann is going to Bendigo to see Harry & Liz before she goes she has been staying with us. Tuesday we received a short note from my brother Ned, he is living at a place called Havelock in the province of Marlborough N.Z how on earth he found his way there God only knows, for he does not inform us, he states that he is in a situation & getting good wages, but he does not think it will be very permanent - I trust he will keep steady & will not be so foolish in the future as in the past, poor old fellow, it is quite a relief of my mind to know that he is alive & well. I went to the Theatre with Fred on Tuesday night to see Lady Don who has lately returned from England after conveying the body of her husband home who died in “Hobart Town” she has improved very much in her acting but I dont think her vocal powers are so good as when I last heard her before going to N.Z. Friday night I went to hear the opera of “Trovatoria” & a part of the “Lily of Killarney,” Beaumont our rising Melbourne artiste singing the tenor in the latter in a style which bids soon to rival Squires in popularity. Last night I took {{Image|file=Aag-643.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/116}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-644 925]

my cousin to the Haymarket Theatre to see the Burlesque Lady Don playing the principal character, much to our amusement, got wet through coming home. To day (Sunday) Mary, my cousin, & I took a walk to the {{Red|*}}University Grounds. They are nicely laid out & serve as a charming promenade for the residents in the neighbourhood after tea I went to Chapel met a young lady friend there & saw her home - Yesterday afternoon Bessie & I & my cousin went to the Library & spent a couple of hours there - August 21st.1864 Weather very unsettled. Mary Ann left us on Monday for Bendigo where she intends remaining for a few days with her sister Lizzie Tuesday evening my sister Mary & I spent at Harry Clarks mothers, came home early people being there I did not much like Wednesday I styd at home Thursday evening I spent at Finlays. Friday he called for me & I accompanied him to the B.S. Chapel Choir of which he is a member, heard some good singing, the two Miss Reeves, who sing there have excellent voices Fanny the alto is well worth hearing Saturday afternoon I spent at home doing odd jobs about the house In the evening Miss McLauren called & I had to see her home she is getting intolerable expects me to trot about with her, in fact asks to see her home. I for the future when she visits us intend to be absent, on leaving her last night I {{Image|file=Aag-644.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/117}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-645 926]

went to the Haymarket Theatre, met Fred, Finlay & H.Clark there. The Howsons & Lady Don playd a piece called the Black Domain in which are introduced some fine songs - after which Lady Don introduced three of her Grand Tableaux, the “Dth of Nelson” “Rory Ontore” & the McGregors Gathering, the first she sang in a style that has never been surpassed in the colonies. The Theatre was crowded to excess we had to stand up half the time. This morn I spent at home reading the newspaper. In the afternoon Mary & I took a walk, came on to rain, met G Johnston who came home to tea with us - after which I went to Wesley Church met Miss F & saw her home - on arriving home I found Tom Kelly at our house & two other gentlemen friends of my sisters - August 28th.1864
Weather very wet & disagreeable during the last few days, rather strange Wednesday morning was very frosty, & at night a phenomenon occurred which was a sight very singular to see, a Rainbow Monday & Tuesday nights I remained at home Wednesday I went to the Theatre Royal to see the play of “Guy Mannering” performed. J Howson took the part of “Bertram” which disappointed me he has been a good singer, but has not the shadow {{Image|file=Aag-645.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/118}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-646 927]

of a voice left his acting was on a par with his singing very mediocre. Thursday evening Mary went to a party given by Mr Gotch of Et Melbourne I had to go for her at 11 Pm in the meantime Miss McLauren [called] & I was obliged to see her home (4 miles very much against my inclination the consequence was I was very tired on arriving at Gotchs where I was pressed to remain which I did, & enjoyed myself first rate Mr. Gotchs brother, William, was leaving the colony for England the following day - & the party was given in his honour, they came out to Melbourne seven years ago & have been very fortunate in business as News Agents in Collins St Mr. G & wife are exceedingly nice people - it was 5 am next morning when we got home Saturday I got home at 1 Pm spent the afternoon chopping wood & doing jobs about the house Last night Fred & I took a walk into town met Miss Prendor walked home to Richmond with her Spent to day (Sunday) at home, reading Etc, In the evening Harry Clark called for me, had tea at his house, from there we went to Wesley Church, heard a long dry sermon that I dont think profited us [1864-09-04] Sept 4th 1864 Miserable weather, every other day raining Been very busy at the office several large ships discharging - I have applied to the Secretary {{Image|file=Aag-646.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/119}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-647 928]

for an increase of salary I trust I may be successful for my present salary is not as much has many a lad gets I have spent most of my evenings away from home. Tuesday evening Fred & I went to the Theatre to hear a new tenor singer who calls himself Signor Castelli from the Conservitoire de Paris) he is a good age, & might at one time have possessed a good voice, but has not much of it left, yet I must say that he is without exception the most finished artiste that has ever visited these shores - I hear that Castelli is only an assumed name & that he is staying in the colony for the good of his health where he purposes commencing to teach music & I have no doubt that he will do well. I wish I had the means to go to him for lessons - Lady Don & the sisters Howsons sang well the same evening altogether I have seldom spent a pleasenter time Thursday evening Fred & I went to a Concert at St Georges Hall in aid of the Shakesperian fund all the music that was sung were incidental to his plays, all were amateurs with Miss O.Hamilton who performed. I was sorry to see such poor attendance considering the object of the concert, the erection of a Statue to the Poets memory. Friday evening Finlay called & I went with him to the B.St {{Image|file=Aag-647.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/120}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-648 929]

Wesley Church Choir, on leaving there I went to H.Clarks house for my sister Mary who had been spending the evening with Miss. C. Last night Fred & I went to the Theatre. This morning I went to the Roman Catholic Chapel Eliz St & heard the choir sing Mozarts 12th Mass which was sung very well In the afternoon In company with Finlay & H.Clark, I went to Sandridge enjoyed the sea breeze after tea I went to Wesley Church Lonsdale St on my arrival home I found several friends & acquaintances here among the number J.J. Clark who has been absent from our house through some disagreement with my sister, they appear to understand each other pretty well now - I must talk to him, for I dont intend allowing him to dally on much further with my sister without some understanding from him in reference to his intentions towards her - My cousin Mary Ann Peat returned from Bendigo last Monday & left the next day for Adelaide in the ‘S.S Coorong’ [1864-09-11] Sept 11th 1864 The weather has been delightfully pleasent during the past week. I have been very unwell lately suffering from a severe cold I must have caught last Sunday evening, violent headache & pains in my body & limbs have been my fate to bear, the past few days - Tuesday evening I spent at Finlays. Wednesday evening in company with a fellow clerk of mine (F Rooke) the only one in the Rly Cos employ that {{Image|file=Aag-648.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/121}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-649 930]

I have, as yet, fraternized with) went to the Theatre to see Lady Don in Burlesque. Friday night my brother Fred & I went for a strool about town Thursday night we went to hear an eccentric character named Wemys Jobson at St Georges Hall deliver his political opinions, which amounted to nothing but “bosh” he is lately from England or America where he gained a not very enviable rep- -utation as an historian & political scribbler - & also for publishing a libel against a nephew of the “Duke of Wellington” which cost him two years liberty - his views on matters of reform which was his principal theme, I think are sound, but rather too Utopian for practical purposes - he managed to be nominated as a fit & proper person to represent us in Parliament tho I am sure he will not number with the successful ones - Saturday evening I went to town met F.Rooke who insisted upon me going to the Theatre Royal, which I did but as we could not find standing room, being so crowded, we soon left & went to the Haymarket I met [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] on coming out, walked home together, he is doing nothing, but making love at present - This morning, Sunday, Taggart & I went to the Roman Catholic Chapel heard some good singing - came away as the sermon commenced been raining ever since, not been out. Several visitors in the evening called but did not stay long {{Image|file=Aag-649.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/122}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-650 931]

Sept 18th.1864 Weather very unsettled one day hot & the next wet & cold. Spent the week as usual, drudging away at the office, from 9 am on to 5 Pm. find it very irksome being accustomed to so much excitement. Tuesday night I went to town met Jms Stewart, tenor in the “Christy Minstrels” who had just returned from Adelaide where they have had a successful tour, he left for Bendigo the next morning, they have taken the Princess Theatre for a short, time & opened last night, Jim returning only in time to appear. I went to hear the Band who sing first rate, their part music has never been equalled in the colony. Jim sang very well, his style & voice is much admired in musical circles, he is greatly improved since I last heard him. Thursday night I went to Harry Clarkes, home by 10 Pm found Geo Kelly & J.J.Clark at our house - I spoke to the later about his intentions to my sister Mary but could get nothing satisfactory from him, nor can I make her out, they seem to understand each- -other, which is more than any one else can. I only hope it will be all right in the end. Friday night Fred & I went to see Mr. & Mrs Cases Entertainment at the Polytechnic Hall. Sunday, spent the morn & afternoon at home reading. In the evening I went to St Peters Church, met J.Stewart there, who came away together, home with me & spent the evening singing for us - {{Image|file=Aag-650.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/123}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-651 932]

Sept 25th 1864 Melbourne Weather very unsettled one day fine & the next wet & so on Etc. Spent my time much as usual one place or another Two of my evenings I spent in listening to the Christy Minstrels Monday night Fred Rooke (a fellow clerk of mine, & the only one that I am at all familiar with) came home from the office with me after tea we went to the Theatre & knocked about together nearly all night. Last night my brother Fred & I went to the Theatre This morning I met F.Rooke & we went to the Catholic chapel, the attraction being to hear an old favourite, ([[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] that was) Mrs. Mumford, sing. I have not heard her since I left N.Z. where she was playing when I was there her voice has much improved, she sang a splendid solo from some Mass, at its conclusion F.R. accompanied me home & spent the rest of the day at our house, visiting Fitzroy Gardens in the afternoon & St Peters Church in the evening after which I walked a part of the way home with Lizzy. I received a long letter during the week from my friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] enclosed in it was a "Carte de Visite" of Mrs. H. & himself taken together, both excellent likenesses J.H. informs me that my old employer Field is nearly received in consequence of the {{Image|file=Aag-651.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/124}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-652 933]

the great falling off in business when he formerly employed four he has only a small boy to assist him now. I feel sorry for him, for he was a decent fellow, that is when he is not ruled by his wife whom I shall always feel a detestation towards Beckingsal is still in Dunedin. I saw [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] one day last week, he had just received a letter from T.Downs, in Dunedin, in which he states that he had seen my brother Edward, who had left Havelock (the place where we last heard from him) as usual he was hardup. T.D. had lent him £2.0.0 to enable him to go up the country I dont know what to make of him always unsettled & roaming in his habits. I am sadly afraid that he will come to no good, he has got into such loose & irregular habits - October 2 1864 Weather tolerably fair but far from being settled I have been a good boy this week - only out one night, when I accompanied F Rooke home to his house, when I was introduced to his mother (a widow lady) & also to his brothers. They appear to be a very united happy & respectable family They were exceedingly kind & hospsitable & made me very welcome We spent the evening in singing, & playing Cards, being very sociable, I staid all night with them, enjoyed my walk {{Image|file=Aag-652.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/125}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-653 934]

from St Yarra through the Observatory Reserve next morning. Friday night my sisters went to a party at Mr. Gotchs. I went for them about 11 Pm. & was induced to remain until 1 Oclock spending the time very pleasently - Saturday afternoon remained at home reading I went for a strool into town in the evening came on to rain about 9 & was not long after in reaching home - This morning Friday called for Fred & I & he went together to the Catholic Chapel. [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] was singing again there - In the afternoon Miss McLauran called, did not stay long, I walked to Nt Melbourne with her, to Mr Gel the Solicitor where she is living as Governess - I went to St Peters in the evening, on arriving home I found several visitors at our house as usual - Oct 9th.1864 Wet miserable weather, the River Yarra is flooded higher than I ever saw it before, the road to Emerald Hill being unpassable. Busy at the Railway several large ships discharging. Time spent more at home than usually, reading & writing Etc Monday night I went to see [[Dight-42|H Dight]] he is very ill laid up in bed, the Doctors think it doubtful whether he will recover {{Image|file=Aag-653.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/126}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-654 935]

poor fellow I am sorry for him, he looked horribly bad. I have heard since that he is likely to recover Yesterday afternoon Finley & Stewart called spent about three hours or so singing & playing In the evening I went to town for my usual strool met several I knew among the number John King, his father having sent him from Bendigo to Melbourne to try & get a situation, he is a wild beggar & I am afraid unless he changes for the better he will come to no good. This morning Fred & Ambler & I went to the Catholic Chapel as soon as Mass was over we walked away feeling doubtful whether we should be profited by remaining for the sermon Spent the afternoon reading, went to St Peters church in the evening took a long walk afterwards. I wrote a long letter to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Friday - - - - - - - Oct 23 1864 A fortnight since I wrote up this wretched apology for a journal, being far from a pleasure to continue, many times Im tempted to discontinue it being aimless & objectless, it may serve to serve who may read it as a warning to endeavour to avoid leading such a useless life as I have done. I am still at the Rly. hoping {{Image|file=Aag-654.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/127}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-655 936]

to get on better than I have hitherto done - I find it very hard work, uneducated, & inexperienced in the line I am in, to keep pace with others – who do not suffer from my disadvantages. I would not remain a day in Melb. if it was not for the sake of my family - We have heard nothing from Edward since I last wrote. The English Mail arrived on the 13th inst. bringing us a long letter from my father, containing very sad news, the death of my fathers eldest brother Henry & my dear Uncle who from his kind & benevolent disposition was endeared by all who knew him, he had been preaching the day before & afterwards, was taken ill with violent pains in the stomach & died amongst strangers, his wife being at home in Brighton, where they resided, at the time, immediately on hearing of the death my father proceeded at once to preside at the funeral ceremony. On referring to his papers it was found that 22 years before his death, he had executed a will leaving £400 to an Asylumn for aged people – & the residue of his property at his wifes disposal but some 3 years ago, he drew out another will (which unfortunately for us, was never signed by him), in which he left myself, brothers & Sisters a handsome legacy & the remainder to my father. However it was not to be, so we are not benefitted by his death in a pecuniary sense. His wife of course knew what his latest wishes were in the disposal of his property & if she acts conscientiously, she must {{Image|file=Aag-655.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/128}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-656 937]

carry out his wishes, but from all accounts that I hear of her, I believe her to be a very selfish woman, tho’ she has property of her own. I would not be surprised that she leaves my Uncles with it [wealth] to strangers, for she never had much love for his relatives, so its entirely a matter of whim or caprice, if we ever get a penny of what my Uncle left, Tho to judge by the tone of my fathers remarks on the subject he is sanguine that she will dispose of the property to our advantage I trust she may, but I should be disappointed should it turn out otherwise. She is very old upwards of 80 years & is I am informed very much influenced by some very distant relatives of her own - My poor Uncle. I am sadly grieved at his death, for if ever there was a good kind Christian man in existence I am sure he was one he was the only relation of my fathers that I remember in England. I shall never forget his kindness to me when a boy in London, he used to take my me by the hand & lead me through Londons labyrinth of streets, pointing out to me all the remarkable spots that that great city abounds in, relating stories & anecdotes of great & good men, who had lived in time gone bye, he took me to the Tower of London, British Museum, Westminster Abbey National Gallery, in fact every where & to every place worth seeing & visiting & always with a view to my amusement & instruction I remember how earnest he used to be in impressing upon me the importance of application {{Image|file=Aag-656.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/129}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-657 938]

in whatever I wished to know & learn & in the strict observance of the Sabbath & the cultivation of Christian principles Alas! what barren ground the seeds of his goodness fell in - - - - - - I purpose writing to my father by next mail I went to a party at Gotchs on Wednesday week enjoyed myself very much. I called on [[Dight-42|H.Dight]] several times & I am happy to know that he is recovering rapidly. Last night I took [a strool] into town, met J King he has found employment at last, in a Carriage Factory Oct 30th.1864 Weather has been very changeable but pretty fine on the whole. We are rather slack at the Railway this being the Wool season, most of the ships go to the Victorian Rly Pier where they get their home loading quicker than at our pier - & more convenient for the Shipping. Spent every evening at home with the exception of last night when I went to the Hay Market Theatre to hear the Opera of Maritana, performed in rather an unusual manner, Lady Don taking the part of Don Ceaser & Emma Howson as the Gypsy, they sang the music tolerably well, but I have seen them both in characters I liked much better, as a rule I dont care for women playing mens parts. Fred Rooke called for me this morning, & we went to St Peters Church together, on leaving there we came home {{Image|file=Aag-657.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/130}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-658 939]

& he staid dinner & tea at our house, we took a walk in the Gardens during the afternoon & in the evening we went to the Wesleyan Church, Lonsdale St, heard the Revd. Joseph Dare preach a splendid sermon, at its conclusion we met the three Miss Finnegans & accompanied them home. I had not seen them for a couple of months & they were under the impression I had left Melbourne, one of them Bessie is very pretty nice mannered ladylike girl. A Mr. Chiek joined our party so we were equally paired 10 Pm when we parted having taken a long walk together - on leaving them I accompanied Fred a part of his way home - - - - - - - - Novr.6th.1864 The weather is still unsettled, one day very hot & the next cold & showery. Still dull at the Rly, I am at present doing the duty of a clerk who receives twice my salary he having broken his arm, of course seeing me able to do his work, my employers will perhaps view an application for an increase of salary more favourably than before - & so I live & linger on in hope, its very hard spending ones best years working for nothing, its not like a gold digging when one never knows the day a fortune might be dropt upon. Town has been very busy during the week in consequence of the Elections, the members returned appear to be popular, how long they will remain so rests with time to show. I went to the Theatre Royal {{Image|file=Aag-658.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/131}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-659 940]

Royal with Fred one night to see “Jefferson” the great American actor in the play “American Cousin” he is without exception the best actor in his line that ever appeared in this country so quiet so dignified so unaffected, so free from rant, & cant, & with all so very natural, that one cannot help feeling that he is the greatest natural actor of the day. I spent a very pleasent evening at a Mrs. McDonalls, friends of my sisters, playing cards, singing Etc winding up with an excellent supper. We have had a great many visitors during the week - I took a strool yesterday afternoon in company with Richard Ryland (a lad about 17 who is living with us, he is learning the wholesale drapery business at Paterson Ray & Palmers, his father has a large Drapery establishment at Castlemaine,) we visited the City Buffet Menagerie which contains a Lion & lioness, a Panther & several Monkeys - In the evening I took a walk about town in company with Harry Clark met some young lady friends & walked home with them Wednesday being a holiday, Ryland & I went to see a Regatta on the Saltwater River at Footscray. The sports I thought were very poor. I got more amusement in watching the people, & enjoying the chagrin & disappointment of those visitors to "Aunt Sallys" Thimble Rigging & Card Sharping Etc & such like. I went to St Peters this morning, & in the evening to the Wesley Church Lonsdale St where I met F.Rookes & the Miss Finnegans whom I went home with - {{Image|file=Aag-659.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/132}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-660 941]

20 Novr. 1864 Melbourne A fortnight, since I continued my journal, now that I have resumed it I have nothing very interesting to note. The weather has been very hot. The Mail came in on the 12th bringing us a letter from my father he is pretty well in health, he informs me that he is going to send me £50 by the next Mail, it isnt much but I shall be very thankful for it, & I will make the best use possible of it. He has been to Leceister to see my Uncle Joseph, & father thinks they will be able to hit it better together for the future than they formerly, (the fact is I believe my Uncle Joe is disgusted with the manner my father has acted in leaving his family & that sort of thing) my father thinks it very unfortunate Uncle Joe getting married, that it will affect our prospects I feel, myself, sure. My Sundays spent as usual, between St Peters & the Wesley Church I spent two evenings at the Choir of Brunswick St Chapel have also visited the [[Dight-42|Dights]] several times. Fred & I went to hear Mr. & Mrs G.Case, in one of their pleasing protean entertainments. Very slack still at the office, tho we have some prospect of being busy next week, several large ships having arrived the past few days There is disgraceful Divorce Case at present going on in the Supreme Court, which is the town talk Judge Molesworth versus his wife, he charges her with adultery, the corespondent being no less a person than Ireland the Ex Solicitor General. The revelations {{Image|file=Aag-660.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/133}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-661 942]

being made reflect very little credit on all concerned I never heard such a disgraceful case in my life such thorough badness & immorality, between people holding such high positions in society - [Sunday, 11 December 1864 ?] - - - - - - - Decr.10th 1864 Three weeks since I continued my journal, not having anything of interest to note I suppose must be excuse. We have been very busy at the Railway I met an old friend last week Christian Foyne he had just returned from Europe having been absent Ten months during which time he has visited different parts of the Continent enjoying himself very much, he has spent one or two evenings at our house he brought me out a fine Book “Many thoughts of Many Minds” a useful {{Red|*}}work of reference & full of beautiful extracts from the best Authors. I have knocked & visited about a great deal since I last wrote, spent three evenings at Finleys, & many nights at Clarks “Fortune of War” Hotel. Went once more to hear the "Cases" & last night Fred & I went to see the Lentons Acrobatic Troupe perform at the HayMarket Theatre they surpass everything of the sort that has been in Victoria They do some extraordinary Gymnastic Feats. Last Tuesday night I went home to dinner with F.Rooke, (the family is living on Emerald Hill) after which he took me to see some friends of his named "Tranworths" with whom {{Image|file=Aag-661.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/134}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-662 943]

we spent a delightful evening with. Wednesday evening I went to a Meeting at St Georges Hall to hear some Moravian Missionaries who have arrived lately in the Colony with a view to visit the interior of Australia & establish a Mission Station at Coopers Creek - The place was well filled, the Bretheren stated their views on the subject, their object being to Christianise the Aborigines I wish them every success - but I expect little except the[y] go well provided with plenty of Tobacco, Blankets Trinkets Etc as an inducement - however there is a fine field for their labour, & I have no doubt it will prove a good thing for the advanced settlers - I have read a great deal lately one work especially that calls for some notice, creating as it has some sensation among the reading community Rehnans "Life of Jesus", rather a well written work decidedly Unitarian in its principles, tho’ I hear the Author is a Jew. He believes that such a man as Jesus existed & proves him to be the best man that ever lived & one that endeavoured, & succeeded, in propogating the present & most sublime doctrines, (but will not admit of his divinity). In alluding to John the Baptist he endeavours to trace an analogy between his doctrine & that of the Buddists who are also Baptists. Rehan, also alludes to collusion on Johns part with Jesus, his arguments for the case being in my opinion very weak, he alludes to Jesus being very extravagant in his language & ideas & his continual denouncement against the exalted in life & station, a Rich man cannot enter {{Image|file=Aag-662.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/135}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-663 944]

the Kingdom of Heaven, being one of his illustrations & that the bitterness of his life was only rendered tolerable by the idealities of his teachings - & also, That Jesus never dreamt of making himself pass for an incarnation of Gods is a matter there can be no doubt (as per Rehnan.) for there is no trace of it in the synoptical gospels of Matthew & Mark, such an idea can only be found in John which cannot be expected as presenting the thoughts of Jesus. Rehnan states for three centuries considerable of the most enlightened Christians did not believe in Jesuss' royal descent – & doubted the authenticity of the genealogies. Rehan calls Jesus a Demigod & not altogether sinless he thinks that many of his qualities are lost to us through the fault of his disciples & that it is very probable many of his faults & failings have been concealed, he alludes to the exaggeration of our ideas in not looking upon Jesus as a man, but a better one than ourselves. He says "Mankind shows an assemblage of low selfish beings & superior to the animal only in that its selfishness is more reflective From the midst of this uniform mediocrity there are pillars that rise towards the skies & bear witness to a nobler destiny. Jesus is the highest of these pillars, which show to man whence he comes & whither he ought to tend. In him {{Image|file=Aag-663.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/136}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-664 945]

was condensed all that is good & elevated in our nature, he was not sinless but simply conquered the same passions we combat - by doing this he became the author of these extraordinary monuments which have decided the fate of humanity. The Angel that comforted him was his own good conscience, no Satan tempted him but that which every man carries with him - He says that Christs sermon on the mount can never be surpassed, & that the he founded the present worship of all ages & of all lands, that which all elevated souls will practise until the end of time, the Religion of Humanity. Jesus gave Religion to Humanity as Socrates gave it Philosophy & Aristotle Science - Rehran looks upon upon the Gospel of St John as very egotistical, bringing himself forward whenever occasion offers, making himself the beloved of Christ. He thinks Mathew & Mark the best gospels to arrive at a correct estimate of Jesus life that of St Luke having been written from the dictation of St Peter - Rehran in alluding to the miracles treats them as absurdities, & is very weak & lame in his arguments against them - I have been informed that he is one of the clerical scholars of the day, his reading must have been extensive, for he quotes about 40 Authors contemporaries with Jesus. In conclusion it is a work that may affect some minds, but by others it will be treated with contempt, especially such ideas as to Jesus death & resurrection being nothing but a {{Red|*}}tradition {{Image|file=Aag-664.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/137}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-665 946]

& that of the raising of Lazarus to the same cause & on the whole it is a very unsatisfactory work to an enquirer after truth - 18th Decr 1864
Lovely weather during the past few days but rather warm, Spent my leisure on the whole very pleasently, been out somewhere every evening. The English Mail arrived last Monday, it brought a letter from my father enclosed in it was a Draft for £50.0.0 payable to myself, with a hope that I would make good use of it. I drew £10 of it a part of which I gave to mother. The remainder I spent on necessaries I was greatly in need of - The balance I intend leaving in the Bank - my Father was very well in health when he wrote, his letter was a long [one] & contained plenty of news about relations, but nothing of any consequence. Tuesday evening having had tickets sent us, Bessie & I went to hear Mr & Mrs G.Case in their pleasing entertainment. Yesterday afternoon there was a Grand Open Air Promenade Concert held in the Botanical Gardens, to which in company with my sisters Mr. J.J.Clark & F.Rooke, I went to hear the day was fearfully hot, & the distance long which somewhat marred our enjoyment. Some of the best vocalists in the Colony were singing, {{Image|file=Aag-665.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/138}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-666 947]

Farquharson, the two Howsons Lady Don, Mdm Stutterford O.Hamilton, Sara Mortley & several others who acquitted themselves very creditably. I met a great many people I knew, among the number the Rekowskis, [[Rakowski-85|Agnes]] whom I had not seen for 3 years is married to a Mr. W.Dalrymple, she is very much altered, she took me for Fred. On arriving home & after tea, I & F Rooke took a strool choosing for our promenade the usual Saturday evening one with Melb’ loungers – , Bourke St, where I fell in with my friend Harry Clarke, & accompanied him into the Temple of Pomona "Restaurant" where we indulged in apple puff & Coffee which upon discussing with other light subjects we adjourned to our respective homes. I went to St Peters this morning, in the afternoon I went out for [a] walk & got caught in a smart shower getting nearly wet through before reaching shelter. I went to the Brunswick St Wesley Chapel in the evening Sunday Decr.25th.1864 (X Day) Lovely weather during the week. I trust it will continue so for a few days longer, until the holidays are over so as to allow the pleasure seeking a chance of enjoying themselves. Nothing but Picnics, Balls, Parties, & Pleasure are talked about – for my own part, I have not bothered myself much about what I intend doing, my sisters & self received an invitation from Ramsden {{Image|file=Aag-666.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/139}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-667 948]

to join the picnic he is getting up for to- -morrow, which I believe, by all accounts, is to be a grand affair We ought to consider ourselves fortunate, in being invited, having no bother & no expense, & conveyance provided Etc - We have been very busy at the Railway. I am happy to state I have, at last, got a recognised billet, having so far only been in a probationary state, my office now is that of measuring Clerk, in the Goods Dept. a poor billet, but I must keep it till something better turns up - Monday evening last, I went to a very Jolly Tea-Meeting at the Wesley School Room B.St. got introduced to a lot of nice people, heard some tolerably good singing, among the performers I noticed one fine voice of Fanny Reeves an acquaintance of mine, who has one of the best Contralto voices I have heard. I heard her again at the Exhibition Building, William St when the Messiah was being performed a Mrs. Tester (sang the principal Sophano Solos), a lady that has had a magnificent voice by all accounts, but its lost its freshness & is now rather wiry & old - at least I thought so) F.Reeves sang the Alto Solos very well, considering her youth & first appearance, especially "Oh thou that tellest" which brought down the house. I did not stay the latter part, for meeting F.Rooke & his friend {{Image|file=Aag-667.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/140}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-668 949]

Mr. Chancellor I accompanied them to see a fire in Et Melb’ where I lost them in the crowd - Thursday evening in company with Sarah Clarke I spent at Roberts, a family I am slightly acquainted with, who live in Napier St Fitzroy. Saturday morning on leaving the office at 12 I met [[Rakowski-85|Mrs. Dalrymple]] while chatting with her, F.Rooke came by when I left her & accompanied him to see the new warehouse of L.Stevensons & Sons that is now just finished in Flinders Lane. It is the largest & best finished & fitted up place of business in Australia after an hours inspection, we left & then went to the Public Library in Swanston St to see the new Picture Gallery that had just been opened to the public for the first time, I noticed some fine pictures that have just arrived from England where they had been purchased by a committee appointed for the purpose. The pictures I thought most worthy of note were "The Departure of the Pilgrim Fathers" & "J.Bunyon reading the Bible (or else his Pilgrims Progress) to the prisoners in Bedford Jail" There were several colonial productions which suffered considerably, by being placed side by side with some of the works of good masters. I think a Gallery of this description is a step in the right direction & will tend to do much in improving as well as refining the morals & tastes of the people of Melbourne - This morning in company {{Image|file=Aag-668.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/141}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-669 950]

with my brother Fred, I went to the Roman Catholic Chapel, heard the choir sing Mozarts Twelfth Mass, the Adestes Fideles also the Hallelujah Chorus, very effectively. My sister Bessie & I took a walk in the afternoon & in the evening I went to Brunswick St. Chapel - - - - - - Jany 1st.1865 (News Years Day) The weather has been very hot during the past few days, very fortunately so for the pleasure seekers, who form a {{Red|*}}numerous body this time of the year. Monday morning (8 am. in company with my two sisters, I went to S.Ramsdens house on the Heidelberg road where we met a number of people who had been invited, like ourselves, to join Mr. Rs Pic Nic,. about 50 people in all started, some in vehicles of their own & others in ones provided by the worthy Host, among the latter I numbered after a pleasent drive of an hour or so, we arrived at the place appointed near the village of Heidelberg in a lovely spot commanding an extensive view of the surrounding neighbourhood, where we spent a most delightful day a large Marquee had been erected, a Band of Musicians provided, along with every luxury of {{Image|file=Aag-669.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/142}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-670 951]

of the season in the way of eatibles & drinkables, every thing in profusion, such as only wealth could supply. The day was passed as usual on such occasions, Dancing, Singing Romping, Racing, Swinging, Flirting Etc Etc Etc which we kept up until 7 Pm, when tired fatigued, but on the whole very jolly, we all started for home, reached Ramsdens house about 8.30. where {{Red|*}}our tea had been provided which after its discussion, & feeling somewhat refreshed, we got up a dance afterwards & kept it up till 12 Pm, when regularly worn out we made for home, next day I felt fearfully reluctant to have to go to business, but there was no help for it, Stiff & tired, the day seemed terribly long & I thought 5 pm would never come Thursday night I went to the Pantomine at the HayMarket Theatre, Lady Don, Emma Howson & the Lenton Troupe Acrobats, all taking part in it such a collection of artistes, making it one if not the best performances of the kind ever given in Victoria Last evening I went down the town, met a lot of young fellows, with whom I knocked about for some two hours, finding they were getting rowdy, T.Trotter & I left them & falling in with a couple of girls we knew {{Image|file=Aag-670.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/143}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-671 952]

we saw them home - staid a couple of hours with them, after having a great lark found ourselves on leaving the house about 2 am this morning in deserted streets we bade each other adieu & soon reached my home - I went to St Peters this morning. In the afternoon I went to the Fitzroy Gardens (the usual Sunday lounge & rendezvous) met a number I knew. Harry Clark came home to tea with me after which we went to the Brunswick St Chapel, at the conclusion of the service we walked home with Fanny Reeves & her sister they are very plain looking girls, but very pleasent we promised to meet them to morrow at the Sunday School picnic, at Studley Park. I have met a number of old Bendigo acquaintances, this week, who take advantage of the cheap fares, this time of the year, to visit Melb, among the number, Lockey Frazer, who is not altered in the slightest. Bob Hooper has grown quite a man, John Drysdale I met, he has made his fortune on Bendigo & many others I met who have done well since I left there, most of whom regret that I ever left the dirty old place for had I staid they believe I would have got on however I left it for the best, as I thought at {{Image|file=Aag-671.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/144}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-672 953]

the time God only knows whether it will prove so in the end. I received a long letter on Friday from my old friend J.[[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] informing me that his wife has presented him with another youngster - he still writes in the same old merry jolly never say die sort of strain but towards the end (the last three years at all events) he gets serious & winds up with a sermon & by entreating me to accept Christ as my Saviour this is the only subject that I think Jim is not sincere upon, I hope I am wrong, but I really cannot fancy he is so Christian like in the true spirit as he makes himself out to be. I dont like doubting his profession, & if I was asked why I did so, I could not give a reason for my opinion Jany 8th.1865 Beautiful weather. spent my time pretty Jollily Monday last, being a holiday, I went in company with Harry Clark & his sister Sarah to Studley Pk where we fell in with the Miss Reeves & several other acquaintances, forming a little party to ourselves, we separated ourselves from the noise & bustle around & finding a quiet spot we settled down & enjoyed ourselves, Singing Etc, the Reeves sing well especially Fanny who has one of the finest Alto voices I have heard. I got home very fatigued about 8 Pm after a good tea & {{Image|file=Aag-672.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/145}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-673 954]

a Bath, I went out alone & took a quiet strool about the neighbourhood. We have had a deal of company at our house lately. My sisters having such a large circle of friends, they have been out to picnics & party’s nearly every day the past week. I have had to stick with business very closely, being very busy at the office, several large vessels discharging at our pier, among the number a new steamer called the “London” Tuesday evening I met Rt Hooper, we took a long walk together, talking over by gone days & life on the “diggins” enquiring after old friends, it is a melancholy pleasure I think Bob & Lockey left Melb for Sandhurst the following morning, on arriving home I found [[Pethebridge-39|Mr.]] & [[Flett-546|Mrs. Petherbridge]] here. Mrs P is looking very pale & & thin & looks 5 years older than when she was married - Thursday evening I went to the Theatre Royal to see the pantomine. I liked it pretty well, but its nothing compared to the one at the other Theatre I enjoyed the singing of Harriet Gordon, she is also a nice actress - I met her in NZ where I sang with her – Friday night - Fred and I took a ramble into town, met two girls we knew, took a walk with them about Fitzroy Gardens {{Image|file=Aag-673.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/146}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-674 955]

walked with them home to Richmond, late when we got back to Fitzroy. Saturday afternoon I took a walk with Bessie & a Mrs. Lane, an American lady that G Kelly introduced to our house, she accompanied her husband Capt Lane, who has a fine ship called the "Levanter" now lying in the Bay She (Mrs L) spends most of her time on shore at our house, she is an exceedingly nice lady, very pretty & accomplished, she seems to have taken a strange fancy to our family & considering our short acquaintance we are all very fond of her, & shall regret her departure very much. In the evening I met F Rooke in town, we went to the Haymarket Theatre together on leaving which we adjourned to Hosies where we had supper, 12 p.m. when I arrived home - I went to St Peters this morning. In the afternoon I found myself as usual in the F Gardens, met the Miss F. & accompanied them home. In the evening I went to the Brunswick St Chapel heard what some people called a good sermon, but what I thought was a lot of rant, met T.Sellman & we walked home with the Miss Reeves [Sunday, 15 January 1865] - - - - - - - - - - Jany 16 [15] 1865 Lovely weather during the week, rather chilly in the mornings, a most extraordinary thing for this time of the year I have nothing of interest to note out of the usual {{Image|file=Aag-674.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/147}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-675 956]

routine of things. My time at the Rly being spent day after day in the same manner, measuring goods for freight & Copying Ships Manifests. I spent two days this week at Dalgety & Co. Shipping Office copying the Mfts of two of their ships we have at our Pier, rather a singular circumstance occurred in connection with one of the ships the "John Bunyan". A S.S. called the London arived here a few days ago after a tempestuous passage, during a gale a man was washed overboard, a Boat was instantly lowered & the Sailing Master with four men got into it for the purpose of trying to save the man. The sea was very rough at the time & the boat was seen to drift away from the ship at a fearful rate at last some on board were positive they saw the boat swamped the ship was hove to & at length when all seemed lost, the yards were squared & the London S.S. proceeded on her voyage & arrived in Melb in due time & the news of of the disaster published, causing quite a gloom at the fate of the unfortunates who were supposed to be lost in nobly endvg to save the life of a fellow creature. A few days afterwards, the Ship "Jno Bunyan" arrived & bringing with them the Boat & Crew that were lost belonging to the London S.S. it seems the Boat was swamped but being buoyant she floated & the men stuck to her & righted her. They were tossed about for 36 hours when they were picked up by a Whaler & when off Trinidad they fell in with the "Jno Bunyan" & were transferred to her, & thus came on to Melb’ The story seems romantic but nevertheless its true. Very many are of opinion that Capt Martin of the London was very much {{Image|file=Aag-675.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/148}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-676 957]

to blame in not hovering around the spot when the Boat was seen to fill for he must have known it would not sink being a Life Boat, however it is very hard to judge a man without knowing all the attendant circumstances On Monday night my sisters visited the Allens in Collins St. I called for them about 9 but was induced to remain, had some supper & some music left about eleven Miss Allen possesses a Bible, which she showed me, with an autograph of Robt. Burns in it. The Bible was given to Miss A. by a son of the poet Tuesday evening, we had several visitors Capt & Mrs. Lane & Geo. & Tom Kelly, spent it very agreeably - Wednesday my mother went on Board the "Levanter" Sandridge to spend the day with Mrs. Lane, on leaving the office at 5 Pm I went to the ship & dined with them it was blowing very fresh and the ship rolled considerably causing anything but a delightful sensation in my interior several times I thought my dinner (which was an excellent one & I were going to part company with all due regard to Mr & Mrs L. whom I feel to have the greatest respect for, I was not sorry on leaving them & getting once more on “terrafirma”. We came to town by train, when I put Mother in a cab & sent her home, I called at the Finnegans & staid about two hours with them - Thursday night I spent at Mrs Smarts (Johnston St) she is a sister of Mr. Pickett my old Bendigo & New Zealand friend. Pickett has taken a Hotel some 20 miles from town near the Kangaroo grounds - so Mrs. S informed me. Saturday afternoon {{Image|file=Aag-676.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/149}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-677 958]

I spent at home, Fred Rooke being at our house several friends called in the evening & we spent the time very pleasently - I walked into town with with Fred Rooke & we had supper at some place after which we parted. Sunday morning when I arrived home – To day I spent reading Levers "Martins of Cro Martin" in my opinion the best of his works it gives one a good idea of the cause of much of the shabby genteel poverty of the respectable classes in Ireland. I went out for a short strool about 4 Pm., after tea I visited the Brunswick St Wesley Church & heard a colonial bred preacher (a Sydney native whose name I have forgotten) if he is a specimen of what the colony is to produce, spare me from them, he appears to be well educated & all that sort of thing, but he lacks the first qualification, a fluent delivery, his ideas appear to be good, but he had such a difficulty in reading them intelligibly, that listening to him was like working out a problem - After the service was over I met Harry Clark & we took a strool together down Simpsons Road to see some friends of his but they were out, so we returned to his mothers where I remained for an hour or so chatting to his sister Sarah & his mother - - - - - - - - Jany 22 1865 Weather very hot but pleasent on the whole - Received 5/. aweek advance to my salary this week, much to my disgust, for I had expected 4 times as much & even that would not be as {{Image|file=Aag-677.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/150}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-678 959]

much as the mans salary was, whose duties I have to perform. I feel so mortified that I shall do my best to get out of the Compy & into something else - Monday evening I spent at Harry Clarks house singing & flirting with his sister Sarah, who is such a warm hearted loving impulsive creature. Tuesday evening Tom Grimwood called; he was going to the Annual Ball given by the or to the employees (I know not which ) of the Lunatic Asylum, Yarra Bend he had a ticket to spare which he offered me, & I accepting it we both started for the place, found the Hall nicely got up & the floor beautifully chalked, all done & arranged by some of the more sensible lunatics, many of whom joined in the Dancing it was a very pleasent affair & I really enjoyed myself very much. I went in a perfect stranger but before I left I had made several pleasent acquaintances. My pleasure was somewhat damped in having to walk home. I was very tired next day. Friday night I went to the B.S.W. C. Choir heard them sing some nice Anthems. Saturday night I met F.Rooke in Bourke St by appointment & we went to the “Royal” & witnessed an excellent Burlesque or Extravaganza”. Harriet Gordon, (Mrs Hides) took the principal character, the only thing which pleased me, was her singing, she has a nice voice, & sings with good taste & expression I met, in the theatre, Mr. English, an old {{Image|file=Aag-678.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/151}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-679 960]

friend of mine from N.Z. he belonged to the Debating Sty I was a member of on "Wetherstons" & he lived next tent to me there We were very glad to see each other – he is a man I always liked well informed & intelligent he is residing in “Melb” - This morning I went to St Peters Church - In the afternoon I met H.Clark & we took a long strool together, he is going to Woods Point Diggings tomorrow We went this evening to the W.C. Bk St & walked home with the Miss Reeves after the service - - - - - - - Feby 5th.1865 A fortnight since I continued my journal no great loss were I to discontinue it for the future altogether. Spent my time much as usual, at least during the daytime, & the evening I may state with very little variety. I have spent {{Red|*}}several evenings at H.Clarks mothers, F of War, Sarah I suppose, being the attraction, the girl is getting exceedingly loving towards me she is a very nice girl pleasent & amiable, plays & sings & does all in her power to make the time pass pleasently I met a great number of young fellows there I have been twice to the Theatre since I last wrote, Last night I saw Barry Sullivan in "Loves Sacrifice" & the other time I saw [him] in The Serf, he is a fine actor. I like him much better in high Comedy than I do in Tragedy - I have read a {{Image|file=Aag-679.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/152}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-680 961]

little lately. Goethe's “Faust”. "The Life and Correspondence of Chas J.Fox" by Lord John Russell. Thursday evening I went to the Polytechnic Hall to a concert given by Signor Castells & several of his pupils among the number Miss F Reeves. Signor C is the most accomplished musician & the best vocal instructor we have had in Melbourne, he came from the conservatoir of Paris, his voice is not much account but for style & finish he has not had his equal here, he sang a piece called "Far Away where Angels Dwell" deler- -iously. F Reeves made her debut on the occasion & gave general satisfaction, her voice is of a rich contralto good quality but I fear its rather too limited in range for her ever to become A1. Great excitement in the Political world here at present, on old bone of contention that has been picked pretty clean, not only in England but in America namely, Protection versus Free Trade. The mob which means the Majority are for Protection to their narrow minds plenty of work in the shape of new industries & manufactures are opened up, if the country is not to prosper with protection thus favourable to it, when, the freight, duty & the numerous other charges upon goods cominq from England & foreign markets is taken into consideration. I think they ought to make up the difference in the price of labour which is the great, drawback to our local industry {{Image|file=Aag-680.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/153}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-681 962]

Meetings have been held every evening in Melb & suburbs with the idea of getting both ends of the question ventilated, but instead of good coming from them nothing but the reverse has been the result, for one or two that I have attended have been nothing but rowdy stormy gatherings. Yesterday afternoon I spent in practising Scales & Exercises on the Piano. Mary, very kindly is giving me instruction. I am afraid that I shall have to discontinue it, for night time is the only time I have for practice, & my eyes after writing all day at the office are not strong enough to keep long at it This morning I went to St Peters. In the afternoon I took a long walk, & in the evening I went to the B.S. Wesley Chapel, met Miss Clark & saw her home from there - - - - - - - Feby 12th.1865 Weather very warm, some would vote it intolerably so Still continue very busy at the office. I have been about pretty considerably this week to one place or another - Monday evening I spent at Mrs. Smarts, Johnston St she persuaded me to go to a Tea Meeting at Abbotsford which took place on Friday night, after discussing theatre & meeting several I knew the Browns & Ramsdens & Miss Marshall, forming quite a little party, we all adjourned outside & had a pleasent strool along the Yarra Banks, being a nice moon light night we enjoyed ourselves very much, at least I did. We called at Mrs James for {{Image|file=Aag-681.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/154}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-682 963]

& staid a short time - I have spent two evenings at Clarks F of War. Saturday night I went to see the Lenton Troupe - a Mr & Mrs. Heine were performing with them. Mrs H is considered the finest lady Pianiste that has visited Australia - & her husband Mr. H who is blind is equally clever as a violinist - I went, as usual, this morning to St Peters Church In the afternoon I took a ramble about Fitzroy Gardens, met several acquaintances In the evening I went to the Wesley Chapel, B St. heard Mr {{Red|*}}Finlay preach an excellent sermon on the justness of God, his sermon was rather a severe one, especially as he appeared to me to impress upon his hearers that a God who is both just & jealous cannot be expected to have any mercy - rather different character of the Almighty than what I have been taught to believe him to be – strange! Mr. Handfield in the morning was preaching upon Gods mercy & goodness to man in spite of his wickedness I met Miss Clark after the service, I have placed myself in rather uncomfortable position, with respect to her & another friend of mine Thos.Sellman - some weeks back they were supposed to be engaged, they were a good deal together since then she has got very cool toward him. I am in the confidence of both, & I have been trying to make it up between but I have been unsuccessful. Miss C. loves some body else. I have a shrewd guess who that somebody else is, but that somebody else cares nothing more for her than he does for any other girl, her excuse for breaking off with Tom is that he is too fond of drink & is very fast, so he is mainly {{Image|file=Aag-682.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/155}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-683 964]

to be blamed. I told Tom this evening how matters stood & he got into a passion with me, accused me of worming myself in her favour & supplanting him in her affection - it was no use expostulating with him in his state of mind so I left him in his unamiable mood I dont think that I will go to Clarks for some time yet [Saturday,] 18th.Feby 1865 Weather still hot, a pleasent change took place yesterday in the shape of a downfall of rain, a blessing we have not enjoyed since X mas time I have been very unwell during the week. Tuesday afternoon on leaving the office I went in company with some fellow clerks to Sandridge for a Sea Bathe. I was very hot when I jumped into the water & the shock or transition from heat to cold must have affected me for I have had a severe cold ever since & pains all over my body. I spent my evenings mostly at home reading - I received a letter from my cousin Harry informing me Lizzie has been confined, she has lost no time since being married. The English Mail, no letter from Father but a number of Papers. Saturday afternoon I read until 4 pm when I went to Carlton Gardens to hear the HeadQuarters Band play. In the evening I went into town & rambled about, until 9.30, when I came home {{Image|file=Aag-683.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/156}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-684 965]

- - - - - - - - - - Monday Feby 20th.1865
Yesterday morning Sunday, I went to St Peters, remained at home until evening not feeling well, after tea I went to Chapel, but had to come out early feeling very ill, I vomited frightfully managed to get home with an effort, took some Brandy which did me good & went to bed. This morning I went to the office but did very little work. I shall remain at home tomorrow if I am not better, on my way home this evening I met my old mate Bill Hobson, he is living in Bendigo, having got a share in a rich quartz claim there & is doing well, he is friends with his father to whom he was estranged for a long time. Will was well dressed & looking very different than when I last met him in Dunedin, dirty & ragged & hard up - [Sunday, 26 February 1865] - - - - - - - - - Feby 25th.1865 Weather very hot since I last wrote. Very ill last Tuesday so I staid at home in bed till 3 pm when I got up & took a walk as far as Richmond. Went to business the following morning all right! I spent Thursday evening at Clarks. Sarah very fond & loving Bah! Im not on. One woman is the same to me as another all the romance of love far vanished when Isa King married I have met many girls but they are all alike to me, if I do feel interested in any for a short time, it causes me no regret whether they are fickle or inconstant. The fact is I am very susceptible to female charms & yet at the same time careless whether they care for me or not - no! I feel I can never love [a] woman again as I did Isa. With such a holy pure passion I flee from {{Image|file=Aag-684.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/157}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-685 966]

sensuality. Saturday afternoon I went to hear the Head Quarters Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, where I met an old acquaintance R.Williamson, tis five years since I last met him, he is very much altered for the better. In the evening I met F.Rooke & we went to a Bazaar in St Georges Hall. We were nearly smothered what with the heat & the crowding & then being pestered by a lot of impudent girls who persist in worrying one into buying some stupid article or another & victimise one in a swindle of some kind. There was a deal of singing quantity, at least but as for quality, ugh! This morning I went to the Roman Catholic Chapel & heard Chas. Stuart (of the Christy Minstrels) sing the "Cujus Animam" from the “Stabat Mater” which he sang magnificently, his voice is light in tone but very sweet. I dont think he has a high natural range, but he manages to get up, & sings with with taste & judgement - he left the Minstrels 12 months ago in Sydney. My friend Stewart lost his place in the Band. Jim has a finer natural voice than his namesake but he is not so finished or artistic in his style of production F.Rooke was at the place, he came home to dinner with us we went out in the afternoon for a strool a heavy shower of rain sent us home pretty quickly. In the evening I went to the BSW Chapel, met a young fellow named Marsden, an acquaintance of mine, after the service in company with Sarah Clark & Jenny Kerr, I joined them making the party complete. We took a walk & saw the ladies home {{Image|file=Aag-685.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/158}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-686 967]

- - - - - - - March 12th.1865 A fortnight since I continued the recital of my ill doings, if I may so call them, good they certainly are not nor are my actions, I am sorry to state, likely to be productive of good either to myself or others - I have spent several evenings lately at the Fortune of War in company with others, very jollily. I went to a Meeting in the Exhibition Building, an awfully wild & rowdy affair, got up by the "protectionists". The place was filled by Freetraders & I must say I never heard such a row in my life it was impossible to get a hearing for any of the speakers they no sooner stood up when they were howled down & to make things worse some malicious persons had distributed cayenne pepper & snuff about the place & what with the heat the sneezing howling shouting cursing Etc Etc it presented the appearance of a pandemonium, business was quite out of the question party feeling running very high - I went last night to the Haymarket Theatre to see an Irish Comedian named ONeil in the "Irish Emigrant" which he played tolerably well - The Christy Minstrels have been performing there I went to hear them once or twice they are not so good as formerly, having lost two or three of their best men, their places being filled up with whoever could be procured in the colony - I wrote to Christy Foyne last week. I met [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] a few days ago. He had just received a letter from T.Downs who informed him that my brother Edward was living in Dunedin with Signor Catabina, keeping a fashionable Billiard Saloon. I was very sorry {{Image|file=Aag-686.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/159}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-687 968]

to hear it. Catebina is a decent fellow in his way but is no companion for my brother who is very much attached to him I feel to have very little hope of Ned becoming anything but a Blaguard he seems to like associating with people of questionable reputation - I had great hopes of Ned one time so handsome & clever, if his talents could only have been guided into a proper channel he would have made a fine man – but I fear it is too late now, he seems to be confirmed in his present cause - I wrote a long letter to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] imploring him him to look Ned up, & prevail upon him to adopt some other mode of living. This morning I went to St Peters Church In the afternoon Harry Clark called for me & we took a walk together, went to his place to tea after which we went to the B.S. Wesley Chapel. Harrys mother is going to leave their Hotel in Napier St she having taken another one in Nt Melb [Sunday, 19 March 1865] 20 March 1865
Very fine weather during the past week. Busy at the office plenty of Ships at the pier discharging. The English Mail came in in due time, bringing a letter from my father, one from my Aunt Bryer containing the [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/WatmuffTrunk-251 likenes of her son] Charles & his [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/WatmuffTrunk-254 wife] also a letter from Aunt Lucy, containing £50 for my sister Mary to enable her to procure things which she will require for her wedding - which is to take place in a few months time. I dont trouble myself much about the affair, for J.J.Clark is a man I dont like, time may change my opinion of him - I hope it may. I rarely ever speak to him - he is a relative to {{Image|file=Aag-687.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/160}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-688 969]

my friends the Clarks, who have figured in my journal of late. I was greatly surprised at Aunt Lucys liberality for from what I hear of her she is most parsimonious about her affairs - Father is very well & the rest of our home relatives much about as usual Tuesday night I went to the Opera, the Lyster Troupe having lately arived from Adelaide, & heard “Lucia di Lammemoor”. Squires & Escott were engaged Squires sang “Fra poco” exquisitely. Two acts of “Lilly of Killarney” was produced the same night Rose Durand, Sophia whom I never liked taking the part of the “Colleen Bawn” while Armes Beaumont a rising young colonial tenor, playd & sang the part of Hardress very well Wharton (the best Baritone we ever had here, but whose voice I fear is deteriorating greatly lately, in consequence of his fondness for worshipping at the shrine of Bacchus) makes a splendid Danny Man. He & Beaumont sang the Duet “The Moon has raised her Lamp”, in a style which fairly brought down the house - Friday night Fred & I went to hear them in “Fra Diavolo” Squires & Escott sustaining the principal parts in it. While Durand & Beaumont came out strongly in the “Daughter of the Regiment” the two operas being produced the same evening This evening I went to hear a Mass sung at St Francis Chapel on leaving there I went to St. Peters Church arrived in time to hear the sermon. In the afternoon I paid Fitzroy Gardens a visit, met Lizzie Atkinson & Marie Woods there rambled about with them until tea time In the evening I went to Clarks spent the evening with Sarah & her mother - did not stay very late I am getting sick of visiting them. I wish they would not press me so much {{Image|file=Aag-688.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/161}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-689 970]

- - - - - - April 2nd 1865
Another fortnight over my head but whether spent profitably or not is the question. I have [nothing] very important to note, my time being spent much the same as it usually is with little variety. I spent one or two evenings at Clarks at Nt Melb. Met Miss Finnigan about a week ago looking as beautiful as ever. There has been a coolness between us, in consequence of an anonymous letter which she received of which I was accused of writing however she has discovered its author & apologised to me for ever having surmised I was guilty of doing a palty action. I visited her house on Wednesday evening Mrs {{Red|*}}Fleet called & spent a very enjoyable evening together, her sisters were at home & being a nice moonlight night induced us to take a strool together in the Gardens 12 pm when I left very reformed friends. I went to hear the Opera of “The Huguenots” it is a grand Opera full of glorious music, the principals were pretty good but the choruses & secondary parts were far from creditable. A new Band of Christy Minstrels have arrived, who call themselves the veritable & really original ones. They have two Tenor singers in their company one called Abecco, who has created quite a furore, his voice is strong but limited in range, but there is peculiar ring in his voice & he sings very sensational songs, subjects of which are founded upon incidents connected with the late American War, & are becoming very popular - he plays the harp beautifully {{Image|file=Aag-689.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/162}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-690 971]

& accompanies himself upon it when singing The other Tenor, Herbert is more to my taste he has a beautiful voice & knows how to use it, & when the novelty of Abecco's singing is over, Herbert will be better appreciated, at least I think so, the rest of the company are very good. Raynor their Bass I dont care for - [[Brown-132385|Joe Brown]] the great Dancer is very popular & with Collins do the comic {{Red|*}}business they have a world - wide reputation & I have no doubt the party will doing very well in the Colony - The Mail arrived from England, bringing us nothing but newspapers from Father. This morning I took a strool about the neighbourhood Afternoon ditto in company with my brother Fred & in the evening we went to Clarks - - - - - - - - - April 9th.1865 Weather very changeable during the past few days sometimes very hot & at others very cold Busy at the office I have been Three times to hear the ‘Christy Minstrels’ One evening I spent at Clarks. I forget where or how I spent the other evening, I think at home! I went to Chapel this morning. In the afternoon Bessie & I took a walk in the Gardens where we met Harriet Bishop who joined us in our strool, she is a beautiful girl but I think she is not particularly bright or intelligent, but she has a great number of admirers although very young. After tea I went to Chapel When the service was over I met some lady friends & saw one of them home - {{Image|file=Aag-690.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/163}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-691 972]

Tuesday April 18th.1865
Since writing the last time I have had a pleasent change (a trip to Bendigo the scene of many a bygone day) The fore part of last week I spent as usual Monday evening Miss McLaurin & I went to the Theatre together. Thursday night Fred & I went to see our friend Ambler make his debut in company with the Christy Minstrels he has a very good Baritone voice & will in time if he continues at it be an acquisition to the Colonial Lyric Stage his performance appeared to give general satisfaction The Easter holidays commenced on Good Friday & having & having four spare days before I determined upon taking advantage of them by paying Bendigo a visit, especially as the fares were so reasonable 12/- a return ticket (cheap travelling for 200 miles) I left by the 7 am train Friday purchasing what I thought was a return ticket, when to my astonishment on reaching Kangaroo Flat, 2 miles from Sandhurst, the porter coolly informed me it was a single ticket & that when I returned I should have to purchase another one on reaching Sandhurst I informed the Station Master of the circumstances but he could do nothing for me, so when I left I was compelled to pay for another ticket on reaching Melb I found out the Traffic Supt & told him of the affair when he promised to make enquiries & if he found my tale was true he would see that my money was returned to me I called at his office this evening & found the money ready for me, on giving up {{Image|file=Aag-691.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/164}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-692 973]

first ticket I had scribbled my name upon it, so it was easily discovered - But to return to my journey! I left Melb at 7 am & arrived on Sandhurst by 12 - I could not help thinking of the old days, when I was younger, when with my swag upon my back I had trudged wearily along those hills & plains, that we were going over with Lightning speed in the early digging days. What a contrast, a few years presents, when at one time I had walked for a score of miles or more with- -out seeing a habitation are now to be found farms, stations Mills, townships - where I have walked knee deep in mud are now to be seen good macadamised roads & streets. One can scarcely realize the difference a few short years have made in the face of things The Railway is a fine piece of work – some splendid works are to be found upon the line, such as the Viaduct at Tarradale & the two great tunnels, the one at Elphinstone & the other through the "Big Hill" 8 miles from Sandhurst. I was very glad to arrive at my journeys end the carriages were so crowded & close - my first plan of call was at Mrs Frazers who remembered me at once & would have made me very welcome if I had remained She directed me to my couzin Lizzie (Mrs. Holm) on calling I found her out for the day, at California Gully, her husband who I met for the first time seemed rather surprised by my familiar way in enquiring for his wife, but when I told him who I was his manner changed at once & he informed me who he was – he insisted upon my remaining at his house as long as I stayed on Bendigo, after spending about an hour with him I {{Image|file=Aag-692.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/165}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-693 974]

started on an old familiar walk, to me, to California Gully, but having to pass near Mr. Kings house, I could not resist the temptation of giving the family a call not that I had any great love for them with the exception of one member of it who I thought might have been there I called, & was disappointed. Mr. & Mrs. K & Mary were the only ones at home - Mrs. Lay (Isa) had been on a visit with them but had returned home that morning however they made me very welcome, ([[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] was there he is engaged to be married to Mary King & they were going to Melb. that same afternoon together, I fancy to be married, but I heard to day from the Dights, that they could not get the ceremony performed they having neglected to give the customary notice) I staid to dinner with them after which I left & started for the Gully passing on the way two or three spots where I formerly dwelt, a few stones of the chimney on the ground, & the trench that had been cut around the tents being the only vestiges left of my former habitations. I passed many an old hole & shaft which I had sunk & toiled in with high hopes & had left in despair at which I passed & looked at & sighed. I met many an old familiar face at which Id look at but whose blank look in return informed me plainly that I was no longer remembered. I put my head into several tents where lived old diggers that will never perhaps leave the old spots they have pitched their tents upon, it nearly brought tears to my eyes at the honest rough greeting they gave me when I was recognised by those who remembered {{Image|file=Aag-693.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/166}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-694 975]

the wild reckless boy they called “Gentleman Jack” or little Jack, the only name I was known by many - on reaching the north side of Long Gully I met McCaffray leading by a hand a pretty little girl, [[Hooper-10509|Mrs. Hickeys]] (Miriam) [[Hickey-4739|firstborn]]A little confusing, he had always referred to Mrs. Hickey as "Minnie" 'til now, her name was Mary Ann Hooper. The little girl is [[Hickey-4739|Eliza Jane Hickey]], born about 3rd Feb 1860, died 1869 - I left him promising to call in the morning at Mrs Hoopers - I found my couzins Liz & Henry at Archy Baines hut spending the day, Liz is looking very well she has a nice little girl. Harry is the same dry old sober sides, he is living at Lizzies working with [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]], Coopering, but he does not intend remaining at it, he tells me that he is studying very hard. I remained about 3 hours with them several people called, old acquaintances who have lived in the Gully the last 10 years & knew me when I was a boy, all glad to see me, I could see the Nelson Reef across the Gully & the men at work with whom I have done many a hard days labour with After tea I called on Mrs. Hooper, (I met her son Bob who was going on the night shift he is at work in the Nelson Reef) poor old soul she went into ecstasies on seeing me she hugged & kissed me till I thought Id choke no one was home so I spent the evening in hearing her go over all her trials & afflictions & giving me a full true & particular account of every scandle & event both minor & major that had occurred in the neighbourhood since my leaving it at length seeing I was sleepy she prepared my bed she seemed as if nothing was too much for her to do for me she is a goodnatured woman warm hearted & affectionate always trying to be useful to her neighbours, visits the sick & afflicted no matter who they may be. Bob & Scoty came home from work at 4 am next morning. Mrs. Hooper & Scoty {{Image|file=Aag-694.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/167}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-695 976]

started for Melb. by the first train & having to walk 3 miles to the station they left before I was up. Bob & I got up 9 Am & we prepared our breakfast after which we took a ramble about the neighbourhood, we visited the Frazers who keep a Store in the same shop that Andrew Smith formerly carried on business in. Locky had gone to town the rest of the family excepting Mr & Mrs F. did not remember [me] being young children when I left. I called on [[Froggatt-267|Mr. Froggart]] who is still the Manager of the Nelson Reef he was very glad to see me & showed me over the Works - I found several of the old hands employed about the place, Harvey the Smith & Pithey the Engineer & much to my surprise my old & esteemed friend [[Brown-44971|Mr. Brown]] who I have not seen since I left the Manuherike River Otago N.Z. He was formerly a Director & a large Shareholder in the Company, but having lost a deal of money in N.Z. & elsewhere he is compelled [to] take a situation he is a very clever man, theoretically & practically to, he informed me that he left Dunedin 2 months ago & that he met my brother Edward there, looking very well & respectably dressed, he was living with Catibini. On leaving the Reef which is paying better than it has done since I left it, I went to Wellsteads he is looking very old, his wife is the same fine noble looking woman as ever They made me very welcome Mrs Wls as jolly & rollicking as ever informed me that there has been no life nor fun in the Gully since I left it - I shall never forget her dressing up in Volunteers clothes {{Image|file=Aag-695.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/168}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-696 977]

one night & I in hers & both us taking a walk together through the township, when she perceiving the policeman (the only one) coming took to her heels with all a womans instinct of fear, of course I followed with my crinolin under my arm to the astonishment of the bewildered "Bobby". Ah! how we laughed over it & other madcap pranks, she has three or four children now & is getting a little more matronly in her appearance. They informed me that they have been very unfortunate lately owing to some mining speculation - I called on Mr & Mrs. Drew. Geo was working but on seeing me he said Ill do no more work to day, he was so delighted to see me. Mrs D had seen me in the distance & knew I would call so she had put on the kettle & knowing how fond I used to be of fritters had commenced mixing some, of which I partook heartily of They were very kind & made me so welcome They have had two children since I last saw them - I left them about 3 pm. & called at several other places in that neighbourhood after which Bob Hooper & I went into Sandhurst, & called at my couzins, found several young ladies there & a Mrs Eliot who gave me a pressing invite to a party she was to give as last night, of course I had to decline. After tea I rambled about Pall Mall & being Saturday night it was crowded I met a great number of people I knew, many of course to whom I stopped & chatted with among the number, Andrew Smith, my companion from Dunedin on board the Alhambra, he is a rising man, has shares in several payable claims & is {{Image|file=Aag-696.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/169}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-697 978]

the Manager of a Branch Bank at Raywood We walked about, for an hour or so when we parted with mutual good wishes for each others future welfare, I slept at Lizzies Next morning I went out to Long Gully & called for Bob Hooper & together we visited tents in the Gully called upon Dave Anderson he is the same happy go lucky fellow as of old, & unfortunately as fond of his Beer as ever, such a pity! for he is really a superior man, having been well educated & mixed in good society, he is now about 28 years old but sinking fast into a sot. I talked long with him & did my best to persuade him to a different course of life & endeavour to regain his lost position in society, he is living at present with Jim Hall, who I was sorry to find absent, after dinner which I had with Dave - Bob & I started a long walk to the "Birds Reef" Kangaroo Flat, where I was informed my old friend Mr. Halley was living On reaching his place I was disappointed upon hearing that he left that morning to visit Echuca. I was very sorry for there was no one on Bendigo than I would sooner have seen than him. We had just left the place when who should I meet but himself it appeared that he had missed the train so was returning home We were very glad to see each other, he is looking much older, his hair is getting quite grey, we sat down on the roadside & had a long talk relating in turn how time had served us since last we parted {{Image|file=Aag-697.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/170}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-698 979]

found that we had each our ups & downs so after mutually sympathising with each other we parted, Bob & I took a Cab at Kangaroo Flat & drove into Sandht had tea at Lizzies, after which, Bob left, I spent the evening with Mr. & Mrs. Holm very pleasently & retired to bed early feeling very tired after my long days walk I arose next morning (Monday) at 6 & made my adieus, & then walked to the Railway Station & took my seat, arrived in town by 12 O.C. met Mr King & his son Jack on the Melb platform - on my arrival home I indulged in a Bath, a luxury owing to the scarcity of water in Bendigo that I have not had since leaving home, after which, I took my sister Bessie to the Athletic Sports on the Melb Cricket Ground I did not enjoy the sports very much, feeling rather fatigued & the day being very hot I met several I knew on the ground, Locky Frazer & Jim Stewart – among the number After tea I went to Kerrs, met miss Clark & Jenny Kerr, in company with Trotter, after some chatting Trotter & I went to the Theatre together & heard the Christy Minstrels, 12 when I got home I went to business this morning, found my work very hard after the holidays. In the evening I went to Clarks at Nt. Melb’ met several young fellow acquaintances there, & also some young ladies, spent an hour or two very pleasently singing & dancing Etc - & so has passed my Easter holidays - very pleasently on the whole I think {{Image|file=Aag-698.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/171}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-699 980]

- - - - Sunday April 23rd 1865 Quite a change in the weather during the past few days, no rain but very cold & gloomy, its a pity we have no rain, being much wanted after the long spell of dry weather Nother has occurred worth noting since I last wrote Friday the 21st inst was observed as a halfholiday being the anniversary of the Eight Hour labour system, the day was chosen for the Unveiling of the Statue of Burke & Wills (the Explorers, who came to such a fatal end at Coopers Creek) which has been erected at the intersection of Collins & Russell St the ceremony was performed by the Governor Sir Charles Darling & witnessed by an immense crowd of people. The statue is a very fine one Wills is represented sitting down, writing, & Burke is erect with one hand resting upon Wills shoulder, being very suggestive of the support he received from him while living. The figures are of Herculean proportions resting upon a granite base with some bas reliefs in metal, representing their journey across Australia, set into the stone The English Mail arrived yesterday by several days beyond its time – no letters, nothing but a few papers from my father I went to hear the Minstrels last night, being their closing night. Signor Abecco was presented with a Medal by some of his numerous admirers, he responded to [the] compliment in a very nice manner. This afternoon Harry Clark & I took a strool in Fitzroy Gardens, & {{Image|file=Aag-699.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/172}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-700 981]

we met Miss Lizzie Atkinson, a young lady Clark is rather soft upon, & another young lady that I was introduced to her name is [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]]. I was surprised. I did not remember her, not having seen her since she was a little girl before I went to N.Z. Then in company with her sister [[Rakowski-85|Agnes]], who is now Mrs. W.H.Dalrymple, we soon got on very good terms together, she being very chatty & agreeable, Clark & I walked to Richmond with them - on leaving them I accompanied Harry to his mothers where I had tea & spent the evening with him - [Sunday, 30 April 1865] Sunday 29th [30th] April 1865 Weather beautiful, but rather chilly at times, had a little rain but not enough to [do] any good. Rather slack at the office, in consequence of the non arrival of vessels. Monday night I met Miss Clark or she threw herself in my way, the girl is getting too fond. I walked home with her. Thursday night I visited her mothers, several people there passed the time singing & dancing. I was there again last night a lot of acquaintances dropped in, mostly young fellows & admirers of Miss C. They had been to the Sports at St Kilda & were half seas over having been basking in the sun pretty freely. Not having any sympathy for that sort of thing I left early & walked into town, where I met Fred Rooke & a Captain Kruntz, of the Ship “Crown Prince Lusina Christian Von Sweeden”) what a name) the Capt I found a jolly young fellow & very liberal with his money & cigars. We visited several places of amusement of various descriptions, until 12 when I left them {{Image|file=Aag-700.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/173}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-701 982]

I went to the B.S. Wesley Chapel heard a long dry sermon, very argumentive but so obtuse as to be quite incomprehensible to me After dinner, I took my walk abroad, as usual to the Gardens, met Mr Chiek & Miss Finnegan, promised to visit the latter next week. I went to Chapel in the evening, walked to the P.O. with a girl I knew when I left her & meeting with Harry Clark I went with him, home, found Trotter & Selman there as usual, the latter is a discarded lover & the former is persevering to ingratiate himself into the good graces of Sarah Clark. I wish him every success, he looks daggers at me & is very jealous & all that sort of thing, & yet we are friendly I have told him many a time I dont care for the girl but at the same time he is not blind to the partial manner she displays towards me - Oh bother such a subject I fear Im an awful flirt & a humbug I shall get taken in some of these days, I know! - - - - - - - - May 7th, 1865 Weather very unsettled, tho’ very little rain has fallen. Monday evening I went out for a strool met several acquaintances, (male). D. & I found our way to Kerrs, & I was induced to puchase a ticket for a Ball for the following evening to which I went, found a very jolly lot of people there, being fond of a dancing I managed to enjoy myself. I left about at 3 Am the following morning, those remaining {{Image|file=Aag-701.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/174}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-702 983]

were beginning to get too noisy & rowdy to please me I went to business as usual but felt very tired, but after tea I went to Finnegans as I had promised left about 10 Pm & came home. Thursday night I went to Clarks, thought they were very cool towards me. It did not affect me much for they are people I dont much care for. Sarah is the one that makes the place attractive to me she plays & sings & does her best to please & altogether is very agreeable & I generally find pleasent company at the house which all tends to ones amusement & pleasure Friday night Mr. [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] called he is a gentleman we have met several times at Mrs. Morris's & other friends houses, & he effects a serious regard toward my younger sister Bessie We know very little of him but that little is in his favour. My sister, I fancy, rather likes him, but she is so young I fear she cannot analyze the feelings she has towards him, he called as I have stated to invite Bessie Fred & I to spend the evening at some friends of his (whom I have met before) Mr & Mrs Steels, Hotham, we found Mr & Mrs. Morris there & also other acquaintances most of whom were musical, so we managed to spend a pleasent evening together. Saturday morning I spent, at Dalgety & Co. office copying a Ships Manifest. In the afternoon R.Ryland {{Image|file=Aag-702.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/175}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-703 984]

& I visited the Museum (University) a place well worth visiting, the ground floor is devoted to Models of Mchy for Mining & Agricultural purposes. Above are to be found some splendid collections of minerals, shells, bones Etc Etc but what pleased me the most, were the Cases of Stuffed Birds & Animals, the whole forming a Collection of objects that Young Victoria ought to be proud in possessing. Fred & I took our usual ramble, about town in the evening - This morning , Sunday, I went to Church, took a walk in the afternoon, & in the evening I went to Clarks, found no one at home but Sarah. I at once charged her with her strange behaviour on my last visit after some hesitation she confessed that T.Sellman had informed her that I had told him that I did not care for her & that I thought her a fool in showing her preference towards me, Etc all of which was very true & but in speaking to Sellman upon I the subject, I used to greatest caution & used the most delicate expressions to convey my opinion of her to him, while he has repeated or conveyed the sense of my remarks to her in his own, coarse vulgar way. It is not the first time he has made mischief in that house between its visitors. I am glad it occurred in one sense {{Image|file=Aag-703.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/176}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-704 985]

for it gave me an opportunity of relieving her mind of any idea she had entertained respecting my relations to her - after doing so, I was going away with the intention of never visiting her more, the most honourable plan I could adopt, when she entreated me to continue on friendly terms with her, & whatever feeling she had toward me she would endeavour to conquer, of course I promised but for the future my visits will be like the "proverbial Angels," as I was coming away the Kerrs called so I waited for them & accompanied them home - May 14 1865 The weather has been very unsettled during [the week], but not much rain has fell, until yesterday when we had a gale of wind accompanied with sleety rain, which has continued to the present time Monday evening I spent at home, several visitors called & we managed to spend an agreeable evening. Tuesday evening I spent at Kerrs, Wednesday I spent, at Clarks found Jones, Trotter & Sellman there, the latter I had a few words with, the others interfering prevented us from quarrelling, we parted good friends after our tea cup squall. Miss C. assumed the distant toward me, but it was so strained & marked that her manner must have appeared rather ludicrous to the others present. I walked home with Miss Kerr {{Image|file=Aag-704.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/177}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-705 986]

Thursday evening Fred & I took a strool about town came home about 11 Pm. Friday afternoon, Geo Drew called upon me, & in the evening I called at the Exchange Hotel where he is lodging with his wife & family, until a vessel sails for Queensland, where they purpose going. Geo. has been very unfortunate on Bendigo & having a brother in Brisbane he thinks it will be to his interest to go & settle there. I remained with them until 9 Pm. when we parted with mutual good wishes for each others welfare. I called at Clarks on my way home, found my Bro Fred there, came home early Saturday afternoon I called at Dights, no one at home, so I returned & spent the rest of the day, doing odd jobs about the place chopping wood, driving in nails here & there & jobbing in the garden. In the evening Miss McLaurin called & staid about an hour I walked into town with her to Dr Brownless' house where she is living & employed as Governess, on my return home I ate a hearty supper, which brought on a fit of indigestion that kept me awake all night with a pain in my stomach. To day it rained very hard, so I remained at home reading everything that came in my way, it cleared up a little in the evening when Fred & I went to the Wesleyan Chapel Bk St I didnt profit much by what I heard feeling sleepy. I could hardly keep {{Image|file=Aag-705.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/178}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-706 987]

my eyes open, it was bitterly cold when we got outside & we were not long before we reached home, On Wednesday I had a visit from a young man who had just arrived from Dunedin, who brought me news of my Bro Ned, he is still with Catabini, at the old game, I feel sorry Ned has not more pride or self respect to continue such a low calling, however I was glad to hear that he was alive & well. I shall write to him next week - - - - - Sunday 21st May 1865 Horrible disagreeable weather wet & cold & very little sunshine, dirty streets, every body looking dull & melancholy. One good thing about it it keeps Fred & I more at home than we otherwise would be. The English Mail arrived on Monday, no letters, nothing but a few papers from father. Fred & I spent the evening in following a female Ballad Singer about from place to place, we heard her sing about a dozen songs, some of which she really sang well displaying both taste & feeling, she has a good voice & I have no doubt at one time & under different circumstances, she had a fine organ - I feel very sorry for the woman she appears to be a poor delicate creature, two men accompany her upon some Bass instruments. Tuesday evening had to remain at home Wednesday evening I spent at Kerrs, sat talking with Jenny who for two blessed hours did nothing {{Image|file=Aag-706.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/179}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-707 988]

but relate to me her hopes & fears respecting a lover she imagines she has, she is very fond of him & I believe the fellow is a married man & is only fooling her, what an astonishing fellow I am everybody I get intimate with makes a confident of me. I am the possessor of more secrets on love affairs than I believe any man of my acquaintance Thursday evening I went for my sisters who had been spending the afternoon at Mrs Morriss, met them in company with H.Clark so I turned with them & came home. Miss Crispen dropped in & we managed to spend an agreeable evening. I saw Miss C home at 11 Pm & afterwards accompanied Harry a part of his way home to Hotham, he has lately returned from Woods Point where he has been engaged as a Mining Agent but I dont think that he has gained much by his absence excepting experience Friday evening I spent at the Brunswick St. Chapel There was a Rehearsal for a concert which is to be given on the Queens B Day F.Reeves is the principal vocalist & if she sings as well at the Concert as she did when I heard her, I am sure the audience will be pleased. Saturday afternoon I spent until 4 Pm in making extracts from "The Life [of] Julius Ceasar" compiled I hear at a cost of £30000 by no less an author than Napoleon III Emperor of the French. The work, as far as I can judge, is well written & displays great care & study in its compilation, but the {{Image|file=Aag-707.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/180}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-708 989]

object of the work, appears to me, to place the life & general character of the Great Napoleon in favourable comparison with that of the greatest of the Ceasars There is some analogy in the characters of the two men, but not to the extent that Napoleon III wishes to make out, after finishing my notes I took a strool into town met a young man named Marsden, an acquaintance, & walked home with him In the evening Fred & I went to the Haymarket Theatre together, saw Miss Cleveland in a piece called "St Marys Eve" but the attraction of the thing was the reappearance of several vocal mediums, Farquharson Sherwin & Mde Carandini & her daughter Fanny the latter is a pleasing singer but I fear she will [not] be as good as her mother. The old lady sang as charmingly as ever. Sherwin is done up & the least said about him the better. Farquharson was as good as ever, he sang the ‘Desert’ & the "Maniac" magnificently, & one or two Buffe Songs which met with much approval [1865-06-04-Sunday] - - - - - - - June 3rd.[4th] 1865 Weather very unsettled during the last two weeks – scarcely a day without rain, I have been kept very busy at the office several English vessels having arrived lately & on discharging their Cargoes at our Pier. I sent in an application to Mr. Finlayson Secretary of the M & H B Rl Co, about, a fortnight [ago] for an increase of salary. I received an answer two days since informing me that an increase of 10s/d- {{Image|file=Aag-708.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/181}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-709 990]

per week had been granted me which is certainly an improvement upon what I have been getting. If it had not been for the money I had from England I could never have knocked along as I have done on my small salary my rise was accompanied with an intimation that my employers are quite alive to my merits & were very well pleased at the manner in which I performed the duties of my situation I have been no place of amusement since I last wrote with the exception of an amateur Concert I attended given in the Brunswick St Chapel The singing was good on the whole, being selections from Oratorios - Last Saturday evening I had some words with J.J.Clark the gentleman my sister Mary is engaged to. I never liked him, he appears, to me, to have a most proud overbearing contemptible manner & one of those men who can see no virtue in another, & is very nasty & sarcastic at times. I dont mind that sort of thing so long as he keeps it for strangers, but he is continually casting reproaches & saying disagreeable things about our family Etc I let him know that he had no right to assume such a dictatorial tone in our house & insisted upon him, for the future to mind his own business on the following Monday morning I received a most intolerant note from him to which I replied in very plain terms The following day I received another note from him, more {{Image|file=Aag-709.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/182}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-710 991]

overbearing & insulting than the former I answered it also in a manner which no man of spirit could have mistaken. I had the mortification of receiving another effusion from him in reply which I intended returning to him unopened, but for my mother who thought there might be something in it in reference to my sister there was not & I am happy to state that in none of his notes did he allude to her, she met him this morning & he informed her that he did not intend to visit the house again. I hope he wont while I am in it, for I shall certainly quarrel with him, but for Marys sake I would have kicked him out of the house long ago, she is a fool to attach herself to such a man, she has plenty of admirers but Clark always seems to hang after her, dog in the manger kind of spirit. He is a clever young man an Architect by profession, & is employed in the Bd of Lands & Works Office & is in receipt of a splendid salary I really think he is fond of my sister, but being very sensitive & proud he is afraid of being ridiculed by marrying my sister in the face of the many of the many illnatured unfounded reports that have been spread by malicious people concerning the cause of my fathers absence & his living away from his family, it would be amusing if it was not so injurious to think of the many stories which have been in circulation respecting us of which I was quite ignorant of until I came to live at home - another of the mortifications my fathers - {{Image|file=Aag-710.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/183}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-711 992]

conduct has entailed upon his family We had a holiday on Queens Birth Day I took the girls to see the Review held on Emerald Hill, on arriving home we found the Miss Clarks here I was very polite & courteous toward them in spite of my quarrel with their brother, I dont think that they are aware of the eruption between us - The eldest Miss C is a plain spoken frank jolly kind of girl but whose education I fancy has been neglected, the other one is quite the reverse being stiff & formal. I hear she is very talented, & amiable - I took a strool into town that evening & was nearly burnt to death by fireworks. I wonder the Authorities dont put a stop to such things going off in the streets - This afternoon Bessie & I took a walk, met T.Grimwood who came home to tea with us, In the evening I went to the Brunswick St Wesleyan Chapel - [18 June 1865-06-18 Sunday] - - - - - - - 17 June 1865 A fortnight has elapsed since I continued my journal I have been hard at work in the office several large vessels just arrived & are moored alongside of our pier to discharge their cargoes. I have spent what little spare time I can find in copying into a substantially bound book, of this description, a portion of my old journal which I kept many years ago. I found it hard to make out, written as it was, many times by the Camp fire in the Bush on scraps of {{Image|file=Aag-711.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/184}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-712 993]

paper & in small memorandum books. I feel loath to let them be distroyd, now that I have kept them [so] long & the longer the events recorded the more interesting they will prove to be, at least to me, in the future. I have spent my evenings as I usually do visited the Haymarket Theatre once or twice to see some really clever Acrobats who call themselves the “Lenton Troupe” - I generally take a good sharp walk after my tea for a couple of hours or so I feel a necessity for this being accumstoned until very lately to so much outdoor exercise. This day week I accompanied Bessie to witness a Confirmation Service at St Marks Church, the service was rather an interesting [one] but rather to public & too much show about it to be an impressive one Fred & I went to St Peters in the evening at the conclusion of the service we met two sisters, Misses Stewarts, friends of Fred, we accompanied them home to Richmond On Tuesday evening Arthur Nicholson & I were going up Brunswick St & we met Miss Heeth who introduced me to rather a pretty girl named [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] she is about the middle height, rather a neat figure, her face, which by the bye is classically featured, what I should term a {{Red|*}}Scenic {{Red|*}}Grace such as one an artist would like to draw, a physiognomist would say there wanted intelligence to light the face up & give it expression I have met her every evening since - We took a long walk together on Friday. I found her {{Image|file=Aag-712.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/185}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-713 994]

much younger than I thought she was, very quiet - a quietness that rather puzzles me, being doubtful whether it arises from absolute dullness or from extreme cautiousness & cunning she is rather young to expect the latter I must see more of her ere I decide, she agrees to meet me & kisses me, or allows me to kiss her in the most mechanical manner, never seems to display a particle of warmth or feeling, a “Stone by name & one by nature”. I feel strangely attracted by to her & at the same time I dont feel an atom of love for her I look upon her as I would upon a fine piece of statuary - singular anomaly of nature, beauty without intelligence & visa versa, so often to be met with in life I have noticed it so often. Beauty either in male or female allied with all thats sensuous, whilst plainness with intelligence seem combined, on ordination of providence I suppose to make all alike attractive in some sense or another I dont think Ill see the girl again unless I see some sign of a “thaw in the icicle” the next time we meet. - - - - - - - - July 2nd 1865 A fortnight since I continued my journal the English Mail arrived here on the 24 ult 12 days after contract time. We received no news by it - American news are of fearful importance The fall of Richmond, the Confederates last stronghold is reported which will end the most fearful {{Image|file=Aag-713.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/186}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-714 995]

& bloody civil war on record This is not all, for a Tragedy of a shocking description marks the finish of this fearful struggle (which for loss of blood the numbers slain, the bitter hatred displayed on both sides stand unparalleled.) no less than the Assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, while sitting in his box in the Theatre New York, in company with his Secretary, & his family, was shot at by an actor named –[John Wilkes Booth] who is supposed to be an agent of the Confederate party after committing the deed he managed to escape in the panic that ensued but was shortly afterwards captured & who I suppose is now out of the land of living - The weather has been very wet & miserable lately I have not been to any place of amusement since I last wrote, nor have I read much. I generally go out in the evening for a short time when I usually meet with some acquaintance or another. I met [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] several times she is a queer girl rather consequential & pretty vain of her beauty which makes her coquettish but not in a fascinating sense that is usually met with in a coquette, the fact is she has no formed character of her own, & it will depend entirely upon the hands she gets into whether she will turn out good or bad, through all her coldness & reserve I am sure she has strong passions which are smothered & {{Image|file=Aag-714.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/187}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-715 996]

dormant at present, she is one I should be afraid to place much confidence in, or place any affections upon, for she appears to me to be one of those sort of people that you could not get hold upon through the affections, to anyone reading the above opinion of her, would conclude that she was vain, selfish & whimsical a frightful character to give a girl, but one I feel is true from the study I have made of her. I may be wrong there may be a bright side to the picture I fancy there must be, but I have not seen it, confound the girl she interests me, & yet I wouldnt love her for the world! Last Sunday night I went to hear Isaac New preach in the Baptist Chapel Albert St. he is an eloquent preacher & a scholar. I was greatly interested in his lecture, for it was nothing else, being a refutation of Colenso’s Work on the Pentateuch. I could not help thinking of the last time that I was in the place years ago in company with Jane Summers, where is she now! We had a holiday yesterday the 1st.July to commemorate two events, Separation Day & the union of the Suburban & M & HB R Co lines the latter having purchased the former & brought under one Directory, the consequence being that all the employees had notices of dismissal served upon them, but with the option of entering the services of the new company, which we did, the business going on in the usual manner as before the compy is now the M & H B United Rly Co {{Image|file=Aag-715.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/188}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-716 997]

I took advantage of the holiday to pay Mr & Mrs. Griffin at St Kilda a visit. I was ashamed {{Red|*}}nicely to do so considering their kindness to me that I have not been to see them before, the reason being that a number of ill natured remarks had been passed by my family in reference to myself & Mrs. G which did not please me that placed me in a queer position however they welcomed me beyond my expectations Mrs. G & I had a long talk together about [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] & Bessie & also concerning our unfortunate affair - she admitted being very foolish & to blame in the matter & it led her seriously to reflect upon her conduct for in the future - I left her about 5 pm after tea Fred & I took a strool about town, came home early calling upon [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] on the way Had a chat with her for half an hour got home by 9 Pm, time to go bed now I think. - - - - - - - - - July 16th.1865 Another fortnight passed away. Weather truly wretched, & bitterly cold. Rather slack at the office I have not visited a place of amusement since I last wrote but I am out somewhere every evening. I am seldom in want of a companion knowing as I do so many young fellows about Fitzroy, & I ought to say young ladies I managed to rid myself of one of my female acquaintances, Miss S. she turned out what I sus- -pected she was, a cunning, deceitful thing she served {{Image|file=Aag-716.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/189}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-717 998]

{{Red|“Alas! Alas! she became my wife”}} me the meanest trick I was ever playd & displayd in the action such a thorough want of principle & low mindedness that I was actually savage & have been since to think to I could ever have felt any thing like interest for such a creature. I was fool enough to be so stung by her behaviour that instead of treating her with the silent contempt she merited I wrote a note to her, on the impulse of the moment, pointing out to her her faults & elightening her as to the consequences such conduct as she is guilty of would produce - I met her by accident a day or two afterwards fully expecting her to make some explanation or see her display a particle of contrition for her baseness, but no! The same mobile manner I was annoyed not for myself but on her account, at seeing such a fair “casket containing so foul a gem”. Heaven grant she may change if none takes place, what an end hers will be. I may be wrong in thus condemning her in fact I have no right to do so, for after all the girl never displayd any affection for me if I asked her to take a walk she would agree so mechanically that it was no pleasure going with her, however I have done with her, & {{Red|*}}the only wish I have is that my fears respecting her will never be realized. Last evening I went to town met Liz Atkinson & walked home with her This evening I went to Chapel & in the evening {{Image|file=Aag-717.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/190}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-718 999]

I went to hear the Revd. W Taylor, or "California Taylor" as he is called to distinguish him from the Baptist minister of the same name, he goes in strongly for Revivals, he preached a very fine sermon of the sensational kind illustrating his subject by a number of really witty & interesting anecdotes – he has a strong Yankee accent, which falls rather strangely upon English ears, he is very broad & coarse in his remarks, at times, that rather distroys the effect of his otherwise eloquent orations If I had left the chapel immediately after the sermon I should have been well pleased, but at the solicitations of some friends I was induced to remain at the prayermeeting & witness what I can call by no other name than the tempory insanity of the people disgusted me of the whole affair, great numbers of very wicked people were converted mostly of whom appeared to me to be young girls & boys who seemed to me to be frightened into the grace of God by the terrors of a hell which the Revd gentleman very graphically discribed to his conscience strickened listeners, all I hope is that the apparent changes I witnessed will be lasting & productive of good, but I have my doubts concerning these extraordinary sudden conversions bless me! what an awful difference there must be in peoples natures & susceptibilities - I got into {{Image|file=Aag-718.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/191}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-719 1000]

a precious row on Friday evening, I went to see the Volunteers go through their drill. Their Band was out on the occasion which attracted a large number of people. I was talking to a lady when I was struck by some "rowdy cad". I rolled into the fellow, who appeared to be the leader of a band of young "roughs" I was soon attacked by some half dozen of them but getting them in front of me, I dropped them with my knuckles as quickly as they came on, they seeing me so determined made them shy & they soon left me but not before I had received some ugly blows which has left me feeling rather stiff & sore it is some satisfaction to know that I gave them as much as I received, I met one of them yesterday with his eye bunged up & another with the ugliest looking pair of lips I ever saw, they slunk by very quietly looking scowlingly upon me – my old weakness for Boxing & knowing how to use my fists served me a good turn not the first time in my life that I have profited by my knowledge of the "Noble Art" - [Sunday, 30 July 1865] - - - - - - - - - - 31st July 1865 A fortnight more passed over my head & things as far as I am concerned are about the same as usual. The English Mail arrived in due time, no letter from any relatives, a few papers from father in one of them we found a few pencilled lines informing us {{Image|file=Aag-719.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/192}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-720 1001]

he had not been well for some time, suffering from sciatica & was unable to attend to his business whatever that business may be puzzles my intellectual I wrote him a long letter which I sent by the Mail that has just left. One evening last week Mary & I went to a Concert given by Farqharson & were greatly pleased with the performance. Monday night Arthur Nicholson & I went to the Circus at the HayMarket Theatre. I wish I could shake Arthur off he is a bore to me, being nothing more than a {{Red|*}}fan- boy but possessing a good heart, but a little stock of moral principle, & very susceptible to evil influence Wednesday night I went to see Barry Sullivan in “Hamlet” it is the best of Shakespeares characters he plays, & in the character I am safe in stating he has had no superior. I dont think remembering the impression it has left upon me, that G V Brooke “Hamlet” was better. B.S. is always good, tho at times stodgy, but he fairly surpasses himself in this part I spent a jolly evening at Blanchards last week There are three Miss Bs, & bright articles they are! do very well to have a bit of fun with I spent an evening at Clarks W.Melb they made quite a fuss of me. Sarah was very urbane & agreeable & appeared very anxious of get[ting] on a good footing with me “I wasnt on”. it was 2 next morning when I arrived home. Last Sunday {{Image|file=Aag-720.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/193}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-721 1002]

morning I went to hear Mozarts 12th Mass sung at St Francis C.C Eliz St Tuesday evening I spent at Fs grand party, didnt get home from St Kilda till daylight next morning. I have been out every evening somewhere or another where & how I have spent my time would be too difficult a matter to chronicle. I had a letter the other day from Bob Hooper, he is still in Long Gully informed me Mrs Hickey has had another addition to her family in the shape of a "smiling little olive branch" Bob alluded to old acquaintances mentions several of the old Gully boys, who are still gliding through life as they formerly did in the go day come day God save Sunday kind of way, without a thought beyond Saturday night & a belly full of Beer. A regular “dead set.” has been made upon me to convert me by a member of the Wesleyan body, whose acquaintance I made in a singular manner. I alluded in my last entry to having heard the Revd. W.Taylor, I was into a pew on that occasion in company with a tall good looking gentlemanly man, with such a kindly amiable looking face that quite attracted me to him, having to wait nearly an hour before the service began we got into conversation. I found he was a professed Christian & a firm believer & supporter of Wesleyism & who firmly believed in certain seasons of when {{Image|file=Aag-721.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/194}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-722 1003]

the masses were more susceptible to Revivals & that sort of thing. I objected to the idea & we had a long argument together, which diverged to all manner of subjects. At the conclusion of the sermon, seeing I looked pleased he imagined I had been fired by the eloquence of the Revd W.T. whereas I was only amused, he spoke long & earnestly to me & beseeched me to become serious – & I gave him my name on parting he gave me his card ^ & address which I thrust into my pocket. I had forgotten the circumstances, when a few days afterwards a fellow clerk of mine, brought me a note which on opening I found to be an invitation from Mr S.G.King to spend to day with him. I had no idea who the person was but putting a hand into my pocket I pulled out a card & so I discovered the note was from my friend alluded to, I was to meet him at the door of the Nt Melb Wesley Church which I did & he seemed very glad to see me & showed me into a pew The Revd Joseph Dare preached an eloquent sermon on “silent, prayer” at the conclusion of the service I was introduced to Mrs. King & her sister, Miss Smith, a really beautiful girl. I was invited to dinner by Mr K but being strangers I was declining when the young one joined in requesting me go home with them, I [saw] there was no resisting so I went, found they lived in Hotham where Mr K has an extensive Drapery business & judging from the manner the house is furnished & the beautiful gems of art scattered about I should imagine he must be a man of taste & means. I spent the afternoon with them very pleasently Miss S playing & singing Hyms & sacred pieces {{Image|file=Aag-722.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/195}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-723 1004]

there was a nice quiet subdued kind of religious halo about everything & everybody connected with the place so very different from anything that I have been accustomed to that I felt somewhat out of my element, I left them abaout 4.30, but not before Mr K delivered me impromptu service exhorting me to seek Jesus & endeavour to wean myself from the follies of this world & to learn to pray & pray without ceasing & much more to the point all of which was intended for my good & from the present Christian motives, heavens how little he knew how my thoughts were running riot. I am sure I was paying more attention to the graceful figure & bright face of Miss S who was looking so demure all the time I was {{Red|*}}receiving my theological discourse. I fairly breathed freely when I got outside & commenced whistling by way of giving vent to my pent up feelings After tea I went out for a short time met an acquaintance & took a walk together home by 8.30. - - - - - - - - August 6th.1865 Beautiful weather but rather cold in the mornings & evenings. Very busy at the office, in consequence of the delinquency of a fellow clerk named Nm.Harrison, who has been suspended & is now in the hands of the police for embezzling monies of the Co. I have been placed in the position he held, which is a much more responsible one & yet I am afraid I shall get no more salary for a long time to come having lately received an increase {{Image|file=Aag-723.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/196}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-724 1005]

I have spent but one whole evening at home during the week, the rest of my leisure time gone as usual knocking about. I have been to two parties one at Faulkners St Yarra & the other at {{Red|*}}Thistlwaites St Kilda. My leisure daylight moments, I seldom attempt to read at night in consequence of my sight, Ive spent in reading Shakespears plays. This morning I went B St W.C afternoon Bessie & I took a walk around Fitzroy Gardens In the evening I went with a friend to St Patricks R.C. Church on Eastern Hill, the finest place of worship in Victoria or I should say it will be when its finished, at the conclusion of the service we met two girls we know slightly, the youngest of which I walked home with, her name is Louisa Burke, a daughter of very poor people, but she is a lovely little girl & appears to be very sharp & intelligent & if educated would be the making of a fascinating woman, she is a mere child as yet, I should not think was more than 15 years of age - - - - - - - - - August 13th 1865 Lovely weather. Hard at work in my new Billet in the Goods office as Invoice & Endorsing Clerk, that is to say that or to explain what my duties are in The cargoes of the various vessels that are discharged at the Pier at Sandridge are brought to Melb by Rail & stored in immense Sheds until the various consignees to whom the goods belong to come to take them away {{Image|file=Aag-724.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/197}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-725 1006]

before doing which they present me there Bill of Lading which I compare with the Manifest of the Ship that I make up from the Captains or Ships papers The Rly charge upon the goods is 5s/d- per ton of 14 ft msmt. or if Iron or heavy goods by dead weight I have to see that we get the correct weight & measrmt of the same, make out the a/c & get paid for them after which I endorse the B/L for Delivery & as far as I am concerned they can take their goods away, not being well up to mark, it comes rather hard, but in time when I am more accustomed to it, mine will be a comfortable situation as far as the work is concerned. There used to be two clerks in the office, a Mr Harrison (who has been sentenced to two years imprisonment) & a Mr. Birch who through not reporting Harrison earlier has been discharged. I was put in the formers place while the latter has been filled by a young man named David Adamson, who is nominally, my superior, receives more salary, through having been longer in the Co. service. I am rather angered at this for he is not fitted for the situation, he writes a very poor hand & is very slow & the dullest hand at the simplest sum in Arithmetic I ever knew. I dont much like playing second fiddle to such a man, tho from the little that I have seen of him, I think, I shall like, he appears to know his deficiencies & is not at all presuming & appears very grateful for the assistance I lend him in doing his work. My evenings I have {{Image|file=Aag-725.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/198}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-726 1007]

I have spent as usual knocking about Monday evening Mr [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] came down from the country, he is Station Master at Ravenswood on the Sandhurst line of Railway he plays the piano very well & we spent the evening very jollily, he staid all night with us, He left early the next morning for his own home after purchasing some things towards the time he commences housekeeping. Saturday evening I went to see Barry Sullivan in Richard III he was very fine & the piece was placed upon the stage in a style unsurpassed in this country, he has a splendid company playing with him, it is a treat to see he brings things out grandly, & for doing so he deserves the patronage he gets - I went to Chapel this morning Spent the afternoon at home reading, In the evening I met Louisa Burke as I was going to St Peters Church took a strool for an hour with her instead, she is very simple & unaffected & yet shrewd & knowing in a quiet innocent way, on parting she said very archly. You must come & take me out for a walk next week I like you, very confiding, but rather a dangerous confidence to expose herself to too often - - - - - - - 20th August 1865 Beautiful weather Still busy at the office, getting more accustomed to my work & so is my companion Adamson who is really a nice amiable fellow, very quiet & unassuming in his manners. Been very much annoyed this week in consequence of some misunderstanding {{Image|file=Aag-726.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/199}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-727 1008]

having taken place in reference to [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] & Bessie, he wants to break off the engagement, he gives no reason in a letter he sent further than he is offended by some remarks he has heard passed in connection with his engagement On Wednesday evening I went to his sisters Mrs. Attenborough in St Yarra found no one at home I called at Allens in Collins St on my way home for Mary & Bessie who had been spending the evening there I remained until 11 Pm. The Allens are very nice people, but have been very unfortunate lately having lost nearly every member of their family from death during the last 18 months On Friday night F.Rooke & myself with Mary & Bessie went to a Grand Volunteer Ball given in the Orderly Room Emerald Hill, it was well & fashionably attended & we succeeded in thoroughly enjoying ourselves we left about 4 am next morning felt anything but jolly next day, fortunately it was a short day being Saturday, so I slept away the afternoon. I dont much care for Balls I like a nice sociable party at a private house where I know everybody. After tea I went out & partly by accident I met L.Burke she said I was a really disagreeable fellow for not seeing her before & had a good mind not to speak to me Etc Etc, good gracious thought I this is coming it strong in my innocent little friend however I took her for a walk about Fitzroy gazing into Shop windows & listening to her piquant remarks on things in general - I rec’d {{Image|file=Aag-727.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/200}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-728 1009]

a note from Mr S.G.King on Thursday inviting me to spend to day with him, so this morning I went to the Wesley Church Nt Melb, where I met him, heard Dare present a most eloquent sermon after which I went with Mr K to his house Mrs K. & Miss Smith I found quite well & appeared very glad to see me after an excellent dinner to which I did ample justice to, we adjourned into the Drawing Room had some singing & some spiritual conversation which I discussed with fruit & other good things - until tea time. We all went to Chapel in the evening & heard Dare preach an excellent sermon from the Proverbs, "He who is often reproveth & hardeneth his neck shall be suddenly cut off" It was a good social practical sermon & one that I pray I may be profited by having heard, at its conclusion my friends pursuaded me to remain the prayermeeting nearly 10 Pm when I left them - & so passed one of the best, if not the best spent, day in my life. I firmly believe King & his family are good Christians I was never in so apparently a happy circle or home as theres appears to be, true sincerity & enjoyment unalloyed with all the petty jealousies & grievances so often met with in families such a kind confiding spirit seems to procede between them truly delightful to witness {{Image|file=Aag-728.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/201}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-729 1010]

- - - - - - August 27th 1865 Weather very unsettled the days are divided alternately between sunshine & showers with more of the latter than is pleasent. Still continues busy at the office - McCaffray from Bendigo called upon me, he is down on business. Mrs Hooper & family & other friends are well Last Monday I had a jolly spree. I met Louisa Burke going to a Soiree given by the Roman Catholics in the Orderly room down Victoria Parade she persuaded me to accompany her having nothing else to do I agreed & on payment of 1/- I was admitted into the room found it crowded with people the lowest riff raff I can ever think of meeting, it had been raining heavily & the smell & the fumes from the damp clothes was something frightful to inhale, it was supposed to be a Soiree {{Red|*}}Dance & most of the people had come prepared to have a dance, but alas for their hopes of enjoyment in that respect the place on ordinary occasions might accommodate about 200 but on this extraordinary one there was supposed to be 1200 present. A M.C. called out a Quadrille was to be danced & it took an hour I am sure to get couples wedged together before it did commence, & by the shades of all that's lively! wasnt it fun to see the jigging & capering indulged in by all classes. (Catholic priests & laymen, the dirty & clean, rich & poor I should have written) {{Image|file=Aag-729.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/202}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-730 1011]

there were several toasts proposed during the evening the first being that of the "Blessed Pontiff Pius ?" which was most enthusiastically received. Then came the "Queen" which was hardly as warmly responded to as that of the Pope. I considered it an insult to place his "Holiness" as he was frequently called before our good Sovereign I muttered something of my feelings on the subject, but I *soon smothered them when I heard somebody present allude to me as an "Orangeman". I should liked to have given him "Lemons" however I thought I had better hold my tongue, which I did & made the best of my time. I really enjoyed myself the noise & novelty Etc all forming such a contrast to any -thing of the kind I ever witnessed before. Some of the speeches of the Clergy (R C) were very rich in brogue & racy in wit I couldnt help being amused by the artful plausible way they have in working upon the passions of their listeners & how well they know the characters of those they are addressing, but it was really sickening to witness the reverence & blind faith they display towards their pastors - The papers have been very severe upon the meeting & its promoters, alluding to the affair as a lot of low rowdy Catholics - I received an invitation to [[Dight-42|Harry Dights]] wedding which took place last Wednesday 23 inst. I could not go to the Ceremony, but I enjoyed myself pretty well in the evening at his mothers about 30 people were present & we danced in an empty room until 2 am next morning. The person he has married appears to be well suited for Harry. She is a fine robust healthy handsome {{Image|file=Aag-730.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/203}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-731 1012]

woman, & I have no doubt she will make him a good wife. She seems to have a strong will of her own & one that fights hard to have her own way. I feel positive there will be an eruption between them ere they are married a week – as to who will be the master in the future. I know nothing of her, never saw her until the night in question dear me! it is getting time I thought of getting married. I will look out for some girl thats merry, for as for marrying for love I feel that I get up that kind of sensation now, at least not in its true sense. I am beginning [to think] that matrimony is nothing but a lottery you may know a girl for years & would marry her & know very well, when reflection comes in calm moments, that the union will not be a happy one. I firmly believe ones chance of happiness is just as great if he marries the first girl he meets provided she is virtuous. Last evening I met Mr & [[Rakowski-85|Mrs. Dalrymple]] & [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]] in town, & we arranged upon going to the Theatre, which we did I enjoyed my company very much better than I did the Opera of “Norma” which was never more badly performed in Melb, after the performance I walked to the station with my friends, when we parted, after securing a most pressing invitation to visit them. This morning I went to the W Chapel Bk St heard a good sermon on the "Mysterious Ways of Providence" In the afternoon Bessie & I took a long walk together around Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening I went to St Peters, came straight home from church. {{Image|file=Aag-731.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/204}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-732 1013]

[Sunday, 3 September 1865] Sept 2 1865 Beautiful weather during the past week. Very little of interest to note, read very little, thought less & acted nothing to any purpose Wednesday evening Fred Rooke & Will Kelly spent at our house, singing Etc Thursday evening I took a young lady to the Theatre to hear the Opera of the “Bohemian Girl” with Beaumont as Thaddeus, it was a great success, Beaumont fairly surprising the audience by the manner in which he sang the music alotted him, he is the best Tenor the Colony has produced as yet, his voice is of a good quality, strong & flexible, & he appears to have a fine physique & I fancy in time when he has had more experience that he will find very few superiors either in Europe or elsewhere. I am not alone in my opinion - Friday evening I went out for a strool met my little friend Louisa, who joined me me in my ramble for half an hour, on leaving her I met an acquaintance & we were together till 10.30 when I got came home, on arriving here I found a young Scotchman named Robertson, who had arrived from NZ lately he brought me a letter of introduction he had from J [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]. I felt sorry that I was not at home to entertain him, he leaves Melb for Queensland on Monday where he is engaged to erect an engine & other Mchy, so we made our adieus. Saturday at noon, as usual, {{Image|file=Aag-732.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/205}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-733 1014]

on leaving business I called at the City Baths for my weekly ablution, came home, had a good dinner then read for a couple hours & afterwards took a walk into town, came home & had tea & went to town again, met Tom & F.Rooke & we went together to hear the Opera of “Il Trovatore” enjoyed it very much - This morning I went to the Catholic Chapel, Eliz. St & heard some good singing & witnessed a deal of foolery & idolatry in connection with the service. In the afternoon I took Miss Main , a young lady who lives with us, & my sister Bessie out for a walk to Fitzroy Gardens, being a {{Red|*}}S- day we met a great number of people, after tea I went to hear the Revd Mr Milliard preach, he chose for his subject the story of the "Pharisee & the publicans prayer" I was very much annoyed one day during the week on entering my office to find a letter a/c to me, from Harrison & written in the Gaol it requested me to visit him & take a copy of Shakespearean works & other books & papers with me also some postage stamps & clean linen, & to get the latter from his sister in law Nt Melb’, I dont know why he should have written to me, for I was not more intimate with him than any of the other clerks several of whom had seen the a/c & knowing it came from Harrison, thought it rather suspicious. The Manager {{Image|file=Aag-733.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/206}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-734 1015]

was in the office at the time & I handed him the letter I thought it was the best course to adopt so as to avoid anything like suspicion being cast upon me. Mr. C. recommended me to obey the dictates of anything like charitable feeling I could entertain towards the man but advised me at the same time, not to give him any encouragement for continuing his solicitations - I called upon his relation in the evening, showed her his letter, which after reading she gave vent to such a torrent of abuse at my impudence in daring to call on his behalf, the vagabond she said! look here sir, & pulling forward two dirty miserable little specimens of humanity, these are his children, by my sister, who is now in the hospital dying from what some people would say was consumption but what I know to be a broken heart, & I am a widow & how hard to myself & five children without burdening myself with those of others, but thank God Ive settled them. They are to go to the Orphan Asylum tomorrow. She would have kept on till now relating all her griefs & troubles which I must confess were rather of a character to awaken ones sympathy - What a lesson Harrison's evil courses should prove to those who are aware of the sad consequences of his ill doings - {{Image|file=Aag-734.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/207}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-735 1016]

- - - - - - Sept 10th.1865
Lovely weather during the week. Very slack at the office, no ships at the Pier. We are getting New Sheds & Offices erected & the whole affair at present is in a frightfully condition There are four of us crowded in a little dark office so that I shant be sorry when the new one is erected it is a fortunate thing, in one sense, that we are so slack. Spent most of my evenings at home with the exception of Tuesday when I went to hear the Opera of “Massaniello” . It was the first time I ever heard it & it pleased me exceedingly, being by far the best Opera the Lyster Troupe have produced this season. The music is very light & pretty & the tenor part seems to have been written for Squires it suits him so admirably, there is a delicious little Solo “My Sister Dear” in it & with the exception of “Beauteous Agnes” from “Fra Diavolo” he has sung nothing in Melb, for tact & feeling, to equal it. Last evening on leaving the house I met L Burke I cant go out but what I dont meet her somehow or another she always throws herself in my way. I walked to town with her, where I left her, on parting I met some fellow clerks of mine & we spent an hour or two in the "Temple of Pomona" very pleasently This morning I went out for a walk, met Lizzie Atkinson took a strool together, saw her home {{Image|file=Aag-735.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/208}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-736 1017]

on leaving her, I met my sisters coming from Church, came home together In the afternon Bessie & Miss Mayne & I took a walk to Fitzroy Gardens, met Geo Ramsden who insisted upon us going to see over the new mansion his father has just built in Clarendon St, it is a magnificent Villa residence Italian in its style, & fitted up with every appliance & luxury that wealth can procure, every room is beautifully furnished, & with such good taste, which rather surprised me considering the low vulgar minded man old Ramsden is, we met Mrs. Ramsden & Mrs. James at the door on leaving stayd chatting with them a short time. After arriving home & having tea I went to Trinity Church Et Melb heard the Revd – Wollaston preach an awfully dry prosy sermon at its conclusion I came straight home - - - - - - - Sept 18, 1865
Another pleasent week as far as the weather is concerned I have been away from Melbourne since Saturday morning & only returned home late on Sunday evening, too late to sit down & continue my journal, so I postponed doing it until now. Last Monday evening my sisters & I were invited to a party at Mr Gotchs house Et M a most agreeable affair it turned out to be, the host & hostess who are really very sociable, goodnatured people doing their utmost to make there company {{Image|file=Aag-736.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/209}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-737 1018]

enjoy themselves & make them feel at home & sociable we had plenty of singing & dancing & an excellent supper was provided, plenty of good wines, & fruits & confectionery with all the delicacies of the season being provided, to which good things ample justice was done. to It was early next morning when the party broke up, our pleasure was somewhat marred by a heavy shower of rain that fell when we were halfway home compelling us to seek the friendly shelter of a verandah for an hour or so - Monday evening on leaving business I accompanied T.Rooke home to Emerald Hill & after having dinner with him at his mothers, we went to a Concert at the Mechanics Institute given by the Eld Hill Philharmonic Society under the Leadership of a Mr David Lee a rising musician who has lately come to the Colony to whom very much praise is due for the manner in which the Te Deums of [Handel] & the Mozarts 12th. Mass was rendered, the Choruses were the best, I think, I ever heard. The principal vocalists were Messrs Exon (who has a nice Tenor voice) Brown & Trowell (Baritones Mesdames Ross, Bee & Ellis the latter is a beautiful singer & one that will afford me very much pleasure to hear again. T.Rooke accompanied me part of the way home - Thursday & Friday evening I spent abroad rambling about with one & or another acquaintance Saturday morning I arose at 5.30 & walked to the Rly Station, Spencer St took a return ticket for Sandhurst. 35/- 2nd class {{Image|file=Aag-737.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/210}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-738 1019]

started at 15.7 Am reached Ravenswood by m5.10 Am (12 miles from Bendigo) where I left the train, the principal object of my journey was to see Mr. [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] (who is Station Master there) in reference to the breaking off from his engagement with my sister Bessie, the reason of his doing so being quite a mystery to our family. I insisted upon his giving me the reason, when the skulking vagabond began by informing me that his was of a highly sensitive nature & that he had been shocked by the repetition of a silly joke which was made at Mrs. Morriss, that so annoyed him as he thinks it originated from a member of our family. I am quite ashamed to allude to the subject, it is so {{Red|*}}tempory. In a letter he wrote to my mother when he proposed for Bessie he said his salary was not very much but sufficient to plan within the of society - on my last visit to Mr Griffins at St. Kilda in talking about the affair, I repeated the remark about the pale. Mrs G. repeated it again at Mrs Morriss' who being fond of a joke, made one in reference to the literal signification, of a Pail & a couple living in one, when another friend who was present alluded to Diogenes living in a Tub, but he thought it would be a difficult matter for a couple like [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] & Bessie to live in a Pail (bucket) Mr. B’s sensitive nature shrivelled up on hearing of this good humoured joking, on the part of his most intimate friends, concerning his connection with my sister, & him. I was not slow in letting him know my opinion of him {{Image|file=Aag-738.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/211}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-739 1020]

& his unmanly conduct, he is a sneaking coward & I would expose him, only it would place my sister in such a questionable light, he assumed rather a high tone at first but seeing me look dangerous & no help nigh (I had locked the office door, having made up my mind to give him a good thrashing, or receive one), he changed his tone & became very meek & humble, promising to apologise by letter to my sister & family for his contemptible behaviour. I had had to wait 3 hours before I saw him at his house. I found 3 young ladies there Miss Attenborough & Miss Passmore, from Melb & Miss MCartney from Bendigo, when I went into the room I had to introduce myself, soon felt at home, we spent the time very agreeably singing Etc I left by about 4 Pm, reached Sandhurst 20 minutes afterwards, went at once to my Cousin Lizzies, who with her husband appeared very glad to see me I did not stay long but went into Pall Mall found [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] Cooperage, saw my cousin Harry thumping away at a Tub he was finishing, he is learning the trade, poor fellow it is very praiseworthy of him commencing at his age to learn a trade. I wish I had been so circumspect a few years back to have done the same, had a long chat about things & returned together to Lizzies where we found a good tea provided after discussing it to our bellys content Harry & I took a strool about the "Mall" met many old friends & acquaintances, had a look into the Gold Brokers windows at the display of gold. I am sure there must have been £25,000 worth at least in one window on View Point {{Image|file=Aag-739.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/212}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-740 1021]

& not much less in one or two other windows, I noticed a great many fine shops & buildings have been erected since I left Bendigo What a contrast the neighbourhood presents to what it did when I first visited it the beginning of 1852 when all around was forest land, & where the town of Sandhurst now stands, grass grew & kangaroos & possums lived in all their solitary glory but now one hears nothing but the busy hum of the human "bee” & the noisy snorting & whistling of Steam Engines & the eye sickens as it gazes upon the scene around covered with heaps of yellow clay & mullock & dirty sludge from the Machines. While strolling about I met my old friend Lockey Frazer (Bakers Son) he had heard I was on Bendigo & he had left home determined to seek me, he has grown a fine handsome man, he we related our various experiences since last we met. After I left Bendigo he commenced studying for the Ministry of Christ, but after some time he discovered he was not fitted for it & his patron & tutor leaving the neighbourhood, confirmed his intention of giving up the idea, through interest he got a clerkship in the Bk of Victoria, where he is at present engaged wh with every prospect of speedy advancement, he informed that Scott (the old teller in the Bank, an old acquaintance of mine) had just returned from Otago & informed him that he had met my brother Edward some weeks previously on the "Dunstan" where he was at the old game, keeping a Billiard Room, cursed low occupation, I would sooner hear of him sweeping a crossing or blacking boots for a living {{Image|file=Aag-740.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/213}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-741 1022]

I slept at Lizzies & next morning after an early breakfast I walked over to Long Gully, met Sally Piggott on the way. I hardly remembered her she has (grown) quite a nice lady like looking girl, after passing some "banter" to each other as we used to do in the days of "auld lang syne" we parted. I had a look into several tents, saw more strange than familiar faces - very few of the old hands are left now about the old spot. I saw J.Hall, Grant, Gibson & a few more whose names figure in some portion of my old journal. They were all glad to see me & made quite a fuss & paid me so much deference owing probably to my having on a black coat, & when we used to be familiar I wore a blue serge shirt, ah me! how times are changed! I found Mrs Hooper, good old soul – expecting me with outstretched arms as if I was some long lost son of hers, she had a couple of eggs & some cocoa ready for me, fully expecting I had come out to breakfast with her. I stayd about 2 hours with her when Bob came in & we went to California Gully together visited all the people I know there, hadnt much time to spare, I took a cab & rode into Sandhurst, called on the Frazers, spent an hour with them. The old man is much altered, growing very grissly & Miss F who used to be such a little fat dumpling has grown tall & stout. Mrs F is the same quiet nice little woman as of old, in leaving them I called at [[Rowett-151|Ned Rowitt]] who since my last visit to Bendigo married Mary King. I was sorry to find {{Image|file=Aag-741.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/214}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-742 1023]

they had both gone out. I did not call on the Kings they or some of them tried to make mischief between [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] & I, by informing that on my last visit to Sandhurst I spoke most contemptibly of him & his family, what an absurd idea. They are the last people in the world I would say anything against & so very foreign to my nature to disparage anybody. I returned to Lizzie & made a hasty Tea & a hasty adieus, several friends accompanied me to the station left by the 5 Pm train & had a carriage to myself all the way to town. I fancy I must have fell asleep on leaving Castlemaine, for I dreamed or fancied I was walking under a burning sun & carrying a heavy swag as I have done years ago on the same road I hope my dreaming may never turn to reality. I met my Bro’ Fred at the Spencer St Station on my arrival in Melb - walked home together found everything all right. Bessie & my mother are not at all satisfied at the result of my mission they want to have [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] exposed, foolish idea to bring the subject before everybody to discuss & make scandel of. Very few are aware of the engagement & I fancy the best plan is not to have any thing more to do with Bonaich. Bessie is only 17 & has not very strong feelings, & I have no doubt, she will cease to think of him in a few days {{Image|file=Aag-742.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/215}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-743 1024]

[Monday, 25 September 1865] Sept 24 [25] 1865 Lovely weather, summer setting in. Monday evening I met a young girl that I scraped acquaintance with somewhere or another, took a walk in Fitzroy Gardens. I never saw such a place for "couples" in my life, its a fine fruit garden, as a friend of mine facetiously remarked, although no fruit bearing trees Pears (pairs) thrive well in it. Tuesday night I met Jms Swanson, a young fellow I knock about with occasionally, tho I dont much care for his society, we took a long strool together - Wednesday evening I went home to dinner with Tom Rooke after which several friends of his dropped in forming quite a Bachelors party. We spent, the time very jollily, I leaving them & coming home by the last train Thursday I went to Richmond with a young man named H.B.Judd who I lent £15 to, I accompanied him to some grocer named W.Winter who endorsed the Bill for the amount. I had dinner at Judds house after which he accompanied me home, & he spent the rest of the evening with me. Friday evening I went to Richmond in company with Fred. Saturday afternoon I spent reading until 4 PM afterwards took a walk into town & back after tea mother & I went to see Mrs Morris, on reaching the house where she lived found it empty, having gone to live at Williamstown a couple of days ago. We were rather disappointed & to {{Image|file=Aag-743.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/216}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-744 1025]

increase of annoyance it came on to rain & blow that made it a difficult matter to get my mother home Sunday morning Bessie & I went to the Rly Station to go to Williamstown & see Mrs Morris in reference to the [[Bonacich-4|Bonaich]] affair. The train had just started & not feeling inclined to wait several hours for the next, we returned home. After dinner I went to Emerald Hill called for the Rookes who with myself had been invited to a Sunday party at the Kellys, a R Catholic family we are acquainted with The first thing on entering was to open the piano & bring out cards & Gin about 20 people were present & bent upon enjoyment some taking to whist others to whisling & the rest to music & singing. I never spent such a Sunday before nor do I care if I never spend such another 80 songs were sung by one & another of the company it was after 12 when we broke up I stayed at Rookes all night, & had breakfast with them this morning On leaving business this evening I went to the Spencer St Rly Station where I met my sister Bessie as per appointment & we went to Williamstown to see Mrs Morris, had our journey for nothing Mrs M having gone out somewhere We were very much disappointed on arriving in town I put Bessie into a cab & sent her home, (Walked home myself, met a few on the way & we took a strool together - {{Image|file=Aag-744.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/217}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-745 1026]

- - - - - - October 1st.1865 Lovely weather. Still continue busy at the office 3 large ships having arrived at our pier during the week I have been out nearly every evening somewhere or another Last night I accompanied Mother & Mary shopping, our house is like a dressmaking establishment in consequence of the approaching wedding of my sister Mary which is to take place next Tuesday the 3rd inst to Mr. Jn.Jms Clark. I dont take much interest in the affair Clark & I not being on the best of terms we had some words, in reference to his intentions to- -wards my sister some months ago, he had been {{Red|*}}coming after now for nearly 5 years & I thought it was high time some understanding was come to, he objected to my interference & several unpleasent epistles passed between us which resulted in producing an estrangement between him & our family, however Mary has met him & I know she is fond of him & so they have come to the determination of getting married, he is so insuff -erably proud & distant that although I admire him his intellectual attainments I do not at all like the prospect of his marrying my darling sister, their natures being so entirely different from each others that I fear it will not prove a happy union. God grant it may be different from what I anticipate & that I have misunderstood him. I am truly sorry there is not a better spirit existing between us, so as {{Image|file=Aag-745.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/218}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-746 1027]

to make things a little more pleasent on the occasion It falls to my lot to give her away which is not a pleasent duty to perform under the circumstances. I have asked Fred to do it, but he is, if possible, is more prejudiced against him than myself - I went to St Francis R.C. Chapel this morning & heard the Choir practise Rossinis "Stabat Mater" in a very creditable manner Donaldson singing the “Cyrius Aninum" pretty well tho’ I fancy it was sung in a transposed key. Miss Mayne Bessie & I took a walk in the Fitzroy Gardens this afternoon, came on to rain heavily, had a difficulty in getting home dry, between the showers - This evening I went to the Wesley Chapel met Miss Burke after the service, & walked home with her she is a dear little girl & appears to be very partial to me I like her too well to ruin her & not well enough to think seriously of her, so I have adopted the plan which is the best I think that of avoiding her as much as possible - Oct. 8th 1865 Lovely weather but a little too hot, summer setting in in good earnest. Mary, Mother, & I spent the evening of Monday shopping in the neighbourhood Tuesday morning altho’ my dear sister Mary's Wedding, I was obliged to go to the office, I left at 10. am, & on coming home I soon dressed & my {{Image|file=Aag-746.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/219}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-747 1028]

sisters being ready I accompanied them in a carriage to St Johns Church, Elizth St. We found we [were)] there rather early. I was glad we were for Mary was so nervous & excited that it gave her time to compose herself a little, Clark, coming, accompanied by his Bro George, who was his best man, the Ceremony was got through in no time & after receiving the {{Red|*}}usual homily given on such occasions by the clergyman the Revd - Barlow, the whole party adjourned to our house, (after the happy couple had received the {{Red|*}}congratulations of numerous friends who I must state, half filled the church) after partaking of some refreshment Mary & Clark left us & went to Brighton, where they remained a few days after they went, his relations remained about two hours, I was not sorry when they had gone, for I had been in anything but good spirits during the time Clark & I were very cool to each other just civil & that was all I was in one of my disagreeable moods & could not free myself. I really felt ashamed of myself at being so unsociable & distant in my manner In the afternoon Miss Forrester & Miss Mayne with Bessie & Fred whom I accompanied took a strool into town, came home & after tea a number of acquaintances dropped in & we managed to spend a very jolly evening together it being 2 OC the next morning when we broke up. Our house seems very dull & quiet since {{Image|file=Aag-747.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/220}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-748 1029]

Mary left us she was the life & soul of it, having always such a fund of good spirits, the very piano seems melancholy & disconsolate since her departure, they were so associated together that it leads me to ascribe human attributes to the old instrument. We already miss her cheery laugh & her playing & singing. God grant that her future life will be a happy one. I dont feel very sanguine about it, Clark & her, being of such opposite dispositions, eventually they may drop into each others ways, & come to understand each other better. They returned from Brighton yesterday & Mary paid us a visit, she was in fair spirits & seemed more like some madcap got loose from School than a wife - Wednesday evening I went out for a strool for a short time. Thursday evening I went to Mrs Watmuffs, Hoddle St & took her some cake, called on [[Dight-42|H Dight]] on my way home & spent a couple of hours with him & Mrs D - Friday I staid at home in the evening - Saturday on leaving business, I called for some portraits of Mary that she had taken a few days before getting married, they are excellent likenesses. This morning & evening I went [to the] Bk.St.Chapel, in the afternoon, Bessie & I went for a walk, met G Ramsden, who came home to tea with us - {{Image|file=Aag-748.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/221}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-749 1030]
127? Johnston St. Fitzroy, October 1865

[1865-10-15] Oct 15th.1865 Beautiful weather. I am getting sick of keeping a journal. I sit with my pen in my hand not knowing really at the time what to write about I am beginning to look upon journal keeping as "Montaigne did who said it was a pleasent system of confirming one in egotism. In my “digging” days I always had some thing or another in the way of a change to notice but now my existence has dropped into a kind of groove & here I am in it & heaven only knows when I shall get out of it. The English Mail arrived in on time, for a wonder, bringing a short letter from my father informing us that he has not been well for some time, suffering from "sciatica". A gentleman of the name of Grieve called upon me one day this week he had just come from Dunedin & was enroute for Gt Britain, he is well acquainted with Mr & Mrs Hamilton who he informed me were both well when he left N.Z. On Monday evening I went to Geo. Dodds wedding, (he is a great friend of [[Dight-42|H.Dights]]) a jolly lot were present & what with eating drinking singing dancing Etc Etc it was 4 OC next morning when the party broke up Friday evening Fred & I went to hear the Christy Minstrels. Herberte sang some beautiful songs & I was also pleased by the manner the Company sang some Quartettes Saturday afternoon on leaving business I went to the Falls Bridge {{Image|file=Aag-749.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/222}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-750 1031]

Yarra Basin where I met [[Kidgell-41|Kidgell]] Saunders & Lennox the former owns a pretty sailing boat in which we all embarked. We pulled down the Yarra to the junction of the Saltwater River when taking advantage of a slant of wind we hoisted sail & sped up the Saltwater River in fine style. On reaching Footscray we landed & discussed a couple of pots of "Shandy Gaff" & again took boat a sail of 2 miles brought us to the residence of Mr Cameron an old bachelor gentleman that Kidgell lives with Mr. C made us very welcome & we sat down to a fine dinner to which we did ample justice to, our sail & pulling having increased our appetites to an alarming extent, after its discussion, we had another discussion of an intellectual description found my companions to be very intelligent young men far above the average. Night closed in upon us when we had finished talking & after tea we took our boat again & pulled up for a mile or two very slowly, passing the time away singing, we left the boat at Raleighs Ferry & then walked to the Moonie Ponds, where we engaged a cab which conveyed us into town & so passed one of the most enjoyable days that I have spent in Melbourne the company & occupation being so congenial to my own taste This morning, Sunday, I spent reading Victor Hugo “Tour of the Rhine, I found it very interesting being a compilation of old legends, stories, reminiscences, recollections Etc in connection with the Towns villages, Castles & Ruins, visited by the writer - In the afternoon I took my usual strool to settle my {{Image|file=Aag-750.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/223}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-751 1032]

dinner & gain an appetite for my tea. In the evening I left home to go to the Nt Melb’ Wesley Church but meeting Lizzie Atkinson & having a long chat with her made me late so I went to the Lonsdale St Chapel & heard the Revd Joseph Dare preach an excellent sermon – at its termination I met the two Miss Finnegans, Miss Bessie F I found very much affected in consequence of of an allusion made in the sermon to the death of her lover Mr. Gillingham, who was killed a few days ago in Swanston St by a vehicle knocking him down, it was a sad accident, he had just left Miss F. & was springing off the curbing backwards when a Ginger Beer cart coming round the corner of Collins ran against him, he died shortly afterwards. I had seen them together but a few minutes before the accident happened. - - - - - - - - 22 Oct 1865 Been very hot this week & not feeling well myself the weather has been doubly oppressive to me. I have suffered from a succession of violent headaches, a most unusual thing for me to have, I fancy they have arisen from being too closely confined in the office I am engaged, being very small & badly lighted & there being five & sometimes Six clerks at work in it, my employees are erecting new Sheds & Offices which I trust will not be long before they are finished, being heartily sick of the {{Image|file=Aag-751.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/224}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-752 1033]

inconvenience of our present accommodation I have spent most of my evenings at home excepting an hour or so after tea, when I would take a strool about the neighbourhood. - - On leaving business yesterday (Saturday) at 12 AM (my usual time) I met my second cousin Alfred Peel who I discovered in such a singular manner on the Manuherikia N.Z. Since meeting him last in Dunedin he has been home to England on a visit to his parents in Halifax & where he got married to a girl he was engaged to, he arrived in Melb by the S.S. Gt Britain three weeks ago, he is thinking of going into the country somewhere & commencing business, when he has disposed of a lot of goods he brought out with him, he came home to dinner with me, but left directly afterward. Bessie & I spent the afternoon at East Melb. playing Croquet with some friends there, after which Bessie went to Mrs *Schwercrofts to tea The rest of the party, myself included, went to Mrs. Saunders to tea & spent an agreeable evening afterward I accompanied some young ladies home to Richmond, nearly 12 when I got home & was very tired. This morning I remained at home {{Image|file=Aag-752.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/225}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-753 1034]
127 or 28 Johnston St. Fitzroy, October 1865

reading Tom Hoods "Miss Kilmansegg & her Golden Leg" it is a splendidly composed poem being a most withering satire on Mammon Worship. I think it is the best of Hoods works that I have read. I read his “{{Red|*}}Vere {{Red|*}}Verikers {{Red|*}}Vengence” a little while since, it is very funny & racy but its a class of wit I dont much care about. Bessie & I took our usual walk this afternoon In the evening I went to the Brunswick St Wesley Church heard a long winded discourse it contained plenty of matter for reflection, were I so disposed or inclined for receiving it, I fear I am a terribly hardened wicked sinner good counsel & what is good, true & holy appear to make no im- -pression upon my petrified nature, at the conclusion of the service I met Harry Clark & we rambled about for an hour or so, we met my sister Mary & husband John James Clark, but we did not stop to speak to them - - - - - - - - Oct 29th.1865
Pleasent weather. I have felt much better this week than last, expect to get into my new office next week. Monday evening I went out for a strool, Tuesday evening on leaving business I called on Alf Peel. Alf introduced me to his wife a very nice person. They spent the evening at our house, they are going to "Sale" Gipps Land where Alf has purchased a business. I sincerely hope that {{Image|file=Aag-753.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/226}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-754 1035]
127 or 28 Johnston St. Fitzroy, October 1865

he will be prospered, he made me a present of ½ doz volumes of "Elyard Extracts" Wednesday evening I walked out to Prahran to pay a long promised visit, to Mr & [[Rakowski-85|Mrs. Dalrymple]] it was a long walk but I was well repaid by the kind welcome I received from them & from the pleasure I enjoyed in their company & that of Mrs. D.s sister [[Rakowski-86|Idalia]] Rekowski, & Miss Atkinson who were visiting them I left them earlier than I should have done, but having to walk home, some 4 miles, necessitated my leaving earlier than I otherwise would have done - Saturday afternoon I played Croquet with the Eglington Club at Et Melbourne, the members being very agreeable people I enjoyed the game In the evening I went to the Theatre & heard the Cristy Minstrels, Their "Tenor" H.Herberte has a beautiful voice, in fact he is the only one of the Coy I care about listening to - This morning (Sunday) I spent reading, In the afternoon [with] my sister Bessie went out for a walk. In the evening I went to Nt. Melb. Wlyn Chapel & heard the Revd Mr. Daniels preach an excellent sermon, at the conclusion of the service I met Mr S.G.King & Miss Smith, who induced me to remain to the prayer meeting, I afterwards accompanied them home & partook of supper, after which some more praying - then a long serious conversation {{Image|file=Aag-754.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/227}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-755 1036]
127 or 28 Johnston St. Fitzroy, October 1865

on spiritual matters he exhorted me most earnestly to become a child of God & give my- -self up to him, to pray for faith which he thinks I only need to become a Christian. I must to a great extent be very callous on the subject, for I must candidly confess I dont feel touched as yet, my soul appears to rebel against my feelings at times but I feel both are in too passive a state upon that subject at present, I feel down right wicked at times when I am a/d upon the question of salvation & I dont seem to have strength of mind sufficient to resist my rebellious thoughts - What a different frame of mind Mr. King has to me, he so happy confident & joyous as to the future & I so careless, reckless & hopeless - & yet I pray Oh Lord incline my heart to what is good, pure & holy & give me strength to overcome temptation Melbourne - Novr. 5 1865 Weather has been very hot. Got into our new office last Tuesday, the work appears nothing now that we have more room & conveniences. The office that I call mine is one of four rooms built upon the St Kilda platform, away from the Sheds, making it {{Image|file=Aag-755.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/228}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-756 1037]

much more healthy to be in than the old one I was formerly in. Business has been rather slack during the week, partly [due] to the Annual Races taking place at Flemington & not having many ships discharging at the pier. Wednesday upon leaving the office I accompanied Fred Rooke home had dinner at his mothers, after which I went with [him] to the “Kellys” spent the evening singing card playng Etc rather late when we broke up I can’t say I enjoyed myself. I dont like the people. Miss K. is the only one of the family I think is worthy of respect, I fancy my friend Fred is rather “spoony” upon, she is not a beauty by any means, but I dare say she possesses charms which are not beheld by the eye, but speak to the inner sense. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I played Croquet at Et Melb. with the usual set, a nicer nor a more agreeable lot of people I never met before, it was nearly dark when we gave up play, Mr. Saunders invited us to tea at his mothers which invitation we accepted Old Mrs. S. is an exceedingly nice old lady a highly educated person & I think a Christian in the true sense of the word, she is a little wizened looking woman, very prim & ceremonious, but who can adapt herself to young peoples ways & manners - her son {{Image|file=Aag-756.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/229}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-757 1038]
127 or 28 Johnston St. Fitzroy, October 1865

James is a fine intelligent young fellow, with good principles, upright & manly, he is about 22 years of age I should think, but from his manner, the correctness of his mind, sound judgement, & general bearing, he might be mistaken for 35, I could not help drawing a comparison between him & the general character of Melbourne young men. I think he has lived a great deal at home, & is somewhat tied to his mothers apron strings, has not mixed much in the world, very often these characters when they break through the trammels of home associations, do not realize the expectations of those who watch their careers I did not leave home to day until the evening, when I went to hear the Revd. Isaacs New preach or lecture upon the “Pentateuch” the object of his discourse was to refute Colenzo's attack upon the writings of Moses, I never listened to anything finer, he was eloquent & logical, he displayed a comprehensiveness of mind & depth of knowledge I never heard equalled before in the pulpit - {{Image|file=Aag-757.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/230}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-758 1039]

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[Rear board] {{Image|file=Aag-761.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=4/234}} END OF JOURNAL 4 == Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===Journal No. 5=== ---- Forty pages of this journal were transposed to the previous journal and removed from this journal, so there is about a page and a half of duplicated text, 'though he made some modifications, the overlap portion is from "the usual set" to the last line before the 12th November 1865. [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-762 5/1] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-763 5/2] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-764 5/3 and 1043] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-765 5/4] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-766 5/5] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-767 5/6] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-768 5/7] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-769 5/8] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-770 5/9] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-771 5/10] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-772 5/11] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-773 5/12] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-774 5/13] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-775 5/14] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-776 5/15] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-777 5/16] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-778 5/17] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-779 5/18] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-780 5/19] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-781 5/20] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-782 5/21] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-783 5/22] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-784 5/23] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-785 5/24] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-786 5/25] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-787 5/26] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-788 5/27] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-789 5/28] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-790 5/29] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-791 5/30] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-792 5/31] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-793 5/32] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-794 5/33] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-795 5/34] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-796 5/35] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-797 5/36] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-798 5/37] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-799 5/38] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-800 5/39] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-801 5/40] ---- Appearance of the Book {{Image|file=Aag-764.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=Appearance of the Book}}
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the usual set – a nicer or more agreeable lot of people I never met before – it was nearly dark when we gave up. Bessie & I availed ourselves of Mr Saunders invitation to take tea with him – we spent a happy evening old Mrs S. is a very pious woman, but has a most winning charming manner, such as few old ladies possess - Mr. S. her son is a fine intelligent young man – well principled upright & manly – he is only 21 but from his manner the correctness of his views & sound ripened judgement, should have thought him nearer 30. I could not help drawing comparisons between him & the usual character of Melbourne young men – so destitute are many of that true nobility of mind which should characterise a man - I forgot to state that Mr S & his sister spent Friday evening at our house - Fred Rook was also here (same evening) I did not leave home to day until the evening, when I went to hear I. New preach or lecture upon the Pentetuch it was in opposition to [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Colenso Colenzos] attack I never listened to such a sermon The man seemed inspired, his concluding remarks against Infidelity were the finest I ever heard or read – what a fine grand comprehensive mind he {{Image|file=Aag-802.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-803 1044]

must have, what a vast store of knowledge he must possess, if *only to give rise to the ideas & references necessary for such an oration, as he deliverd this evening [Sunday, 12 November 1865] Nov 11th.1865. Weather very hot The usual monotony of my life was enlivened this week by a holiday in the Prince of Wales Birthday the 9 inst Mr. Saunders had obtained Mr [[Kidgell-41|Kidghells]] boat so we agreed to enjoy ourselves by a small picnic party, made our arrangements the day before, to meet at the Spencer St Rly Station, the evening before on leaving business I was very politely informed I should have to put in an appearance the followin morning. I was greatly annoyed, for nothing but a paltry spirit such as the Co Im employed by possess would have prompted such a thing. The party left without me, but at 10am. I was told I might close my Books. I at once left, & taking a cab, I rode out to the Moonee Ponds, & a smart walk of 20 minutes took me to Salt Water River some few miles above where the party started from {{Image|file=Aag-803.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-804 1045]

(Footscray), by the more I thought Id catch them, on making enquiries at Raleighs Punt, I discovered no such party had gone up the river. I made for Mr Camerons (where I spent such a pleasent evening some month back) where we had purposed visiting, the boat hove in sight just as I arrived there, they were delighted at my arrival, & landed, we remained about an hour there, had a look over the old castle,) an old antiquated ruin that stands on a hill at the back of the residence of Mr C.) We had a splendid view of the surrounding country We embarked (there were 8 of us, Miss Saunders, Hoskins Mrs S & my sister Bessie, R.Law, [[Kidgell-41|J.Kidghell]] Saunders & myself -) & got the boat under the ferry or punt, with less difficulty than I anticipated, went about 2 miles further up the river, & then camped at a pretty spot, where we lit a fire & made a large billy of tea, had lunch & played croquet untill about 6.pm when we broke up our encampment & returned to Mr Camerons, where we found pro- -vided a fine tea - such a one as I {{Image|file=Aag-804.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-805 1046]

seldom sat down for before, we left his place about 10pm pulled up to the ferry and walked from there to the Flemington road, got a cab & came home in fine style, & so passed another pleasent day. Friday I was very tired. Saturday I spent at home (the afternoon reading & writing, went out for a short time in the evening, but coming on to rain I got home early. This morning it rained stay’d at home reading. Took Bessie out for a walk in the afternoon After tea I went to hear Revd I. New his subject was on the authenticity of the four Gospels, the life & character of Jesus, he preached with his usual force & eloquence. I feel a different being on hearing such lectures, or such men preach – [1865-11-19] Nov 19th.1865. Beautiful weather nothing fresh, very busy at the office dissapointed at not receiving an increase of salary, I suppose I must try the {{Red|*}}effect of the old patient proverb - We have had several pleasent evenings {{Image|file=Aag-805.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-806 1047]

at our house lately, owing to friends dropping in – Yesterday afternooon Bessie & I went to East Melbourne to play Croquet, playd till dark & then adjourned to Mrs. Saunders, where we had tea & spent a most delightful evening – 12 OC when we arrived home This morning (Sunday) I went to the Catholic Chapel Eliz St, heard them perform one of Hadyns Masses. I met Tom Rooke there & immediately after we met Saunders, we took a strool together as far as Dr.Cairns Church, where Tom left us. We were too late to hear the whole of the sermon, but what we did was excellent, a Mr. Dykes preached a young man about 22, who has acquired a good name in Scotland for his erudition, he came to Australia for the good of his health, but very seldom preaches. In the afternoon Bessie & I as usual took a walk together, met several acquaintances, after tea I went to hear Isaac New, preach on the Life of Christ. I was sorry when he had finished {{Image|file=Aag-806.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-807 1048]

26 Nov 1865. Weather very hot, the want of rain is sadly felt by the farmers & graziers, serious fears are entertained for the Crops, unless rain falls soon they will be distroyed- Spent my time much as usual – walking about the town during the evenings, reading a little - visiting none – with the exception of yesterday Bessie & I went to Balaclava some four miles on the Brighton Road where we met (as appointed) our Croquet party on Mr. Harrymans ground. We played till 7 pm, & got beaten by the Richmond Club – came home with [[Green-58337|Mr]] & [[Kidgell-39|Mrs. Green]] (the Chemist in Bourke St.) & had tea with them, very tired when we got home – This morning I went to to the B.St. Chapel heard Mr Milliard preach an excellent sermon In the afternoon I called for Miss Burke & took her down to Brighton, met some more acquaintances there, passed about 3 hours on the beach very pleasently together, returned in time to swallow my tea & get up to the Babptist Chapel, & heard I. New deliver another of his fine lectures on the Profecies Unfulfilled – I rcd a long letter on Friday from my {{Image|file=Aag-807.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-808 1049]

dear old friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], he has just got the sack from the provincial Government (it being Insolvent!) Im very sorry, but he is very sanguine about getting into something as good, shortly I sincerely trust he will, he amuses me in his domestic details, he is only just beginning to appreciate his wife & informs me he has just commenced his Courtship & often thought he married on the impulse of the moment & has since regretted it, tho too manly to acknowledge it - , she was so young & had had so little experience that I can say he had a deal to put up with – I never saw such a change in a person in my life as there was in her (for the better) since her return from Europe - December 3rd 1865. Weather been very hot, no rain, public prayers was offered up yesterday in the Churches for it – I trust God will hear them – Tuesday night Fred Rooke & Miss Rooke paid us a visit, & spent the evening with us – Friday night Saunders, Law, Tom Rooke & I with our sisters, took a boat at the punt (Richmond) & spent a most delightful evening on the water, our pleasure was slightly marred by a shower of rain just before landing - *We [landed] {{Image|file=Aag-808.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-809 1050]

about 11.30 pm, & were very tired when we got home, having such a long distance to walk. Thursday, (having a pass sent me for two) Bessie & I went to the Haymarket Theatre, to see to see the Lenton Troupe – Ive lost all taste for such places & dont care if I never go again rather a change for me that used to be so fond of such places. I fancy there are far more rational modes of enjoying oneself than visiting these habitual haunts as so many make them Spent yesterday afternoon reading – In the evening I took a ramble about town met Harry Clarke, walked with him some two hours – This morning I spent reading – In the afternoon Bessie & I took a walk thro' Fitzroy Gardens together - & in the evening I went to hear I New preach on Unfullfilled Profecies : met Miss Burke after the service saw her home – Decr.10th.1865. Lovely weather but hot. I feel for those whose labours are confined to the open air ah dont I remember the times when I used to have to work hard with a pick & shovel out in the broiling {{Image|file=Aag-809.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-810 1051]

sun, or rain as the case may be – what a contrast my present life is to those days of old, I wish I had left the diggins many years before I did – I would have been in a different position now than I am -, at 24 years of age & had to commence learning the common routine of office work, what any boy knows at 12 – I ought not to repine tho my salary is very small it may be increased soon – We had quite a party at our house on Monday house Fred Rooke & his sister – the two Kellys, Miss Allen & my sister Mrs. Clark – (being the first evening Mary has spent with us since her wedding). We broke up at 11.pm, I walked home with Miss Allen - & then to the Railway Station with the Emerald Hill party Yesterday afternoon I spent reading In the evening I walked into town, met Taggart had a long chat with him, took a walk got home by ten O.C. Bessie & I singing Duets Etc for another hour brought bedtime - This morning I went to Emerald Hill to spend the day with my superior clerk Mr. B D Smith – met him at the Wesleyan Chapel heard Mr. Eggleston preach an excellent {{Image|file=Aag-810.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-811 1052]

sermon, it being the anniversary (Sunday) of the Sabbath School, the children mustered strong. They sang some beautiful hyms Mr. S. is connected with the Church & takes a very active part in the School – I had dinner at his house, Mrs. S. is a nice little woman & like her husband I believe a good Christian, after dinner I went with him to the Chapel & heard Mr. [Left blank] address the children, had tea & again went to hear Mr. J.Dare preach, he took his text from the Parable of the Prodigal - he is a fine preacher, I think the most eloquent in Australia – stayd the prayermeeting, from there went to Smiths again, remained about ½ an hour, & left, Tom Rooke walked half way home with me - & so I passed one of the most rational days of my life, listening to holy words & associating with good people aught to a proper mind be productive of extreme pleasure & gratification, at least I must admit it did in my case! God grant it may produce some change in me {{Image|file=Aag-811.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-812 1053]

December 17th 1865, Lovely weather during last night when commenced to rain slightly, looked very cloudy ever since I hope it will rain heavy – it is much wanted, in the country districts – Been very slack at the office, very few ships discharging at our pier – owing to this being the wool season, most of the vessels go to the Williamstown Railway pier where the principal of the wool is shipped from - My evenings Ive spent in rambling about the town after tea for some two hours & then coming home & having a song or two Last Tuesday night My sister Bessie & I went to Rookes, & spent a very pleasent [evening] with them. Miss R is really a nice young lady – I must say they are a nice family - they treated us very kindly left about 11 -. a Mr Adams – accompanied us to town – a gentleman we met there - & I fancy an admirer of Miss R - Yesterday afternoon (Saturday) my holiday – owing to the rain I did not go out any where – Bessie & I were very much dissapointed – for we had proposed playing Croquet at Eastern Hill- I did not leave home to day – until after tea, when I intended going to hear {{Image|file=Aag-812.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-813 1054]

Isaac New, but hearing he wasnt to preach I went to St Peters Church, being crowded I had to sit near the door & could not hear the Mr. Handfield speak so at the commencement of the sermon I left the Church – it came on to rain – while in B.St & while sheltering, a friend of mine, I met with a lady, stayd about an hour with them until the rain abated, when I was induced to accompany them to the lady's home, a long walk it was & on leaving her the rain came down in torrents & no place for shelter, we got wet through, my friend Jones cursing all the women in Christendom & his own folly in particular for seeing young ladies home on wet nights I was highly amused tho far from pleased The morning & afternoon I spent in reading & writing - 24 Decr. 1865. Weather been very changeable – not a day passed without a shower or two – Spent my time as usual – Busy at the office, closing a/c Etc – The Trains run right through now the new lines being completed under Princess Bridge – Sheds finished, & ready every thing complete, of course there {{Image|file=Aag-813.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-814 1055]

was a little confusion the first day or two the trains running too close – as regards the time – the Government fearing some accidents might occur in consequence have directed the trains to run as formerly until after the New Year – or the holiday time is over – we had one sad accident on Thursday night, close to my office the man at the "points" tried to jump onto an Engine while in motion, his feet slipped & the engine went over his legs, cutting of one & the foot off the other he was taken to the hospital & I hear died yesterday – poor fellow he left a wife & family to mourn his loss – Bessie & I are invited to a picnic on Tuesday, (Boxing Day,) & I was very much dissapointed, as well as others) on leaving the office yesterday at 12 that we would have to come to work I didnt say anything at the time, but I waited till 2pm – when I saw Mr Carruthers, & asked him for Tuesday – I informed him I had made arrangements to go & that Id finished my work & if I did come there would be nothing doing Etc – he after some hesitation Gave me leave {{Image|file=Aag-814.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-815 1056]

My brother Fred has gone to Echuca left this morning in company with Miss Mayne, a girl who has been living with us her parents live at Echuca - & I think Fred is in love with her – I dont like her much - she has caused a deal of mischief in our family – The mail arrived from England last Monday, mother received a long letter from father, writes very dispondingly, he is living at present in Leicester – does not enjoy very good health, seldom sees any of his relations, speaks of Aunt Lucy – Uncle Henrys widow, as being selfish & exacting Uncle Joe the same - Spent yesterday afternoon reading Shakespeare - went out to post some papers about 6.pm after tea, took a strool met a young lady & accompanied her for a walk till 9 pm then went to town – the shops were all lighted up & dressed with, Green – looked X mas the streets were impassable for people & met several I knew, rambled about till 12.pm - This morning I went to the Wesley Church – nearly fell asleep during the sermon there are very few preachers I care for in Melbourne - {{Image|file=Aag-815.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-816 1057]

Read during the afternoon – In the evening I went to St Peters Church – met a friend there took a walk till 10pm - We are very lonely at our house – no one but Bessie mother & I - I had an idea that we should have had some Bendigo visitors I feel rather dissapointed – Decr.25th 1865 – Christmas day the most quiet X day I ever spent in my life spent the morning reading - Shakespeare Im going through them I mean the plays – after dinner Bessie & I went for a strool – took a pleasent walk to Studley Park – a very pretty place where we found a great many people picnicing - & evidently enjoying themselves we rambled about till 5 pm, watching the sports the principal of which seemed to be "Kiss in the Ring" fine fun to those who relish such sport & there was a time when nobody would have enjoyed the scene better than myself – met Miss Bourke - & many others we knew, in the evening I took a walk into town alone – met the three Miss Finegans & I never {{Image|file=Aag-816.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-817 1058]

am recognised by them now, but to night – I was surprised at the youngest running after & in a most cordial manner wished me a merry X mas & stated that they had wanted to speak to me concerning the scandel that had passed between them & Miss Clark (of the Fortune)(as I term her to distinguish her from Miss C. our connections or new relations) we had it out & Im happy to state Im out of the fire searthless so I made my peace with them – Bessie F looked lovely, she is one of the finest girls I have met with in my life – however I dont purpose renewing the acquaintance for {{Red|*}}various reasons - January 2nd 1866. The beginning of a New Year - & what with the ending of the old one, & the holidays attending- I have spent a most pleasent time – on B day the 26/12/65- Bessie & I were invited to a picnic at Mr Camerons place Marybinong some 20 of us left "Greens" the Chemist Bourke St at 9.30 Am in a large van {{Image|file=Aag-817.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-818 1059]

provided for the purpose, reached the place by 12 after singing & making a great row on the road – we found a large party there assembled & everything got up in a first rate style in an immense large building taste fully decorated with "Green"- music being provided we had dancing from the time of our arrival to departure - & never was at such a nice affair before. Knowing nearly everybody there, & being very sociable everything passed off firstrate – every luxury being provided in the shape of eatables & drinkables - & after winding up with all singing the National Anthem with He's a jolly good fellow & Auld langsyne we took our leave at 1 am Wednesday got home by 2.30. very tired – I felt very seedy at the office next day – & wasnt long out my bed next day evening – Friday night I went to hear the Opera "Oberon" performed by the Lyster Troupe in the "Royal" It is got up most gorgeously as regards the scenery - & wish I could say as much for the singing – there are some portions they do pretty well – but Aubers music is too varied and I may say difficult for them to do with {{Image|file=Aag-818.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-819 1060]

effect - H.Squires voice is too light for his character – wants a tenor robusto for such music, Lucy Escott sang very well - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to E Melbourne & playd Croquet with Messrs Saunders, Green, Law & several ladies – gave up about 6.pm & went to Saunders house where we had tea – (rather a large party after tea we walked to the "Punt" & hired a large boat, pulled up the River – some miles & landed for an hour, the time being spent in frolic & singing Etc - nearly 12 pm when we got home – after spending a most pleasent day Sunday morning I went to the Catholic Chapel & heard the Choir sing Hummels no 2 Mass a splendid compososition & very well sang – met Frank Kelly who invited or bored me into aproving to join a picnic with him & others connected for NewsYears day. All the arrangements were made – & I would be at no bother, & the expense or my share would be very trifling Etc - In the afternoon, my old friend Bob {{Image|file=Aag-819.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-820 1061]

Hooper paid me a visit, he is well Etc having come down from Sandhurst the day before, he called upon us this evening & stayd tea. I accompanied him to the Station & saw him off - such a crowd there, who were returning up the country – after spending the holidays in town – Bob tells me that both the Lockey Frazers are married, within the last 2 months Sunday evening I spent at Maddens a Catholic family & was most infernally bored by old Maddens bigotry – Miss Burke was there & it was owing to her I was there – 11 pm when we got home, found G.Kelly here – who remained with us seeing the old year out & the new one in - News Years Day, Bessie & I left home at 9. am, & walked to Princess Bridge where we found the "party" was introduced Etc – embarked in boats & after a nice pull of 2 hours landed in the Survey Paddock, the party consisted of a lot of Roman Catholics, most of them forming the St Francis Choir Donaldson the tenor Miss Williams Sophano {{Image|file=Aag-820.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-821 1062]

& several others of less note. Professor Hughes the leader in the Royal was there & what with singing & Dancing most managed to enjoy themselves, of course there were some dissatisfied ones that they hadnt enough attention paid them, the only thing I found fault with – the caterer had forget to provide enough eatibles, we left about 8 pm & would have had a nice pull down the river, but for the boat leaking & having nothing to bail it out with, we were glad to reach Richmond, where Bessie & I left them – she had wet feet, through sitting with her feet in the water, while in the boat, on our arrival home I was surprised to find my sister Mary & her husband here, the first time he has visited us since they were married. Im very glad the ice is at last broken, for its very unpleasent for relations to be on poor terms with each other. Mr & Mrs Hungerland were (here) - had some singing & after supper the party broke – up – Went to work this morning, it was hard labour after the holidays - {{Image|file=Aag-821.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-822 1063]

Jany 7th 1866. Weather very hot, done nothing scarcely during the week in the way of business – or pleasure, with the exception of reading Tennysons, "Enoch Arden" (without exception the most pathetic poem I ever read) & other pieces by the same poet – I went to hear the Opera of "Oberon" (by Auber ) produced at the "Royal" by the Lyster Opera Company, in a very credable manner, Friday was observed as a "Fast Day" the places of worship were all open & services held it was in order to propitiate God to favour the colonies with rain – great want is felt in the up country districts for it serious consequences are expected if we arn’t soon favoured – many folk took advantage of it as a day of pleasure – Saunders Law, [[Kidgell-41|Kidghell]] & I with Miss S. & Hoskins took a boat at Richmond Punt & had a nice row up to the tea gardens where we purchased some fruit, & adjourned to the opposite Bank for a about an hour then pulled back – remained tea at Saunders {{Image|file=Aag-822.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-823 1064]

left about 9 pm, met some young ladies I knew & in company with them, took a walk round the gardens – Yesterday afternoon I went to Saunders about 5pm, had a game of Croquet dark when we finished. I then took a strool about the town, met many I knew – 11 Pm when I arrived home Sunday, this morning I went to hear Mr Taylor (The Revivalist) he didnt seem to preach with his usual fire & eloquence. I hear he has had a serious domestic bereavement, in the loss of his child (in California) that has affected him – This evening I took a walk about, Fitzroy didnt feel well Jany 14th.1866. Nice weather during the week. Been very busy at the office several large ships against the pier discharging – I have read more than usual this week, a variety of stuff Monday night I visited my sister Mary for the first time since her wedding, did not remain long, she was {{Image|file=Aag-823.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-824 1065]

very comfortably settled, got a nice furnished house Etc. Tuesday per invitation, Bessie & I went to Mr Gotchs evening party, we knew everybody there & so passed a very pleasent sociable night, broke up about 2.30 am Wednesday – felt tired next day – having danced & romped to a considerable extent, but what I suffer most from after these arrangements, is the eating part of the performance – I seldom ever eat after my tea, if I do, it never agrees with me – My mother has been very unwell & confined to her bed the last few days – causing us much sorrow – The house appears so dull & melancholy if she is ill – I am glad to state she is something better to day & up again – Yesterday afternoon I went to Saunders & played Croquet till 7 pm, had tea there, took a walk into town with Fred, rambled about till 10pm. This morning I went to hear the Revd W Taylor preach, he has lost that fire & energy of manner he was so remarkable for – This afternoon Bessie & [I] walked to the Gardens met Miss Roberts & Mortlay strolled about {{Image|file=Aag-824.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-825 1066]

In the evening I went to St Peters Church 21st Jany. The weather has been fearfully hot, most oppressive, everybody has the appearance of a coffee bean – It takes anything like life & animation out of of [a] fellow, tho on the whole its been a week of pleasure to me, Been reading, Tennysons Enoch Arden - & other poems by him, been out every evening somewhere pleasuring. Yesterday afternoon G.Ramsden called with his gig & taking Bessie & calling for R.Law, & Mrs. Clark we found our way to Richmond Punt where we hired a boat & pulled up to the tea Gardens, where we landed & rambled about the place, feeling rather uncomfortable by the bye, at the owner of the place following us about, thinking if he let us out of his sight, we would help ourselves to the fruit, we got home by dusk after spending a pleasent day. After tea I took a walk into town, met Miss Burk, & acommpanied her home Bessie & I took a walk the afternoon {{Image|file=Aag-825.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-826 1067]

in Company with Mr. Swanson, who stayd tea with us, after which I went to hear Mr. Eccleston preach at the Chapel or Church in Lonsdale St - after the service I met Miss Blanchard & took a pleasent strool with her for about an hour. 28th. Jany 1866. Very hot weather at the early part of the week, but Im happy to state we have had a pleasent change in the shape of some rain – It distroyed two occasions that I anticipated deriving much pleasure from, one on Friday night for a boating party & after a party I was invited to join for yesterday afternoon however Im not sorry in one sense my purse is very low, just now (and long likely to be so) & I really cant afford to go so much in Company there is a certain appearance always to be kept up & unless a man is in the receipt of a better salary than I get It wont run it. Ive had a treat in an intelllectual line, through the kindness of my friend R.Law who lent me Dr Livingstons Travels in S.Africa - I {{Image|file=Aag-826.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-827 1068]

like it very much, its very interesting, tho’ in my opinion, far from being an ably written work, it is full of information & just enough adventure in it to make it readable, even by readers of the present age, who think that if a work is not senational its not worth perusing, it contains materials of what, many authors, would have a great deal off. I think he does not do himself justice in it, or he would or ought to be a more prominent character in the work. Friday night I went to the Theatre to hear the Opera of Semiramide but was dissapointed owing to the indisposition of Lucy Escott, the opera of Massaniell was substituted. I have seen it before – Saturday night I took a ramble about Town, met several I knew, being windy & rough I did not stay out late. This morning I spent at home reading. In the afternoon I I took a walk alone, in the evening I went to St Peters Church, with an acquaintance (Dickens) after the service met Miss B took a pleasent walk with her, the night was lovely, the moon shining brightly as it only does in Australia - {{Image|file=Aag-827.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-828 1069]

February 4th.1866. Weather very hot & sultry, sometimes the thermometer stands at 100^º during midday. The past week as been on of pleasure, so much that I purpose staying at home next week for a change – Monday night, I took Miss B to hear the Opera of "Le Prophete", some beautiful music in it, Tuesday night, I & Bessie joined a number of young friends, (some twenty five) in a boating party on the Yarra, two boat loads & all pleasent jolly people, who appeared actuated by with desire to please & be agreable. Saunders & his sister – R.Law, the two Ballantynes, (the Presy Ministers sons) Miss Bishop (who is one of prettiest girls Ive seen for some time) & many others – It was a lovely moonlight night, we laughed & joked, & sang until we reached, Pearsons Tea Gardens where we landed at the Survey Park after purchasing a quantity of fruit found a nice spot, & taking some music with us – we not long ere we were all dancing mad & flirting – embarked about 11 O.C. & pulled back, landed at. 12. had a pleasent walk home – after 1 when we got home – Wednesday night I joined party at Richmond consisting of the members of the St France's Choir. There were only 4 girls & something like 20 men – had some {{Image|file=Aag-828.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-829 1070]

singing, but I did not enjoy so much as the night previous, being a different class of people, “too fond of something to drink” & very noisy & rowdy. I was glad Bessie had the good sense to decline going with such a lot – owing to the person steering the boat I was puling in, running us on a sunken tree, we were nearly capsized for the girls screamed & rose up the man having inbibed too much wine – were very foolish. They may thank T.Rooke & [I] with my cooleness in jumping out of the boat & insisting upon their keeping still that we didnt have a serious accident. I got wet up to my knees, & having to walk home some 3 miles in that state, wasnt pleasent I dont intend going with that lot again I was quite knocked up the next day, but in the evening I took a strool with some friends about Fitzroy visited one or two homes but did not remain long – Friday night Fred & I went to hear the Opera "Lucrezia Borgia" which without exception is the best the Lyster Troupe performed. Lucy Escott & Squires sing exquisitely together Wharton the Bass was in fine voice, & for a wonder the Chorus was excellent, which is a main feature towards the success of the Opera – the Comic Opera of the Barber of Seville was produced very happily, by other members {{Image|file=Aag-829.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-830 1071]

of the Company very creditably Saturday afternoon I went to Saunders house, found no one at home, met R.Law & we both took a walk about town until 5 pm, when we parted, after tea I again sallied forth, met Miss B rambled about an hour with her came home & had some singing – Spent this morning reading & writing. Things have been very busy lately owing to the late Elections party feeling running high, two great principles being brought into opposition, Protection versus Free trade the former being most popular, something like 58 to 20 forming a very powerful majority, my friend Mr S.G.King who was a F.Trade candidate for Carlton, being nowhere – I was very sorry for he is an upright conscientious man - & not destitute of talent. I was 27 years of age on the 2nd of this month – getting on in years - Feby 25th.1866. Three weeks since I continued my journal, having nothing very particular to note, but a succession of or repetition of the 3 previous weeks - Been to the Theatre twice, once to a concert on the 17th. a Benefit for W Sherwin the tenor singer, who poor fellow had the mis fortune to lose his arm when shooting by the explosion of his gun - There was some excellent singing Carendina & her daughter – Herberte & Abecco - the best tenors I ever heard {{Image|file=Aag-830.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-831 1072]

with a number of good amateurs – the same afternoon a large party of us (all friends) went to the athletic sports held on the Oval near St Kilda, We had several visitors during the past week the two Miss Cass's one night, the Miss Clarks the next night Miss Hoskins on Friday night I had the pleasure of seeing them home Yesterday afternoon, with the 2 Ballantynes R.Law Clark (Marys husband) & his wife Misses Bishop, Walters & Adamson & I took a boat at Richmond pulled up the River to the Survey Paddock where we landed & having a set of Croquet with us, played a game had some fine fun with the girls, got back to Richmond about 6 pm, walked home with some of the party, had tea at Ballantynes - (they live in Carlton, have a beautiful home) afterwards went down to town walked about till 10 pm. felt very tired on reaching home – S We received a letter per the Mail from England from my father, in which he relates the death of my Aunt Lucy (Uncle Henry widow) leaving her property or what she had control over in a most unjust manner, to a personal acquaintance a lawyer, the residue when divided will father thinks be about £150.0.0 each for us. I was never very sanguine about {{Image|file=Aag-831.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-832 1073]

receiving [anything of the estate but] as it is it will be acceptable whe[reas] if she was a person that merited re[spect] respect from those who related [She was] old [&] she was very parsimonious I wr[ote to] father by the mail, which left here yesterday {{Image|file=Aag-832.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aag-833 1074]

[Blank page (free end paper)] {{Image|file=Aag-833.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=5/74}} == Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-1 1075]

JOURNAL J.H.WATMUFF JHW {{Image|file=Aah-1.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-2 1076]

{{Image|file=Aah-2.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-3 1077]

{{Image|file=Aah-3.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-4 1078]

Melbourne
Journal Kept by
John Henry Watmuff
from March 1866 to March 21st.1869
to place 19 trees in 9 rows of 5 each
to put 32 men in such
an such a position as to
appear 48, or 12 on each
side –
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Melbourne. – X(127)X 28 Johnston St Fitzroy, 1866
March 4th.1866 Sunday, as usual make up my journal, for the week, become quite a necessary duty, having done so for such a length of time, nothing particularly interesting to recount, with the exception of my enjoyments, one nights pleasure in particular which I must relate. Last Tuesday night, my sister & I in company with about 20 others, Sanders, Law the Ballantynes & several others with about a dozen girls took a large gondola at Richmond we pulled up to the survey paddock where we landed & there spent about 3 hours dancing singing Etc, being a lovely moonlight night. We embarked about 11 & had not proceeded down the river more than a hundred yards or so when we struck on a snag poking a hole in the boat, with great difficulty we got it off when the boat began to fill with water - we just managed to put the bows on the shore & the stern sank. We got all out firstrate some got wet feet, one young lady went into hysterics, it was fortunate we were so near land, for if we had been in the middle of the river & sank some of us would have gone to the bottom, we left the boat to her fate & walked home in fine jolly spirits, but wet feet. I was very much annoyed for it all arose from sheer carelessness, we had to pay next day pretty dearly for our freak. Thursday night I went to Ballantynes Bazaar, at the Unity Hall Swanston St managed to get rid of more money than I could afford to spend in raffles & other swindles, my opinion of such {{Image|file=Aah-5.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-6 1080]

places is that the Govt ought to suppress them, they are nothing more than Gambling Houses - Friday evening I met Miss B. took a pleasent walk together. Saturday afternoon I had arranged to play Croquet but was disap -pointed, owing to the rain, however it was badly wanted so I oughtnt to complain. In the evening Fred & I went to town & was induced by an attraction programme, to pay the Polytechnic Hall a visit, to see Grace Egerton in her numerous characters, what pleased me the most was Mr G.Case's Concertina playing, which is something out of the common, good. - This morning I went to St Franciss Chapel to hear Mozart No. 2 Mass sang. I know several members of the Choir who invited me into it, at the conclusion of the service they rehearsed Mozarts 12th Mass, to me a treat - In the afternoon Bessie & I took a walk round Fitzroy Gardens for an hour, read Shakespears Julius Ceasar – after tea went to Brunswick Street Chapel, heard Mr Richards preach an excellent sermon, afterwards took a walk with Marsden down town, had a long discussion with him about the intelligence of the present age in comparison to the ancients – he is an ancient theorist. Monday I wrote from an impulsive feeling, to my brother Ned addressing the letter to Hokitiki, N.Z. where I thought he was located, just as I was sending it to post [[Dight-42|H Dight]] called informed me that he had just received a letter from Tom Meston who is living in Dunedin, stating he had received a letter from my brother Ned, dated the 1/2/66 from Graymouth on the West coast of N.Z. where he is now staying he wished Tom to write to me & inform me where he was for he was laid up with dysentry & very ill, poor Ned. I suppose he was ashamed to write directly to me, having kept silent so long. I sent my letter to him imploring him to come {{Image|file=Aah-6.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-7 1081]

home, if he had not the means, I would forward him money as soon as I heard from him. I dare not tell mother of his present position she grieves enough about him. I so hope he may soon recover & return home - & with the money he will receive by the death of Aunt Lucy he will be enabled to do something for himself better than what he appears to have been engaged in lately [Sunday, 11 March 1866] March {{Red|12th}} [11th]1866. Very hot weather during the week. Been very busily engaged at the office, having several fine ships at the pier discharging - I forwarded an application to the Secretary (Mr Finlayson) for an increase of salary it is a shame the paltry salary I receive, considering the duties I perform, scarcely sufficient to keep me in food & clothes, assisting my mother is entirely out of the question. I trust he may be induced to do so, but from the general character the Co bears, I have little hopes of its being advanced to anything like a decent thing - Tuesday I went again to the Bazaar got fleeced for a considerable sum (to me), however I enjoyed myself very much, being the last night they finished with a Ball. I danced till near 2 Am (Wednesday) when Law & I left. Wednesday night Melbourne was visited with a frightful dust storm the wind howling & blowing in a frightful manner – several houses were blown down. Next morning everything had a most blasted appearance. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I joined a large Croquet Party at E.Melbourne play’d till dark about a dozen of us (all acquaintances) adjourned to Sanders house where we found tea provided for us, after which we spent a most agreeable evening together, singing & playing a variety of intellectual social games, {{Image|file=Aah-7.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-8 1082]

nearly 12 pm when we reached home, one of the party James Ballantyne is leaving Melb for Dunedin N.Z. I gave him a letter of introduction to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] whose acquaintance I should like him to cultivate. I have read a considerable amount of miscellaneous literature to day, "Richelieu" "Phaedra & Hippolyte some of Plinys & Ciceros letters. I took a short walk this afternoon as far as the Cemetary, met J & A Ballantyne walked home with them. They invited me to tea but I did not remain. In the evening I went to hear Mr Handfield, St Peters met Miss B. took a short walk with her, home early - March 18th.1866 Weather been very changeable, great want of rain in the country districts By the mail, which arrived on the 15th inst. news came of a most disastrous event that occurred on the 10th January, the foundering of the S.S. London in the Bay of Biscay on her voyage to Melbourne, 19 persons alone saved, there being but one boat saved from the effects of the gale, it has caused quite a gloom over the colony, there being so many old colonists on board & friends & relatives of numbers here, G.V.Brooke the tragedian went down, his last words were to be remembered to his friends in Melbourne - Revd Mr Draper & his wife were lost. I used to go to his Sunday School in Adelaide, he is universally regretted & at the last moment was doing his masters work with all his heart - I {{Image|file=Aah-8.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-9 1083]

have just returned from hearing Mr Maillard preach a funeral sermon to his memory. I never listened to a more impressive one, the Chapel was crowded & everybody was affected by the recital of Drapers virtues & noble & sad end. We received a long letter from my father containing more particulars about Aunt Lucys death & the settlement of her property, a settlement that does not benefit any of our family, except the part she had no control over, & even that she curtailed as much as was in her power. My father inherits the share in a farm situated in Leicestershire (England) which I believe will bring him in about £60.0.0 ayear. Uncle Joe possesses the other half wishes to buy fathers share - but I trust he will not sell it. The letter contained a deal of news very interesting. I dont feel inclined to note here. I am getting very anxious about my brother Ned. I ought to have received an answer to my letter ere now, I do hope he has recovered - Mother makes herself very ill continually fretting about him - Yesterday afternoon I played Croquet in E.Melbourne - In the evening Fred & I took a strool about town - Rained very heavily this morning, I did not go out, spent the time reading In the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetary. I have been there but once since Ellen Mortyn was buried 6 years ago (poor G V Brooke was chief mourner on that occasion) I was struck with the quantity of graves I could scarcely realize the idea there had been so many deaths in such a few years - I always have strange reflections, on visiting such a place - In the evening I went to St Peters Church. {{Image|file=Aah-9.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-10 1084]

March 25th.1866. I have been in very low spirits during the past week, in consequence of receiving two letters from Graymouth N.Z. written by a Mr Player a friend of my brother Ned - One is dated the 27th Feby & stated that Ned was very ill & he had succeeded in getting him into the hospital where he would be as well attended as it was possible under the circumstances The other letter was written three days afterwards just as the mail was closing, which brought them both to hand, its tenor was of a most melancholy character he states that it would be very cruel to buoy us with hopes of Neds recovery, that he was dying, & given up by the doctors. I cannot get it out of my head but that he's dead & the last one was dictated simply to break the fact more easily in his next God grant such is not the case. The S.S. Albion arrived yesterday, but brought us no more news of him & it sailed several days after the date of the last letter - immediately on the receipt of them I wrote to the person who so kindly sent to us, & also to the surgeon of the hospital, desiring them to do the utmost in their power, for him, & to assist him if possible in getting him on board some vessel bound for Mel - poor Ned it is hard he should be away from home, among strangers, not one relative near him at such a time. My mother is quite ill, she grieves very much on his account - it has cast quite a gloom over our house - - I have been out very little this week spent a deal of my spare time reading. Yesterday afternoon I passed in doing a lot of necessary jobs about the house, such as chopping wood - & putting in panes of glass – Etc - after tea I walked down {{Image|file=Aah-10.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-11 1085]

town, met R.Law had a long chat with him – took the 8.7.pm train for S.Yarra, found my sister Bessie with Miss Cass waiting for me there, went to the latters home where I found some more people, spent a couple of hours very pleasently, singing & dancing, 12 pm when my sister & I got home - Remained at home all this morning, reading. Robin Law called after dinner, we took a walk together - he is a nice young fellow, very well informed, & possessing few of those vices, Mel young men are so prone to, he staid tea with us. I went to St Peters Church, met Miss B. walked home with her. [Sunday, 1 April 1866] April {{Red|2nd}}[1st] 1866 Weather very unsettled, had a considerable amount of rain, long wanted. No more news from Ned, or concerning him, a mail arrived since I last wrote - I dont know what to think about it. I feel afraid to hope - & yet I must - Tuesday night, Fred & I spent the evening with some acquaintances, named Smart, who live in Brunswick S. Mrs. S is a widow, I suppose, with 2 sons & as many daughters The eldest son is a very decent fellow, the girls are very nice & pleasent, one of them the youngest is an oddity, not very nice looking with I think has a most peculiar formed mind, at least I thought so on such a short acquaintance, I saw more of her on Thursday night, my brother Fred & young Smart & I with the Miss S.s & a young lady who lives with us, Miss Forrester, took a boat at Richmond pulled up the Yarra as far as the Survey Paddock got back about 11 Pm had a delightful evening altogether, being a lovely moonlight night & everything seemed so calm & still {{Image|file=Aah-11.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-12 1086]

12 pm when we arrived home. Thursday night, Fred & I went to the Theatre, to see the “Jewess” Miss Cleveland, Coppin & Hoskins playing the principal characters. We were in company with the Smarts, came home with them, spent a pleasent hour with them discussing coffee & rusks with other matter. I arose very early this same morning, my sister Bessie, leaving by the 7 am train for Echuca where she purposes spending a few days with Mrs. Dewer. Good Friday morning after a feast of hot cross buns, as per arrangement I met the brothers Kidgell, G.Ramsden, Lennox & Saunders at Falls on the Yarra, where we found [[Kidgell-41|Kidgells]] boat prepared for us, after getting in a supply of eatables & drinkables with cigars, we started about 11 Pm, pulled down the Yarra to the junction, passing hundreds calmly engaged in fishing, entering the Salt Water River, we set our sail & went up to Camerons in glorious style, found the old bachelor quite well, made us welcome, had a good lunch, which we washed down with copious draughts of new milk We spent the rest of the day very pleasently, on land & water some of the party fished in the evening, we were all in good spirits & very jolly. We left about 9.30 pm, walked to Moonie Ponds where we found a cab, but we couldnt come to terms with its owner – so we braced ourselves for a walk, rattled along at a fine pace - got home about 11 pm very tired & weary Saturday, I went down to the office, but only remained till 10 am, came home & read till 12. G.Ramsden called upon me & we went to see Taff Ballantyne, arranged to take a boat up the Yarra, called for the Miss Smarts spent a very pleasent afternoon on the waters, after tea I walked, into town met [[Kidgell-41| J.Kidgell]] & Lennox, {{Image|file=Aah-12.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-13 1087]

walked about till the Theatre came out, met my brother Fred with the Miss S's & their brother, accompanied them home, 12 when I got home, very tired. This morning I went to hear Mozarts 12th Mass at St Francis Chapel, the place was crowded to excess. I never witnessed such idoletry in my life, it is really strange, in this enlightened 19th Century, people can live in such perverted blindness. Lennox called for me in the afternoon we took a strool round the Gardens together. I forgot to mention I was paid a visit by my old friend Mr. Brown (California Gully) he did not stay long. I was very glad to see him. I have only met him once since my return from N.Z. where we were very intimate. In the evening I went to Brunswick Street Chapel, heard Mr Milliard preach his farewell sermon, prior to his departure for Adelaide. I afterwards met Miss B. took a pleasent walk home with her 8th April 1866 Lovely weather. Spent another jolly week pleasuring. Monday was a holiday, but I spent the earliest part of the day reading. In the afternoon I I went to the Collingwood Sports, held at the foot of B.St. the day was windy & very dusty making it anything but pleasent for the pleasure seekers. I did not enjoy myself very much, such a rag tag lot about, gave it the appearance of a low fair in England, without its fun a novelty was introduced in the shape of an election of a Belle of Collingwood, a shilling was the qualification for a voter, ladies who competed for the prize sent in their likenesses, which were exhibited with ficticious names attached. I have heard since it was a complete "sell" the one bearing the name of the Rose of Denmark (Princess of Wales) won the honor - I remained on the ground till dark, had a bit of fun with a wild lot of girls & young men I know - Tuesday morning I went to work again. In the evening I went to the Theatre, & witnessed {{Image|file=Aah-13.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-14 1088]

"Twelfth Night" on leaving, I hastened to the Rly Station, Spencer St. to catch the excursion train from Echuca thinking my sister Bessie would come down by it. I was disappointed, but meeting the Miss Smarts I & Fred accompanied them home. I was rather afraid of entering our house without my sister, knowing how anxious my mother would be at her absence, however on going in I found she had received a Telegram from her during our absence stating that she was not coming home till to day. Wednesday night R.Law & Taff Ballantyne spent the evening with me here - very pleasently. I saw them both home afterwards Robin lent me a Book that Ive read with great interest since, “Pollocks Course of Time” (It is a grand conception, being a succession of beautiful similitudes, it opens with two angels in realms of bliss listening to an an old sage formerly of this world who is relating to them history of this world, from its creation to the final resurrection of its dead, he discribes hell, equally as horrible as Dante without that poets coarseness Pleasure, Happiness, Hope, Fear, Etc he introduces by garbed similes, pleasure, as a woman of the World – is about the best. I never read anything that stated so plainly the many stumbling blocks to the Christian - he reconciles man to his lot by showing to him the world as it really is, its nothingness & vanity & points out to us the only true path to everlasting joy) Thursday & Friday night I spent at home. Saturday afternoon, I walked down town met the Kellys, on leaving I returned & went to the Fitzroy Gardens, heard the Head Quarters Band play some fine pieces of Music, met my {{Image|file=Aah-14.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-15 1089]

sister Mary & her husband had a long chat with them. After tea, Fred & I paid the Smarts a visit, spent a pleasent evening together - I did not leave home to day till 3 pm when I took a walk round F. Gardens met several I knew, after tea Fred & I went to St Peters Church, left before the sermon commenced, having to walk to the Railway Station, where we met Bessie, who came down by the 9 pm train from Echuca, after enjoying herself very much – I think the trip will do her a deal of good, she appears to be a great favourite with her friends in Echuca. No news from Ned, I hope to have tomorrow, as I hear the S. Australian @ Hokitika is in [Sunday, 15 April 1866] 15th.April {{Red|1861}} [1866] I never took up my pen with such reluctance in my life as I do on this occasion, having to narrate the painful fact of my poor brothers Edwards death, tho’ in a measure prepared for it, I could not realize the idea of such an event occurring. After waiting anxiously to hear from him, we at length received a letter from his friend Mr Player, written on the 11th Ult & thr'o some postal mismanagement it did not come to hand until the 13th. Inst, it contained an account of his death & burial – he died on the night of the 9th.March at 11.30. & owing to an unfortunate circumstance, not a friend was near him or with him during his last moments. It appears Player was with him at 9 pm when Ned requested him to go and bring Christian Foyne (my old friend) as he wished to say something to him, relative of family affairs {{Image|file=Aah-15.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-16 1090]

Foyne lived 5 miles away, & during the time Player was away poor Ned breathed his last, without his last wish being gratified he died according to the Doctors certificate of relapsing fever brought on from the effects of dysentry, Foyne wrote to me giving me the same particulars as Player- they were very good to my brother during his illness, provided him with the best Medical attendance they at his death thought so much of him, that they would not allow him to be buried by the Hospital authorities they gave him a decent funeral, about 20 of his friends followed to his grave – where they purpose to erect a gravestone to his memory. It is some consolation under the painful circumstances to know he fell in with so many good Samaritans. May God reward them for their kindness, our thanks are most due to Mr Player who througout his illness & to the last sad rites humanity expects from this world, he was a good, kind and sincere friend. I wrote to Foyne & Player the day I received their letters, thanking them for their kindness in language that I wished could do them justice, & also desiring them to furnish me with account of the expenses they have been to, for I should ever consider it a reproach, to our family, to know that we allowed others to be at the loss, where it is our duty that it should be otherwise. The news was a great shock {{Image|file=Aah-16.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-17 1091]

to us & none too easier to bear, to think no near friend or relative was with him, & also the fact of his never having written to us for upwards of two years – so that we know nothing of his antecedents during that period. My poor mother feels the loss the most acutely that I fear it will considerably affect her health, which was ever delicate Poor Ned, he was a fine young fellow, possessing many fine traits a favourite of everybody who knew him, frank free & manly, exceedingly good natured, even to a fault – the worst enemy he ever had was himself. Player states he died quite calmly believes repentant, may the Lord have mercy on his soul & forgive him whatever sin he committed here below - My father will be greatly cut up about him, for I feel he will reproach himself for the cause of his acquiring wandering habits owing to his neglect during his youth, for under different circumstances he would have been a clever man. We received a long letter from my father by the English Mail & enclosed in it was a letter of credit for £10.0.0 very acceptable at the time for my mother really had not the means of procuring decent mourning, I having put what little money I possessed in the Bank for 6 months, father dwells very much upon Edward wishing he was living at home with us, he must have been uneasy about him as we informed him we had not heard from him for such a length of time. I hardly know how to break the sad news to him, he was so fond {{Image|file=Aah-17.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-18 1092]

of him, if he had a favourite I believe it was poor Ned. He states Aunt Lucys affairs do not paint such a favourable appearance as he had anticipated & that it will be some time ere things are settled. I did not go out to day, been raining hard all day – spent it reading & writing. April 22nd 1866 Sunday night. I like to retire in my room where all is quiet & think over the main events that have occurred during the week, places Ive visited people Ive met & such like, tho I find it very uninteresting to sit down & write such insignificant matter. Monday evening I took a walk about Fitzroy, met Miss B saw her [home] Tuesday night. I went to the Parliament Houses, witnessed the passing of the Tariff Bill - Wednesday night I went to {{Red|*}}Gold street to see my old friend & mate [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] spent the evening with him & his wife (who will soon be a mother) very pleasently tho we were melancholy pleasent, for Harry & my poor brother Ned were warm friends for years & very much attached to each other. Our conversation was chiefly concerning bygones on Bendigo & NZ, painful reminiscences, 11 Pm when I got home, found several sympathetic visitors at our house - we have had a great many condolers, very kind of people thus to respect one's sorrow Friday night Fred & I spent at Smarts, doing the agreeable to the {{Image|file=Aah-18.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-19 1093]

two Miss S.s who are very nice girls in their way Saturday afternoon, I went in company with Lennox as pr. agreement to the Royal Park to play Croquet. Found a pleasent set there, all friends, comprised of both sexes, we played till dark – on arriving home, after tea Fred & I took a walk about town met many we knew. 11 pm when we got home found Saunders & Kidgell here, felt sorry I had not remained at home, being great favourites of mine - This morning I went to hear Revd J.Dare preach, he is located at present in this neighbourhood, his preaching subject was on the importance of private prayer he was as earnest & eloquent as ever, I think without exception he is the most eloquent preacher Victoria can boast off, he possesses all the outward & I believe the inward qualities of a good preacher, fine commanding appearance, a rich toned clear voice, & is a pious Christian. I always feel a better man after hearing him - In the afternoon Bessie & I took a pleasent walk. Mr Kidgell spent the evening with us, only just left, he is a traveller for a Mel Mercantile House & is seldom in town, he is a very intelligent man & extremely good company, a great favourite with all who know him - April 29th 1866. Nice weather during the week beginning to get rather cold in the morning & evenings sure approach of coming winter. Monday on leaving business I met my old friend Mr. Halley who is at present looking out for a situation as Manager of a G.Co I persuaded him to come home & take tea with me spent the evening very pleasently with him, walked into town with him. Tuesday, I was greatly surprised & pleased to see my very dear old friend {{Image|file=Aah-19.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-20 1094]

Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] come marching into the office, he had just arrived from N.Z where he has left his family, he is out of a situation at present but having considerable interest in Melb. he was induced to come over & try how matters stood. It is he is making our house his home - while in Victoria. I was delighted to see him, we have spent some very pleasent hours in each others company. I hope he will be fortunate enough to meet in with something to suit him. I should like him to remain here - Wednesday night I spent walking about (Jim having gone to see some friends of his) met Miss B took a walk with her for a little while. Thursday night Jim Fred & I went to Cookes Lozara & Wilsons, Circus, at present engaged in the Haymarket Theatre, it is the best company Ive seen for a very long time, fine riders, & the best acrobats that ever appeared in the colony, after it was over we went into a cafe & had coffee Etc. came home & did not go to bed till 1 am the following morning, singing & talking over past times. The mail closed the same morning for England. It was my painful duty to break the sad news of poor Neds death to father, with all particulars, we sent him also the letters we received relative to the event, & also several portraits of Fred & myself - Friday night Fred & I spent the evening at Smarts, the Miss Ss showed us some beautiful pieces of fancy needlework, & embroidery in which they display excellent taste & skill in executing Saturday afternoon I spent in Fitzroy Gardens listening to the Head Quarters Band perform. They play’d some beautiful selections of the best composers. I met Miss Fannigan had a long chat with her on the subject of her flirtations. I never met one more candid in my life & who seemed so thoroughly disgusted with her antecedents in that respect. I thought it would have done many young lady acquaintances of mine a deal of good to have heard her. I afterwards joined my sister {{Image|file=Aah-20.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-21 1095]

Mary & her husband, who living in the neighbourhood are regular attendants to these open air concerts - They are becoming quite fashionable rendezvous for Saturday afternoon promenaders - In the evening I took a long walk around the outskirts of Fitzroy, being a lovely Moonlight night I enjoyed my walk far better than about the town - Not feeling inclined for Chapel this morning I spent it in reading, read "Gullivers Travels" the first time through - Ciceros defence of "Milo for the death of Clodius" with a trifle of other matter. Towards evening the two Miss Roberts paid us a visit had tea & afterwards I accompanied them with my sister Bessie to St Marks Church heard Mr Barlow preach. I saw the Miss Rs home they live a long way from here - rather late when I got home May 5th.1866. Weather very changeable, had some heavy showers of rain during the week. Monday evening Fred & I took a walk together listening outside of folks houses wherever we heard music, got home early, & read for a while. Tuesday night Hamilton returned from Sandhurst spent a pleasent evening talking about the old acquaintances he met & scenes he visited he called upon my couzin Lizzie found her quite well (I wrote & sent her my portrait in exchange for one of poor Neds, she gave me - the only one we have of him.) Wednesday evening Fred was very ill. I went out alone, met [[Rakowski-86|Miss Rekowski]] & E.Atkinson, the former is a most charming & lively girl I walked into Melb with them on my way home alone, I met the two Miss Smarts being a lovely moonlight night we took a very long walk, didnt get home till 11 P.m. Thursday, Fred quite recovered from his sudden fit of indisposition. After tea I went to Smith Street for mother - on my way home met Louis walked home with her - (one would imagine to read these pages I was a regular ladies man). [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] stay'd with us, spent the evening singing {{Image|file=Aah-21.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-22 1096]

& reading, 12 pm when we got to bed - This afternoon [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], the two Miss Smarts my brother Fred & sister Bessie, Tom Rooke & I formed a party to go up the River Yarra we rode down to Richmond, where we took a boat pulled up to the tea gardens, remained there about an hour very pleasently discussing tea & fruit with other subjects - It was a lovely afternoon & all being in good spirits we enjoyed ourselves I pulled up & down & got very hot, on leaving the boat I began to get chilly & I fear I have caught a cold - I feel very shaky & have a most severe headache - I went out about 8 pm took a short walk round Fitzroy & came home – early - May 8th.1866. Been very unwell since I last continued my journal. I felt very ill on Sunday morning, but went with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] to hear the Revd. James Taylor the popular baptist minister preach. It was the first time I ever heard him & I purpose God willing to hear him again, he preached a fine sermon from Luke - "Father! Glorify thy name - ". On arriving home I felt worse - my limbs would scarcely bear me. I was in a violent perspiration & yet my teeth chattered in my head I bore up as long as possible but had to go to bed & apply wet cloths to my head all night. I felt a little better about noon but very weak. I walked into town called at the office, found very little doing in consequence of yesterday being nearly kept as a holiday, our Governor Sir Charles Darling, having been called upon to resign owing to some unconstitutional acts of his left the Colony for Sydney enroute for England - he was very popular among the protectionists who got up a grand demonstration for the occasion - I did not feel well enough to go to Sandridge & see him off. I returned home early, spent a pleasent evening, my sister Mary being here - {{Image|file=Aah-22.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-23 1097]

feeling better this morning I went to the office, was very busy having four large ships at the Pier, just coming to discharge, one of them a steamer called the Kai Koura” that has just accomplished the quickest passage on record (from England) 54 days On leaving in the evening I met [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & Robert Williamson the latter invited us to his house to tea & spend the evening, which we did very pleasently together he is a very intelligent young fellow. I met him several years ago on Bendigo, we have both very much changed since then - arrived home about 10 pm May 13th.1866 Sunday night, Weather been very fair, the want of rain is severely felt in all quarters - & Im happy to state we had a copious downfall of the element this evening. Wednesday night I took a strool with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] visited an acquaintance of his. Thursday night ditto, spent my evening reading an extraordinary work entitled “Napolean the future or destined ruler of the world,” by the Revd Mr. Baxter – Prophecy is a subject Ive never gone into with any thing like interest, this work takes for its basis those prophecies from the Sacred Books of Daniel & the Revelations upon the future Antichrist & he endeavours to show or prove that Napolean is the only man on earth that has that degree of power, & possesses the characteristics of the coming Antichrist his potential supremacy & his unbounded ambition all mark him to be one that must exert a great in– fluence over the future destinies of European nations comprising as Baxter observes the Old Roman Empire according to his (Baxters) computation of prophetic time we are at present entering upon the final 7 years previous to Christs second advent. The work is very plausible, quotes scripture for everything & {{Image|file=Aah-23.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-24 1098]

is full of remarks on the subject from other prophetical writers. I feel incapable of rightly estimating the work, but it has given rise to many serious reflections in my mind & I observe the same in others who have perused it, judging from the signs of the times I see nothing very improbable of such things taking place as he discribes, which at some time, if the Scriptures are to be relied upon, must occur, the most difficult part is in trying to make Englishmen believe that there is a possibility of a Frenchman ruling over them, being so long accus -tomed to imagine there is no such power in existence I firmly believe England has for some time past arrived at the zenith of her glory her army is one of the smallest in Europe for a 1st rate power her navy is no larger than that of France & her inhabitants are so full of democratic feelings that I consider their patriotism is not to be relied upon as formerly, the days are past of anthropothuism Kings & Queens, Lords & Dukes etc are not looked upon with such reverence as formerly. Friday night H & I took a short walk around Fitzroy came home had some singing & read a little Saturday afternoon Williamson called & in company with H & I, we went to hear the "Band" play in Fitzroy Gardens enjoyed it very much. After tea having an invitation I went to Dickens (an acquaintance) wedding party. The company was a mixed lot I knew very few there, however, I made the most of my time & managed to spend a few hours in a very jolly manner singing, dancing, & playing the usual games of forfeits Etc all of which I entered into with considerable spirit - 12 when I got home {{Image|file=Aah-24.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-25 1099]

Spent this morning reading (Baxter) after dinner Fred & I went to Sandridge met [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] with Williamson & we all took passage in a small yacht plying between the pier & the "Curacoa" Man of War of 21 guns & 1500 tons Burden commanded by Sir Wiseman - It was blowing very fresh & we went along in gallant style to the ship found her a most magnificent sight, everything looked so clean & in such perfect order, she has a flush deck fore & aft with a number of light guns, mounted at the Bows is a large Armstrong Gun, carrying 110 lbs shot, a fine piece of workmanship & I should imagine a most distructive engine - on going below we found ourselves in what is called the Gun Deck, 22 guns (68 pounders) ranged around her sides, with stands of arms consisting of Colts Revolvers, Rifles & Cutlasses Etc. The sailors 350 in number many of whom were very kind showed us over the principal parts of their vessel & explained everything to us we did not properly understand, on going down another hatchway we found another deck where the crew eat & sleep in. Things bore quite another aspect here - men were to be seen in every direction, some reading & yarning, some doing fancy needlework but the majority appeared to be asleep. The ship was crowded with spectators, but these sleepers were not in the least disturbed by walking over them - I fancy it must be horrible to be cooped up in such a limited space from year end to year end with little change. We visited the Engine Room, fitted up with speaking trumpets to every part of the ship & I observed what I suppose to be new or modern improvements in communicative facilities. We left about 4 pm very well satisfied with our visit feeling more confident in Englands wooden walls than ever - in case of war {{Image|file=Aah-25.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-26 1100]

I think there are many on that noble ship who would do their duty. We met H.Rooke & Miss R. we came ashore in the same boat, on arriving in town Fred & I parted from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & Williamson & coming on to rain we took a cab home - after tea we went to hear the Revd Henderson preach in the Theatre Royal. We got wet through going & it was anything but pleasent sitting in our wet clothes, however the sermon we heard fully compensated for our troubles he is the most popular minister in Melbourne & not without reason if the sermon I heard is an average sample of his discourses, he preaches extemporously very earnest & never at a loss, a good clear expositor must possess an extraordinary memory. It is the first time I ever went to hear a sermon in a Theatre he has been drawing crowded houses. I trust it is to hear the word of God & not the place is the attraction I received a letter from my Poor Brother Neds friend Mr. Player, it contained three accounts amounting to £15.0s.0d which I consider very moderate, he hints that my old friend Christy Foyne has not acted very well, but does not state particulars May 20th.1866 Weather very unsettled, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] still living with us. Visited the Smarts several times, spent one or two evenings very pleasently in their company. Im sorry to state my poor Mother has been very ill during the week confined to her bed, she appears to be getting worse, she objects seeing a medical man, but I shall call one in if she is no better to morrow I spent yesterday afternoon reading, in the evening I met La B. who informs me she is going to Port Fairy, it will do her a deal of good. I took a strool into town after seeing her home, met Swanson, who lent me his ticket, to go into the Skating Rink (being a member) where I enjoyed {{Image|file=Aah-26.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-27 1101]

myself very much. Skating is becoming a popular institution {{Red|*}}the {{Red|*}}rolaries perform in a large boarded room - the skates merely consist of a sole with small castors under neath, strapped onto the foot. I should imagine it very healthy exercise, at least it is amusing to witness the ineffectual efforts of some of the novices in trying to keep their perpendicular - This morning I went to hear Revd Jms Taylor - Remained at home reading, during the afternoon In the evening I went to Mr. Greens (Bourke street) for medicine for Mother, found him out, gone to church, so I went to hear Taylor deliver a kind of a lecture or what he himself termed an analysis of a Book, the title being Jesus Christ his life & works, Ecce HomoEcce Homo - by Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche a German X(by a Frenchman (I could not catch the name) &)X protestant, it appeared to me to be a refutation of Rehnans “Life of Christ” only vastly superior in its composition having a far higher tone, clothing Christ with his divinity whilst the Jew robs him of it. Twas an excellent subject & well handled. I was pleased to have heard it, removing several unpleasent doubts I entertained of certain inconsistencies (as I thought) in Christs life - My dear mother is very ill. May 27th Weather very changeable, Im happy to state my mother is much better was able to get up for a small time yesterday & to day, she is very weak, our house has seemed so miserable since her illness, the {{Red|28th}} being Whit Monday we had a holiday. I spent it at home, Mother still ill I did not care about leaving home. In the afternoon we had several visitors, among the number, Miss Allen Mrs. White - & my sister Mary) so altogether I passed a pleasent holiday, in the evening called at Smarts took Miss S. out for a walk as far as town where I left her - Thursday, Queens Bth day was another holiday - we spent it pleasuring, left home about 1 Pm took a cab to Richmond there met Bob Williamson & a Mr Elliott, so with my sister Bessie & Miss Forrester & Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] we formed a nice {{Image|file=Aah-27.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-28 1102]

party pulled up to the gardens regaled ourselves with fruit, coffee & other refreshments had some fun swinging & playing about, after a nice pull of an hour or so we returned to Richmond got home about 6 pm. after tea I called at Smarts, took Miss Jessie out for a walk. We crossed Studley Park Bridge & where I had never been before & rambled about, everything looking so calm & beautiful by moonlight. I think it one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in the vicinity of Melb - 11 Pm when I reached home Saturday being a wet day we were unable to play Croquet as we intended, but some of the party called, a Miss Ditcham a nice young lady from Launceston who plays the piano beautifully with Miss Saunders & Mrs. Simpson. We spent a pleasent afternoon together singing Etc. we parted promising to meet next Saturday - This morning went to hear Jms Taylor a funeral sermon on the death of Mrs. Shand a member of his church, who died a happy Christian, it was a most impressive sermon, spent the afternoon writing to Mr Player concerning my poor brother Ned & also to Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s brother (Alick) who is in the PO Greymouth. I enclosed £15.0.0 in the letter requesting him to liquidate the debt incurred by Neds friend. In the evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson preach in the Theatre to a congregation of upwards of 3000 people, his sermon was one calculated to exercise a great influence upon the class that seemed to be present, simple, earnest & eloquent I came away {{Red|*}}more deeply impressed with a sense of my sin than ever & an increased desire to seek my Saviour in all sincerity of heart June 3rd 1866. Weather very cold, wet, & windy – causing a deal of sickness in Melb. few have escaped the prevailing epidemic (influenza) every member of our family are more or less troubled with it, my dear old friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] left yesterday afternoon for his home in Dunedin. I had began to get so accustomed to his company I can hardly realize {{Image|file=Aah-28.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-29 1103]

that he has gone, he has entered into partnership with a person named Watson & they purpose commencing business as general dealers & brokers in Dunedin taking over with them a quantity of goods I trust they may be fortunate. - I posted my letters on Thursday for N.Z. to much relief of my mind - I spent Thursday night at Williamsons - Friday night at home with Jim. Wednesday I spent at Smarts along with Fred - Yesterday afternoon Tom Grimwood (who is living with us) & myself in company with a lot of ladies playd Croquet, at the bottom of Nicholson St. it was a fine day but cold. Im afraid its our last game for the season at its conclusion all adjourned to tea at our house quite frightening Mother, with so much company after it was over, all being bent upon enjoying ourselves, we spent a most happy evening. Jms Saunders called about 9Pm - at 10 we broke up Tom & I accompanying Miss Hoskins & Smith to their destination, we then adjourned into the Scotch Pie Shop & had some refreshments got home about 12 Pm. This morning Tom & I went to hear Jms Taylor preach. In the afternoon Lennox called & Miss Saunders with Miss Ditcham, spent a pleasent afternoon discussing a variety of subjects - they left after tea for Chapel - I accompanied them to town, coming on to rain, I returned been reading & writing since - June 10th. 1866. Weather still cold & anything but agreeable - Time spent much as usual, with a little additional work at the office in consequence of the large number of ships having lately arrived - Monday night my sister Mary spent the evening with us, singing & playing with her usual grace & spirit. Tuesday night, I spent at our neighbours Mr. Hungerland, being the anniversary of {{Image|file=Aah-29.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-30 1104]

his daughter Alice 15th Birthday. They had an evening party to which all our family were invited, rather a tame affair - Wed, Thursday & Friday spent at home in reading writing singing Etc Saturday afternoon I called for Jessie Smart took her to the Museum, where we spent about two hours very pleasently I noticed many improvements & additions to it since my last visit to it - We had a pleasent walk round the University grounds & through town home, spending a very pleasent day – called for her again after tea & took her a walk down town 11 pm when I left her. This morning, Fred & I went to hear Mr. Henderson, he preached from the psalms – "The Lord is my Shepherd" Etc a most eloquent & impressive sermon spent the afternoon reading. In the evening feeling indisposed I took a long walk thinking to wear it off, called at Smarts about 9 pm remained about half anhour came home June 17th 1866 Weather been very cold a deal of frost in the morning - reminding me somewhat of my sojourn in N.Z. My time spent much as usual, worked very hard at the office several more ships having arrived. our sheds are crowded with goods causing us a deal of inconvenience & trouble - Mail arrived yesterday no letters or papers from home. Spent my time very pleasently during the week at home, had several visitors. Last night, I went into the Princess Theatre to see a sensational Drama called Maseppa I hardly know what induced me to go for I really dont care if I never enter a Theatre again. The performance was of a most indelicate character, a beautiful? woman (Fanny Brown plays Maseppa who for presuming to love a high born {{Red|*}}dame is lashed to a horse's back, naked. F.B. is dressed in nothing but a suit of skintights & served accordingly, exciting by her charms(?) the audience whose tastes are of a sensual nature I left the house at the end of the second act in disgust at the entire exhibition This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson finish his series of sermon on the 23rd psalm I liked him as well as ever & trust I may be profited by his preaching, spent the afternoon reading, about 3 Pm went out for a walk, round Fitzroy Gardens. In the {{Image|file=Aah-30.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-31 1105]

[evening] rambled about till 9.Pm met Miss Smart with Fred walked home with her, stayd till 10 pm. June 24th 1866 Weather very unsettled, plenty of rain, & a few fine days, nothing particular occurred Thursday night Mr Beere & Miss Ditcham called spent a very jolly evening. The Revd gentleman much to my amusement singing a great number of songs - went to the Gardens yesterday afternoon to hear the Head Quarters Band perform met a great many I knew - I received a long letter from my cousin Harry, who wishes me to seek him a situation in town, poor fellow. I dont know what he is fit for, being lame he is unable to take a situation of an active nature & not having any knowledge of business renders him unfit for town life - I wish I could hear of something likely to suit him. I went into town last night & met the Smarts, walked home with them. This morning I went with Bessie to St Marks Church & was rather surprised to hear the Bans called out for my little friend Louisa Burke union with a person named Hayward or Heard. I hope she will be happy with the object of her choice - Took a strool in the afternoon, home by 3.30 pm Will Smart called, he is a traveller & has just returned, he is a pleasent young fellow, nothing particular about him to make him anything but commonplace or or an ordinary mortal. My brother Fred & him are very intimate, correspond regularly & all that sort of thing - he stayd tea, & left with Fred I went out for a strool, walked as far as the Theatre, too late for the sermon, met the Smarts all coming out, accompanied them home - {{Image|file=Aah-31.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-32 1106]

July 1st 1866. Nice weather during the week Kept very busy at the office - owing to the number of vessels at the pier working. Went to the opera on Monday night to hear the new “Prima Donna” Madam Simonsen in “Lucia di Lammemoor” she has a fine voice & is an excellent actress, she must prove a good auxilliary to the Company. Thursday night Bessie & I paid the Williamsons of Nt Melbourne a visit spent a very pleasent evening there Miss W. is a nice girl - On arriving home we heard that Marys servant had called with the painful news of Marys illness & confinement to her bed. Friday morning mother went to see her. I called for her about 9.Pm, found my poor sister very ill in bed, with every probability of soon being a mother, but unfortunately two months before her proper time the doctors wish to put it back & from what I can hear it can only be attended with a deal of risk I called last night & also to night spent a few hours with her, she appears to suffer great pain. God grant she may be restored to health. Mr. Clark is exceedingly kind & attentive to her - I went to hear the Band yesterday afternoon in company with Miss Smart. In the evening I went to see Mary, found her very ill. This morning I went to hear Mr Richards preach in the Wesleyan Church B.St. This afternoon Tom Grimwood & I went to Sandridge, being a lovely day the pier was very attractive being crowded with people, went on board several fine vessels Spent the evening at home, left about 8 pm to bring Bessie home who has been spending the evening at Clarks I received a long letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] yesterday he arrived home safe & sound after a pleasent trip of 14 days, found his family well, he has taken premises in Princess St where I hope he will do well. I answered & sent him some catalogues & wholesale Prices Ive got from Wholesale furniture houses here - {{Image|file=Aah-32.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-33 1107]

July 8th 1866. Fine weather, the 2nd was observed as a holiday by most of the business firms. Our sheds were closed but Mr Adamson & I had to go into the audit office & work, however we managed to get away about 3.30. on my way home I met Mr Halley, he had just returned from a tour round the country, speaks rather despondingly of things in general - Wednesday night, Bessie & I were invited to a grand party at Mr. Gotchs. We went early, but arrived home late next morning (5 am) We enjoyed ourselves very much, there being such a lot of pleasent people there, if they were not, Mr. & Mrs. Gotch are so thoroughly kind & hospitable that the most ascetic could not but be otherwise We had dancing & singing with plenty of good things in the way of eating & drinking. Tuesday night I was elected a member of the Fitzroy Christian Improvement Society, there are upwards of 200 members belonging to it. Mr J.C Simmons delivered a fine Lecture on the Plurality of Worlds. The subject was a good one & he made the most of it, he evidently has studied the subject well & from the evidence he has adduced from writers who have written on the subject, proved to a moral certainty the existence of other worlds & sentient beings. I came away much benifitted & delighted with my evenings entertainment. Thursday night I spent at Smarts. Friday Fred & I went to a concert at St Georges Hall. The singing was very mediocre, some recitations by Samson, from Hoods poems seemed to please the audience, left early, home by 10 pm. Saturday afternoon, Tom & I went to hear the Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, not being a fine day, very few were there, in the evening Miss Smart & I took a strool down town, on seeing her home, I went to Marys, for my sister Bessie. Mary is still very ill. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the Theatre, his text was from the last verse of the 23rd psalm, finishing the series In the afternoon took a strool. In the evening went to the Chapel in Brunswick St. July 15th.1866. Weather, cold & changeable. Mail arrived no letters from any relatives or friends. Spent a pleasent week, been two nights to the Theatre to hear Meyerbeers Grand Opera of L’Africaine, a double company are taking the leading parts, Squires & Escott one night Beaumont & Simonsen the next. I prefer the latter {{Image|file=Aah-33.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-34 1108]

Squires voice is too light to render the music affectively - I think it a fine piece replete with some of the most exquisite little bits of music I ever heard. I think it superior to the “Hugenots” - Tuesday night went to my Society heard a good Essay on the Parable of the Ten Virgins Monday night I spent at Smarts, took Miss Jessie out for a strool, Wednesday ditto - Saturday, afternoon I took Bessie to hear the Band play in the Gardens she introduced me to some very jolly people named Phillips spent the afternoon very pleasently. In the evening I rambled about town, called for Bessie about 9.20, found Mary much better in spirit & I trust in health. Spent this morning reading, afternoon & evening raining heavy I remained at home, except for about 2 hours which I spent at Smarts I received a letter from Mr. Hamilton at Greymouth N.Z. (Jims Brother) in reply to the one I sent with the money for Player in, there was something very nice & friendly about it, not very long but pithy, he sent me Mr. Players receipt for £15.0. & alluded to that persons kindness towards my brother - July 22nd.1866 Fine weather, but cold, nothing very particular occurring to break the monotony of my existence On looking over the foregoing pages, I[’m] inclined to become disgusted with keeping a journal. Ive very little time to keep it as I would wish. I formerly alluded to the character & peculiarities of people I came in contact with, discribe scenes & places I visited, discussed the merits of any work I read & such like, but since settling down into the routine of office work, I feel Ive neither time or inclination for such effusions but simply confine myself in relating how & where I pass my time, without entering into particulars, for instance Monday night, I spent at home reading & singing. Tuesday night went for Bessie at Roberts, (Hoddle St) passed a couple of hours rather slowly with that family, very tired when we arrived home. Wednesday night I went to a concert at St Georges Hall, the best Amateur concert I ever remember being at one lady Mrs Ellis (an old professional Im sure) sang "Mercy" from Robert de Diable, most beautiful, a song by {{Image|file=Aah-34.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-35 1109]

Elsasser & sang by Donaldson merited some praise. Friday night I spent at Smarts (Will had just arrived home from a journey, quite well). Saturday afternoon, after doing my usual domestic duties such as cutting wood Etc. I went to my sister Marys was agreeably surprised to find her “up” in the parlor, she is still very weak, & twill be some weeks ere she is fit to leave the house. I spent a couple of hours with her. Afterwards paid the Gardens a visit heard the Band play, spoke to several acquaintances met Will Smart, who came home & had tea with me after which he & Fred went to town together. I called at his sisters & took her out for a strool. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the Theatre his subject was on Temptation, his sermon was a most eloquent & impressive one, I never listened to such a man, he embodies my idea of what constitutes a preacher. Spent the afternoon reading. In the evening Miss Smart & I went to hear Mr. Fletcher who formerly was located on Sandhurst when Ive often heard him with great pleasure. I liked him very well, but after hearing such a man as Henderson in the morning, it fell very tame on my mind. We had a pleasent walk home through the gardens I forgot to allude to a painful circumstance that shocked me very much when I heard it, the awful death of [[Green-58337|Mr. J.Green]] (Chemist & Druggist Bourke Street) who was killed on the Ballarat Railway Line by the engine running over him & conveying part of his body upwards of 30 miles without being observed being dark when it happened, it appears Mr. G had not been well lately & was subject to temporary fits of insanity, he had been invited to spend a week at his wifes fathers, [[Kidgell-23|Mr. Kidgell]], Mt Pleasent, & had left the train at Geelong & walked along the line & he is supposed to have become exhausted & lain down, & so was ran over by the following train poor fellow many a pleasent Saturday afternoon Ive spent with him during last summer playing croquet he leaves a widow & six young children This occurred last week. {{Image|file=Aah-35.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-36 1110]

August 5th.1866 A fortnight since I continued my journal, nothing particular occurring to note) & not feeling inclined for the Lack of continually reciting the same round of or my usual manner of passing time away, being the cause of my negligence in this respect. All pretty well in health, my sister Mary Im happy to state is recovering, but very slowly I called upon her several times - I went in company with Bessie & Fred on the 2nd. to hear Lucy Escott & Squires in Lucrezia Borgia being in good voice & their benefit they sang & acted remarkably well, at its conclusion Simonsen & Beaumont appeared in “Sonnambula” which if anything was superior to the other production in point of execution. Tuesday night in company with Mr. & Miss Sanders & my sister Bessie we went & spent the evening in a most agreeable manner at Mr. Casses South Yarra, enjoying ourselves very well, very tired when we arrived home the walk from Swan St being very long — last Saturday night the 28th July, I went to a concert in the Haymarket Theatre for the benefit of the shipwrecked passengers by the "Netheby" lost on Kings Island about a week previous no lives lost all brought to Melbourne, where a deal of kindness & sympathy has been displayed towards them. The concert was excellent, the performance comprising the best Amateur & Professional talent obtainable in Melbourne - Ive visited the Smarts pretty often, Miss Jessie is living alone her mother & sister having gone to Bendigo, on the 26th. we had a fruit soiree at our association, & a display of Disolving Views, rather a tame affair on the whole. I went to hear Mr Henderson last sunday morning & evening – & also this morning, he has commenced a series of sermons on the 8th. of Romans, his appeals to his congregation on the sinfulness of their ways is most earnest & I trust & hope in my own case they will have a salutary effect. Yesterday {{Image|file=Aah-36.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-37 1111]

afternoon I took Bessie to hear the Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, the gardens this time of the year look beautiful & what with its charms & the number of people & pleasent acquaintances we met we enjoyed ourselves very much I spent the evening at Smarts. Miss Roberts called this afternoon staid tea with us, after which I accompanied her & Bessie to St Peters Church. I did not care for Mr. Handfield, something so dry & monotonous about him after listening to such a man as Henderson. Ive ceased to find pleasure in attending the Church of England service, the prayers are very beautiful, but soon lose their spirit by constant repetition After the service I saw Miss R home, staid about ½ an hour at her fathers, who lives in Hoddle St. a long walk home alone. I wrote to my father by the last Mail giving him a long account of our affairs & position Etc August 12th.1866. Weather very unsettled, making everything outside very unpleasent. Monday night knowing my sister Mary would be alone, I spent it in her company, she was so glad I came & appeared so happy, singing & playing but not to be expected in her usual vivacious style, being still very weak & feeble – but Im happy to state is able to walk, a feat she could not accomplish without aid on my last visit I left about 10 pm. Tuesday raining heavy, went to my Association found very poor attendance, the subject for the evening was Christs narrative of the the Rich Man & Lazarus, one person giving an exposition which I must say was a good one, another giving us its application, after which a discussion took place as to the nature of hell & an hereafter, which very few who took any part in it knew much about judging from the very ridiculous ideas uttered respecting the subject. Wednesday night I spent with Miss Smart she is a most morbid kind of creature, full of strange whims & ideas, a perfect novelty to me - Thursday {{Image|file=Aah-37.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-38 1112]

evening I took a strool into town, met a Miss White & a Mrs McLay, two of the jolliest & most witty women I ever knew. They were taking a strool & I joined them spent about two hours most delightfully together when I saw them to their respective homes. Friday night I spent at home reading a little, a thing Im incapacited for, tho passionately fond of reading my eyes are still very weak & I fear Ill never recover my original sight. It makes me feel very wretched to have to pass my time (leisure) in such an insipid, useless manner as I have done since my stay in Melbourne, with what pleasure I used to look forward to the time when I could pursue the natural bent of my mind towards study when I should be in a position or live in towns where advantages are held out for those who have a desire for mental enjoyment. Im compelled to use glasses to do my duty at my employment & sometimes when Ive been very busy & had much writing to do my head aches to that extent, I can scarcely sleep the following night. Providence may have ordained it for the best but as far as human judgement can see in these matters, Im singularly afflicted, however on the whole I ought not to murmur, Ive much to be thankful for, on viewing my past life, with its trials, hardships & the various vicissitudes attending it. I pray God to make me thankful for his many mercies. Saturday afternoon being very gloomy, I did not leave home as usual, but chopped up a lot of old hard logs for firewood, the exercise doing me far more good perhaps than lounging about. In the evening I went to Smarts, the other sister had just returned from Sandhurst passed a pleasent hour or two with them. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson deliver another sermon on the 8th. Romans, being a continuation of his last two Sunday morning discourses - he surpasses in logic, eloquence & erudition every man it has fell to my lot to hear, science, social & physical — literature of every variety both ancient & modern he has at his command, possessing a most extraordinary memory which never seems to fail {{Image|file=Aah-38.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-39 1113]

him he is prominently the first preacher we have in this colony – spent the afternoon reading & writing. In the evening, I called at Smarts found Will had just returned from his journey, he accompanied me to the Theatre, heard Mr H discourse on Christs Miracles - got wet coming home rained heavy - August 19th 1866. How time flies when passed pleasently what a contrast to some portions of my past life, when time dragged so heavily that sometimes Ive actually got into such a morbid state that Ive wished life with all its cares, & troubles at an end. I feel thankful Im alive to the wickedness of such unnatural ideas. English Mail arrived, bringing us a long letter from father, he had just heard of poor Edwards death. & was greatly cut up. It must have been a severe blow to him & none the easier bourne, knowing or feeling he did not exactly do his duty towards him when younger, however it is not right of me alluding to such a thing. he alludes to family matters more especially to Aunt Lucy's property getting settled, which he thinks it will be some months ere it is realised. There is continually something turning up to keep it back, that Im afraid the Lawyers will get the Lions share Monday night I was invited to attend the Victoria Manufacturing Association, held in Bourke Street, my friend Mr Williamson is Secretary, it has for its object the improvement of the mind, & to meet for discussion on whatever subjects may be of interest - a Mr. Elliott read an excellent Essay on the Authenticity of the Scriptures, compiled by himself, altogether I spent the evening in a very agreeable manner - Tuesday Bessie & I went per invitation to a party at Gotchs where we indulged in plenty of dancing, singing & other good things of a more substantial character the party comprised all friends, & pleasent people got home the following morning at 2 Am. Wednesday was a half holiday, in honour of the inaugeration of the New Governor, Sir J.Manners Sutton who arrived per the Mail the day before - it was 12.30 Pm when I got away from the office, & on reaching the Treasury where the ceremony was held, found it over & the Governor just leaving - I {{Image|file=Aah-39.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-40 1114]

saw him in his carriage, he appears to be a very intelligent old gentleman its to be hoped he will be more fortunate than Sir Chas Darling was, feeling very tired, I soon got home & had a snooze. In the evening I spent a couple of hours at Smarts. Thursday & Friday night I spent chiefly at home, singing Etc. (Mother has been very unwell the past few days, she has too much work to do - I wish I could get a rise in my salary, so as to be able to get a servant to assist her in her household duties) Saturday afternoon I took a strool around town. In the evening I visited the Smarts Jessie & I took a long walk together, late when we got home. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson, in the afternoon went for a walk in Fitzroy Gardens, met T Grimwood in company with a Miss Jameson to whom he introduced me to, a very nice lady like girl. I left them at 5 Pm, came home after tea. I went to Dr Cairns Church, to hear the Revd Oswald Dykes. I was there before the Bell rang, but found the place so crowded I could not get admittance, managed at last to stow myself in the Belfry & heard him his sermon was a/d to young men, considering the reputation he has & the high terms Ive heard him spoken of I must say I was somewhat disappointed There can be no doubt he is very clever, but his style of eloquence, is what I dont admire, he seems as if he was determined to force something upon you whether you would or no, in such a forcible manner there is no resisting. I admire Mr Hendersons gentle persuasive style far better, in my opinion there is no comparison between them. I think the latter far superior in every respect - if estimating a man by the amount of good he is capable of doing is any criterion. After leaving I called at Smarts for a short time - August 26th.1866 Been lovely weather during {{Image|file=Aah-40.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-41 1115]

the week, presenting a contrast to the past weather of the last few months - Time passed with me as usual in a very indifferent manner, nothing very interesting occurring to vary the monotony of my existence, leave home in a morning at a regular time, my duties from day to day are the same with little variety, leave at 5 pm, home by ½ past & so on, till Saturday when I leave at 12 O.C. My sight being still weak I cannot indulge much in reading in the evenings, half an hour is as much as I can stand, so unless we have company, I seldom spend the whole of an evening at home, take a walk about town, meet acquaintances, & make call – & other things of a similar trivial character - I feel I spend my time in anything but a rational manner on the whole - on thinking over it, I treat the matter very philosophically by thinking we are creatures of impulse & circumstance, that its greatly a matter of chance what we do & how we act - Monday night Bessie & I spent at Mrs Florauns (Hanover St) singing & dancing, she is a most agreeable widow, & full of life & fun, 12 pm when we got home - Tuesday night, I spent about an hour there - bade adieu to the Davis's (whom I met at Gotchs party) who left for Hobart Town the following day - on leaving them I went to my Society, found no one there, so I went to Marys she was alone. I spent about two hours with her she is still very weak. Im afraid her constitution is for ever affected through her late afflictions of mind & body - Wednesday night I spent at Smarts alone with Jessie, very pleasently - Thursday night Mr Adamson & I were invited to tea & to spend the evening with Mr B.D.Smith at his house on Emerald Hill, which we did, we found a nice tea provided & everything & everybody seemed so pleasent that one couldnt help enjoying oneself. Mr Scott {{Image|file=Aah-41.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-42 1116]

a friend of Mr. S was there & had brought with him a very powerful microscope, he possesses he showed us minute particles from natures store house imperceptible to the naked eye, but assuming immense proportions under its magnifying power I felt greatly eddefied with the exhibition & have had a far higher regard for minute matter than formerly - Friday night, I spent at a neighbours house (Phillips) singing, they are a very nice family & all musicians - 10 pm when I left – Saturday afternoon spent reading, in the evening took a walk with the Miss Smarts 11Pm when I got home. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach – took a walk in the afternoon, met some friends & walked to Richmond with them. In the evening not feeling well I did not go to church, but went out for a strool, met my brother Fred & the Miss S. I joined them being a lovely moonlight night we took a long walk round Fitzroy Gardens Sept 2nd 1866 Been lovely weather, Summer breaking out in all its loveliness, every thing looks bright & beautiful after the late heavy rains. Time passed pretty much as usual, working hard at the office by day, & amusing myself lightly at night doing very little good for myself or others Im sorry to say, tho’ I must say I spend my time pleasently & if it was not the consciousness that to idle ones time away in such a manner is not right, I should feel comparatively happy Monday I spent at home reading, & singing Etc. Tuesday went to the “Society” Meeting, subject being “Revivals” an essay delivered by Mr. Marsden, a long discussion followed, but not carried on in that spirit the subject demanded. I observed a deal of acrimony among the members who took part in it the majority of the members are Wesleyans & believe in the manner these Revivals meetings are carried on - others maintained there is too much cant & outward {{Image|file=Aah-42.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-43 1117]

demonstration displayed to be the effects of genuine conversion from sin. Wednesday at Smarts Thursday night I went to a Batchelors party at Mr Adamsons (my fellow clerk) passed a jolly evening or night I should say, for it was 2 am next morning when I got home the company were principally members of the Carlton FootBall Club - I enjoyed myself very much Friday night Miss Roberts spent the evening at our house so I remained at home, tho I had a long walk home with her to Hoddle St. Saturday afternoon a large party met in the Royal Park to play Croquet, being the first game this season it was rather interesting all the old hands there except Mr Green, poor fellow he playd with us the last time we met there - In the evening I called at Smarts took Jessie out for a walk 11 pm when I got home - Went to hear Mr Henderson this morning, still in the 8th of Romans 7th & 8th verses In the afternoon, Grimwood & I visited the Skinners Est Melbourne had tea there left about 8.Pm they are friends of Toms, tho Ive met them before they are jolly people but I think have very little respect for the Sabbath. I dont feel altogether at home in such company on such a day as Sunday on leaving them I called at Smarts for Fred stayd about an hour there - home early – mother read a little to us. I wrote to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Monday Sept 9th.1866 (Sunday). Weather very unsettled some days very hot, & the next cold & so on - I was annoyed yesterday by receiving a letter from Lizzie written in rather a selfish spirit having heard, we had come into a fortune she hoped I would pay her on a/c of her father £10.0.0 Im supposed to be in his debt, contracted 6 years ago, but Im positive it was settled a long time back in the disposal of the hut in Long Gully. I shall answer it tomorrow. I was quite astonished, considering how we are situated {{Image|file=Aah-43.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-44 1118]

The evening of the 3rd. Mary spent with us, we were very glad to see her, being the first evening she has spent at home since her illness, we spent it very pleasently. Tuesday night went to the Christian Association. The subject for the evening was an exposition of the parable of the good Samaritan Wednesday night spent at Smarts - Thursday night I went to St Georges Hall, to witness a meeting of Deaf & Dumb people, it was rendered more interesting, by the fact of the New Governor being in the Chair, this being the first occasion he has appeared at in Melb. I was very much pleased by the entertainment & considering the manner they can make themselves intelligible by signs is something extraordinary, the Governor is a very poor speaker, his remarks at the conclusion being very commonplace & stiff. Friday night I spent at Jamesons (the pawnbrokers) Russell St) Miss J. is a very pleasent girl & made us quite at home - Yesterday afternoon, Bessie & I went to Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play, met Mary & Clark - & also Mrs. Gotch walked about in company, talking & passing remarks & scandalising Etc - in the evening I called at Smarts didnt get home till near 12 pm. Went to hear Mr Henderson this morning. In the afternoon G.Ramsden called stayd tea after which we dispersed. I called at Smarts spent a couple of hours very nicely there - 16th.Sept 1866 - Weather beautiful, Time passed much as usual, spent one or two evenings at Jamesons (the pawnbrokers) ditto at Smarts, Tuesday night the Revd Mr. Richards gave us a Lecture in the Kg Wil S. Room the subject being a most interesting & instructive one Fernandez Cortez or the Conquest of Mexico. Wednesday night I went to the Trades Hall (Carlton) where I had been invited or requested to sing, at the "Penny Readings" as they are called, its a new idea out here - & are likely to become useful {{Image|file=Aah-44.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-45 1119]

institutions, by keeping Mechanics & their family from other places they may be in the habit of frequenting, having more injurous effects. They are well attended & the “talent" met with is far beyond mediocrity. I was in good voice & sang well, obtained the most rapturous applause & more Saturday afternoon I invited Mr. & Miss Williamson & Miss Jameson & others to play Croquet, they came to the house, but in consequence of it raining, we could not play - so we spent the afternoon very pleasently at our house playing & singing, took a short walk together as far as the Fitzroy Gardens, to hear the Band, but the rain coming on again made us retreat home again after tea, we all went to St Georges Hall Penny Readings, several M.Ps, (Edwards, Whiteman, & Embling) gave some good readings from popular authors - my brother Fred sang a song, Tom Grimwood presided at the piano, 11.Pm when Bessie & I got home This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson. In the afternoon Tom & I went to Jamesons had tea there after which I visited the Smarts, spent the evening with them - 23th.Sept 1866. Weather rather changeable – but pleasent on the whole - Monday night, Grimwood & I were invited to an evening party at Skinners East Melb - strange people, possessing money but unaccustomed to society & receiving company everything was rather soso - very jolly & all that sort of thing - but no style - 2 am next morning when we broke up - Tuesday night I spent at Smarts left early found Miss Roberts at our house, had a long walk, but a pleasent one) home with her. Wednesday night I went to Marys found her sound asleep Clark away - on rousing her up we spent a couple of hours singing Etc Thursday Bessie & I went to see Clark & Mary start for the Mayors Grand Fancy Dress Ball, held in the Exhibition Building. Mary was dressed as a Spanish Lady, & looked most beautiful, Clark as a Canadian Rifle man, very plain but neat, on seeing them {{Image|file=Aah-45.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-46 1120]

off Bessie & I having a Dress Circle Ticket for the Royal Theatre, we used it - Saw “East Lynne” Lady Isabel, [played] by Miss Cleveland, it is the most affecting drama ever I witnessed, the whole house was in tears - on leaving we went into Nissens & had some refreshments home by 11 P.m. Friday night I spent at Smarts - Saturday afternoon they called at our house & remained till tea time but would not stay with us, so I accompanied them home - they live about 5 minutes walk from our house - after tea Fred, Tom & I went to town, & was surprised to meet an old friend Dave Hazlitt, he has been the last 2½ years knocking about the Gipps Land diggins, & I believe with very little success, he has been in a situation the last 12 months & so saved enough to make a shift he is uncertain which way to turn, thinks of going to Hokitika, (N.Z) we had a deal to talk about, he was very sorry to hear of poor Neds death. Under what strange circumstances have we not met in N.Z & Victoria life is full of ups & downs. We parted about 10 Pm promising to meet again & talk over old bygones I went to hear Mr. Henderson this morning, he is still continuing his exposition of the 8th.Romans - This afternoon Tom & I went to Sandridge met Mary & Clarke, it was a lovely day & the Pier presented a very lively aspect many hundreds of people being on it. We visited several of the Ships the “Lightning” is the finest vessel I ever remember seeing there are several very fine vessels discharging - I enjoyed myself very much, home by 6 P.m after tea being too late for Church I took a walk called at Smarts Miss Jessie being unwell & confined to her bed I did not stay long but came home early - [1866-09-30-Sunday] {{Red|Oct 1st}}1866 Weather very unsettled, bitter cold one day the next scorching hot - I received a long letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Monday, written in a depressed state of mind judging from its tone his business is not paying - complains of too much opposition & competition. Things are {{Image|file=Aah-46.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-47 1121]

very bad when he complains, his wife & family are quite well. The new creation, is getting on very well Etc Im very sorry for Jim I wish it was in my power to assist him more substantially but by my sympathy & good wishes - I answered his letter yesterday - & I also wrote to Mr. Player (Greymouth, N.Z) concerning poor Edwards things its very strange we have heard nothing more about them - Monday night I went to the Fitzroy Penny Readings heard some excellent recitations & readings from the best authors I was ill pleased with the unruly behaviour of a low lot of blaguards who make a practice of distroying the harmony of the entertainment, by their loose remarks, with this exception all the other meetings of this character are most orderly & successful Tuesday evening I went to my own Society in Kg Wm St Fitzroy, heard an excellent Essay delivered by one of the members on “Conscience” it was listened to with great attention & at its conclusion, some good observations were made on the subject by other members Wednesday evening Fred sang at the Trades Hall Carlton (Penny Readings) Grimwood acting as pianist I was present. I was highly amused at the impudence possessed by some people, who with the greatest confidence imaginable got up & recited & read & sang, without possessing claims either to style, voice or declamation - Thursday night I spent at Smarts - Friday went down town met some friends & walked home with them Saturday afternoon I spent, cutting wood - & reading took a short strool about town - after tea Miss Smart & I took a walk, went round the Fitzroy Gardens together, 11 Pm when I left her - she leaves Melbourne next week for Sandhurst. I shant be sorry in one sense - for we have got far too intimate with each other she is a nice girl & I like her very well, but as for anything serious is entirely out of the question. I must be earning a trifle more {{Image|file=Aah-47.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-48 1122]

than I do at present before I think of matrimony - I went to hear Mr Henderson this morning, he preached as usual, a beautiful sermon, sound, practical & logical - In the afternoon I went to the cemetary, found a great {{Red|*}}consensus of people assembled to witness the last rites paid to a departed public man Jardine Don an ex MP, a regular Democrat & peoples man, one who I believe has done a deal of good - he was very much respected by all who knew him & his principles excited even the regard of his political opponents for his thorough consistency, he died, I hear, in the most abject poverty & was buried by a few friends who rallied round him at the last - & so goes another instance of public form, a man who was idolised by a certain class, but when out of power was neglected & left to perish - I gained a lesson by being present - I met Mr. Williamson there & also an old NZ friend Mr English - walked home with Mr Neil White After tea I called at Smarts stayd there till 10 P.m Oct 7th 1866 Been a wet miserable week hardly a fine day ocurring - making everything very disagreeable Monday night I went to the Opera with Miss Smart heard “Maritana” a favourite opera of mine & one which the company produce very creditably. Lucy Escott was charming as “Fair Gitana”, G Hodson as Lazarillo, singing “Alas those Chimes” most effectively. Squires voice is scarcely robust enough for Don Ceasar - Labertouche made a sorry Don Jose, he is nothing but an Amateur, with a very poor voice - but make up the loss with plenty of impudence - the Chorus was excellent - & altogether we spent a most pleasent night - Tuesday night I went to the Trades Hall & rehearsed my songs for the ensuing evening, on leaving I met Miss Lawrence - walked home to Northcote with her, got wet through coming home {{Image|file=Aah-48.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-49 1123]

Wednesday night I sang the “Anchors Weighed” at the Trades Hall, Carlton - the place was crammed with a very respectable & well conducted audience (for Penny Readings) several influential men read & recited from popular authors, rendering the whole performance very attractive & entertaining Thursday the two Miss Cases called stayd tea coming on to rain very heavy & they having a long way to go home we persuaded them to remain the night which they did, they are nice girls, very jolly & all that sort of thing, the rain did not cease until yesterday morning having rained incessantly for forty hours – the Yarra rose higher than ever I saw it before the approaches from Princes Bridge were rendered im- -passable. Emerald Hill was made into an Island - boats plying between Melb & there - the floods have been very distructive to property, for many miles along the Banks Friday night I went to Smarts stayd till 10Pm Yesterday afternoon Bessie & I went to Fitzroy Gardens to hear the band play - met Mary & Clark there & several friends - the gardens are becoming very popular as a fashionable promenade - after tea I & Fred went to Smarts - he took Annie out for a strool I remained with Jessie - she not being very well spent the time very agreably - I left there early, home by 9. Pm - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson continue his subject of last Sunday morning from the 8th Romans - In the afternoon Grimwood & I went to the Gardens, we met Miss Roberts & Miss Brown, being very hot we sat on the grass till 5 Pm when we parted On arriving home I did not feel well, slept for a couple of hours - then took a ramble round Fitzroy, for an hour, home early & read a little {{Image|file=Aah-49.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-50 1124]

Oct 14th.1866. Weather clearing up, very hot. Spent my leisure hours much as usual. Monday, Wednesday & Friday evenings I spent with the Miss Smarts - Jessie left for Bendigo yesterday. I was not sorry for the longer she staid here the deeper we got into the mud, perhaps absence & change of scene may produce on reflection a different view of each other, tho I must state candidly, Ive never been seriously affected toward her x x x x x Thursday night I went to hear the Opera of “Semiramide” one of grandest operas I ever watched, & some of the best music I ever heard - Yesterday afternoon I left home early & took a long walk round the suburbs, returned through town, where I met Mary & Clark, they insisted upon going home with them which I did & staid tea & afterwards spent an hour or two pleasently singing Etc - I then returned to town, met several friends & rambled about till 10 Pm - when I came home This morning my old friend Mr Brown (California Gully) called in company with Evans, so instead of going to Church we took a long walk around the Cemetary, enjoyed ourselves very much. I accompanied them to Evans house where Mr B is staying during his sojourn in Melbourne & had dinner with them - Mr B. came to town to pass an examination for the Inspector of Mines he is a very clever man & what I admire in him is his quiet unassuming manner, free from everything like pedantry - there were forty three applicants, so I fear he will not be successful - these situations are generally gained by interest, & not by ability however the thing is not settled yet so there is still a {{Image|file=Aah-50.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-51 1125]

chance for him - I hope he will get the appointment for he is one of the cleverest & most consistent minded men I ever met with, many a pleasent intellectual hour Ive passed in his company not only on Bendigo, but in New Zealand On parting from him I took a walk in the Gardens met H.Mortley, rambled about an hour with him, after tea, In company with Grimwood I went to Jamesons accompanied Miss J. to the Wesley Church (Lonsdale St) where we heard Mr Eggleston preach an excellent sermon on the importance of being prepared for a future state his text from these very expressive words “Remember Lots Wife -" I came home early. We received a long letter from Father by the last mail - he is well - Aunt Lucys affairs still in an unsettled state - he sent mother a Cheque for £15.0.0 - very acceptable. Oct 21st 1866. Weather very warm but pleasent on the whole. Been very busy at the office - plenty of work & very little pay for it - I wish I could get into something more profitable, my salary is so small that I have very hard work to make things meet - Ive all kinds of shifts & inconveniences to put up with in consequence keeping up appearances I dont like speaking ill of the firm that employs me, but I really must admit that they are thoroughly mean in not paying their servants more liberally or in proportion to their services - Poor encouragement for a young man entering life after making himself thoroughly proficient in all that makes an efficient clerk. There is no such thing as a mans exertions being appreciated, no notice is taken of them, the idle careless clerk gets as good a salary as the most industrious I feel this more & more every day seeing my mother getting older & less capable of working & striving to make ends meet, & I her son not able to assist her, whereas if I had but a salary in proportion to my services, how comfortable we might be - I am not ambitious if I had enough to keep home decent & mother comfortable I should be satisfied I spent my leisure hours very pleasently. Monday night at Smarts, (the old lady returned home) Tuesday night went {{Image|file=Aah-51.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-52 1126]

to the Wesley Association Kg W St. the subject for the evening “The Bible as a work of Literature”. It was ably handled by one of the members & the discussion afterwards was very animated, bringing out a great many good ideas & information in connection with the Holy writings - Wednesday night I went to a Rehearsal at the Trades Hall. I shaped very badly with my song the pianist making me repeat several times - until I got quite nervous – after it was over I remained, for the Penny Readings, several friends of mine singing & reciting - Thursday night I called at Smarts from there I went to the German Gymnasium, to hear the rehearsal of the pieces to be performed at the Exhibition (I was struck with the peculiarity of one chorus representing an Aborigonal Corrobaree the music by Horsley & words by Horne - to those who have never heard the thing originally done this will convey some idea of what it would be done by a {{Red|*}}panel of Blackfellows - many a Corraberee I have seen in various parts of the Australian Bush, few more will ever be witnesssed for its a melancholy fact that among tribes Ive seen mustering between 2 & 300 scarcely a vestige remains. The Aborigine is dying out fast, another generation will see the races expired at least in Victoria proper -) some of the choruses are very beautiful & were sang well - Friday night a Concert & Ball was given by Carlton Cricket Club to raise funds for the Erection of a pavillion on their ground. Im not a member, but am acquainted with most of them. Fred & I were requested to sing at it Fred in fact got up & managed the whole affair in a most creditable manner. Miss Liddell sang very well & also our old friend W.L. Ambler. Fred was well received & sang well I sang “Thou art so near” better than ever I remember singing it before, in fact I was the only male singer who received an encore, but out of a feeling of delicacy to the other performers I did not respond to it - Fred took mother & I took a very pretty girl Miss Swanwell Fred & mother left at the close of the concert, but Miss S. & I remained for [a] {{Image|file=Aah-52.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-53 1127]

dance, which lasted till 2 am next morning, 3 am before I got into bed. Saturday afternoon I spent in bed feeling very tired after my previous nights exertions - In the evening I went down town, met Mr English & Mr Adamson - rambled about talking about N.Z reminisences - went into the "Temple of Pomona" indulged in some excellent coffee & confections - This morning I went to St Francis Chapel - heard Haydns No 3 Mass with performed with an organ Brass & String Band accompaniment - The instrumental was very good - but I cannot say so much for the vocal, at the conclusion I left & just got to the Theatre in time to hear Mr Henderson preach - I was struck with the simplicity & purity of our congregational service to that of the gorgeous ceremonies of the Roman Catholic Church - I took a long walk, alone, about the Cemetary in the afternoon - After tea I accompanied mother to Mr Fieldings chapel Fitzroy - Oct 28th.1866 Weather beginning to get very hot sure approach of summer - I dread the hot winds dust Etc & the various inconveniences one has to put up with in this colony - I like the cold weather best it agrees with me better - This has been a remarkable week in the annals of Australian history - no less an event having occured than the opening of the Exhibition in which is gathered together from the neighbouring colonies & even from the French settlements in New Caledonia & Batavia - contributions in art & science - that they more particularly excel in - prior to sending them to the Paris Exhibition in 67 - The opening took place on the 24th inst the Governor & the most influential persons in the country being present - most of the places of business were closed & every one made it a holiday (excepting the M & HBURl) - I did not pay it a visit until {{Image|file=Aah-53.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-54 1128]

yesterday when I spent the afternoon there - I was astonished at the vast collection of things, representing an immense value, every step I took presented some new & fresh object for admiration & when I left I found my mind in a complete chaos to define & reflect upon what Id really witnessed the first visit is usually to such a place simply to take a cursory glans so as to enable one to be more particular in looking over the things in detail after- -wards - The main building is very handsomely finished & is one of the largest stationary halls in the world, its length being [left blank] feet & its breadth [left blank] ft attached are three large annexes crowded with exhibits of colonial manufacture I could scarcely realise such things could be, considering that it is not quite 30 years ago since J.Fawkner (who was present & is now in his 74th year) first landed on the banks of the Yarra & commenced the settlement of Victoria & founded Melbourne - Talk about the advance of colony not in the world history is there to be found such an example of unparalleled prosperity Victoria has enjoyed since its settlement - Tuesday night I went to the Wesly Association - heard a very tolerable discussion on a subject called “Noah” of course the argument very naturally turned upon the deluge & its universality - I maintained it was but partial & until I can hear more substantial evidence to the contrary than I did I shall stick to my own opinion - Wednesday night a concert & Ball was given by the St Patrick Association in St Georges Hall - my Brother Fred sang there & having a ticket presented him he gave it to me - not caring to dance himself (objects to it on principle) I availed myself of it & meeting many I knew of both sexes - I really enjoyed myself the dancing commenced at 9 pm & lasted till 5 am the {{Image|file=Aah-54.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-55 1129]

the following morning. I felt downright tired & knocked up on reaching home (6 Pm) fell asleep & did not awake till 11 m - 12 when I got down to the office - the first time I ever neglected business through pleasure I drank some coffee & I noticed it had an unpleasent bitter taste on drinking & Im under the impression some narcotic had got into it - for I did not feel well for a day or two afterwards - I trust I may never experience the same sort of thing again - Friday night Miss Roberts spent the evening with us - I saw her home - Yesterday evening I called at Smarts - took Annie out for a walk round the Gardens saw her home about 9 am. She seemed very anxious to know the state of my feelings towards her sister Jessie - I told her - I dont think she was altogether pleased for from what she stated Jessie believes Im desperately in love with her & looks upon it as quite a settled thing between us - I undermined her, Im sure nothing in my manner could justify her in thinking so - I was very intimate & familiar & all that sort of thing - but if there was any advances made of an amatory nature it was not done by me - to that extent to warrant them entertaining such an idea - on leaving Annie I went to town met several I knew - walked home with Miss Forrester who is living with us & was returning from business - This morning I called at Smarts for Will (who has just returned from a journey) we went to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon Will came to our house & stayd tea after which, in company with Joe Stilphen (a Young American who is living with us for a short time prior to his sailing to Callao with his father who is captain of a large ship called the “Baden”) & {{Image|file=Aah-55.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-56 1130]

Smart & Grimwood, I went to the catholic chapel (Eliz St) listened to a sermon by Father Barry on the existence of a purgatory & endeavouring to prove his assertions. I never listened to such trash in my life - however, intelligent men of refined & cultivated tastes can tolerate such a rotten doctrine puzzles my intellectuals my object in going was to hear an old Melbourne favorite [[Matthews-15517|Miss Julia Mathews]] sing, (she has been the last 3 years living in Dunedin where she got married to a man named Mumford - rather an unfortunate match I hear in a pecuniary point of view - she has had to return to her original profession, & is at present engaged by G.Coppin at the Hay Market her voice is a contralto the best I ever heard with the exception of Sara Flowers” powerful sweet & very musical, & highly cultivated, Ive heard nothing to equal her for many years - I lost my companions in the crowd coming out, except Stilphen, we came straight home - I received a short note from poor Neds friend Mr Player in answer to one I wrote some weeks back, in reference to his things, he states he put them on board all right, at least he placed them in the agents hands & they hold a receipt for them - I trust on further inquiry to obtain them - Novr. 4th 1866 Weather has been very hot & sultry hot weather dont agree with me as formerly - since my return from N.Z. My mother feels it the most it the most it completely prostrates her - still jogging along at the office - nothing fresh to break the monotony the same routine day after day invoicing B/Ls & making out a/cs calculating weights & mests at so much per ton (5/-) I see very little prospect of a change taking place in my circumstances, my salary is low & is likely to remain so - all my employers care for is the work being done - how & by whom they care not, so long as it is done. Im naturally careful & cautious {{Image|file=Aah-56.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-57 1131]

so take care to make few errors - there are times when I am rushed & very busy that its a matter of surprise I dont do something that will get us into a mess - Ive fell in with my usual share of pleasure the last few days - Monday night I spent with Miss Jameson - she is a nice quiet sociable girl, one of those dreamy spiritual beings the kind of subject my old friend [[Proctor-5947|Proctor]] (a Manuherikia acquaintance would like to have come across - to exert his influence upon as mesmerist - I never met a person I fancy would make such a good subject, possessing a love for the Ideal - not without mind - but yet very susceptible - Tuesday night - I went to Marys – found Miss Roberts & Bessie there - spent a pleasent evening together Clark treated us to some music on the English Concertina - had a game or two at cards, same old game with a new name - had some singing & playing about 11 pm when we got home - Wednesday night, I sang at the Penny Readings (Carlton) I was the first to sing on the programme - soon as I had finished I joined Adamson (my fellow clerk) who had a pass for two into the Theatre Royal - we availed ourselves of it - & witnessed the Opera of “Roberto de Diavole” without exception the finest opera that has been put upon a Melbourne stage - the full force of the company is employed in it It is full of splendid thrilling singing & music - rather too spectacular for my taste (like all of Meyerbeers productions) a great want is felt by the company in not having a decent Bass Singer. De Hoga has a good voice, but is not to be depended upon - he is not the man for the Mephistophiles business - the Cantana "Mercy" sang by Madame Simonsen was the gem of the evening – Beaumont & Squires sang well Md Escott appeared to be suffering from a cold - at the end of the 3 Act I left the Stalls & went into the Boxes & was {{Image|file=Aah-57.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-58 1132]

surprised to meet Mrs & Miss & W Smart after a chat with them I saw in the next box Clark & Mary, joined them for the rest of the evening - 12 Pm when I reached home - Thursday night, Smart invited me to spend the evening at his house - found several friends there was introduced to a Dr.Mousa & a Mr. Emmett very intelligent men - passed a pleasent evening - the only thing objectionable, being their partiality to Cardplaying a thing I detest. I think when a lot of people meet they can pass their time far more agreeably & rationally by other means than these - Friday night I spent at home Saturday afternoon in company with the two Miss Roberts I went to the Exhibition - found plenty to interest me there things that on my previous visit, I had not noticed - left at 5 Pm saw my friends part of the way home – after tea Joe Stilphen & I walked to the station & went to Sandridge spent the evening with his father & mother & other friends of theirs at the Cohn Hotel where they are living (the Baden lying out in the stream) Bessie had been spending the afternoon with Mrs S. Fred joined us about 9.30 - a cab was provided to bring us home. 1 Am this morning when we arrived home we enjoyed ourselves very well - but I must say not in such a manner congenial to my tastes - I dont like public houses nor do I much care for the company of those sons & daughters of Neptune they are too boisterous - too jolly, tho when Im in company it matters not what sort - I always enter into the spirit of my companions & endeavour & generally succeed in making myself agreeable - I spent this morning & part of the afternoon reading an extraordinary work by Bulwer Lytton - called A Strange Story - it is the strangest I ever read - it is a work only adapted & at all comprehensible to an intelligent thoughtful mind - I read it with interest & profited somewhat by {{Image|file=Aah-58.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-59 1133]

the matter, especially by an argument between two of the characters Fenwick & Faber - on the Existance of a soul in man - I would recommend it [to] sceptics on this point I went for a short walk after finishing - to the Cemetary & after tea I went to the Catholic chapel - heard J.Mathews sing a splendid solo from one of Mozarts Masses - at the conclusion of the service I met my friend English - rambled about the town for about an hour with - home by 9.00.- 11th Novr. 1866 Weather very beautiful not so hot as usual for this time of the year. I remember when it used to be frightful, unbearable - the winters appear warmer & the summers cooler than formerly - I suppose its owing to the ground being brought under cultivation & other natural causes arising from the advance of civilization - My time spent much as usual - my leasure hours in pursuit of pleasure - not always of the most rational description however when unattendeed with pain or regret I think little harm is attached to it - judging from effects - Monday night I spent at Smarts - Tuesday night Bessie & I were invited to Kidgells - [[Kidgell-12|Miss K.]] was married in the morning & had left town with her husband before we arrived so we hadnt an opportunity of congratulating them - but we spent a most jolly night of it dancing singing, & playing forfeits Etc. we knew all the company so it was our own fault if we didnt enjoy ourselves - I saw Miss Roberts home - that made us a little late getting home than we should have been Wednesday night - Mr & Mrs Stilphen Capt Rowe & his lady called & spent the evening at our {{Image|file=Aah-59.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-60 1134]

house nearly one oclock when they left spent the evening as usual in such company - X(Thursday night feeling tired, I did not go any where except)X I took a walk down to Miss Roberts & invited her to come to a picnic on the following day stayd about an hour with her had a few games of "Busby" on leaving her I went to town dropped into the Theatre to hear [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] - being late I only saw the Burlesque of “Paris” one of the most miserable pieces I ever saw put on the stage - giving the good actors playing but a poor chance of displaying their powers. Friday was observed as a holiday being the Prince of Wales Birthday - I got away from the office at 10 am - left our house at 12 in company with Fred & Bessie & Tom Grimwood. Called at Clarks for Mary & her husband & Miss Roberts & little Georgie Clark making our party 8 we were all loaded with eatibles & drinkables & a set of Croquet - we took a boat at Richmond & pulled up some few miles & landed & after an excellent repast of B.B. & cold fowls & tongue & sundry other good things, we playd a game of croquet left the ground about 6 Pm & had a pleasent sail down the river - on landing Fred in paying the hire of the boat, let a half sovereign fall into the water & could not recover it this was the only thing that occurred to mar the pleasure of our sport - we found a nice tea provided at Marys & spent the evening at her house very socially & pleasently - on leaving I saw Miss Roberts home while Fred took Bessie & Georgie home - this is the first little reunion we have had for a long time {{Image|file=Aah-60.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-61 1135]

in which all members of our family were present I shall endeavour to encourage them - they will produce a better feeling between us all than hitherto exis -ted - Saturday afternoon I went to the Athletic Sports on the M Cricket Ground - a good programme was provided - some excellent sport was witnessed - a great many people were there - among the number the new Governor & his family - In the evening - I went to town met Mr. English & his friend Capper - walked about with them for an hour or so on leaving them I went into St Georges Hall & heard or saw the Revd Mr Carr give one of his extraordinary performances in Electro Biology & Mesmerism - he was very fortunate in getting some excellent subjects from his audience & he turned them to good a/c- not only for our amusement but intruction This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon I took a strool around the Gardens In the evening I called at Smarts & spent about two hours with them - 18th.Novr.1866 Weather very changable - some days being bitterly cold, resembling the winter nights than the summer - these sudden changes affect me considerably - Through changing my occupation I perceive a great change in my physique - Im nothing like the being I was some years since when I could roam about & sleep out in the open air & live upon the simplest food, & some- -times not too much of that, & all that sort {{Image|file=Aah-61.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-62 1136]

[of] thing - what a magnificient constitution I must have had, to endure the privations & trials , physically, [as] I have done - my past seemed like a dream - I can hardly associate myself with the being of former days - my manner & ideas seem so altered - whether for the best or not - Im hardly justified in stating without becoming perhaps egotistical - I believe I should be very happy or could be if I had a better salary the only thing annoys me is seeing my mother in her old age having to work hard by keeping boarders & having to submit to all their whims & caprices - so very mortifying in one possessing such a haughty proud spirit as she has - ah well - time produces changes & may be one will take place in her favour - Tuesday night I spent with Mother at Smarts - Wednesday, night, being the last of the Carlton Readings - that Ive identified myself so with lately – they were concluded with a Ball & Concert invitations being forwarded to those who have taken any part in them - I went in company with Miss Jamieson left about 2.30. the following morning - on the whole I did not enjoy myself - a funny lot of people being present not altogether the sorts I cared about mixing with - Thursday night Mrs. Stilphen & Miss Roberts called & had tea & spent the evening at our house Fred saw Mrs S home while I did to Miss Roberts she is a nice amiable girl & I like her very much she is a great friend of my sisters, Bessie. Friday night I went to another of Cuthri Carrs {{Image|file=Aah-62.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-63 1137]

Mesmeric Electro Biologic & phrenologic entertainments The place was better attended than when I last was there & a greater amount of interest felt by the audience he was very successful & attracted many from the audience by the force of his mesmeric – power - a number of sceptics were present & annoyd or distroyed the harmony of the evening by continually making remarks of a deprecating character Carr himself is of an irritable temperament & ill brooks disturbances of this sort & so there arose a spirit of acrimony not very pleasent to those who were impressed with the sincerety of his performance or experiments. At length those who had been operated upon - on coming to their natural senses - got very indignant at the insinuation of their being collusion between operator & subject - however most of the most reasonable inclined, came away impressed with satisfaction at what was witnessed & I must say I was greatly astonished at the marvellous power - possessed by Carr - & felt sensible that there are many laws in nature unknown & science will have still plenty to do to unravel many of her mysteries - Saturday afternoon I went to town shopping with Mother & sister. They left me outside a shop for upwards of an hour - I got tired of doing such duty so marched home - they didnt follow for two hours afterwards - In the evening Fred & I went to town rambled about till 10 pm met several we knew - This morning I went to hear Henderson In the afternoon I rambled about Fitzoy Gardens alone - In the evening I called at Smarts stayd there about 2 hours - from there went to {{Image|file=Aah-63.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-64 1138]

the Catholic Chapel - it was just coming out, however I met Mr English who I wanted to see - walked about with him for some time - got home early - I forgot to allude last week, to my receiving a long letter from Miss S she accuses me for a want of affection & regrets I should so soon have forgotten her etc - I was pained at her letter - I did not think after what had passed at our last interview she would have written. I can easily understand her feeling wretched living alone in a strange place & wanting sympathy - She has {{Red|*}}written in all sincerity I answered her letter, but gave her to understand that I had no idea of entertaining any other feeling but that of friendship towards her - that I consider it dishonourable in my present position to hold out any hopes of any other feeling actuating me in the future & as for thinking of marrying her, never - 25th.Novr.1866 Weather very unsettled lately I received, on Monday, from Jessie Smart, a very long letter in reply to mine - She approves of my ideas on the subject of our further acquaintance, gives me most uninvited praise for the very honourable manner I have acted towards her - that she loves me she cannot but admit from the tone of her letter - & I feel a pang, when I think it is my own doing in one sense that has given occasion to the expression of her feeling in such an {{Red|*}}unfortunate manner Im sure I must appear very cold & heartless in her eyes but what am I [to] do. I was simply on terms of very familiar intercourse with her. The two sisters were living alone together & Fred & I were so very pressingly invited. I can safely say I never went to their house 3 times without they extracting a promise from us to see them again & appoint the time & so one gets drawn into sometimes against their inciination in promising to do that which is not always a pleasure however in future I purpose being more guarded & {{Image|file=Aah-64.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-65 1139]

exercising some more moral courage – tho’ I must do Jessie justice - that I dont believe she was guilty of doing anything with a view or design - she is warm hearted & impulsive - & full of passion & one who I think would have hard work to control her passions & yet she is very selfwilled but not destitute of strong moral principles - a strange character - Monday night I went to hear "Archibald Michie" lecture on the Retrospects & Prospects of Victoria - he spoke for two hours & a half well & ably, I thought - but not being well up in politics - I was not able to discriminate with any degree of {{Red|*}}surety all these little points of policies he wished to impress upon his audience he had evidently studied his subject & seemed to be well posted up in statistics - I noticed in his allusions or {{Red|*}}definition of Free Trade & Protection very few new features than those commonly understood - The meeting was held in the Exhibition (Old) Building & was well attended the price of admission being 1/-. – Tuesday night I remained at home. Wednesday evening I went as per invitation to a party at a persons house in Carlton, named Hughes - a nice old lady - it was her grandson T.Power who gave the party I met several acquaintances there and managed to spend a jolly night - together - Thursday night - I spent at Roberts, Hoddle Street, spent a nice sociable evening there 12 when I got home Friday night I went to see [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] in the "Irish Heiress" - at the HayMarket Theatre - Saturday afternoon I took Bessie to the Exhibition - she with myself were highly delighted at all we saw - the Band of the 14th Regiment playd some fine pieces - we met Mary & Clark there - left at 5 Pm - In the evening I took a walk about town with {{Image|file=Aah-65.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-66 1140]
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy November 1866.

Adamson went into the Temple of Pomona & after indulging in some exquisite coffee - came home 10 pm - This morning I went to hear Mr Clark from Geelong preach in the Theatre - his subject was the introduction of Christianity in Europe - In the afternoon I went to Sandridge & enjoyed a pleasent strool about the Pier doing me a great deal of good - In the evening I called at Smarts - found them out so I went to St Peters Church heard some good singing at its conclusion I left & walked down to St Francis in Elizth St met Greenwood & walked home together. I heard something in connection with my little protege Louis Burke yesterday that made me very low spirited I believe a short time after her marriage, her husband left her & since then it is reported committed some robbery or was connected with some murder or something else discreditable & is at present doing a penal servitude. Poor Louis I am sorry for her {{Red|*}}her again Am I to blame god knows who may hereafter read these pages - I dont purpose to state how by a train of circumstances arising fromX myself her misery has been caused - I heard after a great deal of trouble that she is living at present with her Grandfather at St Kilda - I will try & see her & if possible do all in my power to assist her - I believe she is is just on the point of becoming a mother. XI heard after a day or two before her wedding that her husband- was a bad character & I ought to have endeavoured to prevent- her wedding taking placeX- 2 Decr 1866. Weather very changeable, more so for this time of the year than ever I remember experiencing before since my sojourn in Australia {{Image|file=Aah-66.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-67 1141]
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.

some days quite cold & chilly at others hot & sultry - I alluded last week to Louisa Bourke (that was) having heard she was in Melbourne I endeavoured to see her & ascertain if the reports I had hard concerning her were correct - I met her last night, purely accidently in Bourke Street closely veiled - & from her I heard such a tale of unmitigated cruelty & heartlessness & depravity that I never could conceive possible to take place in this age - When I saw her last, 7 months ago, she was a young lovely girl of 16, one of the sweetest faces I have ever looked upon – & possessed a nice amiable disposition poor girl! what sorrows will produce in a short time - she is looking so thin & delicate now - I met her about 8 pm & did not part till near 11 pm - & then her tale was hardly told - It appears the man (S.Heywood) whom she married had been living near them some time previous - & had occasionally met her & become enamoured with her - & to possess her he took lodgings at her fathers house - where he made him- self very agreeable & became a great favourite with the family - he represented himself to be a watchmaker & jeweller & had a large stock with him & was on the lookout for a suitable place to commence business in - some three months passed on, he managing to ingratiate himself into her good graces - he proposed for her & was accepted, they went out after together & he made more than one attempt to seduce her but without effect - they were married & even on his wedding day treated her slightingly - & acted in a most disgusting manner towards one of her bridesmaids They went out (some Half dozen) for a drive & he attached himself to the Bridesmaid, & got her away & try to seduce her - she did not like to hurt Louisa feelings by alluding to it afterwards but coming home, where a little party was held - he took more notice of Miss L. than of his wife - this passed on & three days afterwards, they went to Gipps Land & {{Image|file=Aah-67.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-68 1142]
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.

at Pt Albert, he left her to pursue his journey to Sale alone - he was several days before he joined her, he took her to Sale where they lived in lodgings - he spending his time idly gambling, & living a very suspicious kind of existence – sometimes leaving her quite in the dark as to his pursuits this went on for several months when she lived in some bush public house - he one day borrowed from the landlord a Buggy & Pair of horses & stated he was going to Sale, (some 10 miles) he never returned, soon after his departure, a detective came after him & it came out this Heywood had committed an extensive robbery of jewellery some 12 months ago - & although his description was given out at all the police & detention offices in the colony, he had somehow managed to allude the vigilance of all who sought to capture him - at the time he married Louisa he was in the "hue & cry" she poor girl was very ill for some time & was in confine to her bed when this was made known to her - & to make things worse he had gone away leaving several months Board & Lodging unpaid for at different places they had lived at, before leaving her he took every article of value she had - & the person who had been robbed identified even her wedding ring & keeper as his property - & endless are the petty & miserable actions he was guilty of towards her & others she told me about – he has been far from constant towards her - having seduced & left a girl in the family way at the hotel they had been staying at she discribes him as a man having extraordinary power & influence over those he comes in contact with he can wheedle & fawn & deceive the very devil himself it appears he came to Melbourne & was knocking about {{Image|file=Aah-68.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-69 1143]
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.

here for some time - the police not being able to drop across him she wrote home & her father, who is an old man with a large family & ill prepared to send for her & afterwards to keep her, who sent money to bring her home she has been here in town some 6 weeks being at her Grand- -mothers in St Kilda part of the time - she is about 6 months gone in her pregnancy - since her return she has heard from his father, some old vagabond – that Heywood is not his proper name - she thinks his name is Symons & that he has several such wives as her about the colony - poor girl, just 17 years of age & to have began life under such terrible auspices - her whole future rendered a miserable blank - she admitted to me she has been several times induced by the force of feelings to commit suicide - she appears very undecided how to act - if he is caught, it is supposed he will get 12 years penal servitude - & would not be a difficult matter to get a divorce from him I advised the step – but she seems to treat the idea of such a thing with abhorance. This seems a mystery to me, inpenerateble a woman so wronged & so cruelly deceived one would think would be actuated by a sense of her wrongs to revenge - she seems as if under some magnetic influence says she does not know what she would do even should she meet him - whether to give him up to justice or screen him - their seems a fixed determination about her something really inexplicable to me - she feels & is convinced in her own mind she will be the first to discover him - a something within her - a feeling not understood by any scientific laws – found only in those suffering & having very highly wrought & sensitive natures - tells her {{Image|file=Aah-69.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-70 1144]
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.

he is still in Melbourne - & that at different times he has been quite close to her - The police cannot trace or get any clue to his whereabouts - & yet by one of those singular coincidences, she is the only one that has seen him since her return - her brother & her were walking up Flinders St some few days ago & she looked into the open door of a house & stretched upon a sofa at his ease was Heywood! her brother also recognised him & dragged her away ere she had time to betray any emotion, he put her into a cab & sent her home, while he in the meantime, visited the Detective office & gave the information - through some bungling on the part of the officer engaged in making his inquiries the fiend got suspicious & went off - no one knows where - endless would be my tact were I to refer to all the petty details of low & vicious depravity she poured out to me concerning him - sufficient that my very heart seemed weary by the recital - may God in his mercy be kind towards her - & soothe her sorrows - Im afraid the intense excitement she is suffering from will affect her as Im sure it has already, her reason – so young, so fair, & to have her young life blacked & partly traceble to me - I cannot bear to think about it – she says she never received the note I sent her two days before she was married in which I informed her of his character as I had accidently discovered it to be - Tuesday evening I went down town met English had a long chat with him on parting I went to Mrs Florauns where Bessie was spending the evening I remained until 1 am next morning singing & dancing. I was introduced to a spendid Girl there named Miss Ellis - {{Image|file=Aah-70.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-71 1145]
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.

Wednesday night my old friend J Stewart (of the Christy Minstrels) called with Finley & J.Evans - we spent a pleasent evening together - Stewart singing better than I ever heard him before - he staid all night with me & left next morning for Sandhurst - Thursday night I staid at home – Friday night I took a ramble about town till 9 Pm. called at Marys for Mother, spent a couple of hours very pleasently - singing Etc - Yesterday afternoon I called at Smarts staid about 2 hours there - I went to the Catholic Chapel (St Francis) this morning heard some excellent singing - In the afternoon - I read a great deal took a short walk before tea - round the Cemetery - In the evening I went down town had a look in at the C Chapel in time to hear [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]] sing a splendid solo - came home early - I received a long letter from J.[[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Monday purely theological not a particle of news or reference to his family or his business Decr.9th 1866. Fine weather - Spent rather an every day sort of week very little variety to break the usual monotony - Im thinking, I spend my time in a very foolish & useless manner - I often think I possess abilities or at least some talent that if rightly used would be of service to somebody or do some good in some way or another - very few there are who have not & yet never make use of the same - this is wrong & I feel it - & feel if it was not for my affliction - I could be do[ing] some good - there are plenty of opportunities in such a town as Melbourne - here follows my recital of how my time has been spent this past week - I feel ashamed to note it down so frivolous - Monday night being the first monday in the month Mr Clark attends his Lodge (being a Freemason) Mary always makes a point of spending the evening at home, that is at our house - Mr English & Kapper called & also Tom Kelly the {{Image|file=Aah-71.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-72 1146]

Cricketer - so we had a good full house with our own family - English is desperately in love with a certain young lady & owing to some remarks made concerning her, quite jokingly, I think he was offended for he left very early, & did not appear to be well pleased - Tuesday & Wednesday night I staid at home assisting Mother in turning, what I call, the house inside out lifting & laying down carpets Etc. pulling down & putting up beds Etc - Thursday night after tea I called at Smarts to see Will who had just returned from his journey - he leaves again in the morning. I only staid about half an hour, from there I went to Roberts - where I remained till nearly 12 pm - several acquaintances being there we passed quite a jolly evening - a picnic for Boxing Day was prepared to which we all assented & remained to supper - They are nice homely sociable folks & always make me very welcome whenever I call - Friday night I went out for a short time, home early - Saturday afternoon spent helping mother about the house - assisting her improvements & alterations In the evening I went down town met Adamson - & had a long chat & strool with him till 10 Pm when we parted on my way home I overtook old Mr Burke & his daughter Louis - walked home with them, heard some more particulars respecting her husband not to his credit - the police have heard nothing more about him he has eluded them again - I fancy he must have left the colony by some means - I went to hear Mr Henderson this morning - got wet though coming home – did not go out in the afternoon - spent my time reading & writing - after tea I took a strool for about an hour and a half - came {{Image|file=Aah-72.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-73 1147]

& spent the balance of the evening with Mother - I always enjoy her society on a Sunday evening, she is so well informed & has read & seen so much in her life - few women I have met are possessed of such a fine mind - & I can safely say few souls have had such a good mother as mine - I pray God her life may be spared for many years to come - she had her 56th Birthday last Tuesday week - & is still an active energetic woman - Decr 16th.1866. Another week over - without being benefitted morally or physically, at least if so, not perceptible - I have been very busy at the office several large ships having been discharging during the week - among the number the S.S.Royal Standard Plenty of work & little pay ) Is now the order of the day ) a couplet very applicable in my case - Ive been downright "hard up" this month or two back - my salary is so small that it is only with the greatest care, economy & frugality - making shifts & putting up with many inconveniences that Im able to keep up anything like a decent appearance, home & abroad - I dont think there is a firm in the colony that pay such poor salaries as our(s) does, it should not be so considering the profits or returns are so good - such a thing as risk & loss is nearly unknown - being a {{Red|*}}needpenny concern - patience is a virtue - & I suppose if I wait I may get a slight increase in course of time - Monday night I spent very pleasently at Roberts - with the two Miss Rs roaming about their beautiful garden Georgina, the eldest is a nice amiable girl - very loving {{Image|file=Aah-73.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-74 1148]

& affectionate in her disposition - I like her exceedingly her sister is younger - & very pert & coquettish - Tuesday night I went to a Social meeting of the Members of the Wesleyan Association held in Kg Wlm St a very nice lecture was delivered illustrated with experiments in Chemistry & Electricity - Wednesday I spent very happily at home - Thursday evening - the two Miss Roberts came to tea & spent the evening - Grimwood brought Capt Forster of the ship "Lucibell" & his own sister Liz up - I never remember spending such a dull kind of an evening where there were so many people - Tom G~ is not liked by the Miss Rs & the consequence was a cooling between all parties - which ended by us breaking up at 10 Pm - when another unpleasent scene took place Tom put his little sister in a cab with this Capt & packed them off, & returned thinking to acompany the Miss Rs, with me, home - however they objected to the arrangement & from their manner let him know his company wasnt agreeable to them - I had to call his attention to the fact & even then he thrust himself on us for some distance, what poor, paltry spirited begger he must be - we had a nice walk together after getting rid of him - found some more friends at their house just leaving & coming my way so I had company both ways - Friday evening I met “Louisa” & took a long strool with her – she has heard nothing more of her husband - poor child - for child she is, in age & manner - she is very low spirited & must indeed be very wretched - with little prospect of things looking brighter in her favor - I sincerely pity & sympathise with her - Saturday afternoon after finishing my {{Image|file=Aah-74.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-75 1149]

domestic duties about the house - chopping wood – mending & carpentering Etc - I dressed & took a walk down town. On my way home I looked into Smarts saw Annie who informed me her sister Jessie had returned from Sandhurst that morning - but being very fatigued had gone to rest for a while - she gave me a pressing invitation to pass the evening with them – which after some hesitation I accepted - after tea I called again & saw them - Jessie is looking exceedingly well after her visit - we spent a very jolly pleasent evening together - talking over a variety of subjects - It was 11 Pm when I left them - This morning I spent reading a very interesting work by “Ida Pleffer” “Travels round the World” she is an extraordinary woman - her descriptions are excellent, being plain & very matter of fact that impresses me with the idea of them being truthful a/cs I was led to form different ideas of many things & places she visits than I had previously formed - I went out for a walk in the afternoon - round Fitzroy Gardens met Miss Roberts there, walked with her round about & saw her a short distance home - In the evening I went up to Smarts, Jessie was suffering from a severe headache & was confined to her bed - Annie & Barman (her intended) & I spent an hour or two chatting under their verandah - it was frightfully hot & sultry - on my return home I found Mary & Clarke here - stayd to supper - they are very well – in health - {{Image|file=Aah-75.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-76 1150]

[1866-12-23-Sunday] Decr 23rd {{Red|1865}} [1866] Weather has been very changeable for this time of the year on Monday it rained very heavily & was very cold, reminding one forcibly of winter - Ive spent my time as usual very idly & to little profit. Monday night R.Law called at our house, passed some two hours very pleasently chatting - singing Etc. Tuesday, I met Louisa & took a long walk with her, she has heard nothing more about her husband - Wednesday evening, I called at Smarts & remained there until 9Pm when I left & went for Bessie who had been spending the afternoon & evening with Miss Roberts - spent a couple of hours very pleasently nearly 12 Pm when we arrived home - Thursday night I went to Bakers (Hoddle St) where I met several of the parties engaged getting up a picnic for Boxing Day - I think the arrangements made are first rate - & if the day is fine & all goes well there is no doubt we shall enjoy ourselves very well - Friday night I left home with the intention of going to hear Dr Carrs Lecture – but calling at Smarts I was induced to spend the evening with them - Jessie with her sister & I going out for a walk we visited Fitzroy Gardens which looked beautiful by moonlight - what with the statuary & the moons rays playing upon the water issuing from the fountains great numbers like ourselves were enjoying the scene it was nearly 10 pm when I left their home Yesterday afternoon in company with a large party I went to play Croquet in the Royal Park, some of the party afterwards came to our house & stayd tea after which they all adjourned to the “Exhibitions” I left them there & sauntered about Bourke St looking for some parties who wished me to join a picnic for X mas day, not seeing them & not having {{Image|file=Aah-76.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-77 1151]

heard from them caused me give up the idea of joining it This morning I remained at home reading. In the afternoon I went for a walk about the Gardens - spent the evening at Smarts - Mr Gotch & Geo Ramsden called after dinner & invited me to go to a picnic, they are getting up for X mas day - Im uncertain whether Ill accept it or not, my sister having promised to go with Saunders & Lowe & other friends to the Werribee that day – & I had partly promised to go with them when they first proposed it - Decr 30th 1866. The weather has been very hot & oppressive, far from being pleasent this time of the year when everybody is on the look out for pleasure - Monday night I went to Gotchs, (having decided upon going with them if I could get my sister to break her engagement with the other party-) from there to Saunders, he was out but I explained to Mrs S. & apologized for Bessie, & then went with G Ramsden to town - found the streets crowded, met a great many I knew, nearly 12 when I arrived home - (my couzin Liz & her baby came in having just arrived from Bendigo – she intends returning to morrow the 31st she is just the same as ever - she informs me Harry is keeping a school near Kyneton & is in a fair way of getting on. I sincerely hope he may - he has had a hard lot of it the last few years - Lizzies husband Holm came down yesterday he didnt stay long - having no convenience at our house for them both they had to seek some other quarters - I was grieved to hear from him of the death of poor Ned Rowett he died Christmas Eve - leaving poor Mary King (that was) a widow - Tuesday X mas day - we left home about 9 am & went up to Gotchs where we found all the company assembled & conveyances - after some delay in arranging the loading of the ladies - we got away about 10 am - bound for {{Image|file=Aah-77.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-78 1152]

Heidelberg - a pretty village some 7 miles from Melbourne. I enjoyed the drive very well, the country looking beautiful, fine rich crops just ripening either side of our road - the scenery, occasional glimpses which we got of the course of the Yarra, is lovely – we camped near the Cemetery same spot we held the picnic given by the same parties two years ago - We found everything well provided, a fine “Marquee” with a band of music - & plenty of provisions & wines & ales & other liquids to refresh the inner man in profusion - The company {{Red|*}}consisted of none but very agreeable people - each actuated with the desire to be pleasing & conduce all in their power {{Red|*}}thus towards the enjoyment of their neighbour. We passed the day delightfully - dancing, singing & romping about quite childlike & innocently, tis very pleasent to see people enjoy themselves in this manner - it shows that the cares & troubles that usually torment life are not sufficient to entirely distroy the hilarious spirit which is innate in human nature - We broke up very reluctantly about 8.pm, all jolly & merry but tired from our exertion - the day having been frightfully hot - I got out at Johnson St & came home - Bessie went on & spent the evening at Gotchs - during the evening Clark & Mary called & stayd a short time - Wednesday morning we were up again, & pleasure seeking, went down to Roberts where we met some of our company for the picnic we had arranged with Baker & Mortley - found Miss Roberts too ill to accompany us. I was extremely sorry - we walked down to the punt at Richmond where we found the balance of our party waiting for us in the boats - We embarked at 10 pm when a few minutes afterwards it came on a heavy thunder storm. I, and others who were pulling got nearly wet through ere we could get under the friendly shelter of the overhanging willows the ladies fortunately had brought their umbrellas & parasols to guard their faces from the sun - they occasioned to keep the rain off - the storm passed over the sun came out bright & beautiful, the birds sang & the beasts came out with {{Image|file=Aah-78.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-79 1153]

great glee making the woods one confused din of croaking – nature put on her holiday look & smiled more lovely than ever after shedding her tears - We pulled up the river, all jolly – the ladies cheering the rowers with merry chat & songs & glees We landed oppossite Pearsons Tea Gardens at a very pretty spot found a few of our party had arrived before us with the substantials in a cab – every thing was well provided, we did all in our power to make the time pass on in an enjoyable manner & we succeeded - Miss Mortley did nothing but attend to the vitualling department & was exceedingly kind & attentive to the wants of others - I was much struck with her kindness in this respect, so very seldom, young ladies are to be found at picnics who give themselves any trouble in this way - we passed our time as usual at picnics - playing Romps - Croquet, Singing & Dancing - we left about 7.pm & had a fine pull down the river to Princes Bridge where we landed, got home about 10 pm - very tired – next evening after tea I went down to see how Miss Roberts was - found her a little better - met several of our party there who were all going to a party at Bakers - I left early - not feeling inclined for another nights exertion came home early Thursday night I was going to a party at Gotchs but Mrs. G being very unwell it was postponed till next week - I spent the evening at Smarts - Friday night ditto - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I left home - called at Smarts, for Will & his sisters & we all went to the M. Cricket Ground to witness the Athletic sports, they were very interesting & attractive in consequence of an Aboriginal team of Cricketers being present to compete for the prizes with the best Athletes the Colony can produce - They had been playing cricket the three previous days but had been beaten easily, but yet had displayed considerable skill & judgement in their performance - being very active - It was thought they would prove formidable adversaries yesterday afternoon at the sports - & the public was not disappointed - they won nearly all the prizes {{Image|file=Aah-79.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-80 1154]

I think 8 out of 11 - three of their numbers are worthy of note Tarpot - Mullagh, Couzens - the former being the best jumper on the ground - he jumped the length of 19 ft. running, & 5 ft 4ins running high leap - After tea I went to Marys - spent a couple of hours with them - from there went to town - met Adamson & Fred, came home about 11.pm - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the “Royal”, on arriving home found Mary & Clark & my old acquaintance D.Cameron at our house, who stayd dinner & tea & spent the afternoon very pleasently with us. Jany 6th 1867 Entering upon another year, the past one {{Red|*}}can {{Red|*}}be compared to a pleasent dream, full of pleasure but little profit - Tho my pleasure was not always complete, sad remberances must ever arise when thinking of it- ./66. my poor brother Edward, whom I loved so dearly, died in it - with the exception of that event, it has been the pleasentest year of my existence, lived at home in the bosom of my family - surrounded by every comfort, possessed of many friends & acquaintances whom I esteem - have enjoyed good health & tolerable spirits - all of which I thank God for - may the next or present year be as full of pleasent reminiscenses as the last - unattended with any more family grievances - Monday night I spent at Kidgells very pleasently, preparing for a picnic for News Years Day late when I left with Kidgell - we called at Mrs. Florauns found her gone to St Marks Church so we followed I received the benifit of an impressive sermon - our conduct at the conclusion of the service was not altogether orthodox for on leaving the church we adjourned to our house where we sang & kicked up a fine row till 2 next morning. I saw Kidgell part of the part home - pretty jolly {{Image|file=Aah-80.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-81 1155]

We rose early - I not feeling very well having a severe attack of diarrhea - Fred & I went to Princes Bridge & there met Saunders & others of our party, hired a few boats & pulled up to Richmond, where we took in the balance of our party - the day was exceedingly hot rendering things far from being so pleasent as we anticipated, we landed at the Survey Park, found some of our party there with the substantials to which we did ample justice to in spite of the suns rays that heated the atmosphere to the extent of 95^º in the shade - impossible to dance so we spent the day playing croquet & wandering about the park watching other parties endeavouring to enjoy themselves in such a heat The German picnic appeared to be well attended, I saw many people I knew at it. We left the ground about 7.30 in the cool of the evening, & had a delightful pull down to the Sir Henry Barkly Hotel, where a cab was waiting for us to carry us to Kidgells house where we stayd tea, after which we all adjourned to Gotchs & passed a pleasent evening singing & chatting - 1 am when I got home - Wednesday I went to Smarts for a short time. Thursday night as per invitation went to Mr Gotchs party at his house, where I spent the night in the most jolly manner possible {{Red|*}}da[nc]ing did not break up till 5 next morning - broad day light - I felt anything but fresh the next day & it was not long after tea I tumbled into bed. Saturday evening I called at Mrs. Florauns she & I took a walk through Paddys Mkt & round about shopping Etc. in regular Bob & Joan style - This morning I called for a Miss Norris who is staying with Mrs. F - a beautiful girl who has {{Image|file=Aah-81.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-82 1156]

lately arrived from Hobart town that Ive met several times lately at picnics & parties - & took her to the Theatre to hear Revd. A.M.Henderson, remained at home all the afternoon reading - In the evening I went to see the Smarts took Jessie out for a walk down town when we met her mother & sister came home together - Jany 13th.1867. Another week over. Weather frightfully hot. Yesterday the thermometer stood as high as 105º F in the shade up to a late hour - The Mail arrived on the llth inst bringing us a long letter from my Father containing anything but cheering news - from its tone I should infer that Aunt Lucys affairs are next to settled & in such a manner that with Law expenses, claims, Etc we shall have nothing to receive. This if true, & there is every probability of it being so, renders it a great disappointment to our family - who had considered it as a certainty the ultimately receiving a considerable sum - alas for human calculations! – even the money I had spent I advanced out of what I received - I see no prospect of having it returned - from father - he sent me a Cheque for £8.0.0 towards its liquidation - too small a sum to be of much service to me - he states he has not been very well lately having had an attack of cholera in Manchester - Wednesday night I went to see the pantomime at the Princes Theatre the only one Ive been to see this season - Thursday night I spent the evening at Mrs Florauns singing & dancing - Friday night I went down to the Roberts no one at home but the old folks - who insisted upon me coming to spend Monday evening with them as they were giving a party - Saturday aternoon I had intended with some other friends to get up a picnic - but the day being so hot one could not think of going - however I {{Image|file=Aah-82.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-83 1157]

went to Ramsdens where we had promised to start from & spent the afternoon with them, most delightfully cool in their house in E.Melbourne passed the time, playing Billiards Etc - In the evening I went to Smarts, passed a pleasent evening with them - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon took a strool about the Gardens, in the evening, called for Jessie Smart took a short walk for an hour or so with her - to visit some friends she has in Richmond. I dont like being made a convenience of [Sunday, 20 Janury 1867] Jany 21st.1867 - Weather rather variable during the week, spent my time idly & to no purpose except in the pursuit of pleasure, a weekend of Melbourne folks - Monday evening Bessie & I went to Roberts party, stayd there nearly all night as usual enjoying ourselves amply in spite of a terrific thunder storm raging outside - 3.am next morning when we broke up very loath to seperate the company being so sociable & happy - Tuesday night I went to Smarts. Wednesday night, rained heavily stayd at home - Thursday night Bessie & I went to Nt Melbourne to a Mr. Rutherfords, to see a piano he has on hire from a Miss Dixon who wants to dispose of it - we found it a beautiful Instrument - she wanted £53.0.0 for it - I have agreed to buy it, paying her part in Cash the balance in two Bills falling due in four & Eight months from the 21st.inst - easy terms - The one we bought from Paling - I could not meet the Bill, & I have arranged with him to take it off my hands. Im very glad for it was too old & had seen too much service to be of much use – whereas this is a spendid toned one made by Collard & Collins Friday night Bessie Fred & I joined G.Ramsden, J.Brown & the Miss Roberts & others in a boating party on the Yarra by moonlight We enjoyed ourselves very much. Took the boat at Richmond pulled up to the Tea Gardens where {{Image|file=Aah-83.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-84 1158]

where we regaled ourselves with fruit Etc, danced & sang & exercised ourselves on the swings Etc there - 11.30 when we landed on our return 12 when we got home. This afternoon Bessie & I went to Royal Park, as agreed, met a large party assembled for the purpose of playing Croquet - spent a pleasent afternoon - very sociably, knowing all the people on my way home I called at Rutherfords to see why he would not let the man I sent in the morning have the piano, he refused to deliver it up until Miss Dixon came with me & took delivery of it herself - I was very much annoyed for she stated there would be no bother – having her a/d. I lost no time in paying her a visit. I took the train for S.Yarra & found her house, but not her. I left a message for her to come over to our house, which she did this afternoon I being out, however she has promised to be at the place tomorrow night at 6.pm. when I am to get it it was 9 pm when I got back feeling very tired I went into a New Concert Hall in Bourke St called the Varieties, Kept by Nish & Coker connected with the Christy Minstrels - I found it a fine large Hall & the best assemblage of talent in the colonies many old public favourites being engaged {{Red|*}}making it very attractive – tho’ I dont admire the style it is conducted in, too much like a Free & Easy – smoking & drinking being allowed in all parts of the house - I left about 10.30. & was sauntering home, when I met a party of friends consisting of Mrs Florauns, Miss Norris & my sister with a gentleman each. They were going to the P Market & pursuaded me to return with {{Image|file=Aah-84.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-85 1159]

them which I did - We indulged in sweeties, fruit Etc until we were nearly sick - got home to Mrs. F's about 11.30 pm - then commenced singing & broke up about 12 pm - I forgot to mention that on Thursday night I paid my sister [&] Clark a visit found them busy making their preperations for taking their departure to Frankston - some 20 miles from Melbourne - where Mary intends staying for a month or two, Clark visiting her occasionally - I think the change will do her a deal of good - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson deliver his last sermon on the 8th. of Romans, which Chapter has taken him 6 months to give its exposition. I regret that I missed some of his sermons for I feel greatly profited by what Ive already have heard from him, he leaves in the morning for Sydney where he intends staying for a month or so - he will be greatly missed by his admirers in Melb - I took a walk in the afternoon with Smart, & Grimwood around Fitzroy Gardens, got home in time for tea, after which I accompanied Will home & spent the evening at his house Jany 27th. Weather frightfully hot & sultry towards the latter end of the week, the thermometer standing on Thursday & Friday 90 & 95º F heit in the shady side of Bourke St under a deep Verandah - Been very busy at the office - making out a/cts endorsing B/L Etc - Etc. with no change in my prospects or any chance of any just rise - Ive spent my time very pleasently on the whole - Monday night on leaving my office, I went to the Rutherfords had to wait about an hour for, Miss Dixon when she came, I had a difficulty in persuading her to accept my Bills as some security in consideration of my indebtedness I had to give her a Bill of Sale upon the instrument, in case I can not meet my liabilitys {{Image|file=Aah-85.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-86 1160]

I hope I shall be able to do so - I got the piano at length & brought it home - after tea Mrs. Floraun & Miss Norris called & spent the evening with us, singing & dancing & other agreeable pastimes. Tom & I saw them home about 12.pm The following morning I went to see the Roberts stayd about an hour with them, they were very kind, picked fruit from the garden for my use - most delicious plums & Mulberries, Georgina has quite recovered from her attack of indisposition, on leaving them I called at Smarts on my way home remained there until 10 pm. I thought they were very cool toward me. Im rather plainspoken & dont altogether agree with their ideas on many things they delight in - Im sure its a matter of indifference to me whether they are cool or not. Jessie is the only one of the family whose company I care for - Wednesday evening after doing some jobs for mother in the garden, Etc I went to the Theatre to see a celebrated Actress who has lately arrived in Melbourne, Madam Celeste, a name well known all over Europe as a celebrated dancer – she is now an old woman, but a most charming actress in her own peculiar line the piece she is at present playing is called the “Woman in Red” a sensational kind of Drama tho with only one character in it - which is the one she sustains - Thursday evening Clark called to take Bessie to the Exhibition Miss Roberts calling also at the same time I persuaded her to accompany us there, where we spent a pleasent evening - heard Miss Carandini & Walter Sherwin sing - I saw Georgie home - Clark seeing Bessie to our house - At the Exhibition I saw some fine paintings of Lakes Wanaka & Wakatipu, places I visited years ago in N.Z the heads of the Rivers Kawarau & Molynuex bringing forcibly to my mind by gone, reminiscences of the past when I mixed in different scenes & in different company {{Image|file=Aah-86.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-87 1161]

than at present - who would have thought if they had met me knocking about these desolations & grand mountainous plains up the Molyneaux dressed in dirty Rags & living on the very commonest food which my soul would revolt at now - that I was one & the same person - mixing in such different society & amidst civilized society makes a great alteration in a mans manner & habits - happy is he who can conform & is able to be at home anywhere - Im really a surprise to myself - not that I state this from any sense of vanity - but I now mix in a good society, can sing & dance & possess accomplishments which render me, if not a favourite at least a welcome guest wherever I go - few young men are more fortunate than I in this respect in Melbourne Friday evening I spent at home - Yesterday afternoon I spent at home being very hot, heat in the shade being as high at 110^º in the shade Fhnt. In the evening I went to Smarts did not stay above an hour there, not feeling well. I called at Mrs. Florauns on my way home - found my sister & Grimwood there & several others - enjoying themselves amazingly, dancing & singing I was not long in entering into the spirit of the company & soon was enjoying myself as much as any of them 12 pm when we left for home - Remained at home all to day writing, or copying into a new Book many parts of my journal that I wrote many years ago, if not done so would have soon be[en] in a dilapidated state as to have been unintelligible, being written on scraps of paper & old sheets Etc - not that preserving them would be of any benefit, but after having had them so long I dont care about my past life which I have kept such a faithful record of, should be lost - After tea it commenced to rain very heavily, making the weather more endurable than it has been lately, however I went up to Smarts & staid with them until after 10pm - {{Image|file=Aah-87.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-88 1162]

Feby {{Red|5th}} 1867 [1867-02-03 Sunday?] Weather very beautiful at the beginning of the week, raining heavily Monday & part of Tuesday purifying the atmosphere & making the weather more healthy than it had been previously. I have not felt well the past few days, suffering from a most unusual cause “Billiousness” in my case not having felt the slightest attack since I was 16 years of age - my time has been spent much as usual - in the office during the day, in the evening in search of pleasure - Monday night I went to Emerald Hill in company with Fred Rooke (who has lately got married to Miss Kelly) to dine with him found him possessed of a nice comfortable furnished home & a pleasent agreeable & from [the] start should state an affectionate wife - I met Law - Smart & Kelly there passed a very pleasent evening together, walked to town a distance of [a] good 4 miles, very jolly - Tuesday night I spent at Smarts - Wednesday night Bessie & [I] went to a party at Williams Young St, an American family we are acquainted with - most of the company were Americans & things were done in a different style to what Id seen at most places - I enjoyed myself very well the Host & Hostess with their daughter doing every thing to make everything agreable - a fine room attached to the house being a factory) was cleared for the occasion making a fine Ball Room - it was 3 am the following morning before we broke up - before going there Miss Roberts called at our house & I walked home with her - on my way back I met my friend Saunders had a long chat with him - so it was 9 OC when I went to the party - Thursday evening on my way home from the office I called at the Gymnasium Russell St & joined it I think some exercise of the description to be had there will do me good always been accustomed to plenty of robust exercise - I feel my system requires a continuation of the same to preserve my health & stamina {{Image|file=Aah-88.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-89 1163]

Friday night Bessie, Mother, Clark & his sister & I went to Tom Grimwoods party held at his fathers house Eliz St we enjoyed ourselves very well – danced & sang till daybreak between 4 & 5 when we got home - I managed to catch a nice cold, through having to wait for mother who had to stay at Clarks fathers on our way home - not feeling well - Saturday afternoon I played at croquet, calling for Miss Roberts 7 pm when we concluded, I accompanied her home, found my sister at their house - stayd tea & in the evening the Miss Rs. with Bessie & I went to town for a strool - got back about 9.30 then came home leaving Bessie there, as she purposes remaining on a visit for a day or two - Sunday morning I stayd at home reading. In the afternoon I went again to Roberts, found Bessie & Georgie ready to go to St Yarra to see Miss Cass who intends leaving Melb’ for a few months - I accompanied them there, found the young ladies out, so after staying there about half an hour we returned to Roberts after a most delightful walk - giving us an excellent appetite for our tea after which I took a walk with Haskell along the Yarra Banks until Church came out - when I called for the girls who had been there, after staying about an hour, I came home - after spending a very pleasent day. Thursday, the 2nd inst, was my 28th Bthdy Feby 10th 1867
Pleasent weather during the week. Owing to some rather quick changes in the weather producing anything but healthy results scarcely a family in Melb that is not affected in some way or another in consequence - I was very ill Tuesday & Wednesday. I had to leave the office during business hours with a frightful pain in my stomach, accompanied with a severe cold - I have scarcely recovered from the effects yet - I have been several times to the Gymnasium, doing a little light exercise which I find my system much benefitted by - Im sorry I did not join long ago - I make a practice of {{Image|file=Aah-89.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-90 1164]

going immediately on leaving my office @ 5 pm & remain there till 6 pm so I lose no time in the evening by this arrangement - Monday evening I spent at Smarts - Tuesday & Wednesday at home - Clark calling each night bringing with him his English Concertina which he plays remarkably well - Bessie & he play Duets together His instrument & my piano according well together -(Mrs. Smart & Will spent Tuesday with us) Thursday night I went to their house for a short time, on my way home I met my little friend Louisa Burke (that was) she expects to be confined in about a month - she tells me she has heard her husband found his way to N.S.Wales & has been committing several petty robberies there, but was caught & after paying the penalty for them there will be forwarded on to Melbourne, to meet other charges awaiting him in this colony. Friday night, in company with Miss Robers & Bessie I went to Clarks house & spent a very pleasent evening there - Saturday afternoon I went to play Croquet at East Melb’, but the day being so hot, the party adjourned to Mrs. Greens, where we spent the afternoon some of the party remaining to Tea - I left early & in the evening I called at Smarts, no one at home but the old lady, had a long talk with her. Poor woman she has many troubles & I was pretty well bored with them - on leaving her I took a ramble down town met Ballantyne & Kyte walked about the streets in the usual Saturday night Bourke St fashion, got home by 10 pm - My mother has been very ill confined to her bed since Thursday with a severe cold - I staid at home this morning reading In the afternoon I took a short strool around Fitzroy Gardens - In the evening I went to Smarts, took out Annie for a walk, much to the disgust of her affianced who called at the house during our absence {{Image|file=Aah-90.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-91 1165]

Feby 17th 1867
Weather very hot & sultry - Im happy to state I have quite recovered from my attack of illness, & also my mother - rendering our household more pleasent than last week. I have been every evening at the Gymnasium which I find strengthens & does me a great deal of good - Monday evening I went down to Roberts spent a pleasent evening there – on my return home I found Mr & Mrs. with Miss Williams spending the evening, they remained till near 12 pm when I accompanied them home - Clark was also here & with his concertina assisted in making the evening pass pleasently - Tuesday night, Bessie & I spent at Smarts, rather quietly - Wednesday night I went to Roberts for a short time. Thursday night I met Louisa & took a long walk with her. Friday night I spent at Smarts playing cards, not much to my taste, but I didnt care about being disagreeable, so I joined them, left early - Saturday afternoon I spent at home reading. In the evening I went to town knocked about till 10 pm - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon read till 4 then took a strool about Fitzroy Gardens, met Mr Peak & arranged for a boating party for Tuesday night - after tea I called at Smarts left about 8.30. & went down to St Philips Church met the Roberts coming out of church walked home with them - my object in going there was to invite them to come up the river boating on Tuesday night - I fancied Miss R. was very cool. I sent her a Valentine consisting of a few impromptu verses of my own - breathing (of course) of love & tenderness as usual in such productions - I got a a fellow clerk of mine to write them - so that she would not discover by the writing who it came from - {{Image|file=Aah-91.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-92 1166]

I was suspected of having sent them - but on being accused I denied writing them - I fancy she thinks they were from a person I belive she has been at some time or another had a passion for - Feby 24th, 1867
Another week passed away, something after the usual style, with litle variety or profit - Im getting heartily sick of keeping a record of such trashy stuff as Im in the habit of continually writing week after week. What a contrast to the varied chequered life Ive led formerly - Tuesday night Mrs. Floraun called & begged Bessie & I go to spend the evening at her house, found several friends there & together managed to spend an agreeable evening together - Miss Norris left Melb the following morning & we went to wish her farewell - Wednesday night Kidgell entertained a number of friends at his house [in] Victoria Parade, Bessie & I being there, the evening spent in the usual manner, Singing & dancing combined with a Conversazione, Thursday night I spent at Robert’s found them all in the dumps & low spirited, owing to the dangerous illness of Mrs Roberts son (N.Leech) by a former husband) who they had just heard was not expected to live. I was exceedingly sorry - for they seem such a happy united family, anything {{Red|*}}occuring of this nature cast a gloom over their social joy. X(I like Georgie *she *is *realyy a nice modest girl & is Good & *kind%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$*would I think %$%$%$%$%$%$# *about %$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$f %$%$%$%$# *in %$%$%$%$%$%$%$# & %$%$%$%$%$%$ but I feel if she has *doubts %$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$#in the *former %$%$p%$# %$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$)X fortunate in the second.- there is a very perservering widower who is after her - judging from appearances there is not much love displayed toward him on her part - but Ive heard from authentic sources {{Image|file=Aah-92.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-93 1167]

she is to be married to him - she displays a strange taste, to think seriously of commiting herself to a man with a family - a young woman like her, an universal favourite with any quantity of admirers. Friday night I had purposed going to see Madame Celeste but Miss Cass called & spent the evening with us - I saw her down to the train at 10.pm - Yesterday afternoon Bessie & I went to Mrs Greens where we met Kidgell, Saunders & Lennox & their sisters we intended playing croquet but the weather being so hot it was proposed to go on the River to which we all agreed, we left Richmond punt at 4 pm in a fine Gondola had a spendid pull up to Hawthorn Bridge (taking (us - (with four oars) about 2 hours - we noticed a great many on the river enjoying themselves singing & eating fruit Etc I left our party at the Bridge & taking a cab, arrived home in time for tea - afterwards went to town on a little business which on executing I met Peak who was on his way to the Robert's I accompanied him as far as the house, but didnt go in, he was not long there but came and accompanied me to Wellington Parade, where we parted I sauntered leasurely down to the Richmond punt & just got there as our party were landing, 10pm. after enjoying them- selves amazingly & regretting my absence. We all adjourned to Saunders’ where we spent another hour very pleasently - 12 when we arrived home - I spent this morning reading Tennyson's Maud & other pieces by him - Ive read several of his poems I like better, tho’ this is very beautiful & replete with a {{Red|*}}successful grandeur - In the afternoon Scoty MCaffray (an old Bendigo friend) called, (he is at present in partnership with Bob Hooper in a store at Taradale) & is in a fair way of doing {{Image|file=Aah-93.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-94 1168]

well, he remained till 4 pm when he left. In the evening I took out Jessie Smart for a walk - I think I must lessen my visits or not go so often to see her - or I shall get into a mess - she is too loving & the love being on one side makes it irksome. March 2nd 1867
[Sunday, 3 March 1867] Lovely weather, spent the week very jollily, as usual visiting & pleasure seeking. Been very busy at the office, got several large ships at the pier discharging, some of the finest vessels now afloat, with immense cargos of general merchandise - Im afraid unless we have better legislation, & the fiscal policy of Victoria improved our trade will soon fall off merchants & dealers are getting very chary about visiting *with large importations. They are still debating, in Parliament, the relative merits of Free Trade & Protection principles & the numbers unfortunately seem to be about equally divided in their opinions upon the subject, making business & every thing else anything but satisfactory, for my part I believe in Free Trade, & think protection will do more to put back the colony than any other thing, cramp its resources & cripple its trade, producing a deal of annoyance & confuson to every branch of industry - Monday night my sister & Clark spent the evening with us & also Mr Floraun Mr. Green & Miss Kidgell, spent the evening very pleasently. Tuesday night I spent at Roberts & became confirmed in my opinion with respect to her engagement with Minify. {{Image|file=Aah-94.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-95 1169]

Wednesday I spent at home - Thursday night I went to Clarks to make arrangements with him about us hiring some conveyance to take us to Ramsdans Ball, left there about 10 pm after spending a couple of hours very pleasently trying over some music - Friday night, in company with Clark, Mary & Bessie I went to the Ramsdans Ball at the Carlton Flour Mills given in honour of his son George coming of age we arrived there a little after 9 Pm found upwards of 400 people present - comprising for the most part the most influential or the elite of Melbourne - more would have been there but for a similar entertainment held the same night at Toorak & given by Sir H Manners Sutton - however a great number left the Governors early for Ramsdans which most who came found more to their taste than the one they had left, the officers of H M Ship Challenger - & other officers in the Govt employ were present - We found the Ball Room, which was an impropmtu one, down by the yard at the Mills being floored & covd with an iron roof brilliantly illuminated with Gas, laid on for the occasion - very large & beautifully decorated - also a fine band of some 20 performers engaged for the occasion - but I cannot speak in too high praise in reference to the provision made for the company, every comfort, every luxury {{Image|file=Aah-95.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-96 1170]

in the shape of confectionery & {{Red|*}}relish drinks & beverages all just for the occasion, surpasses my powers of description Ice Claret, Ice Champagne Etc was drank in abundance like water. Waiters knocked about in every direction, this was only the refreshments partaken of during the dancing - at supper which was laid out in one of the Granaries, was a magnificient affair, a Bottle of Champagne at every plate with wine Ale & paster in profusion to be had if required, while the Tables were loaded with Ducks, fowls, Turkeys Salads, Pastry, Etc. & fruit in abundance every variety in season & of the finest quality, every body I think enjoyed themselves (if not it was not the fault of the hospitable host & hostess with their son, who did every thing in their power to make time pass agreeably-) & all, pronounced the affair to have been the grandest & best get up of anything of the sort in the Colonies & Im afraid it will be a long time ere there is anything given of the sort again in Melbourne - I hear it will cost about £2,000. they are very wealthy people & above doing these things from a motive. I met many people I knew there, Georgie Roberts & her sister Charlotte. I danced a great deal with the former, & during the evening inquired if she was engaged to Minify she did not deny it, but declined answering my question which was tantamount to an admission that such was the case - & to confirm even more Mr. M. came for her with a conveyance about 3 am our party stayd till near 5Pm although the programme at that time was far from completed, but we found a great many were beginning to get rather too merry & boisterous to be pleasent. & so passed one of the most jolly nights I ever spent in my life - I was {{Image|file=Aah-96.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-97 1171]

forcibly struck with the contrast some portions of my life presented to the one Im living in at present. Who could have thought I was the same person dressed in a fashionable dress coat Etc as the same Jack Watmuff who used to knock about the diggins of Victoria & N.Z. in an old tattered shirt & trousers sometimes not knowing where his next meal would come from - or owing to the dangers I was subjected to whether I would have an existence or not the following day - such thoughts were of short duration, for I had to go to business the following morning at 8 am. never did time pass so slowly with me as yesterday morning, it was a happy release when at 12 Am I left business & made home - tho my afternoon was not spent as I should wish, in bed. We are unfortunately, without a servant, & I was compelled to spend my afternoon or part of it assisting in our domestic duties. In the evening I took a ramble about town, called at Smarts on my way home, stayd there till 10 Pm - came home & went to bed, never slept sounder in my life, awoke about 9 am this morning after breakfast read for about an hour then dressed & went to hear the Revd Mr Henderson preach at the Theatre - In the afternoon I went to Fitzroy Gardens as per agreement I met I.Peak rambled about with him about an hour or so, gave him a letter of introduction to Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], as he is going to Dunedin tomorrow by the S.S. "Otago" he is a decent young fellow - & one Ive got a great regard for, although our acquaintance has been rather short. We parted about 5 pm. After tea I went to Smarts for a short time, left early & came home found Clark & Mary here, who stayd for supper - {{Image|file=Aah-97.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-98 1172]

March 6th 1867
Weather very warm, dusty & dirty, to day especially when the thermometer stood as high as 100^º in the shade. Monday evening after tea staid at home till 9 Pm singing Etc. took a strool around town for an hour, met Swanston, came home together - Tuesday I missed going to the Gymnasium, as I was going to Mrs Green to assist her in packing up her things as she is leaving town for Balaclava where Kidgell (her brother) has bought a house & garden - I remained with her till 12 hard at work pulling down beds & packing up her furniture Etc - Poor woman hers is not an enviable lot, left a widow with six children & entirely dependant upon her brothers for support - they are a most unfortunate family, no less than 6 deaths if I mistake not having occurred in the family within the last year - & all closely connected - This evening Wednesday, after leaving the office I went for an hour to the Gymnasium, did me a deal of good, after tea Bessie & I left home with the intention of paying the Williams a visit, found them out gone to the Theatre - so we continued our walk to the Roberts Found Georgie & her intended had gone to the Theatre however we staid talking to the old folks & Charlotte till nearly 10 Pm - when we left, but not before being regaled with fruit from their garden & some good colonial wine of their own making, which the old gentleman rather prides himself upon - he is one of the oldest residents in Victoria arrived here about 29 years ago & has seen some ups & downs & many changes in it since, he loves to allude to the old times, & I really find it very interesting to listen March 7th.1867
Change in the weather wind S.E. rather dusty went out for about two hours after tea, met Adamson went to the Gymnasium together, took a strool afterwards home early, spent an hour with Bessie, trying some duets {{Image|file=Aah-98.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/98}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-99 1173]

March 9th.1867
Weather much cooler & more pleasent - Went to the Gymnasium after leaving the office last night remained there till 6.10.Pm, came on to rain got nicely wet before I reached home - I found Bessie had gone to see Miss Saunders as she had purposed going to see the Casses at St Yarra but owing to the rain they had remained with Miss S. I went for her at 8pm staid there till 10 pm - passing the time very pleasently but rather quietly- [Sunday, 10 March 1867] March {{Red|11th.1866}}
Weather fine - Yesterday, (Saturday) afternoon spent playing Croquet with a very nice set of people - Tom Rooke accompanied me home & had tea & spent a couple of hours with us playing & singing - I went to town with him to see no harm came of him - This morning (Sunday) I went to hear Mr Henderson preach his 3rd Sermon of a series, from the 4th Corinthians, like all he preaches upon & makes a study – it was an excellent discourse. I took a long walk in the afternoon around Fitzroy Gardens alone – being a lovely day I enjoyed the walk, every thing looked so fresh & green, the trees & scrubs, loaded with their choicest foliage - After tea I went to see the Smarts found {{Red|*}}them {{Red|*}}where, they have {{Red|*}}removed into a house in Kg Wlm St. not far from us, they made me very welcome, as usual, remained there chatting on a variety of subjects till after nine, when I came home, found Mary & Clark here just sitting down to supper. They are both well & appear to be very happy - God grant they may be ever so - I met Charlotte Roberts coming home from the gardens & I walked part of the way home with her. March 17th 1867
Weather fine, but rather variable during the past few days. Monday evening I spent at my sister Marys, with mother. Tuesday evening Bessie & I called at Williams’ (Americans) spent the evening very sociably. Wednesday Bessie & I were invited there to a dinner which was a purely national one, consisting of Pork & Beans, several Americans were there - at its conclusion we enjoyed ourselves in singing & dancing Etc. I rather like these people {{Image|file=Aah-99.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/99}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-100 1174]

there is a homely plain sincerety about their manners which if not that grace about them which characterises Europeans - I believe there is more true heartedness, they have a daughter (Alice) a very nice unaffected girl, modest & retiring without being destitute of a certain coquetry & simplicity of style which is rather attractive. Her parents at least Mr W. is very strict with her Mrs. W. is her mothers sister, a strange relationship similar to the Roberts - & not a legal connection in this colony - Thursday night I called at Smarts found them out except Jessie & she had gone to bed with her usual chronic head ache – on leaving I went to the Mechanics Institute Collins St to attend a rehearsal of Richardsons who is getting up a Concert & requested me to assist at it, I agreed, we sang several fine choruses & after a few rehearsals I fancy we can produce them in a credible manner - Saturday afternoon I joined a party bound for Balaclava for the purpose of playing a game, or match, of Croquet. We, that is to say the Melbourne people proved the victors much to the disgust of the Balacava folks. At the conclusion of the match we adjourned to Mrs. Greens where we found a nice tea provided for & being all old acquaintances the time was spent pleasently & agreeably – Bessie & I, with Saunders & Casey Browning came to town by 7.20. train walked to Ss house where we remained for about an hour. On leaving there we called on our way home at Mrs. Flourans, staid there till 11 Pm - This morning I went to hear Mr. Henderson preach. In the afternoon, took a strool round Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening, called at Smarts did not stay long, home by 9 pm found Mary & Clark here who have but just gone - We had a long letter from Father by the last mail from England – plenty of matter in it concerning family affairs, the principal items being the confirmation of the non existance of a chance of receiving any of the money left by the death of my Uncle Henry & his wife - what with Lawyers & incidental expenses I can gather from the tone of the communication it is useless hoping to be benefitted by that {{Red|*}}event in a pecuniary manner {{Image|file=Aah-100.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/100}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-101 1175]

24 March 1867
Weather changeable, rather cooler during the nights than form as been the past few months - Time passed much as usual with me not particularly busy at the office & Im sadly afraid unless some reform is affected by our legislators in the advancement of the colonies interests that we shall soon be at a stand still, Victoria is one of the finest colonies in the world, capable of producing most every natural production with advantages of position, wealth & enterprising inhabitants & all it wants to make it go ahead is a liberal wise & enlightened Govt. as present we are ruled & have been for years past by a lot of purse proud landed sheep farming aristocracy who use their power for their own interests, but now & then put on a plausible suit of clothing to hoodwink & blind the reason of the people, by pretending to do everything in their power towards the advancement of the colony & its welfare – our population has not increased for years past. What is wanted in my opinion is more immigration, the want of which this colony is now & has long been languishing for to develop its resources Monday evening I went to Smarts for a walk - Tuesday night I attended the Wesleyan Chapel in Brunswick St. to hear a Lecture delivered by the Revd I. New, on Savanarolo the Italian Reformer. The subject was a good one & well handled, by the lecturer (who is admitted to be one of the best in the colonies) he commenced with his life & followed him in his career from childhood to his martyrdom, detailing all his struggles & mighty efforts to reform the Church - & also gave a fine account {{Image|file=Aah-101.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/101}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-102 1176]

in a brief but lucid manner of the state of Europe but more particularly of Italy during that period, between the years 1450 & 1500 AD, when this great man lived. The lecturer drew very favorable comparisons between him & Luther, the difference Savonarolo tried to lop the “Tree” the Romish Church with all its hideous licentiousness of its rotten branches, while Luther endeavd to extract it Root & branches – the lecture lasted some 2 hours & was attentively listened to throughout - Wednesday night I went down to see the Roberts’ had a long talk to Georgie, she was the only one at home – I left there about 9 pm from there I went for Bessie who was spending the evening at Marys staid there till 10.30. – home at 11 pm - Thursday night I spent at Richardsons class, bellowing away in the chorus Friday night I was introduced, by a friend, to the Musical Union, (who gave a Grand Concert last night, Saturday, the music selected was Bennets “May Queen” an exquisite piece, which I liked exceedingly) The rehearsal was a good one & gave me a good idea of it - Yesterday afternoon Bessie & I playd a return match of Croquet with a large party on the E.H.C. Ground resulting in a tie, at its conclusion I had to hurry home & dress, went to the Concert, which came off with great eclat, tho’ the house was but moderately filled, The principal vocalists were Fanny Carandini (daughter of old Mdm Carandini) who is really a fine singer possessing a spendid mezzo sohpano voice Sherwin did the tenore & Emery, the Basso - I must not forget to state the chorus was most effective, in my estimation, after it was over I met Tom Grimwood & Mrs. Florauns & Miss Norriss with {{Red|*}}W. H. Williams & we all went into Nissens & had supper nearly 12 Pm when we got to our respective homes. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach his sermon being more than usually good, being apon the life & sufferings {{Image|file=Aah-102.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/102}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-103 1177]

of the Apostle Paul & citing him as an example for what he endured for Christs sake. I read for about 2 hours in the afternoon & took a strool for another 2 hours, to digest my dinner & assist me in gaining an appetite for my tea – after the latter was discussed I went to Smarts found all out except Mrs. S. staid about an hour with her & then went down town, met the Miss S coming from Church, joined them, & saw them home remained till 10Pm so now for bed – my brother Fred is very ill with Neauralgia (I think I havnt spelt the word right) March 27th.1867
Weather rather changeable, one day hot & the next cold - & so on. The English Mail left here to day I wrote a long letter to father yesterday which I sent by it, giving him a long a/c of our position, Etc. with all current news respecting the state of the colony & its prospects - Monday night on arriving home I found my sister Mary here, she spent the evening with us. Clark came about 9 P.m. bringing with him his concertina Mary & him played, some beautiful selections from various Operas, together quite a treat to listen to them, nearly 12Pm when the left, after spending a pleasent evening in each others society - Tuesday evening after leaving business I went to the Gymnasium as usual, left it at 6 pm, a sharp walk of 20 minutes brought me home with a fine appetite for my tea, after which I read for an hour, Ruskin M.A. Lectures or two of them Called Cesame & Lillies Kings Thoughts some of the finest reading & ideas respecting the manner of reading works & being able to understand them & read them in the proper spirit I ever met with. Ive not finished them yet they are highly interesting & useful and I would recommend {{Image|file=Aah-103.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/103}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-104 1178]

their reading & study to all who are in the habit of just superficially glansing over works which fall into their hands I left home about 8Pm went up to the Smarts, took Jessie out for a short walk, on our arrival back found Mrs. Smart had some company, a very pleasent couple of the name of Evans. Mrs. E. being a singer & fond of music, we soon got singing & passed the time away till 12Pm very hilariously. I wish these people (Smarts) would not be so pressing in their invitations to me, Im sure they think “Im on” with Jessie. I never ask her to come out for a walk, it is at her own suggestion. Im pretty plain & let them know Ive no serious intentions of our acquaintance having any closer connection than it at present exists they are a nice family & very pleasent acquaintances – & I like occasionally to go & visit them. To day after leaving the Gymnasium I had to hurry home hasty arrived home & safely housed when a most terrific thunder thunder storm burst over Melbourne deluging the streets with water & filling the air with the most deafening roars of thunder, & lighting up the streets with vivid lightning it passed over by 8Pm & now the air is beautiful & clear the Clouds cleared away leaving bare the heavens with its numerous glittering constellations - Sunday March 31th 1867
Weather beautiful the last few days. I wish human nature were as fair a form (or animated nature as was the inanimate) then indeed would the world be a lovely one to dwell in, but such as it is, we put up with it & all the trials, sorrows, griefs & afflictions, its dissapointments & thwarted hopes we are subjected to in it, life seems a continual {{Image|file=Aah-104.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/104}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-105 1179]

struggle, to many for a bare existance with little prospect of improvement. Im sure in our family its been nothing else since I remember, anything of our history but a series of struggles & disappointments to make ends meet, if my mother, heaven bless her, hadnt been a genius & possessed of most indomitable courage & perseverence & exercised a great amount of self denial towards, her children would not now be what they are, respectable members of society, ever working, ever scheming night & day for her childrens sake she is a woman with a fine cultivated mind very quick & keen in her perceptions a thorough knowledge of whatever theme she speaks upon – reads & thinks a great deal - Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing Class, had a good practice, singing some fine choruses - Friday evening, Kidgell called & stayed tea with us, spent a couple of hours or so with us afterwards. I accompanied him a part of the way home - Yesterday afternoon I spent on coming home for some two hours in chopping up a lot of firewood, after which I dressed & went to hear the Head Quarters Band play in Fitzroy Gardens on my arrival there I fell in with Mr Bond, who I had heard, during the week was a fellow passenger of ours from England in the good ship “Brothers” he came out with his parents & landed in Melbourne whilst we landed at Adelaide, & so lost sight of each other until last Saturday night when Bessie went to tea to Saunders & was introduced to old Mrs. Bond, who at once remembered our name (being a peculiar one) we wandered about together all the afternoon talking over the varied fortunes of our separate houses – or families. Met Mary {{Image|file=Aah-105.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/105}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-106 1180]

[&] Clark chatted with them a short time, met many others I knew, at the conclusion of the playing I invited Bond home with me to tea after which we left together, I going to the Railway Station where I met my sister Bessie & Mrs. Gotch, who had been spending the afternoon at Greens at Balaclava. 10 Pm when we got home - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach (Theatre Royal) his subject being Mans Nature & its Capabilities, at the conclusion of the service I met Taggatt, Poor fellow, his matrimonial existence is none of the pleasentest his wife being deranged in her intellect & subject to the most extraordinary fits – Im very sorry for him, for his is a nice fellow & one who has seen a deal of suffering & now to be tried with such an incumberance renders him an object of compassion. After dinner I read for a while. Afterwards took a strool around the Gardens, in company with Miss Skinner who I had met there - After tea went to Smarts staid till 9.30. April 3rd 1867
Another recital of uninteresting matter concerning nobody & to no purpose or aim, Im beginning to think keeping a journal when there is no object in view is down- right egotism & were I to see such effusion as these Im in the habit of, weekly producing, I would set the writer down for a conceited, egotistical, vain & presumptions fool - It has become simply a matter of habit for me now & I cant very well break it off, so I got careless with regard to {{Image|file=Aah-106.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/106}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-107 1181]

the writing dictation & everything else connected with it I make it nothing more than an epitome of what actually occurs to myself, without any allusion to the characters of those Im thrown in contact with & any observations, thoughts, feelings, Etc I may have on subjects continually placed under my notice whether social, political, or {{Red|*}}learned, nothing more than the bare outline of my very every day life - Monday, after office hours, spent an hour at the Gymnasium, much to my benefit – giving me an excellent appetite for my tea, after which discussion I was agreeably surprised by the arrival of my sister Mary, unexpectedly, to spend the evening with us, which she did, tending to make it pass most agreeable, by the vivacity & flow of spirits she is the happy possessor of, making our house ring again with mirth & music - I saw her home about 11.Pm, 12 when I got home - Tuesday evening I spent at Smarts playing cribbage & till 11.Pm. Wednesday I attended a Rehearsal at the Trades Hall after which on coming home I accompanied Bessie to Roberts spent an hour or two very jolly singing dancing & eating fruit just plucked from the trees out of their fine garden - got home by 10Pm - April 7th 1867
Weather fine, getting rather cool in the mornings until the sun gets up - dreadfully slack at the Railway stn, havent a ship discharging at the Pier. I hardly know how Ive passed my office hours away. I generally avail myself of these slack days (they dont often occur) in brushing up on my Arithmetic Etc - Thursday {{Image|file=Aah-107.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/107}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-108 1182]

went to Smarts for a short time. Friday evening in company with Mother & Jessie Smart I went to the Trades Hall after seeing them comfortably seated, I left them & went for the remainder of the evening or while the concert was taking place in the Green Room, the singers consisted of some very good amateurs Beaumont Johnson & Marshall & self with Mrs. Fox, Reed & Moir, all doing the allotted work well. I was not well pleased at my own performance - I never sang so badly in public, in my life, the songs I chose were not altogether for my share, however I came in for a fair share of applause – A Ball was held after the Concert. Fred took Mother home while I remained with Jessie until its termination which took place about 3 am yesterday (Saturday) morning I felt very tired yesterday, but raining heavy all day, I did not go out Will Smart called in the afternoon & stayd at our house till 9 Pm - Spent to day reading & writing a variety of matters. In the evening I went to hear Mr Dare preach, in Brunswick St met Jessie Smart after the service saw her home & left immediately afterwards - April 11th.1867
Lovely weather during the past few days no dust, no hot winds & mosquitoes to annoy us such a happy release from the nuisances experienced during the last 6 months from the oppressive heat. Much busier at the office than when I last wrote, three ships came alongside the pier on Monday & commenced discharging giving us a little to do I feel downright wretched while idle. Im sure if I was rich I couldnt rest satisfied without I was engaged in some pursuit or another - Close application to study Im debarred from - owing to {{Image|file=Aah-108.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/108}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-109 1183]

sight being so impared, this is the only reason I have for desiring money, so has to be enabled to put myself in under a good oculist & be able to adhere to his direction which I know would not be to exercise my sight for a long time & in my present position that would be impossible this affection, Im afraid makes me a sad murmurer & a most dissatisfied wretch whereas I have much to be thankful for - a good home, good mother, good brother & sisters good health & inumerable other blessings – Monday evening, Bessie & I went to spend the evening at Williams (Young St) & was greatly shocked to find one of their children had died during the afternoon - we found them buried in the deepest sorrow, & little we could do to alleviate it, we left soon afterwards – I went down to town as far as the Gymnasium, didnt stay long - home early - Tuesday evening I had to go to town after tea, on my way home I called at Smarts for my mother who had been spending the evening there - had a game or two of whist, got home by 11 Pm.- Wednesday evening on arriving home found Miss Saunders at our house, who stayd tea & spent the evening with us, her brother James called at 10Pm for her & I accompanied them nearly home - after 11 pm when I got home my self - This evening after tea, I went to my sisters Marys, found her out so went to town - met a friend & was induced to go to see [[Matthews-15517|Julia Mathews]], in a part peculiarly adapted for her. The Rustic Prima Donna - in which she has a deal of singing to do. I like her voice being a fine rich contralto, she was in good voice & I came away very well satisfied with my shillings worth - Walked home with Alison Clark, my sisters husband[s] brother. {{Image|file=Aah-109.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/109}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-110 1184]

April 14th.1867 (Sunday evening)
Fine weather - enjoying good health - & good spirits - Go to business now & for the ensuing 6 months at 9Am instead of 8 am as formerly, the difference gives me time in the morning to devote to reading, a precious hour to me for I never read at nights in consequence of the weakness of my sight Friday evening I spent at Mrs Florauns very agreeably, there being a young lady (Miss Dove from Hobart Town) staying there who sings & plays well - Yesterday afternoon I spent reading, until 4 pm when I called at Smarts for with a book my mother had borrowed did not stay long, after tea I attended a Rehearsal of the Oratorio Elijah held in the Exhibition building. I never heard the music before, I think it very grand. Mendelssohn immortalised himself by giving the world such a production, about 300 choristers were in attendance, the principals being the best vocalists we have at present in Victoria. Walter Bass, the Caridinis, sophrano & contralto, Sherwin Tenor - I was a dummy or next thing to it, for tis impossible to sing such music at sight - At its conclusion I met Saunders rambled home with him as far as the Gardens. On my arrival home found Mary & Clark here just leaving, quite well - Spent this morning & part of the afternoon reading - took a strool in company with Adamson about Fitzroy Gardens – After tea I went to Smarts. Jessie & I took a ramble for an hour or so in a sociable way - shopping in Smith Street - Tuesday night 16th.April 1867. Weather very cold & showery somewhat resembling the English climate at this time of the year if the usual proverbial expression of April showers is to be relied upon – A little busier at the office than last week, there being three or four large ships discharging at our pier - English Mail arrived yesterday no news from home for us - Public affairs in rather an unsettled state, owing to the great reform agitation, & the still unsuppressed Fenian movement Etc {{Image|file=Aah-110.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/110}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-111 1185]

Monday evening, Bessie & I went to hear the Oratoria of Elijah at the Exhibition Building, it came off very well considering, the choruses were very so so, owing to the few rehearsals they had previous to its production, the principals were very good, Walter sustaining the opinions concerning his vocal powers so much expressed, the Caradini’s sang well especially the Trio Lift thine eyes, so very rare to hear three members of one family sing together, nothing can be more harmonious. We met Clark & Mary at its conclusion accompanied each other part of the way home - This evening I spent at Mrs Florauns very sociably. Miss Dove sang & playd for us till near 10pm when I took my departure. April 18th.1867
Weather still unsettled, making it unpleasent, if it continues for the holidays - for those at least, who are bent upon pleasure - for my own part Ive no money to spend & feel selfish or anyway careless about the time - my mind is somewhat harrassed concerning the Bill Ive to meet at the end of next month. I had thought of receiving some money from Father ere now, there is only one more Mail due before my Bill will be presented. I must trust to chance & the chapter of accidents I suppose, rather a rotten stick to depend upon – Last night, on leaving the Gymnasium I got drenched to the skin with with one of the heaviest showers I ever felt, arrived home changed my clothes & felt all right in no time - the rain went off & the moon shone forth & all nature was once more fair to look upon, overhead, found on arriving home my mother had gone to spend the day at Marys - Bessie & Fred going out I was left alone till 9 Pm when they returned. I at once started for my mother, staid supper at Clarks 11.30.Pm when I got her home - she is getting very weak & cannot submit to any degree of exertion, she was quite knocked up on arriving home God grant her health & strength for many years to come - I wish it was in my power to make her life more easy & {{Image|file=Aah-111.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/111}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-112 1186]

comfortable than it has been for many many years – This evening, Fred took Mother & Bessie to the last of the Exhibition Musical Festival Concerts. I went also but into a different part of the building, the Messiah was produced, some parts of it went very well, but taken altogether the music was anything but well rendered {{Red|*}}T Meloyn the Tenor sang “Comfort Ye” as if it was an operatic air. Walter was the only genuine singer of the lot - Met Clark & Mary after it was over - I should not have enjoyed myself - but for the fun I had in meeting several acquaintances during the Interval – Criticing the various singers & commenting upon Horsleys conduct (A Baton was presented to him by the ladies) it was 11 Pm when we arrived home - 21 April 1867 (Sunday evening)
Weather lovely. Good Friday was observed was as a holiday. I staid at home all day with the exception of a little walk I took in the afternoon. In the evening in company with Fred I got into the Stalls of the Theatre, from the back, which little arrangement saved me 3/. An excellent programme was produced. Selections from the "Messiah" & "Creation". Angus the Bass, Donaldson Tenor Mrs. Fox – Sophrano - the music was well rendered - The Why do the Nations” by Angus was sung better than ever I remember to have heard it - & I may say the same of "Softly Pealing" - Comfort Ye by Donaldson - altogether I was well pleased at the performance & came away highly delighted - Saturday, a holiday morning I took a walk about town & called at Saunders’s & found James had gone on a Pedestrian Tour - In the afternoon went to town with Bessie & Alice Hungerland – spent the evening rambling about Bourke St - Spent my time when not abroad in reading Bulwers “What will he do with it” a strange Title for a Book, but like all of his works - worth reading, I have spent many pleasent hours over the work - This morning I finished it. In the afternoon I took a {{Image|file=Aah-112.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/112}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-113 1187]

ramble about the Gardens met several acquaintances & chatted with them - In the evening I went to Smarts for a short time home early - 28th.April 1867, Sunday
Weather changeable & unsettled, cloudy, foggy, showery Etc with very little sunshine. Time slipping by producing very little change in our domestic circle, except to my sister Bessie, who has been very ill from an attack of Cholera. I am happy to state she is getting better and able to knock about - Mother having had all the household duties or more than her usual share to do, is pretty well knocked up in consequence - & our income is so very small as to render us unable to employ a servant – I feel it a reproach to my manhood not to be in a position to render her life more easy & lighten her duties & responsibilities Freds salary like my own is too small to keep her as we would wish, what with heavy rent & the various other expenses we have to submit to a great deal of annoyance - & put up with makeshifts & makebelieves, genteel poverty is a most sickening malady & makes those suffering from it swallow many a bitter pill - For my own part I feel I have changed my course of life or occupation, too late in life ever to be successful or rise to any degree of excellence as a clerk - too many younger men with unimpared faculties, possessed of interest, with good education in Melbourne to have any chance of success & being afflicted with partial loss of sight - renders me more hopeless & not without cause when many others differently circumstanced Easter Monday being a holiday & having no other place to go, I took Mother out for a walk, found our way to the Melb Cricket Ground, where we found a great many people assembled to witness the Athletic Sports we rambled about the Ground meeting a great many we know - confined ourselves to the Society of [[Rakowski-85|Mrs Dalrymple]] & her sister [[Rakowski-86|Adalia Rekowski]] - mother got very tired & it was with great difficulty I could get her home – in the evening I took a strool for about an hour, came home & read a little & so passed my Easter holidays I think the quietest I ever spent in my life, not {{Image|file=Aah-113.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/113}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-114 1188]

having any money to spend I was unable to go about & enter into the various amusements provided by the Caterers of such things, during holiday season - Tuesday morning, went to business found some large ships had arrived during the holidays so I had to set to & copy their Manifests making us quite busy for the rest of the week in the evening on leaving office I met Robt Hooper he had come to town on business & was to return home that day by the night train - I got him to have tea with me & afterwards accompanied him to the station where such a scene of bustle & confusion presented itself that I can never forget. The excursion tickets were only available for certain trains & the last ones were just on the point of starting & most every one had delayed leaving town until the last train, husbands & wives with children seperated, Brother losing the {{Red|*}}sum of their sisters, friends parted in such a sudden manner by the crowd jostling as to spare the execution of an usual leave taking - people getting into wrong carriages – struggling - jostling, pushing, cursing & {{Red|*}}screaming - {{Red|*}}running crying Etc Etc made up such a scene of Babel confusion that no pen can describe. I was glad when I shook hands with Bob & saw him safe into a night train & was not long within sight or leaving of the stn in a few minutes afterwards. I called at Smarts on my way home staid there until 11 Pm, in company with Dr Mousse & several other friends of the Smarts, smoking playing cards, Singing & drinking Colonial Wine & Beer – very convivially the whole thing company & concomitants not altogether to my taste. Wednesday evening I spent very pleasently, at Clarks, with him & Mary – Thursday night went to a Rehearsal, at the Mechanics Institute, of Richardsons Concert - at its conclusion I walked home with Miss Richardson, a very nice young lady, stayd a {{Image|file=Aah-114.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/114}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-115 1189]

a few minutes at their house - Friday night there was to have been another rehearsal, but after going to the place found it occupied by another Vocal Society so we had to disperse! I again accompanied Miss R home - Saturday afternoon I went to Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play & indulge in a promenade met Mary there & after the performance was over - went to her house & had tea there Mrs. Green also called & remained tea, after which I went again to Richardsons, sang till nearly 10Pm when I left in company with Miss Norris & Miss Dover & Grimwood who are living at Mrs Florauns in George Street (Boarders) Tom having taken up his quarters there, left us because Fred & him could not agree - staid about half an hour at Mrs. F. 11 Pm when I got home - This morning I went to hear Mr. Henderson preach in the Theatre, met [[Rakowski-85|Mrs Dalrymple]] In the afternoon I took a walk around the Gardens met John Marsden walked home with him. After tea went to the Smarts staid about a couple of hours there two German gentlemen were there & I had a long discussion with about the way the Sabbath day should be spent they believing it to be a day for recreation & or next to it I have often noticed how lax Germans are in their ideas with respect to Religious forms & observances & yet they are fond of alluding to Luther - & his doctrines & hold with pride their countryman who first effected the Reformation. My leisure hours to day, Ive spent reading that most humourous of works by Dickens “Martin Chuzzlewit” scarcely a character introduced in the work, but what isnt a type of a class to be met with in everyday life – my mother has been reading it, some parts aloud & it does me good to hear her roar with laughter when she comes across some of the many humorous passages the story is interlaced with - {{Image|file=Aah-115.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/115}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-116 1190]

May 5th 1867
Weather been bad all the week, not one really fine day continually raining & cloudy Monday night Bessie & I went to Richmond & paid our old acquaintances the Richardsons a visit, they made us very welcome & we spent a very pleasent sociable evening there with them - Tuesday evening, very wet I went to the “Mechanics” at Prahran to attend a Rehearsal of the “May Queen” a portion of which was to be sung the following night in the Exhibition Concert at Beaumonts Benefits {{Red|*}}I had no intention of going but got pressed to do so - & being for a charitable purpose, I could not well refuse - Wednesday night I went to the New Exhibition Building found the whole of the immense building crowded I believe there were upwards of 3000 people present the people comprised all the best available musical talents in the Colony, both as vocalists Instrumentalists Madrigal & Glees Society & Musical Union, Etc all vieing to do something towards making it a thorough good concert, it must have been exceedingly gratifying to Beaumont to be made aware of the widespread sympathy displayed toward him in consequence of his misfortunes (viz. he went out shooting with the Lyster Bros & through some mistake received a charge of shot in the face, some entering his eyes, one of which had to be taken out altogether the other is so much affected that it is feared he will not be able to see again a most frightful calamity & happening to one so young & gifted, he was the best tenor singer in the Colony - & had appeared in the Lysters Opera Troupe as first tenor in several Operas & was well liked throughout the colony - the Concert yielded between 500 & 600 pounds Stg. I never {{Red|not scanned-checked using reversed print-through of previous page}} {{Image|file=Aah-116.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/116}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-117 1191]

saw such an assemblage before under one Roof, every thing went off first rate - I met many I knew - walked home with Clark & Mary - Thursday night being wet I went to Smarts, (who live little more than a stones throw from our house). Friday night, I left home with the idea of going to Richardsons Class, on reaching the place found Id made a mistake the Rehl having taken place the night before. I did not care knowing what we were practicing pretty well - I spent the balance of the evening at Florauns as usual very jollily, there being no less than 5 ladies living with her, young & handsome, & more than usually accomplished, we had singing & dancing with other amusements tending to while away time very agreeably - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to hear the Band play, coming on to Rain rather heavily while in the garden, we had to disperse, we made for Marys, staid there till we thought it was over & then hurried home, but we were doomed to having many stoppages ere we reached our goal, owing to the showers & having to dodge our way from one verandah to another - after tea I went into town to St Georges Hall - where Richardsons Concert was to be held, being a a wet night the house was not well filled but much better than could be expected - the singing was very good the soloists were all good & received unanimous encores - I only sang with choruses, not being a pupil or member of his class, at the conclusion of the concert we got up an impromptu dance - after the audience had left, danced till the Gas was turned off when we were obliged to leave - went into Nissens Cafe & Tom Grimwood insisted upon treating some 7 or 8 which comprised our party, being Mrs. Florauns {{Image|file=Aah-117.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/117}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-118 1192]

boarders, to Oysters & {{Red|*}}Paster Coffee Cakes, Etc - Tom left us last week owing to Fred & him continually disagreeing I never liked him, he such an infernal liar. I dont know how he manages to live so extravagantly as he does he goes everywhere & generally takes Mrs. F. with him has money for everything & yet his salary cannot & is not sufficient to warrant such a display as he makes, I trust he is acting honestly but Im afraid its otherwise - It was 12 Pm when I got home - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon took a strool around Fitzroy Gardens met all Mrs F Florauns “party” walked home with them - was invited to tea but declined. In the evening I went to Smarts Jessie & I went out for a short walk - her mother suggesting she required it as she gets so little exercise I got home about 9.30 pm - now for bed - 8th.May 1867
Lovely weather during the past 3 days, rather cold first thing in the morning but not uncomfortably so - I enjoy my walk to the office in the morning, fine, from the fact of having plenty of time, so I go the longest way round for the sake of the benefit to be derived from the fine bracing air & what with my walk & an hour spent at the Gymnasium every evening on leaving the office I enjoy excellent health - On arriving home on Monday evening I found Mrs. & Miss Saunders here who staid tea & spent the evening with us, James Saunders calling for them about 9 pm - My sister Mary also spent the evening with us. I saw her home about 11 pm - Tuesday evening we also had a number of visitors, [[Rakowski-86|Miss Rekowskis]] Miss Flower, & a Mr. & Mrs. Watts friends of Bessies. We spent the evening very pleasently, all being talkative folks. Miss R. especially is very lively & witty, possesses a good deal of quiet humour & sarcasm, many would say to too a great an extent for one so young, there is something very vivacious {{Image|file=Aah-118.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/118}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-119 1193]

and attractive but must be & is {{Red|*}}not a favorite with dull folks I had a long walk seeing her & Miss F. home to Richmond. I did not notice the distance going, but going back I did anything but bless young ladies in general who had no brother or relatives to call for them & see them home - I was tired when I got home nearly 1 Am this morning ere I reached it. This evening I went to Smarts for an hour or two, took Jessie out for a strool at the suggestion of her mother - I fancy they think Im paying court to her daughter, & gave Jessie to understand that if such was the case our acquaintance must end for I have no idea or see any prospect in my present position of entertaining such a project. I mean to make my visits less frequent for the future - [11 May 1867 (Saturday)] 11 April 1867 (Saturday)
Weather beautiful, Jogging along as usual, passing my time as pleasently as possible considering the circumstances, as follows - Thursday night as per invitation, Bessie & I went to pass the evening at Mrs. Flowers, Wellington Parade, on arriving there found upwards of a dozen young [ladies] & only another young gentleman besides myself - the Flowers mustered pretty strong there being several of the Miss F's, say half a dozen, we passed the evening dancing, singing, & indulging in a quantity of small talk. Mrs F. is one of the finest pianists Ive heard, they are a very nice family & altogether I spent a very jolly night about 12 Pm when we broke up - Friday night, found Mrs. Smart at our house, on arriving home - who staid tea after which I went to see my sister Mary, found her & Clark well, did not stay long, called at Florauns on my way back found all hands preparing to go to a Dance – so I did not remain, spent the balance of the evening at home endeavouring to amuse Mrs. S- her daughter Annie came for her about 10Pm she staid but a short time - I cant say I enjoyed myself, my sister Bessie & they having rather a violent antipathy towards each other - for what reason I know not. Saturday afternoon I spent at home reading Victor Hugo: Le Miserables, & I must say Im somewhat {{Image|file=Aah-119.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/119}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-120 1194]

disappointed, its the first of his works Ive read. I see little difference between it & other French novels, a little improbable, but containing to English readers a great deal of undue sentiment, not of the purest moral order. In the evening I walked into town met Adamson, who having an entree into the Theatre Royal for two, I accompanied him, saw Madam Celeste, in a stupid drama called The Flying Dutchman, the greatest piece of rubbish I ever sat out. I was heartily glad when it concluded. Dave walked home with me, passed the Princes Theatre, just as the Governors daughters were leaving it rather amused at the manner they were treated, a carpet being laid down for their dainty feet to walk upon from the door of the Dress Circle to that of their carriage something unusual for Australians to see - May 19th 1867
Lovely weather, very slack at the office, ships arriving for some cause or another going to the other Piers, generally supposed to be from bad management, think it arises from a spirit of dissatisfaction existing amongst the Agents. Sunday afternoon I took an idea of going to Sandridge, on my arrival there seeing a vast number of people leaving the pier in boats to go & visit the Italian War Steamer "Magenta" I felt a desire no sooner experienced then put into force, taking my passage in a yacht, on payment of l/. enjoyed a pleasent sail to the vessel found great difficulty in getting on board owing to the number of boats surrounding the vessel - with a deal of trouble I at length succeeded, found her a fine vessel of some 2500 Tons Burden fitted up in every respect as an English Man of War with the exception of the officers Cabins & Saloon which are the plainest I ever was in. Ive seen many a "coaster" with a far more luxurious cabin I went all over her, from stern to stern, every[where] very neat & clean the men very happy & jolly looking, who spend their time singing dancing & smoking cigars. One thing I noticed as being very different from the conduct in our ships was the familiarity existing between the officers & men {{Image|file=Aah-120.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/120}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-121 1195]

they stand & talk to each other & appear to be quite on a level It appears they are upon a scientific cruise, having left Italy two years ago, visiting Japan & China & thru East & W coasts of S America About 4 P.m. I began to think of leaving the ship, but how, or when was the question, the vessel was crowded with people & there being only one gangway such a scene of confusion rushing & pushing, scrambling Etc. as Ive seldom ever seen before ensued that defies discription, a steam tug about 5 Pm came & took about 700 off, which cleared it a little & with a great effort I at length got into a small boat & was landed safely. I pitied the poor women & children, many of whom were dragged through the port holes - It has served me as a lesson never to go sightseeing again on a Sunday. On landing I just was in time to catch a train & then took a cab & was home by 6.30. Pm - after tea I took a walk into town on coming home I was attracted by the sound of some strange instrument, & on going to see what it was found about 50 Italian sailors congregated in the Carlton Gardens, dancing, thoroughly enjoying themselves, without the consciousness of they being in holy English eyes Sabbath breakers, & wretched wicked sinners, after they had indulged for upwards of an hour a posse of policemen came & ordered them off - they complied but not with a very good grace - for their musician struck up some marching air & they all accompanied him with ensuing vocal effects to the shock of the people of the neighbourhood who were just returning from Church - Monday evening Bessie & I went to [[Rakowski-84|Rekowskis]] at Richmond & spent the evening there very pleasently, several other young people were there - afer 12 Pm when we arived home, desperately tired. Tuesday night my sister & I went to a party at Mrs Jembeis George St. found a nice lot of people there many of whom we knew & all bent upon enjoyment, there being some excellent singers & musicians the time passed very agreeably, we had plenty of dancing, & plenty to eat & drink, & I must admit at 2 Am this morning we were very {{Image|file=Aah-121.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/121}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-122 1196]

loath to break up & go to our respective houses, which we did for my own part feeling very tired. I mean to take it easy the rest of the week. Ive been terribly disappointed by the arrival of the English Mail, deliverd on Monday, I had expected money from my father he having promised to send me some by this months mail. I have to meet a Bill for £21.10.0 next week & Ive not half the money for the purpose I dread trying to borrow & I fear I shall not be able to obtain a renewal. Im very low spirited in consequence - Wednesday I feel very seedy owing to my two nights previous dissipation, but went to my sister Mary’s for mother, who had been spending the day there, found they had company, so was compelled to stay till nearly 12 Pm. & tired enough I was when I got home - Thursday evening I went to see an acquaintance named {{Red|*}}Pittman who lives in Nicholson St he introduced me to his sister & mother & several other people there & was induced to stay the evening with them passing away the time as usual light & frivolous but very agreeable. Friday evening went to Smarts for some books they had of ours, went out with Jess to look at a house they are thinking of taking got away about 9 pm & came home & had a little chin with mother & Bessie concerning the Smarts. It appears mother remembers Mrs. S in Adelaide when she bore a another name - & the old lady does not think they are A.1. Im confident there is a mystery connected with them, but they are exceedingly cautious, & wont remember mother, when she reminded them of having seen them before & under different circumstances, though Mrs S admits having lived in the house, mother met them at at that time neighbours of ours in Adelaide. I have an indistinct remembrance of Mrs. S. having seen her on two or three occasions there - when a boy - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Richmond Paddock to play Croquet with Mr Bond & a party of Richmond people - we had a most delightful game - after which we went to Mr Bonds house {{Image|file=Aah-122.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/122}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-123 1197]

found a nice tea provided. Mrs. B. was a shipmate of ours from England & was very kind to my mother when she was confined of my late Brother Charlie - I found her a very strange, peculiar person a kind of religious enthusiast, believing in the personal reign of Christ & anxiously looking forward & believing his advent is at hand - after tea the company playd a few little simple games of cards called quartette - & sang a few songs - I asked Mrs. B. if she cared for singing & she replied she did not sing herself but hoped every one would learn so that they could be able to sing Hosannahs & praises when Christ should appear & got into a most raptuous state, her son George is a very nice young man rather a fine handsome fellow - and what is better a good Christian, without his mothers ecstatic manner - We left early, arrived home by 10.Pm. I spent my leasure time to day writing up old scraps of journal I kept years ago. I hardly know how Ive managed to keep it complete for such a length of time & under such circumstances as Ive experienced – the portion I was engaged at was when I formed the resolution of abandoning a gold diggers life, when clothed in rags broken in health & spirits without a pd to bless myself with, & a broken arm in the bargain I started in my journey from the Manuherikia (NZ) to Dunedin a distance of 120 miles in the depth of winter, Etc heavens what a contrast to my present life - I went to hear Mr Henderson preach upon the duties of ministers, a most eloquent sermon earnest & impressive In the evening I went out, took a long strool around town & Fitzroy, got home by 9.Pm - Thursday. May 23rd 1867
Weather very unsettled the last few days, cold & sleety winds, altogether far from being agreeable or comfortable - Monday night I remained at home, Mr. Tallerman called & amused us considerably with an account of his voyage home to England & out again by the Panama Route - describing his fellow passengers, & places he visited, Etc {{Image|file=Aah-123.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/123}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-124 1198]

Tuesday night I took a strool about Fitzroy, with one or two acquaintances, home early. Wednesday evening I spent very agreeably, as usual, at Mrs. Florauns, Cameron was there & a Miss Dover who sang very well I did my share, left about 11 Pm Miss D sang a fine song called the “Bridge” by Longfellow, in such a manner that I never remember being so affected with any thing of the sort. Ive heard it before, but never so well or heard a singer enter into the spirit of her subject as she did Thursday, evening not feeling well, I neglected to go to the Gymnasium Spent the evening at home reading & singing Etc - Miss Smart called & stayd for a short time. This was the day I had to meet my Bill for £21.10.0. found myself £8.10.0 short of the amount & had to borrow it, paying £1.0.0 interest for it for 4 months. I am terribly afraid I shall [be] too deeply involved at this rate to be able to meet the other Bill for £21.10.0 which falls due four months from this date – I must be very saving, heaven knows in saving what I did towards the last, I had to debar myself from many common necessities - I had hoped my father would have sent me money by the last mail, at least, the amount I had to send to N.Z. on poor Neds funeral a/c which he had promised me - Sunday 26th.May 1867
Friday was observed as a holiday being the Queens 49th Birthday. Victorians being very loyal subjects keep it rather strictly. A Review was held on Emerald Hill in the morning Bessie & I being specators, found a great crowd there, met many we knew. The volunteers mustered about 1725 men & in addition to these were 300 men regular troops belonging to the 14th Regiment, now billeted in Melbourne. The whole presented a fine appearance & a most enlivening scene, what with the gay uniforms, the finery & “Fea de joires” the Bands Etc - it was over shortly after 1.Pm but owing to the crush at the trains & other delays it was 2 before we reached home – after a good dinner to which I did ample justice to I went, alone, to the Zoological Reserve in the {{Image|file=Aah-124.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/124}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-125 1199]

Richmond Paddock, to the Odd Fellows Annual Fete, or kind of Fair. I found large numbers of people congregated comprising all grades & classes of society, amusing them- -selves in various ways, Kiss in the Rings, running & jumping & vaulting, varied by some performances on the Flying Trapeze by members of the Lenton Troupe the chief attraction for most there was the Dancing Booth, where could be seen scenes of girls & young fellows trying to do the "light fantastic" on a kind of ground resembling nice soft putty, among the spectators I noticed Mr. & [[Rakowski-85|Mrs. Dalyrymple]] & [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]], I joined them, for the afternoon, was rather annoyed by Idalia declaring, with all a pretty girls pettiness that I must dance. I knew she would not think of such a thing herself, but dared me to do so with one of the greasy looking beauties standing anxiously around longing for a partner - I, seeing a pretty girl near by I requested the honor of her hand for a waltz, she smirked & smiled & complied with such a winning grace that I didnt regret the task, tho it was frightfully hard work on such spongy ground. I got severely quizzed at, by several who knew me standing by - It was 7.30 when I left the grounds on arriving home I found two ladies, Mrs. & Miss Davies from Hobart Town, very comfortably settled in our house - they had only that day arrived & Mrs. Gotch sent them to us knowing we had a spare room to let, which they have taken. Im afraid our house is not grand enough for them accustomed as they are to their own luxurious home. Ive met them before in company when they were over last year - they are very nice people Miss D. is a charming little creature, very pretty & coquettish but a desperate little flirt, I think; a spoilt child being petted & made a deal of in a family where there are no girls but herself - They have made themselves quite at home & are as {{Image|file=Aah-125.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/125}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-126 1200]

intimate with us as if we had known each other for years. Mr. D. is one of the leading men in Hobart Town & has a deal of influence in the colonys affairs - Yesterday afternoon I called at Smarts for a few minutes from there went to the Gymnasium stayd there till 5 Pm came home & after tea Fred & I & Bessie took Mrs. & Miss Davis to Paddys Market They were delighted with the crowd & bustle admired everything & would make purchases of fruit & vegetables which of course fell to my lot to carry home, to my disgust I did not leave the house to day, spent my time reading & writing - after tea I went to the Smarts stayd for about 2 hours there. On coming home I found Mary & Clark & the Davies’s sitting down to supper spent a very sociable hour together before parting which we did at 10.30 Pm - Im suffering severely at present from a severe cold, sore throat & bad headache - [Sunday, 2 June 1867] 1st.June 1867 Sunday.
Weather fine, but rather cold. Very slack at the office no ships at the Pier, nothing to do. Monday evening spent at home very pleasently with the “Daviss” Tuesday evening left home about 8Pm. called to see Will Smart stayd with him about an hour – then came home - Wednesday evening the Davies wanted to go to the Opera but having no gentleman friend to take them they prevailed upon me to go with them - I told them I could ill afford to do so but they wanted, & were very much hurt at my not allowing them to pay for me, a providing very much against my inclinations to allow, more especially as they took my sister with them – it cost me 11/6 far more than I can afford in my present circumstances. The Opera performed was “Norma” & I must say I never heard it to {{Image|file=Aah-126.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/126}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-127 1201]

better advantage. The acoustic properties of the Princess Theatre being far superior to either of the other places in Melbourne - The celebrated duett was sung by Escott & Hodson in a style unsurpassed in the colonies. Squires was very happy in the part of Pollie & sang the music allotted him, well. The Ballet afterwards by the Leopold was trash & not worth looking at, so we left long before its termination. Thursday night after tea seeing a glare of fire as I thought about quarter of a mile distant from our house I was induced to go to it found I had been wrong in my calculation of distance the fire was in Elizt St (Collingwood) some wooden houses getting burnt, a great crowd assembled & with the the help of Fire Brigades in attendance it was soon extinguished, after which not being not far from my sisters I thought Id go & see her found they had gone to St Kilda (that is Clark & her) so I came home calling at Smarts on my way home, found them busy packing up as they are leaving the house they are living in at present shifting to Napier St Fitzroy - did not stay long – spent the rest of the evening very jollily at home, flirting with Miss D & singing Etc - Im sorry to state my dear mother is far from being well suffering from a severe cold, made worse by the extra amount of work entailed upon her in consequence of the boarders at present living with us - I wish to heaven my salary was enough to keep her comfortable without her having to slave & worry herself with the cares attending the keeping of a home together for her childrens sake - nothing tends to make me feel my poverty more than from this source, I trust a change may take place for the better in our circumstances shortly - [Tuesday, 4 June 1867] June 4th.1867
Weather beautiful - Nothing very particular occured to vary the monotony of my existance since last {{Image|file=Aah-127.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/127}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-128 1202]

writing up this apology for a journal - my mothers health has improved thank God – tho’ she is still suffering from influenza. Friday evening I spent at the Penny Readings (Carlton) where I heard some good songs sang & some excellent recitations given the place being marred considerably, by several asperants ranting & roaring in a most frightful manner It is to be regretted that at most of these meetings promulgated for the improvement of the poorer & uneducated classes a better class of matter is not brought before them - nothing seems to please better than the comic readings & songs, anything that is really good as readings from the best authors & music from the best composers, is seldom appreciated by the audiences gathered together on these occasions. The object of them should be the elevation of tone by giving them a taste for the higher branches of literature, but the whole idea of the Committees who get these performances up, is to amuse & not to instruct. The Penny Readings are becoming institutions & may be the means, if rightly conducted, of doing an immense amount of good if well managed & conducted - Saturday afternoon I went to the Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play met a number of people I knew there, the Rekowskis, [[Rakowski-85|Dalyrymples]], the Doves & many more - this place is quite a rendezvous & fashionable promenade, had a chat with Mary & Clark - got home in time for tea - after which I accompanied Mrs. & Miss Davis & Bessie to the Theatre where I left them & then went to Smarts, went out for a short time with Jessie on seeing her home I went to the Theatre found the performances not half over so had to walk about till it was until the last act when I walked into the Stalls in time to see the last {{Image|file=Aah-128.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/128}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-129 1203]

Act of Le Africain, heard the beautiful Duett - between {{Red|*}}Jms & Vasco da Gama Escott & Simonsen & the power in the celebrated aria Under the Upas Tree - my friends were in the Dress Circle so I got a Cab for them & brought them home at the conclusion - Sunday morning, I went to hear Mr Henderson, spent the afternoon reading a work upon the Albigensians or the early Christians who endeavoured to keep the worship of God as pure as possible during the dark ages - very interesting. In the evening I took Mrs. & Miss Davis to the Theatre. The place being so crowded we couldnt get inside so we all went to hear the Revd J.Taylor, Baptist Chaplain, Collins St He preached an excellent sermon - many prefer his preaching to Hendersons. I cant say I do, he is rather too probing. [Thursday, 6 June 1867] May 6th.1867 (Thursday)
Weather still keeping fine. Monday the 3st being the first Monday in the month, Clark has to attend his Lodge (Masonic) so my sister Mary makes it a rule to always spend the evening with us at home, so she came - & also Miss Flower & J.Penby, so we had quite an impromptu party, & spent the evening very pleasently. I saw them home, nearly 1 am when I found myself at home - Tuesday evening I spent at Florauns, dancing & singing Etc - 11 Pm when I got home – Wednesday night the Davis's, & Bessie & self - went as per invitation to Mr Gotchs party, found a large number of people there all friends who I have met on similar occasions before - so every body & every thing seemed agreeable & pleasent, the Host & Hostess being extremely kind & entertaining & doing their utmost to amuse their visitors, plenty of eatables drinkables, dancing - singing Etc Etc - games of forfeit & other games to pass time pleasently {{Image|file=Aah-129.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/129}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-130 1204]

nearly 4 Pm next morning when we broke up – I felt desperately tired & seedy to day in consequence of my nights work - often found my head nodding at my desk & experienced an inclination to sleep, but business had to be attended to & I was obliged to keep up - towards evening the feeling wore off & I felt I could have gone to another affair of the sort this evening - however I did not, but after tea I accompanied the Davies to Florauns, did not go inside with them - but returned home calling at Smarts on my way where I remained for about an hour, chatting with an old fellow who is living with them on a variety of subjects he got rather deep into metaphysics & not feeling in a reflective or argumentative mood I beat a retreat & came home - so I wont be long before Im in bed - & I hope sound asleep 8th June 1867 Saturday night
7th. Busy at the office, two large ships commencing to discharge making things at the Railway more lively than they have been for some days - After tea, I left {{Red|*}}home home in company with the Davies, left them at the Theatre door - hurried on to the Rly Station to catch the train for St Yarra found it just gone when I arrived had to wait for three quarters of an hour for another arrived at my destination Mr. Allens, Victoria St S.Yarra by 8.50 found my sister Bessie there. Miss A. & her are old friends & I are very much attached to each other she is one of the most ladylike & pleasent girls I ever met with. We left by the 11.10 Pm train, & I got out at Richmond had a long walk home - This afternoon I went to the Gardens, to hear the Band, came on to rain went for shelter at Marys & was {{Image|file=Aah-130.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/130}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-131 1205]

induced to stay tea & spend the evening with her & Clark some other friends of theirs named Simms dropped in & what with singing & music we spent a pleasent evening nearly 11 when I got home – June 13th.1867 Thursday
Weather very unsettled - nothing to recite but pleasure – any one reading these pages would imagine I lived for nothing else - the bare recital when looking over them seem to reproach me for my misspent time - Monday evening I went to Skinners (Bourke St) to an evening party I went early about 9 Pm, found no one there but the family, had Miss S. a fine girl, all to myself - the company arrived about 11 Pm, some of them actors, & such like - our old friend Morriss was there – after supper, rather a rough affair, I left - about 2.am, next morning - Tuesday evening - spent at home. Wednesday evening Mrs Davies invited a lot of people to spend the evening at our house. Mrs. & Miss Dove, Misses Brown, Laby & Grimwood passed a jolly evening - although we dont care to see the latter at our place - he has caused a deal of mischief & dissension amongst many of our friends. He would not dare to come but as Mrs. D. visitor, he is without exception the greatest liar I ever came across & possesses more impudence, which he hides under an Uriah Heep kind of mantle, than any dozen men I ever met with - Thursday night, staid at home - The Davies & Tom Grimwood being as thick as possible. Alf & Jim Ballantyne were here - & also an old friend of our family from Echuca Henry Edelman (a Pole) & son of that Edelman who married my old flame, of old langsyne, Jane Summers - he is a fine clever intelligent young fellow & will be a leading man some time, being a very different character from his father - who is at present in Europe. They all left about 11 Pm.- The mail arrived from England on Tuesday, bringing us a letter from father, he has not been very well lately sent me money - the law suit in reference to Aunt Lucy affair not settled {{Image|file=Aah-131.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/131}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-132 1206]

[1867-06-14-Friday] June {{Red|16th}}.[14th] 1867
14th. fine day. Busy at the office, spent an hour at the Gymnasium on leaving business, giving me a fine appetite for tea, after which I went to Smarts found Jessie at home alone spooney as ever, accused me of being distant Etc in not coming to see her oftener - very foolish of her encouraging a passion which can never end in any thing serious, came home about 10 pm spent a couple of hours very quietly at home - Edelman had been & just left as I entered, he has been long soft on my sister Bessie & she informed me, he proposed for her - but there is no sentiment in her nature & she laughed at the idea, they knew each other when they were very young, but Bessie never thought of him but as a friend, she might do worse than accept him but womens hearts are strange mysteries - 15th. Saturday fine day. Went to the Gardens this afternoon met a number I knew, spent a couple of hours very pleasently, listening to the Band - on arriving home found my couzin H.Vickerman there, having just arrived from Lancefield or that neighbourhood where he has a school & is doing well. Poor fellow he must have studied hard to have got his certificate, & it reflects very much to his credit having done so, he always was an intelligent fellow & given to studious habits - I went to town this evening met Adamson & others, “did the usual promenade about Bourke Street) home by 9.10. Pm. 16th. Sunday, I staid at home morning & afternoon reading & writing, taking advantage of the absence of the Davies who have gone to Ballarat for a few days - Harry left us in the afternoon, to return to his duties - After tea Mother & I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the Theatre - Poor old soul she is terriby knocked up with the walk I wish I had a nice little trap to take her out in occasionally - {{Image|file=Aah-132.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/132}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-133 1207]

June 20th.1867
Weather changeable & very unsettled, felt very unwell all the week suffering from an attack of dysentry Im happy to state Im recovering not from any particular care Ive taken of myself but from the result of a good constitution, for Ive been out nearly every evening this week till late. Monday evening I called at Smarts took a walk with Jessie till 9 Pm on leaving her I went to an evening Party at Mrs Florauns, all friends present spent a most jolly evening - Tuesday night I went to the Penny Readings held in the Fitzroy Police Court, heard a lecture on Hydrostatics, (do for youngsters) some comic songs sang by a Jewess, some readings with a recitation from some juvenile precocity - completed the entertainment provided for a penny. Wednesday evening I spent till 10Pm at Smarts taking Miss S & a friend of hers Mr{{Red|*}}F.Scarlet out for a walk around the Gardens on leaving there I went to Mr Gotches party, I would have gone earlier, but feeling unwell I didnt feel up the mark for much gaiety, such as is indulged in at his house - found all friends their enjoying themselves in various parlour games en-acted several charades, danced sang & played forfeits & came home with the girls in the morning, that is this morning nearly 2.am – felt very seedy & uncomfortable to day - doing penance for late hours, ? does the pain† compensate for the pleasure† - I think so, taking all things into consideration Mr G is one of the nicest & most agreeable unassuming & quiet gentleman I know, & with his wife form a most hospitable couple - they are well known & respected by all who know them. Mr G. has risen to his {{Image|file=Aah-133.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/133}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-134 1208]

present enviable position by the most persevering industry & attention to business, as a news agent the most extensive in the colonies, he has a fine house fine furniture & is rich. [Friday, 21 June 1867] 27th June 1867
Friday evening, on arriving home, found the Davies had returned from Ballarat. After tea I went to the Gymnasium, staid there about 1½ hours, on leaving met Adamson going to receive a dancing lesson at Dennings & he induced me to go with him, found about 50 people present going through their "facings", to my intense amusement, met several there I know, left about 10 pm got home early found my couzin H.Vickerman at our house. he had just arrived not to the great delight of my mother who has little conveniance for visitors now the Davies are staying with us - I sat up late waiting for their coming home which they did in company with Grimwood at near 12 Pm - couldnt get to bed until they retired to rest having to sleep on the parlour sofa - Saturday 22nd Staid home reading all the afternoon, in the evening in company with my couzin Henry (who again was in town & living with us for a couple of days) I went to the Princess Theatre, being the last night of the Lyster Opera Troupe appearing in Melbourne the place was crowded, we got into the Stalls, found every seat has been reserved for Dress Circle & not finding room, to our disgust, but not before having a squabble with W.B.Lyster, we were compelled to go out & settle ourselves in the Pit, very annoying to be thus served. 6 acts of 6 different operas were produced, we left at the conclusion of the fourth home by 11 Pm - Sunday, didnt leave home till evening, when I went to Smarts, had a long argument with an old man named Wilson who is living {{Image|file=Aah-134.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/134}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-135 1209]

with them - he is clever & very intelligent, & I spent a couple of hours very profitably (I trust) Monday night spent at home – Tuesday I sang at the Fitzroy Penning Readings (two songs) at the conclusion of the performance I met Mrs. Flower & two of her daughters. {{Red|*}}Jenvy & I accompanied them home - 12 Pm when I got home - Wednesday evening I spent at home - Thursday night, after tea I went to my sister Marys house found Clark & her at home, spent a very pleasent social comfortable evening with chatting & singing Glees 11 Pm when I arrived home - on my arrival home found my mother & sister in a jolly excited state having had a row with the Davies & who have had notice given them they must find fresh quarters tomorrow July 2nd 1867
Weather has been very unsettled last few days - making the streets & roads very dirty, through the rain, bitter cold night & day. Friday morning the Davies left us. Mother ordered them out of the house & Tom Grimwood with them, fortunate for him I was not at home at the time, ever since they have lived with us we have had nothing but dissension & un- -pleasentness with them - Tom professes to love Julia Davis & is her accepted lover, & they did not like the cool manner we always treated him. They are a stuck up, purse proud lot, had always their own way, they dont bear the best of characters, their object in coming over from Tasmania is for Julia to get a husband, no sensible man would have anything to do with her. I hope to heaven nothing will occur to break off the match, it will serve both out alike, he states he received £5 per week which is a lie if he gets the half of it its more than he does, she would make out her father is going to give her a lot of money. I know for a fact her fathers affairs are in a most unsettled state & that several "Bills" of his have been dishonoured lately - so it will be a mutual "take in" In the evening Miss Flower my sister Mary & Clark with young Jenvy called & spent the evening with us. 12 Pm when we broke up, I seeing them home, a long walk from our house to Et Melbourne {{Image|file=Aah-135.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/135}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-136 1210]

Miss Flower is a magnificient player on the Piano & a very nice person. Saturday noon on arriving home I found Mrs Lane at our house her husband is a Capt. of an American ship called the "Levanter" on their last visit to this port, we made their acquaintance some two years ago, she had no sooner landed but she came at once to see us she is a beautiful woman & one of [the] nicest mannered persons I know - In the afternoon I went to see the New Post office, corner of Eliz & Bourke St. being just completed it was open for public Inspection. Tis the finest building in Australia, without exception & cost the most money, far too much for such a colony as this, & a much less pretending looking building would have served all the requirements of such a community as this for a century to come - I also went during the afternoon to the Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play, met, as usual, a great number I knew, enjoyed the promenade, home by 5.30. spent the evening at Smarts. Sunday morning to the Theatre, owing to some indisposition on Mr Hendersons part who was unable to preach one of the Students from the Congregational College a very promising young man, & considering it was his first sermon a very creditable discourse his name is Schoefield. I did not leave the house the rest of the day staid home reading & writing - Monday the 1st. of July & being Seperation Day (from Sydney) it was observed as a holiday, the most miserable one I ever spent, the weather in the first place was wretched cold & windy. I did not leave the house till 4 pm when I went to the Gymnasium for an hour - After tea Bessie, Clark & Mary & I went to a party at Mrs. Flowers enjoyed ourselves amazingly. There was two young men there, acquaintenances, one plays the piano well (Selby) & the other (Perryman) has a good tenor voice & sang a great deal, they are rather fast kind of cards but good company at a party - Miss Flower playd in her usual brilliant style - nearly 2 am next morning when we broke up - This evening after tea I helped Fred with some of his work for an hour, after which I went for my mother, who had been spending the day at my sister Mary's - left early, home by 10Pm - {{Image|file=Aah-136.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/136}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-137 1211]

[1867-07-03-Wednesday] {{Red|13}}th [3rd] July 1867
Wednesday evening Bessie & I went to spend the evening at Clarks, called at Mrs. Floreuns on our way, stayd there a short time discussing the unpleasentness the Davies had caused amongst our hitherto friendly circle. Miss Norriss accompanied us to Clarks found the same people there we had met on Monday night at Flower’s! Spent the evening very pleasently singing Etc - left about 12 pm Thursday 4th. Very busy at the office, after business was over I went to Sandridge to see the Lanes on board their ship the "Levanter" where I found my sister Bessie who had been spending the day there, left about 9.20 rode up in a cab, bitter cold wind blowing. Friday evening I spent at home Mrs. Miss & Mr Saunders being at our house & spent the evening with us. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to hear the Band play in the Gardens not many there we knew got home about 6Pm. After tea, I went to town, met Adamson rambled about for a couple of hours, quizzing the many folks one meets on a Saturday in that very popular promenade Bourke St. Being very wet on Sunday, I did not leave the house during the day, passed the time reading & writing. In the evening I went to Smarts for about an hour, home by 9 Pm Monday July 8th. very busy at the office, two large ships having arrived at our pier spent the evening at home. Tuesday night Mr & Mrs Lane spent the evening at our house. Wednesday evening Bessie & I with Saunders & his sister, went to a party Kidgell gave at his place “Balaclava” at a long distance from our house but having the use of his “trap” & a couple of stunning horses we rattled down there in grand style found a very merry pleasent party assembled all bent upon enjoyment which we had to our hearts delight in a variety of forms. Left there about 2.30. next morning & got home about 3.30. after a long drive & so passed another jolly day - Thursday I was very {{Image|file=Aah-137.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/137}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-138 1212]

tired & seedy, after tea I went out for a little while for a walk, home early & tumbled into bed. Friday evening I went to the Penny Readings Trades Hall Carlton home by about 10.20 - The English Mail arrived yesterday no letters or news of any description from my father. We are very uneasy in consequence, he having promised to write & send us some money by this Mail, mother is considerably in debt & I have to meet my second Bill of Miss Dixons in another 2 months so fathers delay makes me feel very anxious July {{Red|*}}--th.1867
Saturday, 13th. Went to the Gardens in the afternoon to hear the Band play. In the evening I went to an Amateur Concert at Fitzroy Police Court, J Stewart sang there & others I knew – met A.Ballantyne walked home with him. Sunday morning I went to the Theatre heard a Mr. Moss preach an excellent sermon, Mr Henderson is not well. In the afternoon Alf Peel & his wife called & spent the rest of the day with us, they have just come down from Beechworth, where he had taken up a large piece of ground with the intention of settling down as a farmer but not agreeing with his partner, he gave it up & is now looking out for something to do in Melbourne - I hope he may be successful Mrs. P has had a fine little daughter since I last saw her. I walked home with them to their lodgings. Monday, 15th. Spent the evening at my sister Marys practising over a lot of Glees, got wet through to the skin coming home, through lending my umbrella to a woman I met & saw home to Carlton – so much for being too good natured - Tuesday 16th. Clark called at the office in the afternoon to ask me to take Mary to the {{Image|file=Aah-138.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/138}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-139 1213]

Philharmonic Concert in the evening, he having purchased tickets for the same & not been able to go owing to a lot of work he has to finish at his office - I went & enjoyed a treat. Mendelsohns music from Racines Athalie the chorus were well sang, best I remember ever hearing at its conclusion meeting Clark at the door I gave him my charge & having a pass into the Haymarket Theatre I went then & saw the Celebrated Actor I.Anderson who has been in Melbourne, a week in the last act of Hamlet, he appears to be a very fine actor he comes here with a good European repute, he is getting old, we Colonists only see these great actors & actresses when they are old & worn out - Walter Montgomery, another great Star has arrived so there will be considerable rivalry in the Tragic Line - Wednesday night I spent at Smarts being one of the daughters birthday a few friends had met & we managed to make the time pass agreeably - I left about 11.30 Pm. Thursday night having invited G.Bond to our house, I staid at home, he came & spent the evening with us, he is a nice pleasent fellow & excellent company, he left us about 10.30 escorting my sister Mary home who had also been spending the evening with us - Friday, July 19th 1867. Sang a song at the Penny Readings Carlton after which I called at Smarts staid there about two hours - on arriving home, found Mrs. Smart at our house, so I had to see her home - Saturday 20th. cloudy weather, afternoon went to the Gardens with Bessie, met Mary & Mr. Clark's couzin Miss [[Unwin-578|Unwhin]] [Unwin] & George Bond all went to Marys house to tea spent a pleasent evening together, a Mr Jones was there also a most comical old gentleman, 11 Pm when we reached home - Sunday morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach - In the afternoon went to Sandridge went on board several ships at {{Image|file=Aah-139.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/139}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-140 1214]

present laying alongside of the Pier, great numbers where promenading about, the Boatswain making a little harvest by conveying people backwards & forwards to the S.S. Gt Britain at present in the Bay – staid home during the evening - Monday 22nd. Dull day, busy at the office, went to the Gymnasium, after tea, I went to Smarts went out for a short time with Miss S. came away early. Tuesday July 23rd.1867 Busy in the office, fresh ships arriving, alongside of the Pier. After tea I went to the Gymnasium took Fred with me & got him to join feeling confident it will do him a deal of good, staid there till 9 Pm, then came home - Wednesday Capt Lane & his wife spent the evening with us & also Mary & Clark - Thursday evening I took a strool went down to Finley {{Red|*}}Forge Brunswick St. staid with him about ½ an hour & then came home & passed the rest of the evening with Bessie singing Reading Etc - Friday 26th July 1867. I wrote a long letter to my father during the day. In the evening Fred & Bessie & I went to Marys to spend the evening found Mr & Mrs. Lane there passed the evening away very pleasently 11.10 when we arrived home Saturday 27th Afternoon, spent in the Gardens met Mrs. Lane who introduced me to two American ladies named Pierce, very strange notioned people who were continually guessing & calculating at everything - On arriving home had tea, after which Miss Hoskins called & spent the evening with us, her couzin J.Saunders, called about 9 Pm for her Sunday. Spent the morning reading. In the afternoon I went to Sandridge called on board the "Levanter" could not stay long as I felt so uncommonly queer, & seasick owing to a stiff breeze blowing & the Bay being very rough - so I spent the {{Image|file=Aah-140.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/140}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-141 1215]

the rest of my time on terra firma, viz a wooden pier – great crowds were there like myself taking the air I fell in with the Pittman & some friends of theirs walked from the Station home with them – spent the evening at home - Mary & Clark being here - Monday 29th.[July] 1867 Very busy at the office, some ships having come alongside the Pier, spent the evening at Smarts - Tuesday July 30th. Felt very queer all day, blood out of order Etc. sore lips & bad corns, every thing proving very disagreeable,? bad temper, Spent the evening at Finlays met J.Stewart there, he sang songs beautifully. Wednesday 31st.July 1867. Still queer & out of sorts, spent my evening at home, very pleasently, young J.Jenvey called & [staid] till 11.P.m Thursday August 1st.1867 Very busy at the office, on leaving business I went on board the Levanter met my Mother & Mary with Clark & Fred there, rather a large party of us, we sat down to a fine supper consisting of what to our Anglo Saxon tastes appeared strange medley Pork & Beans with Braberry pickles (an Americans national dish corresponding to our Roast Beef & Pudding I suppose) Hot Rye Bread & short cake & sundry other odd dishes all of which I relished not so my bother Fred, who rated the whole as a regular hodge podge & condemned the spread altogether in terms not altogether becoming a visitor I was very much annoyed at what he considers plainspeaking, but what I term downright rudeness. Capt Lane was not well, so with Mrs. L we had to amuse our- {{Image|file=Aah-141.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/141}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-142 1216]

selves the best way we could we sang & played a few social games of cards Mrs. L playing the Guitar for us, so we managed to spend the time agreeably we left Sandridge by the 11.15.Pm train & rode from the Station home, bitter cold on reaching home our pleasure was somewhat damped by finding that during our absence my sister Bessie had been attacked with Measles, a neighbour Mrs Hungerland was in attendance upon her, rather strange for a girl of 19 to catch such a thing & she having had them when a child [1867-08-02-Friday] Friday 2nd {{Red|July}}. Weather very cold & frosty. Towards evening it changed & commenced to rain – during my lunch hour I visited the Public Library & was very much struck with a beautiful piece of marble statutory, called La Puberta, by L.Flaminio the most exquisite bust of a girl I ever saw, I was so struck with it that had there been none present I felt inclined to kiss the lips, it was presented to the Trustees of the Library by the Honb G.Verdon C.B. our Treasurer, who brought it out with him from England on his recent visit there My sister Bessie still continues very unwell – After tea I went with Finley to the Wesley Church, Bk St & heard T.Fielder play on the Organ. Saturday 3rd. as usual, after doing my domestic duties in the afternoon I went to the Gardens to hear the Band play. After tea took a strool about town with Rt Richardson, 10 when I arrived home - Sunday 4th. In the morning I went to hear {{Image|file=Aah-142.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/142}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-143 1217]

Mr Henderson preach at the Theatre, he delivered a spendid sermon at its conclusion I met J.Saunders & we took a walk together, conversing upon a variety of subjects, bordering rather on metaphysics, of which he is fond of - Mary & Clark spent the rest of the day with us - her & I went in the afternoon to St Marks Church to witness the ceremony of confirmation, the place was crowded with spectators, it did not impress me very much, being or having dissenting notions on such matters. In the evening I went to Smarts staid there till 9.30. Pm - Monday 5th.July 1867. Spent the evening at home, my sister Mary spending it with us, Clark calling for her about 11 P.m. Tuesday evening I went to the Penny Readings at the Fitzroy Police Court. Dr Embling M.P. in the chair, Mr. Jones M.L.A. gave an address the subject being the works & characters of Dickens the Novelist, an excellent synopsis, met A Ballantyne there came home together. Wednesday evening I went to see the celebrated actor Walter Montgomery, in the play of "Much Ado About Nothing he taking the part of Benedict, he is without exception the most natural actor I ever saw, plain brusque without the slightest tinge of rant or staginess in his playing. I really enjoyed myself & came away with quite a different idea of Benedict's character than I ever before entertained. Mr Gotch sat near me & in his company were Grimwood & Mr. Davis the latter just having come over from Hobart Town I hear, with the intention of seeing whether Tom is a fit & proper person to espouse his daughter Julia, who was living at our house some weeks ago & where she became {{Image|file=Aah-143.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/143}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-144 1218]

intimate with him ere she left for her home. Tom represented himelf as a clerk in receipt of a salary of £250 ayear & having a house besides of his own the facts are he has £100. ayear & no house – his object in attaching himself to her was with the idea he was going to (be) getting fortune with her which is also another myth. I trust nothing may present the truth of each others representations being brought to light before they are united, for the both well deserve to be swindled Thursday night, I spent at Smarts I dont go so often there are formerly, tho’ I am always pressed hard to visit them. I have given them pretty plainly to understand I mean nothing serious towards Jessie but she very foolishly makes a show of passion that could be misunderstood. I feel under the circumstances I have no right to be such a frequent visitor, but whenever I do call a promise is invariably exacted from me as to when I will renew my visit, & I am obliged to give {{Red|*}}over tho’ many times far from agreeable - I wish I had moral courage enough to give them offence - Friday 9th August 1867. Beginning to get slack at the office, ships alongside having discharged their cargo & no others arriving to fill their place. The weather lately has been shocking bad, cold, wet, & miserable - I spent the evening at Pittmans Nicholson St met several people there I am acquainted with, managed with singing music & parlour games to spend a merry pleasent evening, 11.30. when I left. – Saturday 10th/8/67 Left the office 12.30.Pm on arriving home read for a couple of hours & then went with {{Image|file=Aah-144.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/144}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-145 1219]

my sister Bessie to the Gardens, met Mr. & Mrs Lane there after the performance was over, they accompanied us home & staid tea & spent the evening with us Clark & Mary were also here so altogether we spent a happy sociable evening, more especially Mother & us having been freed from some of the anxiety attendant upon our circumstances being somewhat relieved by having received a long letter by the Mail from England enclosed within it being a Draft for £205.0.0. which he sent & not before it was wanted. I owe over £30.0.0 which I shall be able to pay, mother owes about the same amount so we purpose to put the rest in the Bank at interest until we hear whether we are to receive anything from Aunt Lucys estate, & if we do we purpose that is mother & I purchasing a house of our own, father writes in reference to the Atherston versus Watmuff case, that it has been settled & that the Atherstons have gained it, the particulars he does not know of yet, with the exception that the affair is at present in Chancery & that father has had more bother & will have to recover the balance, if any, there he believes it is worth, what I can understand of the case is that my Aunts House Keeper Rowena Atherston was left to her by my Uncle the sum of £20.0.0 per annum but through some flaw or another she has claimed £40.0.0 a year, & I believe has gained the point, to meet this a sum of of £1600.0.0 will have to be appropriated for the purpose & what with Law expenses which will have to be met out of the residue, I[m] afraid very little will ever find its way to Australia. Aunt Lucy my Uncle Henrys deceased widow, left all her {{Image|file=Aah-145.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/145}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-146 1220]

own property to some Lawyers, who are no relations of hers, the estate my Uncle her husband left, is what ~ we have had the bother about. My father is at present living in Liverpool & is enjoying better health than he has done for some time previously, he appears to be still estranged from his brother, my Uncle Joseph - I wish they would be more friendly disposed towards each other Sunday llth./67 Dull wet day, didn’t go out all day spent my time reading. In the evening I went to Smarts for a short time no one at home but the mother, did not stay long, she pumped me concerning the intimacy between Jessie & I. I very plainly told, she was very friendly towards me & hoped what she had said would not offend our acquaintance Etc Etc - Monday evening I went on board the Levanter, found my sister & Fred there, had tea & bade our American friends adieu as they sailed for Bombay the following day the Capt was very ill & Mrs. L. in a poor way in consequence - I regret their departure very much, having seen a great deal of them during their stay here, & the more we saw of them the better we liked them with mutual good wishes we parted hoping to meet again at some future time - Tuesday evening I went to the Penny Readings at the F.P.Court heard a very interesting lecture on chemistry by Gilchrist – Wednesday night I spent at the Fannegans Granite Terrace - Gertrude St. no one there but the two Miss Fs talked & chatted related all the scandal Etc, we had heard of our acquaintances since last we met, left about 10Pm on arriving home found my mother had not returned from Marys where she had been spending the day, so I went for her on arriving at Marys, found mother had left, but missed her on the road, a Mr. & Mrs. Machern were there so I was induced to remain till 12 Pm {{Image|file=Aah-146.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/146}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-147 1221]

playing Cards & conversing nearly, 1 Am when I arrived home - Thursday evening I spent at Marys trying over some songs & Glees, a Mr. 0.Laugne called & also Fred we left there about 11 Pm. Friday evening spent at home. Jms Stewart called & staid a couple of hours with us, he has a beautiful & well cultivated tenor voice & he sang a great deal for us, he has been very unfortunate since he left the Christy Minstrels, his connection with them [h]as done him no good, a sort of prejucice exists amongst people employing those who have been in public in such a line to make matters worse he married a girl who he has been long attached to, some twelve months ago, she was confined of a youngster about a month ago, all they have to live upon is his salary from her Precentorship (£50 a year) & a few music pupils he has - Saturday noon on arriving home I found my couzin H - Vickerman at our house, he came down to make a few purchases, he is getting on very well with his School, it is worth about £200 ayear to him. In the afternoon I went to Gymnasium for an hour from there I went to the Fitzroy Gardens, to hear the Band play, being a fine day great numbers were present. In the evening I went to town & rambled about. Sunday morning I went to hear Mr Henderson, Harry left us in the afternoon. In the evening I went to the Smarts no one at home but the old lady, did not stay long August 24th.1867 Been lovely weather all the week, very busy at the office, the fore part of the week beginning to get slack, we want a few more ships alongside. At the beginning of the week I received {{Image|file=Aah-147.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/147}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-148 1222]

an answer from my communication to the Registar of Births & Deaths Greymouth informing me that owing to some clerical error, my brothers death & burial had not been registered, very annoying, for my father informs me he will require the registrar to settle our affairs at home - I must make another effort to procure it - Tuesday, I went to the Penny Readings Fitzroy Police Court. Wednesday night Bessie & I spent at Mrs. Florauns. Friday night I went to the West Melb Literary Institute, where a conversazione was held. I was on the programme, to sing which I did, a couple of songs. Saturday afternoon spent at the Gymnasium after tea went to Smarts. Mrs. & Miss S. I found had gone to Ballarat, spent the evening with Jessie, left about 10 pm & came home – [Sunday, 25 August 1867] Sunday, 26th. 1867. Lovely day. In the morning I went to the New Congregational Church, built for Mr Henderson at the corner of Collins & Russell Sts I went early but found great difficulty in getting admittance (hundreds were obliged to leave in consequence) the Revd Mr. Graham (from Sydney) preached the opening {{Red|*}}service taking for his text from the 15th Chapt. Exodus & 20th verse he is a very talented & eloquent preacher, & I was well pleased with his discourse. The church cost £14,000 & it was opened with a debt of under £4,000 which is to be hoped will soon be cleared off. In the afternoon I took a walk to Fitzroy Gardens, met an old {{Image|file=Aah-148.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/148}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-149 1223]

acquaintance, Mr. English. In the evening I went to Richmond for my sister Bessie who had been spending the day at the [[Rakowski-84|Rekowskis]] we left there about 10Pm calling at [[Rakowski-85|Dalrymples]] on our way home, very tired when we arrived home. August 31st 1867
Another week passed, nothing particular to note, the weather fine, health pretty good, mind & body kept pretty well occupied, home & abroad, but on the whole not much different mentally or physically. Monday evening I spent at my sisters Tuesday at the Readings, F.P.C. Wednesday, Mrs. Floraun Mrs {{Red|*}}Dove Miss Norriss & Cameron spent the evening at our house – Thursday we had at our house another party to tea & to spend the evening - Old Mrs Bond & her two Sons William & George, with the formers wife, also my sister Mary & her husband. [[Bond-10755|William Bond]] is a middle aged man & when I saw him last, on Board the Ship “Brothers” when we were fellow passengers nearly 19 years ago, he was a thin stripling of a young man, now he is stout & looks as he is, a regular "paterfamils". [[Bond-9103|George]] is a smart young fellow, not quite so old as I am - it seems strange that after such a lapse of time our families should thus become so intimate The old lady is a most pecular religious enthusiast who is hourly looking for the coming Christ & expects to be carried up to heaven - {{Image|file=Aah-149.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/149}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-150 1224]

yet in all other respects is a nice sensible old soul - We made things as pleasent as possible & altogether we spent a most agreeable & social evening - Miss Norriss was also here & I, on breaking up, saw her home to Mrs Florauns Friday night I spent at the Penny Readings Carlton at the conclusion of the performance I in company with another young fellow, escorted two young ladies home to Hotham nearly 12 when I got myself home – Saturday. On leaving business I hurried home & in company with my sister Bessie proceeded to Richmond where we found awaiting us a large party of friends consisting of the Misses Bishop, Browning, McCathy, Hamilton & Saunders with Messrs Saunders Lennox Bond, Hamilton & the Bros Ballantynes. We took a large boat & all embarking we had a delightful pull up the river. The company being agreeable & pleasent & all knowing each other well, the day being fine & warm the scenery pretty Etc all tended to make the trip very enjoyable. We landed at Pearsons Tea Gardens, & after partaking of some refreshments returned, singing & laughing all the way down. On landing we made the best of our way home, being a long distance, we were very tired & weary when we arrived home, but after {{Image|file=Aah-150.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/150}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-151 1225]

tea we were all right, spent the rest of the evening at home. Sunday Sept 1st.1867
Lovely day, after Breakfast read an hour, then went to hear Mr. Graham preach in Hendersons New Church. In the afternoon I stayd at home reading till 4 Pm then took a walk to the Cemetery, home by 5 Pm. Mother Fred & Bessie went out to Church, so I had to stay at home, soon after they had gone, Alf Peel called, & spent the evening with us. - Sept 7th.1867
Weather has been very changeable during the week, the first three being very hot, the last three bitterly cold, Friday in particular, when we had a terrific fall of hail & in some of the suburbs, I hear, a quantity of snow fell something unprecedented in this part of Victoria - We have not been very busy at the office, owing to the few ships at the pier most of the late arrivals going to the pier at Williamstown & will do so for some months in consequence of the wool season just commencing. Monday evening Clark & Mary with Miss Ellen & Effie Flower spent it at our house Mrs. Smart was also here, & what with singing & playing we passed the time very agreeably nearly 12 OC when we broke up. I accompanied them a part of the way home. Tuesday evening I spent at Stewarts where I met his wife, she is a very nice pleasent & very pretty woman, stayd a couple of hours, singing - Wednesday, on leaving the office I went to Mrs. Bonds {{Image|file=Aah-151.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/151}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-152 1226]

Richmond, where I found my mother Bessie & Mary & Clark who bad all been invited to tea & to spend the evening, several other friends of theirs dropped in & what with singing, recitations, music & variety of parlour games we spent a happy social evening together on leaving them at about 11 Pm & not being able to come to terms with a cabman we met, we had to walk home Coming home it came on to rain very heavily & we were not long before we were nearly wet through, for myself I did not care, but mother has not been well since - it quite put a damper on our enjoyment. Thursday evening I spent at Stewarts. Friday evening I went to the Penny Readings Carlton, & sang a song at them, & to my intense disgust Grimwood was playing the accompaniments in his usual bad style - spoiling the vocalists & piano by his infernal forte playing - I hardly took any notice of him but treated him as the greatest stranger – Saturday - Spent the afternoon at the Fitzroy Gardens In the evening I went to the Theatre Royal to see Montgomery as “Shylock” & the Duke in Tobias play of the “Honeymoon” I was highly pleased with both performances more especially the first I never saw passion displayed, in all its intensity, by any actor in such a subdued & yet so earnest a manner, as he depicted it. 12 Pm when I got home - {{Image|file=Aah-152.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/152}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-153 1227]

Sunday (8th.Sept 1867) Lovely day, rose very late 9 Am, after breakfast read for an hour, afterwards went to hear Mr. Henderson, being the first time he has preached in the morning in his New Church his subject was principally in connection with its erection, taking for his text the a/c of the Building of the Temple at Jerusalem by the Jews on their return from cap- -tivity - as described by the Prophet Zecariah, read a deal in the afternoon until my eyes began to ache when I took a strool to the cemetery. Met Miss Finnegan walked nearly home with home, after tea I went to the Smarts stayd there about a couple of hours - Sept 15th.1867
Very slack at the office, no ships of any consequence having arrived during the week Weather has (been) very changeable. English mail arrived on the 10th. bringing an account of the shooting of Maximillian, Emperor of Mexico & the festivities in London attendant upon the visits of the Sultan of Turkey & the Viceroy of Eygpt - no letters from any relatives - Monday evening I went to Clarks (calling at Smarts on my way,) found my sister & mother had left, they having left word where I could find them at a Mr. Johnstons a neighbours. Went there & found them all comfortably enjoying themselves {{Image|file=Aah-153.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/153}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-154 1228]

I stay’d till 10Pm when we had a nice lobster supper & left for home. My mother is far from being the good walker she was very little knocks her up, however I got her home all right. Tuesday night I went to a concert at the Orderly Rooms Carlton – in connection with St Judes Church, & all amateurs, being the performers, & some of them very indifferent ones, did not tend to improve it, altogether it was one of the tamest affairs I ever attended, however it was well attended & I suppose that was the object desired got nearly wet through coming home, found Jessie Smart at our house, had to see her home, which of course I had to consider a pleasure - Wednesday evening, I went to hear Mr Henderson got there in time to hear the benediction. I remained in the church to hear Mr. Russell play the new Organ just erected - it is a magnificient instrument - after blowing the bellows for about half an hour I began to get tired & so decamped in company with my brother Fred & a Miss {{Red|*}}Fleewaiter saw her home & then we made tracks for our own – Thursday evening, I spent at my sisters Clark was out so we enjoyed ourselves trying over a lot of music & singing over {{Image|file=Aah-154.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/154}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-155 1229]

duets & songs, Clark came in about 10 I stayd till 11 when after partaking of some hot "toddy" I wended my way homeward, its a long walk from our house to East Melbourne – Friday evening, I spent at Stewarts. Mrs. S is very ill & in bed with rheumatic fever - I staid about an hour got nearly wet through coming home. Saturday morning feeling unwell I took a hot bath at the Baths on my way home & instead of doing me good had the contrary effect. I have been suffering ever since with a most acute headache. In the afternoon Bessie & I took a walk into town, did some shopping together, home by 5Pm. After tea Jms Stewart & I went out to Footscray to sing at a Concert there. I was too ill to sing, but my companion did to a not very appreciative audience, so I did not lose anything, it was 11 Pm when we got home. Sept 15th.{{Red|1868}} Sunday. Fine day. Was very ill this morning did not rise till 10 AM, went out for a walk about 12 met the two Miss Richardsons (Albert R’ sisters) rambled about with them for an hour or so, felt a little better on arriving home, went to bed in the afternoon after tea, went to Smarts staid there till 9 Pm, still feel very unwell - hope I shall be better in the morning - Sept 16th.1867
Monday. Went to the office this morning, feeling worse about noon I left & came home, spent {{Image|file=Aah-155.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/155}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-156 1230]

the afternoon very quietly, I managed to make a good tea & felt all right afterwards went to Smarts & stayd there till nearly 10Pm - 17th.Sept Beautiful day, very dull at the office, on arriving home found Miss Saunders & Miss MCathie at our house they stayd tea & left shortly afterwards. on their departure Alice Hungerland & my sister Bessie & I went to the Fitzroy Penny Readings, the place was crowded to excess & we were nearly suffocated with the heat & having to stand all the time made it anything but pleasent to endure. The performance consisted of a number of children from the ages of 4 to 15 who sang & recited in a most creditable manner with voice & gesture that would make many older amateurs desirous of equaling. 18th Sept 1867 Nice day but very dusty, in the evening in company with Fred I went to a Rehearsal for a Concert that is to take place tomorrow night on the occasion of the opening of the New Organ at Mr Hendersons New Church - selections from the Messiah Creation & other sacred pieces were sang very well [by] the Choir 19th Sept 1867 Thursday evening after tea, in company with my mother & Effie Flower, I went to the Concert, the place was well filled & the tone of the new organ universally was extolled. David Lee played upon it remarkably well. Exon sang Comfort Ye & Every Valley pretty well Mrs. Walker & a Miss Pitts being the lady soloists, the latter lady sang With Verdure Clad very well - {{Image|file=Aah-156.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/156}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-157 1231]

I joined the chorus during the second part of the Performance - 11 Pm when the affair terminated I believe to the satisfaction of every body. Friday evening I spent at Pittmanns, singing. Saturday afternoon in company with Messrs Marsden Bros Bruce, Bond, Clark, & my brother Fred & I with the Mesdames Norris, Phillips, Mrs. Clark & the Revd. J.Taylors two daughters, forming altogether one of the most agreeable partys I ever was connected with, we went on a pleasure excursion up the Yarra in a boat to Roberts where we landed & had refreshments & indulged in several innocent games to while away time, left there about 6 Pm landed at 7.Pm & all adjourned to Clarks where we spent the evening, after tea, in a most jolly manner - 11 Pm when we got fairly on our way home. Sunday 22nd Sept /67. Dull day went to Church in the morning, spent the afternoon reading at home, in the evening I went to Smarts to see Will who is going to N.Z. on Tuesday - 29th Sept 1867
Weather been very dull, & unsettled, raining for three days in succession, causing a total stagnation in business, very busy at the office several large ships having come alongside the Pier - I have been from home very seldom this week owing to my mother & sister Bessie being very unwell, one would be confined to her bed one day & the other the next. I have been very {{Image|file=Aah-157.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/157}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-158 1232]

anxious & uneasy on their account, in consequence I am happy to state they are a little better just now & I hope to heavens may remain so. I had the satisfaction of taking up the second Bill for £21.10s.0d last Tuesday the 24 inst, when it fell due. The other one for £9.0.0. fell due yesterday, but owing to Miss Dixon not producing the Bill of Sale she has over the Piano, I would not give her the money, which I had by me, until she got it. I believe she left it in the hands of a friend of hers named Rutherford, who is a lawyer - or something in that way, & he is at present on his deathbed & unable to attend to anything in the way of business. In company with Miss D. I went to Mr. R. house but was unable to get possession of the document Saturday afternoon, I went to the Gardens to hear the Band play. In the evening I went to the Theatre & saw Montgomery in Hamlet he is, without exception, the finest Hamlet I have ever seen on the stage, his conception of the character is thoroughly original, based upon the idea of Hamlets sanity throughout, & that his eccentriation or madness was assumed. This idea is not universally admitted, but from my own reading I can come to no other conclusion than he was quite sound in his reason but yet a little more misanthropical than most men are, arising from an exceedingly {{Image|file=Aah-158.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/158}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-159 1233]

high wrought sensitiveness - This morning I went to hear Mr. Henderson, went into the choir for the first time having been invited to join it - George Ramsden called at our house in the afternoon, stayd tea with us & he accompanied me afterwards to Mr. Henderson, heard a fine sermon on the subject of industry - I was rather amused at George, when Mr. H. in one part of his discourse alluded to several American merchants who were no less characterised to their good business habits than by their piety, & in summing up the amount they gave in charities, in dollars, my friend was engaged in rendering them in to £.s.d. George, like his father, is fond of money & can keep it when they get it – & a pretty good share they possess of the filthy lucre. 6th.Oct 1867 Weather still very unsettled, scarcely a day passes without a heavy fall of rain - all at home pretty well in health My time passed much as usual my leasure hours in idleness & comparative frivolity, my business ones busy enough - Last Monday morning, in company with G.Ramsden, I went to Dr Grey the Oculist to consult him in reference to my eyesight, after examining them carefully & asking me many questions with respect to my eyes for years past, he pronounced the weakness as chronic & consequently incurable, advised me to {{Image|file=Aah-159.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/159}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-160 1234]

use stronger glasses, than I am doing & after using them for a week, to visit him again when he [will] give me some general directions towards preserving my sight from becoming worse -? I have felt rather low spirited since, for I had had always hoped time might strengthen them. I am obliged to husband my sight now. I never read or write after dark & with the exception of the Newspaper I read in the office & an occasional glimpse of a book my mind is running to waste for want of food - in the evening I went to the Gymnasium there being a Committee meeting & I, being one of the body, I had to attend & assist in the business framing new rules & arranging exercises Etc - it was over by 9 pm. I called at Smarts on my way home stayd about an hour there - Tuesday evening I went to the Readings F.P.Court - Wednesday, I went to Dinner with G.Bond & spent the evening at his house Bruce Bros & Miss Taylor were there & the time passed very agreeably George accompanied me half way home – Thursday evening in company with Clark I went & joined A. Richardson's Singing Class 10/- per quarter, one night a week from the little I saw of his system, I like it, simple yet Comprehensive - Friday evening spent at {{Image|file=Aah-160.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/160}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-161 1235]

Smarts Saturday rained nearly all day, did not go out. Sunday, I felt very ill last night & early this morning I was taken with violent retchings & a looseness in my bowels, that utterly prostrated me. I never had such a violent attack in my life & I dont know what could have produced such a complete upsetting of my system Towards the afternoon I felt much better & took a a walk to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to hear Mr. Henderon, sat in the Choir, was introduced to Dr Miltons adopted daughter ({{Red|*}}Annoyance) saw her her home, called at Smarts for a few minutes, after leaving her - 10th.Oct 1867
Weather more settled than it has been lately Been very unwell since I wrote last - Monday I was very weak & had no appetite. Spent the evening at home my sister Mary being at our house. Tuesday morning about 2 am I was again taken bad with the same effects as before but attended with more violent pain, so much so, that I was unable to go to business & remained at home all day, felt much better toward evening & after tea, I having promised to sing at the Fitzroy P.Courts I went & kept my promise, by singing two songs I went feeling sure I should break down, but {{Image|file=Aah-161.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/161}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-162 1236]

much to my surprise, I sang nearly as well as if I had been in the best of health Wednesday I resumed my duties at the office. In the evening I called at Williams (Young St) Mr W accompanied me to Clarks, there I spent the evening Mr & Mrs. Johnston Mr Bond & Bruce were there altogether filling his not very large parlour, all were very merry & pleasent & I should have enjoyed myself much if I had been well. I left about 10.30 Pm G.Bond came halfway home with me. On arriving home I found Mr & Mrs. & Miss Williams at our house, they are awful talkers & Mr. W fairly bored me & I not being well wished they would go home, however they did not until nearly 12 Pm. This morning about 2 am I was taken bad again with violent retchings & looseness in my bowels. I felt very loath to come to business, but my fellow clerk (Adamson) wanted to go to a wedding so I did not like to deprive him of his pleasure. I prayd for night to come which it did at last tho I felt of much better. I was invited to a party at Bruces (Jollimont) my brother & sisters went but I thought it advisable to remain at home, which I did with very pleasently with mother. 13th.Oct 1867
{{Image|file=Aah-162.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/162}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-163 1237]

13th.Oct 1867
Fine weather since last I continued my journal happy to state I feel much better in health, tho’ I am still very weak. Friday evening I waited upon Miss Browning & Miss Norris & invited them to join us in a boating party for the following day, from doing this I went to the Choir Rehearsal at Hendersons Church, practised over the Hyms & Chants for the Sunday services home by 10.Pm. Saturday afternoon, in company with fifteen other persons (ladies & gentlemen) I went up the river spent the time between 3 Pm to 9 Pm very pleasently on the water, & at the Tea Gardens, singing playing Croquet & various other innocent games, we were very tired on ariving home, being such a long distance from the Boat house at Richmond, on arriving home we were very hungry & we made mother stare to see her Bread & Beef vanish ~~ Sunday morning I went to Church & in the afternoon took a strool about Fitzroy Gardens, found G.Ramsden at our house stayd tea & we all, with Bessie, went to Church, after the service was over, I met Miss Milton & saw her home, she is a strange little oddity, plenty to say yet on the whole I find her very sensible & observant I believe she is an adopted daughter of Dr Milton a strange ancient of days who at present is bedridden {{Image|file=Aah-163.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/163}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-164 1238]

& existing upon charity, she seems like a ministering angel to the old man, & his only claim upon her, I believe, is gratitude. [Sunday, 20 October 1867] Oct {{Red|19th}}[20th]1867 Weather been very unsettled during the week. I am afraid summer will never set in. The papers are full of accounts of floods all over the colony – with regard to myself I have very little to note, of interest. The Mail from England arrived at the beginning of the week bringing us a letter from my father - he is well in health but greatly bothered concerning the pending Law suit now in Chancery, it appears very uncertain whether we shall ever be benefitted by it, whichever way it may be settled. Father, when he wrote, appeared to be enjoying himself travelling about, he was in London for a few days whilst the Sultan & the Belgian volunteers were visiting there - Monday the 14th inst being my sister Bessies 20th. Birthday, we had a few friends to spend the evening with us, which we did very pleasently - Tuesday evening with Bessie spent at the Wesleyan Bazaar, K.W. St. met many acquaintances there. Wednesday, Jessie Smart & [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]] spent the evening with us, I, seeing them home after -wards - Miss S. lives in Brunswick St, where I left her to proceed on to Richmond with Miss R, much to the disgust & jealousy of Jessie, who still persists in attaching herself to me - in spite of all my coldness & protestations of not entertaining any- -thing serious towards her, it was after 11 Pm when {{Image|file=Aah-164.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/164}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-165 1239]

I arrived home. Thursday night I went to receive my singing lessons at A. Richardsons Class, over by 10Pm met Miss Milton there & saw her home - Friday evening as per promise I went to the West Melb. Literary Institute, where the members & friends had met for a social meeting. I sang twice & got more applause & praise than I was justly entitled to. - Sarah Clark playd me my accompaniments & I did not speak to her except to thank her on handing her from the stage - she seemed very nervous & I must admit I was slightly so, not only on meeting her there, but also my old friend Mrs Griffin - who stuck to me & would speak the first time this, nearly, 3 years we mutually forgave each other - for what had passed – but still determined to be as strangers whenever we meet for the future - she introduced me to three other ladies a Mrs. Glass & her two single sisters named ? Bonunlow who invited me home with them, where I spent an hour or so very pleasently singing a Duet & a song there, & partaking of a nice little little supper, just the five of us, as cosy as possible, I afterwards saw Mrs. G. to the Station – between 12 & 1 when I reached home. Saturday afternoon I went to hear the Band play on my arrival in the Gardens it came on to rain, so meeting Clark & Mary I went home with them stayd tea, on leaving them at 7 Pm I called at Smarts stayd there till 9 Pm - [Sunday, 27 October 1867] Octr {{Red|26th}} [27th] 1867
Every variety of weather during the past few days we have had hot winds & cold winds, hail & rain beautiful calm weather, & several thunderstorms {{Image|file=Aah-165.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/165}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-166 1240]

two of the latter being amongst the severest I ever experienced - Been rather slack at the office, just enough to do to keep us out of mischief & nothing more - Monday I attended Rehearsal at the Grammar School Collins St. to rehearse some anthems to be sung at a Tea Meeting to be given in our chapel next month. Tuesday evening I went to a Concert & Ball at the New Orderly Room Carlton. I took Miss Milton to the Concert at its conclusion I saw her home & returned myself to the Ball where I danced till 2.30 am next morning - I was tired next day, but in the evening I went to Smarts for an hour. Thursday I went to the Singing Class @ Richardsons, being a rough night, I very few were there in consequence, I saw Miss Milton home - she lives near the place so we took the longest way round to reach her home – 11 pm when I reached home myself, Friday evening after an hours gymnastics, (my usual quantum about 4 times a week) giving me a fine appetite for my tea after partaking Fred & I went to the Rehearsal at the Chapel I am getting already tired of the choir, it is very badly constructed the tenors have to sit on one side of the organ & in such a position as to prevent anyone from seeing, & only with difficulty hearing the minister. We rehearsed the Hyms for Sunday next & also a couple of Anthems for the Tea Meeting. 10 pm when it was over. Took me nearly half an hour to reach home {{Image|file=Aah-166.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/166}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-167 1241]

I received a most affectionate letter from Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] he is still living in Dunedin & is in the employ of the Govt. if there is such a thing in existence there, which I doubt judging from the newsps. Jim states he is very unsettled as regards his worldly position, & proceeds to tell me of his spiritual condition which he considers of more importance than all the riches & wealth of this world - I wish I was in such a happy contented frame of mind, his wife & four children are all well with himself, it was a long letter & yet contained little news, some people can write so much upon trifles - Spent yesterday after- noon at home doing jobs about the house & Garden, in the evening I went for a short time to Smarts - I went to Church morning & evening to day, spent the afternoon reading - Nov. 3rd 1867 [1867-11-03-Sunday] Weather tolerably fair the last few days being very hot, very little doing in the way of Business in consequence of the Races which have taken place the past 3 days - great excitement prevails also on a/c of the arrival of Prince Alfred in Adelaide where he is getting feted to his hearts content & the Adelaide people enjoying & making holiday. Our turn will come when he honors Victoria with his presence – he is expected to arrive here in about a fortnights time great preparations are being made to receive him right loyally - Monday evening went to a Rehearsal at the Church - Tuesday evening I spent at Marys calling on my way at Smarts where I stayd about half an hour - Wednesday evening, I went to a {{Image|file=Aah-167.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/167}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-168 1242]

wedding party at Mr Kerrs Johnston St. his daughter Jenny was married to a Mr. Berriman, it was 9 Pm when I went & about 3 am next morning when I left. I met a great number there I knew amongst the number Sarah Clark who I had not spoken to for 2 years, owing to an unpleasent little circumstance that occurred. We were friendly towards each other, & she seemed inclined to renew the acquaintance as familiarly as formerly, but I was not so inclined & treated her just as I did any other lady present I enjoyed myself very much, but what with the singing laughing eating & drinking Etc I felt very unwell next day - managed to catch a cold & a very nasty sore throat verifying the old proverb, after pleasure comes pain - a proverb that does not hold good in every case - Thursday night I went to Richardsons for my singing lesson, he not being well the class was postponed. I met Miss Milton ({{Red|*}}annoyance) there & took a pleasent walk through the Gardens with her, after 9 Pm when I saw her home. Friday night, my cold being so bad I remained at home. My sister Mary spent the evening at our house. I saw her home Saturday afternoon went to hear the Band play in the Gardens – spent the evening at Smarts - This morning & evening I went to Chapel, heard Mr Henderson preach {{Image|file=Aah-168.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/168}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-169 1243]

an excellent sermon on each occasion – spent the afternoon reading - on leaving church this evening I met Jessie Smart, walked home with her, she is going to Geelong tomorrow. I am not sorry for she there may among new scenes & new friends learn to forget & cease to think of me - I never saw a girl so infatuated as she is - nothing I can say or do will wean her from affecting her partiality toward me - Novr 10th.1867
Weather fair the past week, the town & country in a great state of excitement owing to the arrival of Prince Alfred, (the Queens second son) in Adelaide where he arrived last Sunday evening. The papers are full of his reception there - & the reception they we purpose giving him in Melbourne where he is expected to arrive on the 18th.inst. nothing but reception Committee meetings, illuminations, triumphal arches, Balls, Fetes, Etc form the topics of conversation in every circle. Monday evening my sister Mary with Mr & Mrs. Drake & George Bond spent the evening at our house Tuesday evening, Fred & I went to hear the Rehearsal of the pieces to be sang at the concert given by the Philharmonic Society when the prince arrives, some of the pieces were well sang & are very beautiful - Wednesday evening our Tea Meeting took place. I took Mother to it, it was held in the Grammar School & being far too small for the number it was very crowded, rendering everything very uncomfortable {{Image|file=Aah-169.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/169}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-170 1244]

as it was impossible to get seated near anyone we knew, after the tea was over, everybody adjourned to the Church. I went into the Choir & assisted in the Anthems that were sang, we enjoyed ourselves very much in the choir, not paying much attention to what was being said in fact is was impossible to hear owing to the badly arranged manner the Choir is constructed - altogether it was the poorest Tea Meeting I ever attended. Thursday evening, I went to Richardsons Class & had a good practice – Friday evening, Bessie & I went as per invitation to Mr. I.Lloyds party given at his fathers quarters in the Police Court, Swanston S. met a great many there we knew, spent the time as is usual on such occasions, singing & dancing, & stuffing our- -selves with indigestible luxuries, which were provided in abundance - I never went to a party where there was so much convenience for giving an affair of the sort there being so many fine large rooms, the Ball Room (impromptu) is a magnificent Hall, used on certain occasions as a Court house - I enjoyed myself very much - my pleasure being during one Dance slightly marred by my partner a Miss {{Red|*}}Grinsell fainting in my arms - creating quite a little sensation in the rooms - it was 4 am when we broke up making it nearly 5 when we reached home, broad daylight, fortunately the day was the Prince of Wales Birthday & a holiday so I staid in bed till 10 am. Lloyd & Baker called upon me at 11 & staid till 1 pm, on their {{Image|file=Aah-170.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/170}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-171 1245]

departure, Bessie & I dressed & went to the Athletic Sports, held on the Melb' Cricket Ground – the day was very hot & feeling rather seedy, from my previous nights pleasure I did not enjoy myself so well as I would otherwise have done - there was some very good running & jumping & on the whole, managed to pass the time away agreeably, chatting & walking about with different acquaintances I chanced to meet on the ground. We were very tired on arriving home, went to bed early This morning & evening I went as usual to hear Mr Henderson, his sermon this evening was one of the most impressive I ever heard him deliver & I sincerely hope many hearts were touched by it, at the conclusion of the service I met Miss Milton & walked home with her – I received a long letter from Jessie Smart on Wednesday from Geelong full of sentiment Etc - I replied to it on Friday & pointed out to her the folly of writing & nurturing a passion that can have no happy results. I trust she will take the hint & discontinue her communications - Novr 17 1867
Weather very hot all the week? a change yesterday, when it c in the morning we had a most refreshing shower of rain. The English Mail arrived on Thursday, very little news, we received a letter from Aunt Sarah in which she states she has had an indirect communication from {{Image|file=Aah-171.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/171}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-172 1246]

some source or another the my Uncle John Thomas Watmuff who has been absent & not heard of for 16 years, is now some- -where in Australia & requests us to make some enquiries about him - he was a very eccentric & very wild & reckless in his youth took to the sea, was a cadet on board Nelson's Ship "Victory" Portsmouth, served & was wounded in the battle of Naverino more than once the sole survivor of shipwrecks – I received a letter from Jessie Smart on Wednesday -(in reply to the one I sent last week,) in which she upbraids me & accuses me of being cruel & heartless Etc. in my writing in the manner I did, this arises simply from the fact that I stated in my letter the apparent impropriety of her desiring to write to one, who had never be(en) toward her more than a friend so I trust all is over between (us) not that anything existed between us more than mere friendship at least on my part - Monday evening Miss Baker spent the evening at our house she left about 9 pm when I went to the Ball given by the Committee of the Carlton Penny Readings, to those who had contributed to the entertainments. I stayd till nearly 1 am had a few good dances, all of which I enjoyed. Tuesday evening spent at Pittmans, singing. Wednesday evening spent at Clarks. Thursday, went to Albert Richardsons Singing Class, at its conclusion I saw Bella Milton home, on leaving her I passed Pittmans place saw Mrs & Miss P. under the Verandah. they insisted upon me going inside which I did met a Miss Lee there a beautiful singer, who sang several songs in a style seldom met with by an amateur. I sang two Duets with her. 12 Pm when I arrived home, found my mother had not arrived home from Clarks where she had been spending the day so I started to fetch her, met her about half way in company with Clark - 1 OC when I got to bed - Friday evening I went to sing at the Abbotsford Penny Readings, there was a very meagre attendance. I was {{Image|file=Aah-172.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/172}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-173 1247]

introduced to some very [nice] people there, among the number a Miss Wright & Mrs. Morgan I went home to the formers residence stayd there about an hour singing Etc. This infernal singing is becoming a bore - if a person is supposed to be able to sing a song, wherever he goes the first request is do sing something - no excuse is accepted, & one is obliged to put up with a bad accompaniment, at other times a not over appreciative audience & submit to all manner of criticisms which are not at all times the most pleasing - on arriving home I found my old friend Bob Hooper, who had just arrived from Bendigo & was enroute for N.Z. by the Omeo which sailed yesterday, he informed me his reason for doing so & leaving Victoria was, because his Mother had, in her old age, got married, to McCaffrey - who is about 15 years younger than she is - they are living on Sandhurst at the old hut on the hill in Long Gully – Bob stayd all night with us when I bid him adieu in the morning - & wished him every prosperity he is a fine manly spirited young fellow, & a great favourite of mine from his boyhood up - Saturday afternoon I worked in the garden for an hour or two, afterwards went to town & stayd an hour at the Gymnasium, in the evening I took my sister Bessie to see the illuminations in the course of preperation for Monday week next, some of them are most beautiful those especially at the public buildings, Banks Etc in Collins St. the town was crowded with people bent on the same errand as ourselves, & all we met seemed to think the Prince will be very much gratified by the preperations in progress for his reception - This morning & evening , as usual, I went to hear Mr. Henderson, rather annoyed to find my brother & self the only gentlemen present – few care about being connected with the choir as it is now situated & conducted - I spent this afternoon in a pleasent strool to the cemetery - {{Image|file=Aah-173.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/173}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-174 1248]

Novr.22th.1867
Weather very hot & sultry during the week hot weather set in in earnest with all it accompaning inconveniences, hot wind & hot sun, & dust flies by day & mosquitoes by night, Etc - Monday evening spent at home excepting for about an hour when I went to the Gymnasium. Tuesday spent in a similar manner – Wednesday Bessie & I with Mary & her husband went & spent the evening with G Bond found a pleasent party met there enjoyed ourselves very well broke up at a late hour tired when we arrived home, Thursday evening went to my singing class, met Clark & Bond there, made arrangements with them about getting a conveyance to take mother & my sisters to see the illuminations on Tuesday night & for interesting other sights that are to take place shortly Friday evening the “Galatea” was telegraphed off the Otway great preparations are in progress to meet the vessel with its Royal Captain to morrow at the Heads, where a steam flotilla consisting of some 20 vessels are to form an escort to their anchorage in the Bay. I had anticipated having a few days holiday, but all my ideas in that respect were dissipated, by being informed this evening on leaving the office with all the other clerks in the Goods Dpt. that we should be required to assist in the passenger Traffic tomorrow, our duties to commence at 7 am, such meanness such a dog in the manger kind of spirit I never experienced before I know no more about the duties necessary than the greatest stranger. I cannot express the intense disgust I feel on the occasion, so different from what I had expected. I, with others have being forward to the Princes arrival with such pleasure, in the hope of enjoyment, & now to have to be put to do menial porters duties is rather too bad - {{Image|file=Aah-174.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/174}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-175 1249]

Novr.26th.1867
The last four days have passed away as a dream. I feel now after the Bustle & excitement attending the Prince Alfreds arrival, like one who after being crushed in a crowd had managed to escape & get into an haven of rest. The Prince was met at the “Heads” by a steam flotilla which accompanied the “Galatea” to her anchorage, the day being observed as a holiday those who tried to do business met with little success, nearly everybody turned [up] those who were able went in the vessels on the Bay those who remained behind lined the beach from St Kilda B to Brighton, the Piers not only at Sandridge but at Williamstown were covered with people eager to see the pageant - Monday was “the” day, when he made his landing, being received on our pier, by all the elite of the Colony Sandridge was crowded with people, windows & Balconies & Stands being full of people eager to display their loyalty Etc - A carriage here met him which heading a procession, the like of which (h)as never been seen or ever will, Im thinking, again in Victoria, in which he entered conveyed him to Melbourne. The procession consisted of Volunteers, Military, & the various Orders of Freemasons - Odd Fellows, Foresters, Etc. Etc. the road was lined with people & at Emerald Hill where a Triumphal Arch was erected, the procession stopped & an address was read from the Borough & some 3000 children sang the National Anthem after which he proceeded on his route. Princes Bridge was beautifully decorated with Arches & Flags, the procession then proceeded to along Swanston St. {{Red|*}}into the Town Hall, where he was met by the Mayor (Mr Butters) who read an address, some 10,000 children arranged in Collins St sang the National Anthem when he moved along Collins St as far as William St which he turned into & then came down Bourke St to the Parliament Houses & on to the Treasury where he alighted & some more addresses were delivered after partaking of some refreshment, he left for Toorak. It would be impossible for me to describe Melbourne & its streets with all their trappings & finery, its tens of thousands of spectators, arranged wherever it was possible from ground to roof to obtain a sight of his Royal Highness {{Image|file=Aah-175.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/175}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-176 1250]

the excitement & Bustle & intense enthusiasm. Bands of Music flaunting banners of every country under the sun, decorations wreaths of evergreens, transparencies, well dressed & orderly people everywhere - all formed such a sight as has never, been witnessed I dare say, never will be again in Australia at least in this century. Tuesday, a Levee was held in the Exhibition Building & some 3 or 4,000 gentlemen were presented to him In the evening the town was illuminated & turned out a perfect success - a blaze of triumph, as soon as darkness set in, the various premises, public & private, throughout the city were lighted up & by a little after 9 Pm the whole city was a complete mass of variegated light. In the principal thoroughfares it was like walking through a picture gallery so numerous & varied were the transparences, nearly every building was illuminated the majority of them, with exquisite taste. His Highness, with the Governor, Honbl.-Yorke, Lord Newey made the circuit of the city in a carriage & pair escorted by mounted troopers, he wore a Glengarry cap & looked astonished at the sight which presented itself everywhere he was loudly cheered on his progress - it was after 2 a.m. before it was all over & the crowd found their ways to their respective homes - With regard to myself, I had little share in fun & amusement attending these great doings. Saturday morning, I had to come on Duty at 6.30 Am & was stationed at St Kilda as an assistant porter doing concourse platform duty - all day, to my intense disgust. It is a shame the Company should have done such a disgraceful thing as to insist upon gentlemen doing such menial duties however, I made the best of it, opening carriage doors, & checking tickets Etc - In the afternoon I took a strool on the Esplanade it being crowded with people. I met my mother & sister who had been spending the day at a friends, all were out looking at the Marine flotilla coming in, presenting a very animated & pretty sight. I left St Kilda at 7.30, & came to town {{Image|file=Aah-176.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/176}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-177 1251]

in company with a fellow clerk who was not very sober. We went into an eating house & had a good meal of steak & onions, met my brother Fred there doing the same, he had been to Queenscliff in the “Hero” & had just returned, after finishing, I went up to Carlton with my friend, putting him on his way home - after which I returned into town found the streets densely crowded & nearly all the places illuminated - I was very tired & knocked up, & thought Id go home when I met Miss Wright & her mother & while conversing with the former, the latter managed to get separated from us & we saw no more of her, much to my annoyance for I had promised to go to St Kilda & bring my people home from there during the evening. Miss W. wouldnt think of being left alone so I had to stick to her & see her home 11 pm when I did so, she is a nice girl & a good merry companion, if I had not been so tired I should have enjoyed her society much better than I did. I got home about 11.30. & was not long before I was soon sound asleep - Sunday, morning being tired I did not rise till nearly 10 am. after breakfast being too late for Church, I strooled about town looking at the preparations being made for the Princes reception on Monday. In the afternoon I went to hear the Revd Oswald Dykes, the great Presbyterian minister who preached in Hendersons church on this occasion on behalf of the Ladies Benevolent Society - the church was crowded to excess scarcely standing room to be obtained - The discourse was a most eloquent one & had the desired effect of drawing a large collection from those there - In the evening Miss Baker - & Dick Ryland called & stayd tea with us, after which we parted. I got down to Church too late to get in so waited outside until it was over when I met a lady friend & saw her home - found Clark & Mary at our house who stayd supper after I got home - Monday morning at 8 am I had again to go on duty at St Kilda - stayd there & running up & down the line in the guards van till 12.30 when I got out at Emerald Hill thinking to see the Prince & procession pass by, but was disappointed saw the latter, the former having passed some few seconds {{Image|file=Aah-177.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/177}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-178 1252]

before my arrival. I met here my old Bendigo acquaintances John Drysdale & Price, we walked across the swamps together & managed to get into Collins St & into a good position to see the Prince when he passed there, which we did, got a good glimpse of him, he is a fine manly looking young fellow, & appears to be hardy & well tanned by the sun it must have been very gratifying to him receiving such an ovation on his passing. I lost my friends, but alone I soon reached the Treasury, got another good sight of him when getting out of his carriage. I was glad to get out of the crowd after this, which was thicker at this spot than any other place in town - I walked back to the station found my mother & Bessie very comfortably seated on the stand there that had been erected for the use of the clerks & their families, only stayd a few minutes with them & then went to resume my duties at St Kilda in the train going down, I saw Miss OLeary & Miss Hutly two very pretty girls & on arriving at our destination seeing they were alone, I proposed to a fellow clerk of mine joining their company, all being agreeable we went down to the beach & had a delightful walk to the Red Bluff - made enjoyable by the pleasent company & far from the noise & bustle we had just left, on returning to the station at 5.20 Mr Griffin informed us he could get along without us, & we might go if we liked so I came into town & again joined my ladies walked to Collingwood with them when I left them & went to East Melbourne to Clarks, where I found all our family assembled after a good wash & a good tea I felt a deal livelier & the lot of us sallied forth into Fitzroy Gardens which we found beautifully lighted up with coloured lamps, thousands of people were enjoying the scene {{Image|file=Aah-178.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/178}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-179 1253]

after rambling about for some time we returned to Clarks & partook of a good supper, the Miss Flowers being there - after finishing we left for home reached it about 12.30, tired & weary.- To day, Tuesday, I went to the office found the sheds closed, & no business to be done, an order came for the clerks all to go on the platforms along the line & resume their duties there - a few of us I among the number did not go, for having a deal of back work in the office to do, I was determined to do it in preference to doing porters work - I got out a great number of accounts & remained until 5Pm when I came away, after tea, I & Bessie & Fred went to Clarks met my mother there & Mr Bond - we had engaged a car between us to convey us through the town to see the illuminations, at the price of £1.0.0 we get into it & started but on reaching Spring St we found it impossible to proceed further the road being blocked up with conveyances of every description, after making many attempts, all to no purpose, we were compelled to turn back, we thought we might succeed in effecting an entrance at the other end of the town so drove for Spencer St. found the entrance to it in Flinders St blocked up, & such a Babel of sounds children & women crying & screaming, men cursing & swearing & hollowing horses plunging & kicking, wheels locked Etc, so frightened our ladies that we resolved, seeing no chance of witnessing the illuminations in a vehicle, to get out & walk about the town, a happy idea & one I wish we had con[sidere]d before engaging a cab & such an expense. My mother I put under my own charge & managed to pilot her about in spite of her infirmities, so that she enjoyed the sight well We roamed about among the crowd, saw the Prince and criticized all we saw as much as anybody, until getting tired we left town with reluctance, about 11.30. & made for home found all safe & get to bed. {{Image|file=Aah-179.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/179}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-180 1254]

[1867-12-01-Sunday] {{Red|Novr.30th}}.1867
Weather very hot the last few days - not making it very pleasent to the holiday folks who have been abroad during the late demonstrations given in honor to the Prince. Wednesday, busy at the office doing my work as usual in the evening I went to a wedding party at McColls in Moore St. Fitzroy. Miss M (a friend of my sisters), married a young fellow named Barrfoot, about 25 or 30 visitors were present, all crowded in a small room, who tried to be agreeable & make things pleasent I cannot say I enjoyed myself very well, not caring much for the class of people present, my sister & I staid there until about 2 Am next morning – the next day Thursday, was an awful hot day, a hot north wind blowing accompanied with clouds of dust. I went to the office, as usual although the day was observed as a general holiday, being the day of the Free Banquet was to be held in the Zoological Gardens on the Bank of the Yarra opposite the Botanical Gardens. We managed to get away about 2 Pm & {{Red|*}}vis[i]t[e]d the place found about 50,000 people present all anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Prince before commencing proceedings the day was [hot] & the people tired hungry & thirsty, they were not disposed to wait longer, & instead of the committee preserving order & method in the distribution of the “good things” provided they found themselves quite unable to do anything & to make things worse, the Prince never came at all, a fact very much to be regretted for if he had, something like order would have been produced, but as it was, there was nothing but rushing pushing crowding & confusion everywhere & before 3 Pm not an atom of food, eatible was to be obtained I was fortunate enough to get a small loaf of Bread which I divided among my friends the most of whom reserved {{Red|*}}their share as a momento of the great failure - every body was disapointed & disgusted & expressions of regret were universally uttered, the fountain of wine was rushed {{Image|file=Aah-180.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/180}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-181 1255]

by a lot of low rabble who fought & tumbled & wasted the liquor in a most disgraceful manner & so ended about 5 pm, what all classes had looked forward to since the idea of the affair became known as to be the best & greatest climax of all the “great things” the public was to share in during the Princes visit amongst us - it was a miserable sight to witness the thousands of people with numbers of children, most of whom had been on the ground for hours in the boiling sun unable to get so much as a drink of water unless they went to the River as many did. Adamson & I were together all the afternoon & I dare say few enjoyed themselves more under the circumstances than we did having no one to look after but ourseves, we roamed about meeting many we knew, chaffing & joking on the disappointment so apparent on many countenances - I left about 5 Pm & came home, went to sleep for a couple of hours & at about 9 Pm Bessie & I went to a party at Williams's (Young St) where we found a large number of people assembled, most of whom we knew & all bent upon enjoyment, & plenty of it came to our share - we danced & sang, eat & drink Etc. as is usual on such occasions, until 4 am the following morning, felt rather seedy the next morning, but had to go to business. We were not very busy, so I left about 2 Pm & came home, having a look on the way at the preperations completed for the Prince to lay the foundation stone at the New Town Hall corner of Collins & Swanston St - which said event came off I understand with great eclat, on arriving home I went to bed & slept till near 7 when after partaking tea Bessie & I went to the Library & mixed in the crowd assembled there to hear the singing of the Germans who had get up a Torch light procession & honored the Prince with their escort from the Exhibition Building, where a grand Civic dinner had been held, to Princess Bridge. I saw the procession but did not hear the singing owing to my sister getting so nervous & frightened, being in the crowd so much so I had to take her from it to my intense annoyance We met Miss Wright & her sister & joining together we got {{Image|file=Aah-181.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/181}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-182 1256]

upon the Grand Stand at the Town Hall & there saw the procession pass. It was a strange, wild but picturesque sight, & a very unusual one on British soil. 800 hundred persons were supposed to have taken part in it. it was nearly 11 Pm when it was all over, 12 when I got home having accompanied Miss W. home. Saturday 30th inst – In the afternoon in company with the Bros. Ballantyne – Miss Bishop & Miss Walters & my sister took a Cab & went to Richmond where we hired a boat & had a fine pull up the river to the Tea Gardens, where we indulged in all the luxuries obtainable there & had a good romp & bit of fun Etc. We returned arriving home by 6.30.Pm In the evening I went down town, met Adamson & took a strool together home by by 10 pm - & so has passed one of the most exciting & jubilant weeks ever Victoria has known or will again in this generation I think Decr.8th.1867
Weather been somewhat varied during the week, but fine on the whole. The Prince left Melbourne last Monday & is at present on a tour through the Western districts where he is receiving ovations at every settlement he passes through. Melbourne has lapsed into its original channel since his departure, the people having had a surfeit of royalty the preceding week - Monday evening I spent at home my sister Mary & Miss Cass being here. I saw the latter to the railway Station late at night. Tuesday night I went to see the Japanese Troupe of Jugglers at the Haymarket Theatre, they do some extraordinary feats of skill, in top spinning & balancing Etc. Wednesday evening after tea, I went to Mary's she was out, stayd about an hour with Clark - Thursday, I went to Richardson Singing Class, at the conclusion of the lesson I accompanied Miss Pittman home, stayd at her place some two hours in company with several others there, very {{Image|file=Aah-182.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/182}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-183 1257]

pleasently together, singing Etc. Friday evening, went to Hendersons thinking there was to be a Rehearsal, finding the church in darkness I concluded there was to be none so came home found Clark & Mary here who spent the evening with us – Saturday, afternoon I went to hear the Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, met Mary & Clark & wandered about the grounds with them until 5.15 pm. on reaching home found Miss Hoskins there who stayd tea & spent the evening with us, I seeing her to the Rly Station at 11 Pm. This morning & evening I went to hear Mr Henderson, he preached one of the finest sermons I ever heard to night (All is vanity Etc) This afternoon I took a long walk to the Botanical Gardens, not having been there for the last 3 years. I noticed many changes & improvements since my last visit, they are without exception the most beautiful laid out grounds in the colony & it must astonish a stranger to find so many rare & exquisite plants, shrubs & trees, Etc as have been collected by our clever & talented Botanist Dr.F.Mueller. I was very loath to come away, having only taken a cursory glans of things. Decr 15th 1867
Weather very unsettled this time of the year. Monday & Tuesday it was very hot Wednesday, Thursday & Friday very wet & cold We have been very slack at the office the last few weeks, but are now likely to be the reverse for some weeks to come, owing to the great number of ships which have arrived & placed alongside our pier - The Prince has been absent nearly all the week at Ballarat, he is at present in Melbourne having arrived here on Friday, he purposes visiting Castlemaine & Sandhurst next week - Monday & Tuesday night I stayd at home except for a short time when I accompanied Adamson to Cleelands to choose a fancy Dress for the coming Fancy Ball, to be given by the Corporation on the 23rd inst. through the kindness of Clark who succeeded in obtaining an invitation for Bessie & I, we purpose honouring the affair with our presence. Wednesday & Thursday night I spent at home. Friday night I attended a rehearsal at the Church owing to the sparce attendance I would not stay - it is to be regretted that members take such little interest in the Choir considering what a fine Organ & congregation their is in connection with the Church some object to the Organist (Mr Russell) some to the secretary (Brown) {{Image|file=Aah-183.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/183}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-184 1258]

& others to the ill arranged way the Choir is formed - being behind the minister & situated badly for listening to the preacher - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens to hear the Band play, in the evening I went down town for a strool, met the Miss Bomenlaus went home with them to ABeckett St stayd at their house till 11 pm very pleasently singing Etc - To day morning & evening I went to the Church as usual in the afternoon I spent reading the life of G.Whitfield. Decr 22nd 1867
Weather vey fine all the week. Spent my leasure time much as usual, with little profit to myself or anybody else. I often feel ashamed of myself at the anomalous state I have got into, living for apparently without an object except for pleasure & living for ones one pl enjoyment seems selfish & not the thing in my eyes - Monday evening I in company with Marsden went to the Varieties spent a jolly evening there heard some good, bad & very indifferent singing. Tuesday night went to a party at Mrs. Flowers 3 am when we got home next morning Wednesday evening spent at home - Thursday was a fearfully hot day, the Thermometer standing at 105^º in the shade went to the Singing Class in the evening, the last night of of the quarter, on my way home I called & stayd for about an hour at Pitmans. Friday night I went to my sister Marys, found Mother there who stayd all night with her as Mr. Clark had gone on a pedestrian tour to Lillydale he returned yesterday afternoon, when I met him in Fitzroy Gardens went home with him & tried on one of his Volunteer officer suits of a fashion now obsolete found it fit me well, so I intend wearing it tomorrow evening at the Fancy Ball, after tea we went together to the Philharmonic Concert given at the New Exhibition Building - the place was crowded, {{Image|file=Aah-184.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/184}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-185 1259]

& on a Dais at the end of the Hall sat the Prince, the Governor, & Elliot Yorke & other notables - the choruses of Athalia were the best I ever heard, the singing of the St Kilda Glees Scy - was also good, although taken together, I have been at many a better concert - at the conclusion of the concert, I met Miss Bonumlaw walked home with her, after 12 when I reached home - This morning & evening went to Church, spent the afternoon strolling about in company with Marsden and Jones - Decr 29th.1867
This has been a holiday week being X mastime, but I must say I passed it in the most quiet manner, from the fact of not having any money to indulge in any fun or join in any parties or picnics, however I had one nights pleasure which more than compensated me for any loss of enjoyment I may have missed. I allude to the Fancy Dress Ball which event took place on Monday night the 23rd inst. Bessie & I went to Clarks where we dressed, left his place about 9 pm, in a cab, we engaged, for the night – Mary was dressed as a Spanish lady, Bessie going as Colleen Bawn Clark went in the 1st Vict Uniform, I went in a dress of his, when Captain of Engineers, which looked very well on me not very gaudy, but good – on entering the rooms a most indescribable scene presented itself, upwards of 3000 people, some dressed in the most gorgeous manner & all in fancy costumes according to the tastes, or means of the wearer, the latter not having been taken into consideration much, for I have heard many a lady had pawned her piano to purchase dress for the occasion however none appeared to care much about the ways & means of coming for every body appeared happy & delighted & free from care – costumes of all ages & nations could be seen, characters from plays, Books, & poems, Harlequins, Clowns, Pantaloons {{Image|file=Aah-185.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/185}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-186 1260]

Fairies, Gods & Goddesses, sailors & soldiers Etc Etc. The Prince, Vicount Newey & the Governor Etc. were there – few there ever witnessed such a scene or ever will again I think our party left about 5 am the next morning & it was amusing being broad daylight to see the motley crowd wending their way to their respective homes in their strange costumes, all looking vastly different from what they did a few hours before in the gaslighted halls I was terribly knocked up the following night having had to do a hard days work at the office, so I stayd at home & was not long out of bed. X mas morning Fred & I went to St Peters Church & heard some good singing, in the afternoon we took a trip down to Sandridge, roamed about the pier & visited a number of ships. Clark & Mary & Mr. & Mrs Poynton (Clark’s sister & brother in law) spent the evening & stayd supper at our house - Boxing day, I had to go to business in the morning, so that I was unable to go or make any arrangements for joining in a picnic or anything of the sort, however I left the office about 10 pm & took a pass for the Rly visited several stations on the line, pulled up at last in the Survey paddocks where great numbers of picnics were being held among the number the German one. I met many there I knew so I managed to enjoy myself pretty well after all. I left about 6 pm & by train got to the Cricket Ground where I alighted & made for home where I found Miss Baker spent the evening very quietly saw her home about 11 pm, when I got back again - Friday evening I went to Rehearsal at the Church, walked home with Marsden & Miss Brown - Saturday on leaving the office I went to Sandridge to see the Regatta found very few on the pier & the sport, rather slow. I left at 3 pm & came to the Fitzroy Gardens where I met my sister with Miss Baker & Misses Phillips spent an hour or two very pleasently after tea I went for a strool into town – home by 10 pm This morning I went to Hendersons, in the afternoon {{Image|file=Aah-186.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/186}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-187 1261]

I paid my old mate [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]] a visit, found him & his wife quite well their babyWilliam Hollister 14034/1866 has grown into a fine handsome boy they seem very happy & were very glad to see me They wanted me to stay tea but I declined They informed me that Rowitts widow (Mary King that was) is at present in town. I fancied I saw her in town the night before - & I feel sorry now I did not accost her – on arriving home found a young lady at our house Katie Langtree, she used to live with us many years ago when a child & has seen many roughings & trials in her life & is now living with an aunt, who it appears makes a Cinderella of her owing to the manner in which her father treated my mother in reference to her she did not like to come & see us, he is dead & hearing of us she came, it was quite refresing to witness the unaffected joy she expressed on meeting us again & talking over with my sister Bessie old times – when they playd together - Fred & I went to Church in the evening. Mr. Henderson preached a most impressive sermon from that position of Luke when, the rich man says to his soul eat drink & be merry, he became very much affected at one time when alluding to the great numbers he had preached to during the past 18 months & finding so very few sincere inquirers, many times, he had thoughts of discontinuing preaching in consequence, for he thinks that if he is not doing good he is doing harm - I hope & trust he will not abandon his calling, if good is to be done in Victoria I feel certain there are none in it more able & earnest in Gods work & capable by their eloquence & abilities to accomplish it than Mr. H. even if he is not reaping he is sowing the harvest Jany 5th.1868
Weather everything that could be wished by the holiday & pleasure seekers. Pleasure there been any amount of – what with picnics, Fetes by Oddfellows & Foresters – Sunday School children, Races, Etc Etc – the town & suburbs have been quite gay & lively – very little having been done in the way of business during X mas week - tho I think on {{Image|file=Aah-187.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/187}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-188 1262]

the whole people have been much quieter than usual at this time of the year owing I think, to the Princes arrival so soon before the holidays & the many & gay scenes that have taken place in consequence, however, we are to be a little quieter for the future, his Royal Highness having taken his departure from our shores for fresh pastures – in Tasmania, he sailed yesterday in his good ship “Galatea” & I think he cannot complain of the mannner he has been feted here during his stay, enough homage & handshaking to turn any head but that of Royalty – with regard to myself, a more humble being in Creation, but one that may make as large a pile of dust when dead & buried, I have managed to scrape together some atoms of pleasure which taken together makes a good show, not having any money, I had to be very quiet & not indulge in too much or in fact any pleasure or amusement that cost anything - Monday evening G Bond & his married sister Mrs. Taylor spent the evening at our house Tuesday I spent the evening very pleasently at Mrs. Florauns. Wednesday being New Years Day was observed as a holiday. Fred, Bessie & I joined a pic nic party consisting of the Bros Ballantyne & two or three more gentlemen with an equal number of ladies Misses Bishop, Walters, McCatheys (2), Smith, Norris & Mrs Floraun all forming together a very nice party We met at the Yarra (Richmond), where we took a large boat & with a fine box of provisions provided by Hasie we pulled up the River & landed at the Survey Paddock where we choose a nice quiet spot & spent the day in a most enjoyable manner singing, dancing, flirting Etc. We left about 5 pm & enjoyed our pull down the river, landing about 6 pm. 7 when we reached home the distance being nearly 4 miles. – after tea Bessie & I dressed & went to a party at Mrs. Gotchs arrived there about 8.30. found a pleasent lot of folks assembled & all bent upon enjoyment in spite of the exertions of many present who had [been] picnicing at {{Image|file=Aah-188.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/188}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-189 1263]

about – every luxury of the season was provided & our kind host & hostess did all in their power to make things agreeable we had some singing & plenty of dancing, & when tired could go into the cool retreat provided by the Conservatory being thrown open to the company - I was acquainted with the most who were there so there was no feeling of restraint or anything in that way to mar our pleasure – we broke up about 3 am next morning, nearly 4 when we got home regularly done up with our days activity Thursday felt very tired & seedy, & being very busy at the office I felt it severely & hoped I should not be invited out again for some time - In the evening I took a strool into town met Mr. English & had a long chat with him he walked part of the way home with me, on reaching home it was not long before I turned into bed - Friday night in company with Fred I went to the Exhibition Hall, to hear the Concert given by the Victorian Musical Association. Found the place about two thirds full the Governor & Lady being present, the Prince was to have been at it according to advertisement, but all present were doomed to disappointment for he had gone to see a Japanese performance at the Princess Theatre – the concert was miscellaneous, the principal feature in it being the production of a composition called “Galatea Secunda” by Summners, the conductor, some portions of which were tolerable & worth listening to, what pleased me most was a trio for tenor Bass & Sophano & was well sang by Donaldson, Emery & Mrs. Fox. The affair on the whole went rather slow, very little spirit or enthusiasm being displayed either by the performers or the audience, 11 pm when the affair concluded - Saturday afternoon for want of something better to do Bessie & I went to hear the Band play at the Gardens In the evening I took a strool about town. Went to church twice to day, took mother with me this evening heard Mr. H. preach one of his best sermons on the “Continuity of Things” - Jany 12th.1868
Weather beautiful & cool for this time of the year, in fact I never remember to have experienced such a mild summer since I have been in the colony {{Image|file=Aah-189.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/189}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-190 1264]

every thing in the way, as was expected, of business, is very dull now the Prince has left us. People seem very quiet as if they had been extravagant lately & intended to retrench to make up their deficiencies - Our firm (the Rly) I think is about the busiest in Melb. having a number of ships discharging at the Pier, our sheds are crammed with goods of all description crowded together for want of room – presenting a pleasent contrast to the empty sheds of some weeks past – with regard to myself, I have little else than a recital of a round of pleasure & social phases to note. Monday evening, my sister Mary & Ellen & Effie Flower spent at our house, all enjoying ourselves pretty well, Fred & I seeing them to their respective homes at between 11 & 12 pm - Tuesday night I went to the Haymarket Theatre, to hear the New Italian Opera Company in “Ernani” they produced it very well, but I cant say I liked the sophano Signora Ida Vitelli, or the Tenor “Devoti”, but the Bass & Baritone, Bertolini & Antoni, are without exception the best singers & possess the best voices I ever heard in my life - I was highly delighted with the performance, & I was astonished there was such a poor house to receive them in only their second appearance, perhaps it was owing to the Opera being so little known the music is very difficult, being set so very high that it tests the voice too much - Wednesday evening I spent at my sister Marys house. Thursday evening after tea I went to South Yarra & spent the [evening] at Casses, my sister Bessie having gone there in the afternoon. I found rather a large party there, & all enjoying themselves, as usual, singing, playing cards, & forfeits & other parlour games. I am getting quite sick of that sort of thing & was very glad when we got away & caught the last train for town. 12 pm when we get home tired after our long walk some two miles from the station. Friday night, I went to Rehearsal at the Church, walked home with one of the lady members of the Choir. On getting home found Mrs. & Miss Smart here – saw them home. Met Jessie who has just returned from Geelong, & Ballarat where she has been staying the last 2 months, & owing to my coolness) or cruelty {{Image|file=Aah-190.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/190}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-191 1265]

as she termed it, has managed to my delight to cease to think of me as anything more than friend. I hear she is engaged to be married to a Mr Wilson of Ballarat who has for a long time been after her – I do not know whether the report is true, but I hope it is - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens In the evening I went to hear the Opera of the “Elixer of Love” in which the new Bass, Antoni came out to advantage - Went as usual to Church morning & evening this day. Mary & Clark came to dinner & spent the day with us. Jany 19th.1868
Weather very unsettled, in fact more like winter than summer spent my time rather dull, if anything this week being very busy at the office felt very little inclination to go out much in the evening. Wednesday evening I went to see “Dragon Troupe of Japanese, consisting of some dozen performers, who go through & do the most extraordinary feats of conjuring, juggling, balancing, tumbling, Etc Etc. such as few Europeans have ever witnessed before, among the party are three women, one of whom put to shame by comparison any European performer on the slack rope, on which she walks from the stage to the Boxes & back without the aid of pole or anything to balance her - Thursday night, I joined for another quarter, Richardsons Singing Class, he proposes giving a concert shortly by the members we had a good rehearsal, the principals singing really well Operatic music being the description chosen for the occasion – Friday night, I stayd at home. Jessie Smart called & spent the evening at our house I saw her home, had a long chat on a variety of subjects not worth alluding to here – though I have given her every cause, as she says, for her to hate me & that I have treated her shamefully, yet she cannot help liking me I sincerely wish & hope it may not be long before she is married her sister Annie is to be married on the 21st inst after which the rest of the family are going away to live at Ballarat. Saturday rained all day, spent the afternoon reading Dickens “Sketches by Boz”. In the evening took a strool into town met my old friend (English) had a long chat with him, got wet through {{Image|file=Aah-191.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/191}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-192 1266]

on leaving him on my way home - Wrote a long letter to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] during the week - Mail arrived from England last week no news from Father, much to our disappointment - This morning & evening I went to Hendersons. In the afternoon I took a walk for about an hour, after the service was over this evening I called at St Marks Church on my way home – Jany 26th.1868
Monday. busy at the office. In the evening I went to Mrs. Florauns, several pleasent people there spent a jolly night singing dancing Etc. nearly 1 am (21st) when Bessie & I got home - Tuesday night I went to hear the Italians in “Trovatore” Wednesday night, I went to Mrs. Florauns staid there till nearly 9 pm from there to Wrights, where I met Bessie, & remained till after 10pm came home & afterwards went to Smarts party given in honour of Annies marriage with Mr Boorman – found a number of jolly people there, most of whom I knew, my mother being amongst the number. We left about 1 am the next morning - Thursday evening I went to Richardsons - Friday night spent with Jessie Smart Saturday afternoon I went to St Georges Hall to a rehearsal of the Concert to be given by Richardsons there (Wednesday next) In the evening I went to see the Haymarket Theatre in company with A Ballantyne & heard Lucy Escott & Squires in Maritana after which the Daughter of the Regiment was given very creditably by the Italians, who are gaining ground in the public estimations This morning & evening went to Church. In the afternoon I took a strool. After the service was over this evening, Fred & I accompanied a Miss Robinson home, no joke of a walk, nearly hour to Abbotsford - The weather has been fearfully hot the last few days. Feby 2nd 1868
The weather has been lovely the last few days, making a pleasent contrast to last week. I have been very busy at the office, nothing else of much importance {{Image|file=Aah-192.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/192}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-193 1267]

occuring to me, & as for public matters they concern me so little or else I take so little interest in them that I seldom ever refer to them in my journal, at present, we have the Elections going on & of course there is considerable excitement in reference to their results. Last Monday, a person called on me, a Miss Lewarne a passenger by the Otago S.S from N.Z. she brought me a letter from my old friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] who informs me he has been discharged from his situation as Gold Receiver of the Gold Fields Dept. & not being satisfied with the manner of his discharge, he proceeded at once to Wellington the seat of the Govt. where he explained his case, so eloquently that he was reinstated with a higher salary, & when he wrote to me he was on board the Steamer returning to his family. His letter as usual is very humorous. Monday evening I spent at Clarks. Tuesday I went to a Rehearsal at St Georges Hall. Wednesday evening the Concert took place, a most decided success, in every way, at its conclusion & when the people had left the place all the pupils with a few friends remained & we had a dance. I remained till 1.am. when I left for home Thursday night I went to [[Dight-42|Harry Dights]] house, he was absent I stayd about an hour with Mrs. D - Friday evening, I went to hear Verdis new Opera (in English) which he called “The Masked Ball” I was doomed to dissapoint for after two Acts had been produced it was announced that owing to the indisposition of Lucy Escott (the “Prima Donna”) they could not give us the rest, so to make up they gave us the last two acts of Sonnambula with Beaumont & G.Warden, which same was not worth listening to, having been put on the stage with -out any preperation - on leaving the Theatre I met Mr & [[Rakowski-85|Mrs. Dalrymple]] walked down the street with them. Saturday afternoon in company with Bessie I went to hear the Band play, met Miss Wright & walked about with her. After tea I called at Smarts, took Jessie out for a walk, much to her mothers disgust We did not stay out long – for I was home by 10.20.pm - Sunday, morning went to Church, spent the afternoon reading in the evening went to Church, met Jessie Smart at the door Fred & I walked home with her - Today is my 29th.birthday Feby 2. {{Image|file=Aah-193.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/193}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-194 1268]

Feby 9th 1868
The weather has been hot, more especially the first few days of the week. Nothing of importance to myself having occurred I have little to note. Monday evening I spent at home my sister Mary, Miss Effie Flower & Eleanor Wright & Mr. G Bruce spending the evening with us, broke up about 11 pm I seeing Miss Wright home. Tuesday evening Bessie & I spent at Mrs. Florauns. Wednesday evening I spent at Smarts. Thursday went to the singing class, on leaving it I went to Clarks Mary playd & sang for about an hour. Mother had been spending the day with her, late when I got her home - Friday night Fred & I went to Abbotsford & sang a couple of songs each at a concert given at Drakes School Room – for the Benefit of a Sunday School. The night was very hot, & the place crowded made it anything but agreeable work singing – after it was over we went to Drakes house being moonlight he showed us his garden which is a fine one. We then took our leave but not before discussing the merits of a bottle of his home made wine - Saturday afternoon I stayd at home gardening & reading in the evening took a strool about town. My leasure hours Ive spent reading Dickens’s “Martin Chuzzlewit” a book full of humour, & good provincial every day characters - Went to Church twice to day. Mr. H. preached one of the finest sermons he has delivered since he has been in his new church, this morning, on the relation of the Church to families - spent the afternoon reading On leaving church this evening I met Jessie Smart walked home with her, her mother & self are going to leave Melbourne for Geelong next week - {{Image|file=Aah-194.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/194}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-195 1269]

Feby 16th.1868
Been lovely weather during the week. I have been rather slack at the office owing to the falling off of shipping at our pier it is much to be regretted that owing to bad legislation our commerce is so rapidly declining, it makes us employees rather dispondent being in receipt of poor salaries, and trade falling away does not give us any hope of their being increased. I wish I could see an opening into something better. I have thought very seriously of trying my fortune in Japan, the ports of that country I hear are at last to be opened up for commerce, many European commercial houses purpose opening branch establishment at the more important places. Many have left and others thinking of doing the same from Melbourne. I dont blame those who have enterprise sufficient for the attempt, & I sincerely hope their efforts will be rewarded for there is very little prospect at present in Victoria for a young man getting on – things having gone so backwards the last few years here. The English mail arrived (before her time the (12th.) on Wednesday, the news by it are not very important, excepting the unsettled state of the Fenian movement, this disaffected clique have been rising & meeting in all the towns in England & Ireland causing a deal of mischief & uneasiness, the war in Abyssynia is progressing, troops & stores having been landed there {{Image|file=Aah-195.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/195}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-196 1270]

but it is surmised that it will be a long time before the British consuls & prisoners now in King Theodores power will be liberated - Mother had a long letter from Father who is in rather indifferent health, he informs us further about my long lost Uncle, John Thomas, who had not been heard of for 20 years & was supposed to be dead, it appears he is alive & had written to England from New S Wales or N.Z. & that any communication made to the Union Bk there or Melbourne (so I understand) would find him. I lost no time in calling at the Bk. but I could hear nothing concerning such a person, it is very extraordinary, & to make it more complicated, in case he turns up, is the fact that his annuity his father left him has been divided & is now partly spent & partly in the hands of Uncle Joseph who will have to “stump up” which will prove a hard thing for him to do, being so fond of money & so miserly for my own part I should like him to turn up – I dont care whether its to our interest or not. Father & those at home judging from the tenor of this letter dont appear particularly well pleased at his turning up - Monday evening I took a strool about Fitzroy met Miss Wright saw her home & stayd about an hour at her house Tuesday Bessie & I spent the evening at Bakers in Hoddle Street. Wednesday Miss Wright spent the evening at our house I saw her home about 9 pm. on leaving her I went to Smarts {{Image|file=Aah-196.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/196}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-197 1271]

to bid Jessie good bye as she was going the following day to Geelong. Thursday evening went as usual to the singing class at Richardsons had a couple of hours good practise, home by 10pm. Friday evening being wet, I did not go as I thought of doing to the Rehearsal at the Church, but spent the evening at Jim Stewarts, Rathdowne St. found him more com- -fortably settled than when last I visited him, his wife is well & able to knock about. I spent the evening very pleasently with them. Saturday afternoon I joined a large party of friends in a boating excursion to the Tea Gardens, where we regaled ourselves with refreshments & dancing & singing, got back again to the punt at 7 pm. I called at Mrs Florauns & after having a good wash I went to hear the Opera of “Un Ballo in Maschera” a new Opera by Verdi & in my opinion far superior to any he has hitherto produced I was very much pleased & I am sorry the season is closed, time it was! according to the Managers statement – who informed the public that for 6 weeks performances the four new singers (two of whom are without exception the finest artists that have appeared in the colonies,) only shared between them £50. which must be very discouraging, the fact is there are too many places of amusement open at present in Melbourne, no less than 3 theatres, and about 3 other first class entertainments held in Halls & Concert Rooms – it is impossible for them all to be supported - Lennox was with me all the evening – 12 pm when I got home. Went to church to day, Mr. Gossman in the morning, Mr Fletcher in the evening, spent the day reading. I walked home with Miss Pitts after the service - {{Image|file=Aah-197.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/197}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-198 1272]

Feby 23rd.1868
Been lovely weather all the week. Very busy at the office. I must think of making an application for an increase of salary. Monday Miss Adamson & Emily Walters with Jim & Alf Ballantyne spent the evening at our house 12 when we broke up Tuesday evening I spent at Marys. Wednesday evening Bessie & I spent at Wrights. Thursday went to the Singing Class. Friday I went to the Rehearsal at the Church, left about 9.30. & called at Mrs. Florauns stayd there till 11.30. singing & dancing Etc - Saturday afternoon, I was working very hard in the garden till 4 pm when I dressed & went to the gardens, met several there I knew. After tea I took a strool into town, rambled about with J Ballantyne & Young Kyte till 10pm. This morning I went to Church Mr. Price preached, spent the afternoon reading till 4 pm when I took a strool to the Cemetery, went to Church in the evening & on arriving home who should I find at our house, to my astonishment, but Mr. & Mrs Watmuff (my fathers cousin) & my fathers long lost brother John Thomas he is a most extraordinary looking being with only one eye & if his hair was grey would look 90 years of age, he is so wrinkled & withered looked with the toil & hardship he has undergone during his chequered life. He informed us that he has been knocking about the colonies the last sixteen years partly in Tasmania & partly in Victoria & N S Wales {{Image|file=Aah-198.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/198}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-199 1273]

he looks like a rough tough old Bushman, no flesh on his bones & the skin hanging on them like old parchment, he appears to be a jolly goodnatured sort of fellow, rough in his speech & manners, but possessing I should imagine a good kindly heart easy going, but still very shrewd, he looks, what he is, a wreck of a reckless, jolly neer do well, presenting quite a contrast to my father, who is so very gentlemanly & fastidious in all things - The reason he states for not writing home was, having no one but himself to think about & never being in actual want, he thought he would let his money accumulate until he got too old to work & then he would have it in his old age. He has been living the last 7 years in the neighbourhood of Fort Bourke, some 700 miles in the interior, on the Darling River, where he has been employed in prospecting for country for squatting stations, some twelve months ago he was prostrated with fever and ague & was ill a long time & his money ran short, & while ill he thought he would write home, which he did to Uncle Joe, (his brother) who has the use and control of Uncle John Thos money since leaving England. He requested him to send out to the Bk of N.S.Wales Melb. the sum of £50. to enable him to go to England, he left Fort Bourke about three months ago on getting somewhat recovered and travelled to Melb - where he arrived yesterday, on calling at the Bk of N S W where he had told Uncle Joe to send him money he found none there. Poor fellow, he didnt know what to do, he went down to the wharves thinking of going over to Tasmania but finding no vessel that would employ him he had to think of something else. Some years ago when he was in Melbourne he had accidently heard there was a family living at Richmond named Watmough & imagining it might be some relatives who for some reason had changed the name slightly, he wended his way there, & discovered they were no relatives, but they informed him there were some {{Image|file=Aah-199.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/199}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-200 1274]

people the same name as himself, living in Collingwood with this information he managed by enquiring to find out Mr. & Mrs. S.Watmuff, (second couzins of mine) who made him welcome, they knew him when he was a boy in Lincolnshire, so to day they brought him to our house. Of course we have made him as welcome as we could, he purposes writing home to Uncle Joe again & insisting upon him sending him his money & in the meantime he will go up the Bush until he get a reply, we have promised never to see him want & I intend to give him £5 in the morning to enable him to go to where he is thinking of doing somewhere on the Goulburn River on Blakes Station, where he hopes to get employment – he would not sleep at our house, Mrs. W on the Flat having made him promise to stop with her while he stays in town. I think it awful cruel of his brother Joe in not writing at once on hearing of his turning up & welcoming him as one from the grave I know if it had been a brother of mine I should feel so overjoyed that anything like personal considerations would have been as nothing I fancy Joe must have made use of J.Thos. money thinking he was dead, without having administered to his property or made proper enquiries whether he was living or dead - I suppose our family will be affected somewhat in our prospects by this but for my own part I care little, it would afford me more joy seeing poor J.Thos in possession of his own, than having it myself - March 1st.1868
Weather very fine, very busy at the office, several large ships at the pier. Monday evening my Uncle John Thomas called and spent the evening at our house {{Image|file=Aah-200.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/200}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-201 1275]

Bessie & I went to Mr Gotchs, spent a very pleasent evening, there being several people present, of a sociable {{Red|*}}turn, a Mrs. Ross from Sydney, a Miss Riedle, Mr Conaut & Mr. Laby. - Tuesday evening I spent at home my Uncle being at our house. I walked down to Hoddle St with him he left Melbourne the next morning for the Goulburn where he purposes staying until he hears from England, in reply to the letters he has sent to Uncle Joe & Aunt Sarah. John Bruce & G Bond with Effie Flower were also at our house - Wednesday evening I spent at Clarks 12 pm when I got home Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing Class walked home with 3 young lady pupils who live in our neighbourhood, in the day time I went to the Treasury to the Registrar Generals office, to see if my brother Charles birth (which took place on board the Ship Brothers” on our voyage out from England 18 years ago) had been registered, after paying 2/6 I was informed it had not been but on payment of another 5/. I got the certificate of the registration of his death & burial, which I purpose sending home by the mail. Hearing Dr Hedley of Sale was the Doctor who came out in the ship with us, I wrote to him, requesting him to furnish me with a Certificate of Charles birth. I hope he will attend to it before the Mail leaves here which it does on the 4th. there is a deal of bother attending these things, & also expense as I have told father it is like sending good money in search of bad money - Friday night I spent at Clarks. Saturday afterday Clark & Mary Bond & Bruce Bessie & [[Rakowski-86|I Rekowski]] & self formed a party and went up the River enjoyed our- -selves very much. On arriving home, found Miss Hoskins at our house, who stayd till 11 pm I had to see her to the train after that, a four mile walk there and back {{Image|file=Aah-201.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/201}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-202 1276]

& not feeling inclined for it I did not relish it - I have no patience with ladies staying at houses until all hours uninvited & then expect gentlemen to see them home Etc. I am getting tired of that sort of thing. Sunday, to day, this has been one of the hottest days this summer, a hot wind accompanied with clouds of burning sand & dust, enough to half smother a person, & the sun was fearfully strong. The thermometer stood as high as 105^º in the shade & 146^º in the sun, a pleasent change took place about 8.30 pm making it more agreeable. March 8th.1868
Weather has been fearfully hot all the week, not one cool day, the thermometer standing about 90^º in the shade nearly every afternoon at 2pm. I was somewhat surprised last Tuesday morning by my Uncle John Thomas who I thought had left town last week, calling upon me at the office, he said he had not felt well since he visited us, & his object in calling upon me was to make a will, it was entirely at his own suggestion nothing that ever any of our family said could have induced him to think we had any idea of his doing such a thing in our favour. The next day I drew up a Will at his own dictation in which he states he gives, devises & bequeaths the whole of his property of whatever nature whatsoever real & personal unto his brother Stephens children, share & share alike & making me sole executor. I dont know what his {{Image|file=Aah-202.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/202}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-203 1277]

property consists of, if he has not a penny to bless himself with in this colony, but I believe he has an annuity of £40 or £50 ayear which he has not drawn upon for the last 18 years, & there is the principal from which the income is derived from, all of which is in Uncle Joe's possession he having had the use of the same during that period tho I have heard some of the interest had been divided, but of this I have some doubt, however, such as there is it was very thoughtful & considerate for him to leave it to us, tho, I dont place much dependence on John Thomas, he is a queer fish & if he gets hold of his own would soon spend it & make it fly, he signed the will in the goods office of the Railway I am employed at, the witnesses being Thomas Rooke & Benjn.D.Smith on the 4th.March, 1868
- He spent Tuesday evening at our house & part of Wednesday when he bade us good bye once more stating he was going up the country for a few months, the following morning, judge my surprise on Friday evening on arriving home to hear from mother that he had been at our house drunk, he having spent all the money mother had given him & wanting to see me, he left word when he was staying at some low public house in Russell St & wanted me to call on him the following morning, which I did but found him not at home, however he called at the office looking a sorry fright. I promised to try and get him some more money but only on condition that he left town, for it is disgraceful for a man like him coming to our house in such a state - in the afternoon I called upon him found him in company of about half a dozen dirty looking fellows, who had that peculiar look attending those gentlemen who have been sent out from England at their countrys expense for their countrys benefit, but who Uncle informed me were shepherds, & purposed going up the country at once. I gave him £1.0.0 & a lot of clothes, informing him not to spend it in town but {{Image|file=Aah-203.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/203}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-204 1278]

to make the best use of it, for I could not give him any more & I also gave him to understand that he must not come to our house again unless he came sober. I dont wonder at his relatives in England not wishing him to return there, for I heard he used to disgrace them frightfully when he was home & so I bade him good bye, & I trust we shall not be annoyed with him again, since his sojourn in Melbourne he has been living at Mrs. Watmuffs Hoddle St, who I believe was very kind to him, but with whom he did not leave on the best of terms. Monday night the two Miss Cases, Geo Bond & Bruce spent the evening at our house. Tuesday evening Miss Baker & her brother called I walked home with them Thursday night I went to the singing class Friday night I went to Clarks on my way home a large fire was raging at the corner of Peel & Cambridge St Collingwood which consumed 8 houses. Saturday afternoon after leaving Uncle John Thomas, I went to the picture Gallery at the Library, & looked with pleasure on some beautiful pictures that have lately been added to the collection, on leaving there I went to Fitzroy Gardens, met Miss Baker & took a long walk with her. After tea, I went to town knocked about with Adamson went to the Polytechnic with him stayd about ½ an hour there on leaving there I met a party of friends who had been boating. My sister was among the party we went through the Market - nearly 11 pm when we arrived home. Very hot to day, went to church night & evening a Mr Nemo preached. I walked home with Susan Woodruffe I have been put to considerable trouble & expense this week in my endeavours to procure the certificate of my brother Charles birth, it appears the birth was never registered on the ships arrival, but hearing that Dr Hedley of Gipps {{Image|file=Aah-204.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/204}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-205 1279]

Land came out with us & attended my mother during her confinement, I wrote to him requesting him to furnish me with a certificate of the birth, he wrote me word that he had to make a declaration before a magistrate, which cost me £1.1.0 & had to get the signature of the magistrate (Pearson) certified to by a notary (Willan) in Melbourne which cost me another £1.1.0. I sent the lot to England by the Mail so I hope Father now will have possession of all that is necessary to enable him to settle the Chancery case - March 15th.1868
Weather has been beautiful & cool, annoyed considerably at the beginning of the week by my uncle who I had thought was gone up the country, it appears he spent the money I gave him on Saturday so he came to me on Wednesday with a cock & Bull tale saying he was starving & had lost his swag & all he had I told him I could do nothing more for him, the week before last we gave him £5, Saturday another £1.0.0 now again a few shillings, its shameful we should be bothered in such a manner by him. The next day Thursday he went to Fred & wheedled some silver out of him. We have seen nothing of him since. I never saw a dirtier & more disreputable character in my life than he is, all the clothes I gave him he has parted with, lost even his hat. I dont care if he never turns up again unless he can keep sober & look a little more respectable - he was very cautious in his conduct before the Mail left here, so we could not write home anything bad about him. Monday & Wednesday evenings I went to Beers Chapel to rehearsals for a concert that took place there on Thursday night, in connection with a Tea Meeting during the affair we heard of a dreadful crime being committed in Sydney, the attempted assassination of Prince Alfred our late public guest, by a man named OFarrell, who at a picnic where the Prince was, very deliberately shot at him from behind {{Image|file=Aah-205.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/205}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-206 1280]

in a most cowardly manner the ball entering his back and lodging in his abdomen. The wretch was not satisfied but fired again at him but someone near by knocked the pistol one side but not before it was too late for the ball passed the prince & lodged in the heel of a Mr. Thorn, Mayor of Sydney, who is not expected to live suffering as he is from lockjaw. The bullet was not extracted from the Prince till yesterday. The most intense excitement prevails among all classes, more so from the fact of its being discovered that the man is one of a band of Fenians who had drawn lots who was to do the deed. Indignation meetings have been held throughout the colonies to exress their sympathy for the Prince & also their abhorance to the crime, it was with the greatest difficulty the police prevented the people of Sydney from exercising summary punishment on the assasin Irishmen are in bad repute just now & I have heard many affirm that they are ashamed to acknowledge the land of their birth. The Roman Catholic & Fenian sympathisers proposed holding a mock funeral in honour of the Fenians who have lately been living in England for the murder of Constable Brett, on the 17th.inst St Patricks Day, but while the public are so incensed by the late outrage, I dont think they will carry out their purpose. Friday evening went to the Church Rehearsal at Hendersons. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens to hear Band play. In the evening I went to Theatre Royal & saw performed the Colleen Bawn & a Burlesque called Acis & Galatea - a change for me but awful rubbish to sit out [on] a hot night - Went to Church night & morning, it was quite refreshing to see the place crowded again. Mr. H. returned from Tasmania during the week & appears greatly improved in health & also in appearance. In the afternoon I went to Sandridge Rly Pier, met Finley and two young ladies there with whom I kept company with & visited several ships that were alongside - Went to church in the evening, {{Image|file=Aah-206.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/206}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-207 1281]

densely crowded, & very hot - after the service I walked home with pretty S.Woodruffe. March 22nd 1868
Weather very fine. Nothing of importance to relate, the Prince is pronounced out of danger. Mr Thorn who was shot in the foot, is still in a precarious state, the man OFarrell is to be tried next week. I sincerly trust for the credit of the colonies, that he will prove to be insane tho’ he admits himself as being one of a party who drew lots to kill the Prince & further states he had on two other occasions been on the point of making the attempt, the bloodthirsty villain, hanging is too good a death for him - The Mail arrived on the 18th inst from England no letters from father, mother received a long Letter from Mrs. Capt Lane, written in Calcutta – describing E.I. life - they were on the point of leaving for Bombay, Monday night, I went to an anniversay meeting at the Brunswick St. Wesley Church. Js.Dare & other ministers spoke, there was some good singing, one young fellow not more than 20 years of age named Ben Clarke, sang “Comfort Ye” from the Messiah very creditably – Tuesday night I staid at home. Wednesday night I went for a strool into town, called on my way home at Mr & Mrs. Baumans (Annie Smarts) found my sister Bessie there, did not stay long, home by 10pm. Thursday, my mother & Mary went to Brighton where they purpose staying for a week or so. I think the change will do them a deal of good - in the evening I went to Richardsons Friday night I went to Rehearsal at the Church, practiced some pieces, our organist Mr. John Russell is going to leave the colony next month in the “Moravian” & it is {{Image|file=Aah-207.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/207}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-208 1282]

proposed to give a concert for his benefit - he is a man very much respected & at one time held the position of conductor to the Philharmonic Society here, he has been very unfortunate in business, and has grown very cross & irritable - to much so for a leader of a choir. I fancy there are few in the choir who will regret his departure – Saturday afternoon I stayd at home, digging up the garden in the evening I went to town met Clark walked about with him for some two hours. This morning Bessie went to Brighton to see mother she will not return till tomorrow so Fred & I are keeping bachelors hall together. Bessie left us plenty to eat but then a piece of Roast Beef she had cooked, we found on coming home to dinner a subject of discussion between three cats, who had managed to get it out from under a wire dish cover, so we have had to put up with makeshift meals I went to Church morning & evening, in the afternoon I took a long strool about the Cemetery. After service was over in the evening I walked home from the church with a pretty girl belonging to the choir March 29th.1868
Weather very unsettled. Mother still down at Brighton pretty busy at the office. Monday & Thursday evening I attended the rehearsals for Russells concert. Wednesday on leaving the office I went to Brighton, found Mother & Mary very comfortably settled at a lodging house there. I stayd until 10.30, with them Met Emily Walters at the St Yarra Station on leaving the train at Melbourne I walked home with her & Perryman to Carlton. Friday evening went to the Church, as usual having more fun than music. I never met with such {{Image|file=Aah-208.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/208}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-209 1283]

a jolly lot of girls as our choir contains, there are a few sober sided ones, & well there is or I am sure the rest would get into bad repute. I suppose things will be altered when we get our new conductor (David Lee) Saturday it rained all day without intermission so I was compelled to remain in doors. Passed the time reading Etc - Went to church this morning & evening. Mr. H. preached on each occasion very powerful & eloquent sermons. In the afternoon I went out for strool & much to my surprise met Jessie Smart, whom I had thought in Geelong, she was in a pecular mood, having got hold of something or another respecting what I have said about acquaintanceship I met her again after leaving Church & we took a long walk together & I strongly recommended the propriety of our acquaintance being severed & so we stand at last much to my satisfaction, under present circumstances. April 5th.1868
Winter set in, weather gloomy & overcast one or two very wet days. Fred received a letter from Uncle John Tom, dated at Benalla & stating that he was "hard up" & requesting him to send him some money. I never heard of such impudence Fred declined doing so, & I am sure I would not have done so had not mother persuaded me to send him a £1.0.0 which I could very ill spare, on Wednesday (to P.O. Seymour I called at the Bank of N.S.W. to see if there was a letter from Uncle Joe to him laying there, but found on enquiring there was not, Monday night I went to Rehearsal. Tuesday evening I went down to Brighton to see mother & Mary took a pleasent strool on the beach before dinner, came home by the 8.11. pm train. Wednesday night I sang at Carlton at an entertainment. On leaving there went to the Church to Rehearsal. Thursday night dreadfully wet {{Image|file=Aah-209.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/209}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-210 1284]

Russells concert took place, considering the wet night I was greatly astonished to find the place well filled with regard to the entertainment it was one of the best concerts ever given in Melbourne solos & choruses from Judas Maccabeus, Elijah, Samson, Creation & Messiah, some of the performers being the best musicians in the colony, at its conclusion I had the pleasure of paying the fare for one of the young ladies. Friday night went to Rehearsal. Saturday night I went to the Theatre had a jolly good laugh witnessing the Drama of the “Pilot” & the Burlesque, “Acis & Galatea”. Went to Church as usual night and morning. In the afternoon I took a strool to the Cemetery. April 14th.1868
Weather very cold if changeable, being Easter week we had some holidays & I must say I never spent a pleasenter time. Monday, night I stayd at home Mary being at our house I saw her home. Tuesday night I went to Stewarts with a friend named West, stayd there till 9 pm, & then came home. Wednesday 8th. night I went to a wedding party at Mrs. Flowers, her daughter Emily was married to a Mr. Turner of Beechworth. I didnt see either of them, having left town immediately after the ceremony - I went about 9 pm & found about 50 people present, all bent upon spending a jolly night which we did dancing until 4 am the next morning Thursday night I went to Richardsons Singing class & joined for another quarter (10/-) practiced some glees & choruses. Friday (being invited to spend my holidays at Kidgells Balaclava) I arose at 6 am reached the train by 7.10 & went there found several people present who had been invited, after {{Image|file=Aah-210.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/210}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-211 1285]

breakfast some of the party on horseback & others in Ks buggy we travelled for about 4 miles to Harrymans (Caulfield) where we were joined by Mr. & Mrs. H. & Mrs. Hs two sisters fine jolly girls Alice & Florence Webb, left there about about 11 & had a delightful drive to Mordialloc on the Sea shore some 15 miles from Melbourne where we camped & had some fine fun & discussed the vituals Etc we brought with us. We engaged a boat & went out on the sea a short distance the wind & surf being rather strong after an hours sail we made for the shore & with some difficulty got all landed but not before nearly meeting an accident the boatman, owing (to) the boat rocking lost his balance & turned a somersault into the sea very nearly carrying me with him my hat went overside & got a ducking I caught hold of the mans shirt & saved him from getting washed away, he managed to scramble ashore We had a splendid drive home to Kidgells where we found a good tea awaiting us. after washing & refreshing ourselves we turned to & made a night of it dancing & singing I & my sister Bessie slept there that night Next morning Saturday after breakfast I came into town by train came home & had a bath & changed my clothes & went down to the Kidgells again on arriving there I was shocked to find that during my absence a sad accident had happened to one of the visitors, Mr. Schoefield, It appeared a lot had got into the buggy for a drive & Mr S. sat behind & not having much room had slipped off & falling between the wheels had got his leg terribly cut & bruised so much so that it will be some weeks before he will be able to get about again I was exceedingly sorry, for he is such a young fellow he is one of the Revd. Henderson's most promising collegian students, a good Christian. I was forcibly struck by the {{Image|file=Aah-211.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/211}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-212 1286]

manliness & fortitude he displayed in his misfortune never murmuring or complaining - thankful it was no worse & regretting he should be the cause of the {{Red|*}}pity sorrow in the breasts of those around. In the afternoon we drove to Harrymans & visited the racecourse where some Races of a local character were being held I was on horseback & enjoyed myself very much flirting with the Miss Webbs. We were sorely pressed to remain the night at Harrymans, but knowing Kidgell was expecting us at his house we were forced to decline on arriving at Kidgells we found some more visitors {{Red|*}}had arrived (Mrs. & Miss Saunders, & such a pretty girl named [[Webber-6563|Webber]].) I got very intimate with the latter & was very loath to leave at night when I did, with [[Freer-1284|G. Ferer]], coming to town by the last train, arrived home by 12 pm rather tired, next morning, Sunday, went to Church stayd at home in the afternoon, went to Church in the evening, walked home with Jessie Smart. Next morning, Monday, I went down to Balaclava again found Mr. Schofield much better & Miss Webber as charming as ever, & all apparently glad to see me down again. We spent a pleasent quiet morning singing, reading, flirting Etc, till 3 pm when we all went for a drive to Harrymans where we spent two hours ditto, drove home on our {{Red|*}}own & stopped at a Mr Evans who made us very welcome where we had tea after which, things were cleared away & the piano opened & we had dancing & singing till 2 am this morning little Miss Arthur was there & sang as usual beautifully she is one of the merriest little girls I ever knew, on arriving home at Kidgells we sat up another hour, being Leap year {{Image|file=Aah-212.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/212}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-213 1287]

[[Webber-6563|Miss Webber]] proposed to me & I accepted her & we are engaged (query) {{Red|*}}where the arrangement is considered seriously by both parties. This morning we met at Breakfast & had a jolly laugh at each other, after breakfast the horses were saddled & Kidgell drove Miss W & I into town & so my holidays terminated, having to go to office work this morning. I was surprised last Thursday by receiving a letter from J.[[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], written & posted in Sydney. I had thought he was comfortably settled for life in Dunedin but he now informs me that having been made a tool of & kicked from pillar to post by the Provincial Govt. of Otago his life was fairly worn out, & hearing the Steamer Albion which was laying at Pt. Chalmers had been chartered by a Sydney firm to convey cargo to Japan, he applied for the Supercargo's billet & got it, having a desire to go there, he thinks it a very good opportunity to see what kind of place it is and whether there is any chance of doing anything there or not. They are at present receiving cargo & purpose leaving for Japan via Fiji Islands on the 1st.May, he desired me to make all enquiries respecting the place I could in Melbourne, but from all I can hear, I dont think there is a very good opening for people without capital. I do not like to inform him of what I knew of Japan for fear of dis- -couraging him, he left Mrs. H & little ones in Dunedin, I wrote to him on Tuesday. Poor Jim he has had a deal of knocking about since I knew him I hope he will at last come out all right, tho I do not approve of his present step, if he had been a single man without encumberances I would have recommended the step & applauded his pluck, but I cannot reconcile his leaving his wife & family to the tender mercies of strangers & the suspense she must endure during what must be a long seperation Jim wishes me to write occasionally to his wife {{Image|file=Aah-213.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/213}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-214 1288]

April 19th.1868
Weather lovely, felt somewhat dull after my holidays as is always the case when the reaction takes place after excitement. The English mail arrived on Wednesday no letter from father, public news not much importance except Disraeli being made Premier of England a honour he has long sought for. Tuesday evening went home found all well, staid at home. Wednesday evening, Mr. & Mrs Johnson & my sister Mary spent the evening at our house Thursday evening went to Richardsons. Friday night I went to the Carlton Penny Readings. Saturday afternoon went to the Gardens for a walk met a number there I knew In the evening I went to town being showery left early & called at Jim Stewart & had some singing didnt leave till 11.pm. this morning & evening I went to Church but did not take my accustomed place in the Choir we have a new organist David Lee & I do not approve of the manner he has treated members of the choir so I do not think I will join it again Mr. Pringle organist of St Francis Catholic church pd me a visit on Saturday, he try to prevail upon me to join his choir as first tenor. I did not think myself qualified for the position being a poor reader but he promised to instruct me & work me up in the solo & connected pieces if I would consent, but I declined, had it been a Protestant place of worship I would have jumped at the chance for the sake of the tuition, let alone the £32 per year, I should have received had I accepted the offer {{Image|file=Aah-214.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/214}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-215 1289]

he is the best instructor in the colony, & I have no doubt he would have made me a tolerable singer in time - bother the singing, it gets me into a deal of company & creates annoyance, by being continually pressed to sing & assist at all manner of entertainments I am fond of music but I enjoy it in a private manner This afternoon I took a walk as far as Et Melbourne called at Mary's did not stay long, on leaving the Church this evening I took a long walk with Geo’ Bond conversing upon spiritual subjects Etc - April 26th 1868
Weather lovely, not very busy at the office, time gone by rather pleasently Monday night I went to the Theatre Royal. Tuesday I spent at Clarks. Wednesday I went to the Carlton Readings & sang a couple of songs there, met Jessie Smart, Barman & his wife walked home with the former. Thursday, went to Richardsons Friday went to the Readings at the Trades Hall, heard some good things. The Chairman C.E.Jones MP. gave us a dissertation of Dickens works & some of his characters which was really worth listening to & also the reading of Weeks another M.P. who read Southey’s “Waterfall” & one of the Ingoldsby Legends very well - on leaving the place I met Jessie Smart who had [been] inside I walked round to her sister Mrs. Bauman with [her] stayd about with her there, & afterwards saw her home Saturday afternoon I went to town with my sister Bessie came home through Carlton Gardens the Band playing there a great number of people were congregated., stayd there till 5pm & came home after tea & went to town met Nellie Lambert & walked to Elsassars with {{Image|file=Aah-215.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/215}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-216 1290]

her, on leaving her I met Mrs. Glass & her two sisters rambled about with them & at length walked to their house a very handsome one in W.Melbourne They treated me very kindly, as they always do when I go to their house, we had some singing after which I left got home by 11 pm. I went to Church morning & evening to day, taking Bessie with me in the evening. In the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetery, a gentleman was there, a Drill Sarjeant from St. Kilda was being buried with military honors. I wrote a long letter to my old friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] on Thursday. I also received a letter same day from my Uncle John Thos. in which he informs me that he has been at work & is now at Kilmore where I am to write to him & inform him whether there are any letters awaiting him at the Bk N.S.Wales. I enquired yesterday, there were none - I purpose writing to him on Monday if I have time - May 3d 1868
Weather lovely. Wrote to my uncle on Monday & also to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] In the evening I went to Baumans @ Carlton spent a pleasent evening. Tuesday evening I spent at Clarks, reading a new & singular work by Hepworth Dixon called “Spiritual Wives”. Wednesday night Bessie & I went to a party at Dalrymples, Richmond, where I spent a most enjoyable night did not get home till 5 am next morning, met many pleasent people at it - Thursday evening, went to my singing. Friday evening I spent with Jessie Smart prior to her departure to Ballarat next week sometime her mother has taken a business there & Jessie is to go & {{Image|file=Aah-216.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/216}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-217 1291]

assist in it. Saturday afternoon I had purposed going to Sandridge (to see the Sussex sail. Mrs. Gotch & daughter having gone by her to visit England, our old Organist Mr. Russell sailed the same day in the “Moravian” he was presented with nearly £160 being the proceeds of the Concert given to him some weeks ago in Hendersons Church-) but having a lot of work to do at home, I did not go. In the evening I went to the Temperance Hall Russell St & sang at an entertainment given there To day I went to Church night & morning. In the afternoon I took a walk to the Fitzroy Gardens, met Mrs. & Miss Dove & Mr. James had a long chat with them, also met Clark & Mary walked about with them - May 10th.1868
Weather still beautiful, busy at the office tho not as busy as we ought to be, what with protection & the state of our unsettled Govt. with the Deadlock still in existence. Merchants here and at home are very chary in their imports & business transactions with the colony the consequence being a great falling away in our trade. I received another farewell letter from [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] last week the vessel he is going to Japan in has been postponed until the llth inst. Monday evening Mary spent at our house several others dropped in Jim Ballantyne, Effie Flower, Mr & Mrs. Bauman. I saw Mary & Effie home, after 12 when I got myself home. Tuesday night Mrs & Miss Dove & Mrs. James with D Adamson (my fellow clerk) spent the evening at our house very pleasently, 11 when we broke up, Dave & I seeing the ladies home. Wednesday evening I went with Jessie Smart & Mr. & Mrs. Bauman to the Trades Hall did not enjoy our- selves, such a wretched entertainment. Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing Class, Friday evening I {{Image|file=Aah-217.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/217}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-218 1292]

took a walk to town with Adamson, but before doing so I went to see Mrs. Peel. Alf went to Dunedin some weeks ago & has sent for his wife she leaves here on Monday Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens to hear the Band play in the evening I met Jessie Smart & we took a short walk together I had thought she was gone to Ballarat, but she informs me she is not going until next week sometime. I shall not be sorry for it is very annoying to continue attention with one I know can be but a friend under any circumstances - I went to Church night & morning In the afternoon I took a walk to see Fred Rookes house he is building. I found it nicely situated on the Road to Heidelberg. The only objection I should have to it is the distance from town an hours walk is no joke when a man is tired after a hard days work - My spare time I have spent in reading J.Montgomerys poems, his “World before the Flood” is a sublime composition & so is The West Indies. I hardly can say which I like the best I am sorry to state my mother is very ill with Influenza & a severe cold I hope she may soon recover, our house seems dead without her presence to cheer it - May 17th.1868
Weather beautiful / busy at the office, Mail arrived from England 14th inst recd a letter from Father Chancery case still in abeyance & likely to remain so for many a long day from what I can gather from his letter, he writes a deal about my Uncle John Thos. & how I am to [go] about finding him out Etc {{Image|file=Aah-218.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/218}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-219 1293]

our letters informing him of his visiting us not having arrived he is not aware of our having already met him, & of the trouble we had with him - father informs us he has not [been] well of late which I am very sorry for - Monday evening I spent at Clarks. Tuesday evening at Bormans - Wednesday evening the two Miss Wrights were at our house they did not stay long. I saw them home about 8.30. on leaving there I went to the Carlton Readings heard Miss {{Red|*}}Ivey sing some ballads very well, a Mr. Gasgill a Professor of Mnemonics, gave us some illustrations of the result of acquired memory, which were truly wonderful Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing Class, on arriving home found Jessie Smart at our house had to see her home bade her good bye once more she was to have gone to Ballarat yesterday (Saturday) I dont know whether she did or not - Friday evening Bessie & I went to a party at Bakers (Hoddle St) enjoyed ourselves very much, met Mrs Minify (Georgie Roberts that was) 3 am next morning when we got home. Saturday afternoon staid at home reading. In the evening having an order for the Theatre I went to see Montgomery in “Richard the Third” his impersonation of the tyrant was very fine, but it is a pity that he should be so badly supported by the beggarly company of actors at present playing with him. The colonial stage missed poor Vincent, who died from an accident about a fortnight ago. I met Will Smart there he has just come from a trip in New Zealand & he informs me he heard anything but a creditable account of J [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & the cause of his leaving Dunedin I should be sorely grieved if there is any truth in the reports he heard, for I had always looked at Jim as a pattern of a man, & if he has fell I have little faith in human nature - I went to Church this evening, in the morning I went to hear Hadyns No. 3 Mass sang at St Francis Chapel (R.C.) Spent the afternoon reading {{Image|file=Aah-219.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/219}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-220 1294]

[Sunday, 24 May 1868] May {{Red|25th}} 1868
Weather very unsettled, had a deal of rain during the week, busy at the office - Wrote to father, yesterday 23rd. Monday I was somewhat surprised by Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] calling on me - he had just arrived from Sydney - he informed that he was treated very badly by the owners of the S.S. Albion, that he was purser of to proceed to Japan, & so left her & came round here with a view of trying to get into something in Melbourne not feeling desirous of returning to Otago for what reasons I know not, except there is some foundation in the report I heard about him last week from Will Smart. I have not accused him of it yet - not feeling inclined to hurt his feelings by what may be unfounded suspicions - though I must admit I have not been the same to him, I should like to {{Red|*}}say, in consequence of them - Tuesday night he spent at our house. Wednesday evening I sang at the Penny Readings Carlton. Thursday night at Richardsons, where we had a Rehearsal for the Concert that he is going to give next Thursday. On arriving home I found Mr. & [[Rakowski-85|Mrs. Dalrymple]], [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]] & Mr. Odell at our house, they stayd till after 11 pm.when I walked part of the way home with them. Friday night I went into town – home by 10 Jim [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] at our house I walked home to his lodgings with him in Gertrude St. - he has not got into anything as yet - Saturday afternoon I went to a Rehearsal at Richardsons In the evening [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], Bessie & I went for a walk into town. This morning, Jim & I went to hear Mr. Fletcher preach, Richmond I liked him very much, met J Ramsden on our way home - Jim came home with me & stayd dinner & Tea at our house - In the evening {{Image|file=Aah-220.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/220}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-221 1295]

we went to hear Mr. Henderson, spent the afternoon reading May 31st 1868
Weather fine, but cold, spent my time much as usual. Thursday night Richardsons 3rd Pupils concerts came off & it proved one of the most successful affairs of the sort ever given in Melbourne The music was first class being selections from the best operas & having some really fine voices in the class it was rendered very effectively, at its termination the Hall was cleared & then came a Ball dancing was kept up till near 4.30 next morning My friend [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] is still in town, I broke the subject of the rumours I had heard about him & he not only denied it, but informed of me of a diabolical attempt that has been made in Dunedin to injure him - he hopes time & circumstances will bring things to light that will clear him from all imputations Saturday night I had an order for the Haymarket Theatre & I went to see a new actress make her debut, a Mrs. Florence Williams, a daughter of James the Novelist - I can only state she is one of the most miserable failures I have seen, a poor appearance a bad voice, no tact, no idea of producing dramatic effect - Tuesday night [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], Bessie, Fred & I spent at Clarks, Mary does not appear very well. I shall feel anxious on her account until she gets over her confinement - This morning & evening I went to Church - spent the afternoon at Marsdens singing Etc - June 7th.1868
Weather very cold & frosty, with a litle rain occasionally – very busy at the office - Monday, being Whitmonday I had a half holiday. Bessie & I took a strool into town in the afternoon, after doing the fashionable in Collins St we went to Et Melbourne. I stayd with Clark & Mary, after which {{Image|file=Aah-221.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/221}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-222 1296]

I walked into town, met Miss Weber walked home with her after which I returned to Mary's, spent the evening very pleasently with her & Mrs. Johnson - Tuesday night I spent with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] at his lodgings in Gertrude St Wednesday evening [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]] & Miss Odell & her brother with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] came to our house & stayd till 11 pm - Thursday evening I went to the singing class as usual Friday evening I attended a meeting at the Gymnasium for the purpose of winding up the present association the Society being in debt about £70 to the instructor (Johnston), it was decided expedient to make over to him the whole of the property in liquidation of his claim on condition that he would still continue the Gymnasium as usual but entirely on his own responsibility – Saturday afternoon I went to Kidgells at Balaclava where I found several friends and acquaintenances, we playd Croquet & danced until dark, when we adjourned to Kidgells house where we had tea after which we passed a pleasent evening, singing & dancing Etc I left by the last train getting home about 12 pm. Went to Church morning & evening to day, took a walk in the Cemetery in the afternoon - June 14th.1868
Weather very cold & frosty but on the whole very fine & agreeable - Busy at the office, the usual routine. Monday evening in company with a friend named Whitty & young lady Miss Marsden, I went to Pittmans who are now living at Jollimont spent a pleasent evening there till 10 pm when I left & called at Pitts, where I remained till 11.30. I saw a Miss Campbell home {{Image|file=Aah-222.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/222}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-223 1297]

from there to Carlton, after 12 when I reached home - Tuesday evening on coming home from the office, I met [[Webber-6563|Miss Webber]], walked home with her to Collingwood, on leaving her I came home & did not go out again Wednesday evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson's fourth & last of a series of Lectures on the Work lately out called “Ecce Homo”, I have not read the work, but from what I could gather from the Lecturer it resembles Rehrans Life of Christ - holding Christ up as a pattern for human example, a thorough pure holy upright man & nothing more, depriving him of his divinity - Mr. H condemns the work in toto & asserts that he would never preach more if he could not find a misrepresentation missinterpretation & contradiction in every page of the book. (it is very perplexing for I have heard & read of the book & its contents having been approved of by many ministers & theological students, so much so that it is enough to shake ones faith in the redeeming blood of Jesus - if that faith was not well grounded - on leaving the Church I went to Clarks for mother who had been spending the day there - Thursday evening I went as usual to Richardsons Singing Class. Friday evening I remained at home. G Bond called & stayd till 9 pm - Saturday afternoon I went to see a game of Football between the Melbourne Club & a Club formed out of the 14th.Regiment - the playing in my opinion was very good & extremely exciting the Melb men proved too much for the Soldiers the former getting their two goals by 5Pm In the evening I took a walk into town met Lous Burke she is looking, poor girl very thin & ill her baby is very unwell & not likely to live. I think it would be a mercy {{Image|file=Aah-223.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/223}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-224 1298]

God would take it. This morning & evening I went to Church. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] spent the day with us - after leaving Church this evening I saw Miss Pitts home to Jollimont. - The English Mail arrived beginning of the week no letters or news from home except a short note from Aunt Sarah to my mother June 21st.1868
Weather cold wet & miserable, principal subject for public talk are politics & the present Deadlock which seems as far off being settled as ever. The Ministry being in a minority the country is in a most ruinous state - Monday night staid at home, Tuesday at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] lodgings. Wednesday evening I sang two songs at the West Melb Literary Institute at an entertanment given there, the Mayor (Butters) in the chair Thursday evening I took my sister Bessie to hear Walter Montgomery in Bulwers Play of “Lady of Lyons” he was very good as Claude. Friday evening I met Louis Burke saw her home, having a bad cold, I came home early - Saturday rained nearly all day did not go out in the afternoon, spent it reading & copying music. In the evening I went out for a strool met Louis Bourke walked home with her, afterwards went to Jims lodgings, was introduced to some funny people who are living in the same house 11 pm when I arrived home. Sunday morning in company with Bessie I went to St Marks Church, to hear the Revd. T.B.Garlick preach, he is a connection of ours, his brother having married my mothers sister Martha who died many years ago in Adelaide leaving {{Image|file=Aah-224.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/224}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-225 1299]

a family of whom we have heard nothing of since - his brother, the Revd. T.B.G who called on my mother on Friday was present at my fathers wedding, he preached a very good sermon for a Church of England Clergyman. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] spent the afternoon with us. In the evening we went to our Church heard the Revd G Clarke from H.T. preach - July 5th.1868
A fortnight since I continued my journal, nothing particular occurring to note, family all well excepting myself, having suffered severely with a cold. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] still in Melbourne, living at our house, he has an idea of leaving for N.Z. on Monday, last week I spent as usual, pleasuring Etc. Tuesday evening the 23 ult, I went to St Georges Hall, to hear the Philharmonic Socty. produce "Israel in Egypt" the choruses very fine but the effect was marred by the inefficient vocalisation of the principals, excepting the Tenor, Exon, who sang well, after the concert was over I walked to Richmond, with Mr. & Miss Odell & [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]] late when I got home. Wednesday 24th I took my mother to a concert to hear, an old favourite sing Mdm Anna Bishop assisted by a young artist named ‘Lascelles,’ the former sing as well as ever, but her voice is somewhat reedy, but the taste & judgement she displays is perfect & effective. Lascelles has an ex- -traordinary organ, he sings tenor songs with a tenor quality of voice - immediately afterwards he sings a deep bass song, with a strong baritone voice, its truly marvellous, the contrast, both voices are false ones, but he sings in the most finished & artistic style {{Image|file=Aah-225.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/225}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-226 1300]

25th. I went to my singing class at Richardsons - 26th. went to my sisters she is still knocking about, expecting to be confined every day - Saturday afternoon I went to Fitzroy Gardens walking about with Miss Odell & my sister, met Clark & Mary the latter to my surprise apparently quite well & strong considering. In the evening I took a walk met Louis Bourke, had a chat with her for a few minutes - Sunday morning & evening went to Church. In the afternoon took a walk as far as the Cemetery - Monday evening 28th. very busy at the office, on arriving home my mother informed me that she had been spending the day a Clarks, on asking her how Mary was, she said as usual the following morning at breakfast on looking over the columns of the “Argus” I saw that on the 27th. inst the wife of J.J.Clark was safely delivered of a Son - Mother had not informed us of the event although she was aware of it. I went to see her yesterday, Saturday, found her quite well the baby a boy is a fine big child - Wednesday being the 1st.July & Seperation Day was observed as a holiday in all the principal offices in town, having a deal of back work to do I availed myself of the day to {{Red|*}}pull it up, so went to the office as usual - In the evening Mr. Schofield & Mrs. Green called & staid tea, on their leaving our house, I went to Et Melbourne, & spent the night at Odells, very pleasently, they are very nice people, it was 2 am next morning when we arrived home - Thursday evening went to my singing class Friday evening I spent at home. Saturday after calling at my sisters I went to the Gardens met some friends there - walked home with the Miss Wrights Rt Williamson was at our house, staid tea & spent the evening with us went to Church night & morning. In the afternoon [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], Williamson, Fred & I took a walk to the Cemetery. On leaving church this evening I walked over {{Image|file=Aah-226.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/226}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-227 1301]

to Wollastons Church, the people were just coming out I met Miss Webber & some other friends & we all took a delightful walk (moonlight) to Johnston St. Bridge. - 11 pm when I got home - July 12th.1868
Weather unsettled since I last wrote, raining one day frosty next & so on. Mail from England arrived on Monday bringing us a long letter from father, in which he informs us that he is not enjoying the best of health, having lost his sense of taste & smell - I am very much grieved to hear such is the case - he states that the Chancery Case appears to be as far from settlement as when last he wrote, he alludes to Uncle John Thomas's affairs, & he tells us that his (J.T) principal has been divided between Aunt Sarah Uncle Joe, & my father, the money £200 that he sent to mother being part of it. Now that John Tom. has turned up he will have to refund what he received - by the same mail came a letter from Uncle Joe, to Uncle John T. (the latter having told me to open any letters that came for him I took the liberty of opening it) & found it to contain a letter of Credit on the Bk of N.S.Wales for £50.0.0 in his favour, on the fly leaf of same was a most affectionate letter in which he advises Uncle John Tom. not to draw upon his principal but that he being the executor to his father will & having had the management (and the use of the money) during Uncle J.T. absence) of it, he proposes sending him out the interest in the shape of an annuity - what I remark as rather strange, in the letter is the fact of Uncle Joe never alluding to the money he must have received during the 16 or 17 years of Uncle John Tom absence I feel positive he expects to receive all his back money, tho’ I doubt whether he could legally recover it. My father thinks it best to send him out the principal & have done with it & him I dont agree with the idea for I feel assured that if he received such a sum that he would soon squander it away in drink {{Image|file=Aah-227.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/227}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-228 1302]

Uncle Joes idea of sending him out just the interest as formerly is the best, immediately on receipt of the letter I wrote to the P.O. of Seymour, & also the P.O. at Kilmore letters of the same tenor & date informing him of the arrival of the £50 I hope he will receive one of them tho’ I fear not having heard of him the last two months that he has gone further up the bush, if so I hope he will write & let us know his whereabouts. When Uncle John Thomas wrote to Uncle Joe, from Melbourne when living at our house he alluded to the kindness we have shown him. Joe refers to it by stating that he would not forget it, & that he had remembered us in his will, but the funniest part of the extract is the old gentleman had deliberately ran his pen through “the will” (I mean the words) I suppose he thought we should perhaps be shown the letter & the allusions might raise hopes that in the future he may not be inclined to gratify Tuesday evening Misses Odell & [[Rakowski-86|Rekowski]] with Mr. Batten & Mr Odell called at our house & spent the evening with us - Thursday evening went to my Singing class, as usual - Friday evening I took a walk, met Louis Burke, out with her for a hour or so. Saturday afternoon spent at my sisters Mary she & the Baby are doing well - In the evening Mr. Schofield called & had tea with us. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & I walked home to the Congregational College with him - from there we went to town for a walk. This morning & evening I went to Church. In the afternoon took a walk to the Cemetery July 19th.1868
Another week passed much as usual with little variety rather slack, for a change, at the office. I received a letter from my Uncle John Tom, quite {{Image|file=Aah-228.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/228}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-229 1303]

unexpectedly, for from it I gather he left the neighbourhood where he last wrote to me some months ago, so that the letters I wrote to him will be returned to me, he states that he had been engaged cutting wood for an engine at Huntley – Bendigo - & that that party had [become] insolvent & he himself left in debt for his board & lodging amounting to £5. which sum he requested me to forward him enclosed was an order on BK to draw any monies that might have been sent to him from England, with this order I endeavoured to get the L/C cashed, which I held but the BK would not cash it until endorsed by my Uncle - so I accordingly sent it him but as yet I have not received any reply. I cannot account for his behaviour. The mail for England, left on Saturday the 18th I wrote to my father by it. Mr. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] is still living with us he expects Mrs. H & family from N.Z the latter end of next week - Thursday evening went as usual to Richardsons Singing class, practised over some excellent music from various operas. Wednesday evening Miss Baker spent at our house. I saw her home afterwards. Saturday afternoon I & Bessie went to the Gardens to hear the Band play, met Mrs. & Miss Odell there & [[Rakowski-86|Dalia Rekowski]]. My sister & I accompanied home to Mrs. Odells, & being Miss O. 20th Bthday, we spent very jollily together between 11 & 12 when we arrived home - Went to Church morning & evening this day, in the afternoon I took a strool to Fitzroy Gardens met Mrs. Mapelstone & a friend walked home with them. The weather during the week has been very cold, wet & foggy - {{Image|file=Aah-229.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/229}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-230 1304]

Melbourne July 26th.1868
Fine weather but cold, getting slack at the office - Monday night I spent at my sisters (Clark) mother was there & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], Tuesday evening I spent at home, Wednesday evening Hamilton, Bessie & I went to Williamsons (Nt Melb’) several other people were [there], we managed to spend a very pleasent evening together, we left there about 11.40, in company with the sisters named Findley who live down our way - Thursday evening as usual I went to Richardsons Class Friday spent at home except for about an hour when I took a strool out Louis. B. poor girl is suffering severely with a bad cold & general debility brought on by their clothing hard work Etc. Saturday afternoon Hamilton & I spent househunting, he expects Mrs. H & family over from Dunedin next week. In the evening I went out for a walk, met Emily Phillips rambled about Fitzroy with her for an hour or so, after seeing her home I went to town met English had a long chat him. Went to Church this morning & in the afternoon took a walk to the Gardens met Mrs. Floraun & Miss Norris. In the evening I went to Church after the service, walked with Miss Pitts to her house in Jollimont I cannot understand Uncle John Toms silence nothing heard from him as yet. August 2nd 1868
Another week nearer my grave, grave reflection! - more especially when I feel how little good I have {{Image|file=Aah-230.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/230}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-231 1305]

done to myself or to others during the time, or preceding - My employment consists of nothing but a routine with little change from week end to week end, copying manifests - endorsing B/L - making out invoices & such like – Monday evening on reaching home, I found a note had been left at the house for me, which on opening, I found to be from my Uncle John Tom, informing me that he had arrived in town that day & wished to see me. I went to where he had put up the London Boarding House in Lonsdale St after tea I went & saw him, he certainly looked better than when last I saw, [him] externally, for he had got a decent suit of clothes on his back - he told me he had got the L/C cashed in Bendigo & that he had spent the most of the money leaving himself with barely sufficient to get up the bush with again - I should infer from what he told me, that he had paid his debts - & bought some clothes & a new swag & I believe had had a good spree besides - I was very much annoyed at him not giving my mother the money he had borrowed from her, not allowing for the sums he had had from Fred & myself - we had a long consultation together about his plans for the future - he wishes to have a part of his money sent to him out say £300 as soon as possible to enable him to commence farming and the rest in 12 months, or less time, afterwards - wished me to write a letter explaining his views & & intentions to Uncle Joseph - which I promised to do for him the next day, on leaving him about 9 pm I went to the Princess’s Theatre & sat for a couple of hours witnessing the greatest rubbish I ever saw on the stage excepting some performances by some Gymnasts - {{Image|file=Aah-231.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/231}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-232 1306]

Tuesday evening Uncle came to our house & we had a another long talk over his affairs, & then dictated a letter, to send to Uncle Joseph, containing John Toms views - he bade us good bye but he called on me the following day & stated he was then on the point of leaving for “Woodend” & when he was settled he would write to me. Wednesday evening I went to an evening party at Atkinsons, Drapers, Smith St. it was Miss A birthday. There was a about 30 people present, & what with dancing, singing, forfeits & parlor games, we managed to spend a jolly night of it. There are three Miss A. very pretty girls, the eldest & I did a tall amount of flirting which ended in her giving me her likeness, by way of souvenir - on leaving them I accompanied Mr. & Mrs. Stewart & a Miss Eilly home to Carlton, after 4 am when I got home, very tired. Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing class, where was held a Rehearsal for the Concert which is to take place in the Duke of Edinburgh Theatre, in a few weeks time, for benefit of the “educated poor” of Melbourne, the Governor Manners Sutton has promised to patronise the same, so I expect it will be a fine concert, as far as the singing goes I am sure it will for connected with the class are some of best, if not the best - amateur vocalists in Melbourne - Friday evening I went out for a strool met Louis B. she was little better than when last I met her - Miss Dove was married on the 30th. inst to a young fellow named Mason, what a fine chance I missed, she has an independency of £400.0.0 a year. I had every {{Image|file=Aah-232.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/232}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-233 1307]

opportunity of possessing her, strange I neglected it, but I have a horror against going in for money in such cases, had she been poor I would have, no doubt, tried to win her, for she is a most unaffected person, & rather accomplished - but it is too late now to repine - I met [[Webber-6563|Miss Webber]] on Wednesday. I fancy she was rather cool to me - she informed me that Kidgell had proposed for her, but that she had declined the honor, poor fellow, I can understand his reason for making up his mind to leave the colony, as he intends doing, & commence on his own account in Queensland - girls are fools, Kidgell is a clever fellow & very good natured & splendid company & very well informed & intelligent, has a good salary & a rising man, he happens to be rather short in stature - & young ladies nowadays must measure their love by the length of the party concerned, would I were taller? - how strange, the same ladies that he has wanted & tried for, I could have had by asking for, if I had been so inclined, & in position to marry them - whereas Kidgell is a thousand times my superior in every respect, & yet he is continually being refused, what idiots girls must be - & what a want of discrimination they display - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens to hear the Band play, met Mary with the nurse & baby, also Alice Odell & [[Rakowski-86|Dalia Rekowski]] & several others friends and acquaintances - spent a pleasent afternoon, after tea, I took a walk about Collingwood met the Wrights, went home with them I went to hear Mr. Henderson preach to day night & morning - {{Image|file=Aah-233.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/233}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-234 1308]

he was particularly eloquent on both occasions. In the afternoon the Bros’ West called at our house & stayd about an hour or so when Fred & I accompanied them to their lodgings (Carlton at a Mr. Neighbour,) when we staid tea they are clever young fellows, one of them is studying for the Ministry, Mr. Neighbour, Junior is a young man of great promise, being a B.A. & not twenty years of age - after tea, we went to Church together. I accompanied Casey Browning home after the evening service was over - to her fathers house, Brunswick St. August 9th.1868
Weather very fine during the week. I have been suffering severely from a cold, & also an attack of bile, a thing I have not had for the last 15 years Monday evening we had full of visitors at our place. Miss Odell & Misses Cass & [[Rakowski-86|Rekowski]], T.Odell & Goode, spent a pleasent evening together, Tuesday even I spent at Clarks. Wednesday evening I went to see my old friend [[Dight-42|Harry Dight]], found him & his wife quite well [[Hollister-4263|Mrs. D]] has lately, within the last month given birth to a [[Dight-54|daughter]], thus making two children, Harry is working at his trade & he informs me has hard work to make things meet. I left him about 10Pm. Thursday night, I attended a rehearsal of Richardsons pupils for at the Theatre, for the concert to be given on the 12th.inst. everything went off very well. Friday evening, I & Bessie went to Mrs. Florauns & spent the evening at her house, 12 pm when we reached home. Saturday afternoon I went to the Gardens, met several there I knew, after tea I went on to another Rehearsal at the Theatre, it was over about 11 Pm, at its conclusion, in company with Joe West & Neighbour we went into a restaurant & had supper. I felt very unwell this morning & did not go to church took a short walk before {{Image|file=Aah-234.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/234}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-235 1309]

dinner felt much better. In the afternoon I took a walk to the Fitzroy Gardens, met Marsden who accompanied me home to tea, after which I went to Church, heard Mr. Henderson preach an excellent sermon - We are very slack at the Rly. the ships arriving just now & for a few months to come, mostly go to the pier at Williamstown where after being discharged they load wool, during the season, for return cargo. August 16th.1868
Lovely weather during the week, very slack at the office. I have been suffering from a cold & bad headache all the week but I am happy to state I am getting all right again. Monday evening, on leaving the office I went to Dinner at Mr. W.Bonds house, Abbotsford, where I found my Mother, & Bessie & [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & G.Bond, we spent the evening very pleasently. Mr. Mrs. B. are very nice people, & very kind & good natured, they have a nice house beautifully situated on the banks of the River Yarra, we left about 10.30 pm. Tuesday evening I spent at Marys, her baby was not very well & kept up a continual squall all the evening, making things to me, who, am an old bachelor, any -thing but agreeable, such are the joys of matrimony. Wednesday eveing Richardson with his pupils & Class gave a Grand Operatic Concert, in the Duke of Edinburgh Theatre, for the benefit of the “Educated Poor” the house was crowded from pit to gallery, the Dress Circle contained the Governor & Suite & all the elite of Melbourne considering all the performers were amateurs, the concert was a great success, not a break down, nor yet a thing sang out of time, which is saying a great deal, as the selections comprised some of the {{Image|file=Aah-235.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/235}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-236 1310]

most difficult music, both solos & concerted pieces from about a dozen different operas, everybody appeared well pleased – at the conclusion of the performance, the stage was cleared, & those who took part in the concert, stayd behind & danced until about 2.30 next morning myself of course being among the number Thursday evening I remained at home - Friday, ditto, except that I took a strool for an hour or so after tea – Saturday on leaving the office at 12 am, I went to Sandridge, having heard that the Rangetoto had arrived from Dunedin. I thought of meeting Mrs. [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], but found, that Hamilton had preceded me, so I had my journey for nothing, on arriving home, I found Mrs. H. and family of four children here, all well. H has taken a cottage, near us where he purposes living in, but will still live with us until tomorrow, we are pretty crowded. In the evening I took a walk into town This morning, Sunday, I went, in company with West & Marsden to St. Francis Chapel (R.C.) heard Haydns No 3 Mass rendered very well, but the chief attraction for me, was Armes Beaumont singing the “Cujus Animam” (“Stabat Mater”) in a style & with a force never equalled in Australia, I believe, he took in the cadenza at the finale Db. in his natural voice, a note I never heard before, or ever read of being sang by anyone, In the afternoon I took a walk to Clarks, stayd about an hour with them, the baby I am sorry to state has a bad cold. In the evening I went to Hendersons in company with Geo Ramsden, who had been to tea at our house - got home early - I wrote a long letter on Father by the Mail which leaves for England to day August 23d 1868
I have been, & am still, very ill, all the week, suffering severely {{Image|file=Aah-236.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/236}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-237 1311]

from Tic Doloureux. I never suffered such long continued agony in my life. Monday evening West & Marsden spent at our house – singing Tuesday took a strool about town called at Richardsons, home early - Wednesday evening I went to Clarks to bring my mother home who had been spending the day there. I was very unwell & was glad when I got home. Thursday I went to Richardsons singing class - Friday evening too ill to go out. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I took a strool about town, in the evening we did ditto about Collingwood shopping Etc - Sunday morn so ill I did not go to Church In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery met Marsden, the day was lovely & the place beautifully situated & we enjoyed ourselves, with the exception of my still suffering from Neuralgia. In the evening I staid at home until 8 when I sauntered down to Hendersons Church met Mrs. Hamilton & my mother just coming out, came home with them, accompanied Mrs H. home. They left our house on Monday, having taken a cottage in Palmerston St near here, they are getting a little settled. H has got a situation at Beauchamp & Rocke, the salary is small but better than being idle, his responsibility is great, a wife & four young children! The weather has been very unsettled, during the week. We are very slack at the office, & likely to be so for some time until the wool season is over. August 30th.1868
Weather pretty settled, slack at the office. my health is much better than it was last week, tho I am far from being as well as I should like to be no family news to relate. Clark spent the evening at our house on Monday Tuesday evening, afer tea, I went to Stewarts staid about an hour {{Image|file=Aah-237.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/237}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-238 1312]

from there I went to Henderson's church, a tea meeting had been held before I arrived. I was in time to hear some of the speeches that were made & also some singing by the choir a report on the affairs of the Church was read, stating that the debt has been reduced to £600, which sum it is hoped will be cleared off by the end of the year. Never was a church in the colony ever built & finished & paid for, in such a short time – & besides this £1,000.0.0 has been given from the church funds to other institutions, such as the Missionery Society & Benevolents, during the past year. I came home with Marsden. Wednesday evening, J.West called & in company with him I went to the Atkinsons in Smith St. where I went to the party some weeks ago, found Miss A. at home, alone, she is a very pretty ladylike girl, expressed herself pleased to see us & wondered why we had not called before, it was very bad behaviour on our part, we staid about two hours & came away. Thursday evening, I went to Stewarts, & spent the evening, several people were there I knew, left about 11 pm & accompanied two young ladies home to Collingwood – Friday evening I went out for a strool, came home early. Saturday afternoon I & Bessie went to the Gardens to hear the Band play, met many people we knew. In the evening I took a walk into town, on my way home I met L Burke we had a long chat and a walk together. Sunday a dull miserable day, went to Church morning & evening, spent the afternoon reading - walked home with Mrs. Hamilton {{Image|file=Aah-238.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/238}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-239 1313]

Melbourne - Sept 6th.1868
Weather very pleasent, & much warmer than it as been - beginning to be a little busier at the office, several large ships having arrived & being discharged at our Pier. I am happy to state that I am much better in health than I was last week, my mother has not been well lately. I sometimes feel very uneasy about her Monday night, I staid at home except for a short time when I went out with Bessie shopping. Tuesday night, I took her to Mdm Annie Bishop & Lascelles, at the Theatre Royal, we met Clark & Mary with Mr. & Mrs. Johnson, there, so we formed a very pleasent party & enjoyed ourselves. Wednesday evening, I also went taking with me Louis Burke. I thought it would cheer her up to go to the Theatre, tho’ considering the circumstances she is in, I did not care about being seen in public with her, she was very much pleased & seemed to enjoy the performance & I am sure it afforded me pleasure, if only to see her so happy, she expects her husband will be brought from Sydney in a few weeks time & put upon his trial for his offences against society in Victoria when she hopes to be able to get a divorce from him, she has had no communication or connection with him since her return from Gipps Land where he deserted her. Thursday night I went to Richardsons Singing Class, Friday evening, J West & I paid the Atkinsons a visit spent a pleasent evening there were several others young fellows there - Saturday {{Image|file=Aah-239.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/239}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-240 1314]

afternoon I took my sister Bessie to the Gardens to hear the Band play. Mrs. Hamilton joined us, after tea, I took a strool into town, met Louis Bourke, walked home with her Sunday morning I went to Hendersons Church, Mr. H. has commenced an exposition on the 15 Chpr. of St John. in the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetery, met the two Miss Phillips there with Mr. Eskdale, joined them & had a long strool about the grounds, pilfering a quantity of flowers & blossoms we had no right to have taken – I went to Church in the evening, walked home with Miss Pitts, who informed me that [[Webber-6563|Miss Webber]] was engaged to be married. I should like to know if it is to [[Kidgell-41|Kidgell]] tho’ I cannot think such is the case – My mother has not been very well during the week the mail from England arrived, no letters but in a newspaper we found some pencilled notes from father, in which he informs us that he has been very ill & was when he wrote, laid up in Cheshire with an abscess in his groin, God grant that he may soon recover - Sept 13th.1868
Nice weather, during the week. Been very busy at the office, several large ships at the Pier. Tuesday evening I went over to Clarks, who gave me a lesson in singing a piece of music I am learning the Cujus animam from Stabat Mater {{Image|file=Aah-240.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/240}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-241 1315]

I left his house about 9 pm called at Florauns, my sister Bessie was there, & several other visitors remained till 12 pm dancing & singing Etc. Wednesday I took my sister to Hoskins Assembly Rooms, where the German Leidertafel gave a concert & afterwards a Ball, it was between 2 & 3 next morning when it was all over. The part music was very fine better than any I have heard before - I met a great many people there I knew. Thursday evening I went to the Singing class as usual. Friday evening I spent at Mrs. Stewart, her husband I found, had gone to Bendigo, for a few days, several people dropped in while I was there, left about 10 pm. Saturday afternoon in company with a large party I went up the River boating. The day was anything but propitious, but we managed to enjoy ourselves very much on landing at Richmond, we all proceeded to Saunders where Mrs. S. had provided a nice tea for us all, spent the evening singing & playing sundry parlor games - altogether I spent a most enjoyabl day. There was a young fellow named Ford with us, an excellent musician who playd several fine pieces of music during the evening, he informed me that [[Webber-6563|Miss Webber]] with whom he is well acquainted with, is going to be married to “Long” of Bourke St. the man she has been employed by for a long while past, he is rich, but twice her age I knew him well having met him several times at Gotches & other places - I went to church morning & evening {{Image|file=Aah-241.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/241}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-242 1316]

In the afternoon, in company with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]], I went to the Cemetery for a walk - I received a letter from Uncle John Thomas on Tuesday, he is still living in the neighbourhood of Huntley, informs me he is on the look out for land to purchase when his money arrives - ? Sept 20th.1868
Summer weather setting in, still busy at the office. Monday evening I went to an evening party at Whittys in Princess St spent a jolly night, several there I knew, the Whittys are a very pleasent, genial Irish family, it was 3 am next morning, when I got home. Tuesday evening in company with Richard Ryland, who had just come down from Castlemaine, I went to the Theatre Royal, to see the Flying Scud performed. I was too sleepy & seedy from the effects of the previous nights dissipation, to enjoy myself very much, 11 pm when it was over - Wednesday, evening, Mother having gone over to Marys during the day, I went for her, stayd about two hours, got home about 10.30. very rough night, blowing hard, with shoals of dust. Thursday evening Fred & I went to William St School Room to hear a Concert there, got up by Donaldsons - several favourites were singing, & some two little girls named Terluki, playd very well on the piano, a thunder storm came on at the close of the performance, we got wet coming home. Friday evening after tea I went to Stewarts, Mr. & Mrs. S were out, a lady friend named Eily was there keeping house I stayd some time with her when we left, & I saw Miss E. to Fitzroy, home early {{Image|file=Aah-242.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/242}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-243 1317]

Saturday afternoon, after reading a little, & doing everyday little domestic duties, I took a strool into town, met Charlotte Roberts & Miss Aitkin, walked home, or nearly so, with them, rambled about the Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening I went to town, streets teeming with people as usual, met several I knew, home early. Sunday morning I went to Church. In the afternoon, in company with Mr. & Mrs. Hamilton, I took a walk to the Cemetery, got home in time to escape the rain which has been falling ever since. after tea - tho still wet, I went to Church, sorry to find it only half filled. Mr. H preached a most powerful sermon, the subject being the training of students for the ministry, he has rather peculiar views, he does not believe in ministers who have to write their sermons, nor does he believe in their going about gadding & gossiping or what is called visiting he thinks it is lost time, he thinks a minister should know the Scriptures by heart, thinks it a disgrace if they do not, when a poor strolling player can repeat every line in Shakespeares plays & many more - Sept 27th.1868
Weather been very hot & showery during the week, rain has been much wanted. I hope the farmers have had enough to last them for some time. Monday evening I spent at Stewarts singing. Tuesday I went to a conversazione at the Fitzroy Police Court, a miserable affair, if it had not been for Stewarts singing, at its termination I went home with Miss Atkinson whom I had met at the place - {{Image|file=Aah-243.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/243}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-244 1318]

Wednesday evening, Mrs. Floraun & Miss Norris with G.Fever called & spent the evening with us, passed it very pleasently - Miss N is one of most ladylike & well bred girl I have ever met I cannot account for her being left single for so long. I think she is too refined for the class of young men, now to be met with in Melbourne. I walked home with her to Mrs. F's where she is staying Thursday, I went to Richardsons Singing Class, practising over a lot of Operatic Choruses. The concert that he gave some weeks ago realized £50. for the object it was given or, (“The Educated Poor”) Friday evening I went to Stewarts & made arrangements for him giving me some further instruction I require in singing - I purpose commencing next week, 10 pm when I left his house. Saturday afternoon I went to hear the Band play. In the evening in company with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] I pd a visit to Williamsons, stayd about an hour. Bob accompanied us part of the way home through town, 11 when I reached home. Sunday morning & evening I went to Church taking my sister & Mrs. Floraun in the evening, Mr. Henderson preaching on the occasion a sermon specially for young women from the 30 verse of the 31st.Chapter of Proverbs, the church was crowded to suffocation nearly, he preached for an hour & thirty five minutes. The discourse was such as has seldom been listened to in Melbourne, & one I trust will do a deal of good to those that heard it. I took a walk in the afternoon to the Cemetery - {{Image|file=Aah-244.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/244}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-245 1319]

October 4th.1868
Weather very unsettled. Slack at the office, expect to be busy next week several large ships being due. Mail from England arrived on 1st.inst. no letters from father. Mother recd one from her sister Aunt Hartley of Halifax in which she informs us that they are in very reduced circumstances. I am truly sorry, it is very hard to have lived in luxury & in the midst of plenty all her life & now in her old age, to know poverty & being childless, makes it none the easier to bear. Uncle Hartley never got over his heavy losses he sustained at the commencement of the American War. (7 years ago). I feel very anxious concerning my father, the last mail brought news of his being ill I trust he has recovered. Monday evening I commenced taking music lessons from Stewart. I like his style, I think he will do me good. Tuesday evening I remained at home till 9 pm when [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] called & requested me to go to Emerald Hill with a visitor of his who lived there, he not being very well. I did not object considering the person was a nice young lady named Miss Campbell, whose father is Manager of a Branch of the National Bank, E.H. Mrs. H. accompanied us so I had company both ways, & the night being a lovely moonlight one, I enjoyed my walk very well Wednesday, I took my sister & Miss Norris to a Ball at the Manchester Unity Hall, where we enjoyed ourselves {{Image|file=Aah-245.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/245}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-246 1320]

very well until 4 am next morning, felt very tired & seedy next day, but in the evening I went as usual to Richardsons, after which, in company with {{Red|*}}Darcy & another friend, I went to Hendersons Church where was a grand concert being held, neither of us had tickets nor money to procure them, so we put a bold face on it & marched in without being interrupted although there were three persons at the door, who thinking we had been in before did not attempt to stop us, it was awful cheek on our part, we enjoyed ourselves none the less, what we heard of the concert was very good considering {{Red|*}}as the performers were all amateurs, it was nearly 12 when I got home. Friday evening, J.West called for me & we went to see the Atkinsons stayd at their house for a hour & then returned home. Saturday, afternoon did a few jobs about the house, till 4 when I took a walk met Miss Atkinson had a strool with her, till 5.30, after tea called at Stewarts, thinking he would have given me a lesson, as I did not get one on Wednesday, nor will be able to attend tomorow evening having an engagement, found him engaged, so took a walk into town on my way home I met Miss Webber walked home with conversing upon her intended wedding with Mr. Long, bade her good bye with kind wishes for her future happiness Etc Etc - {{Image|file=Aah-246.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/246}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-247 1321]

This morning not feeling well I did not go to Church about twelve I took a strool met some friends & went to Carlton with them In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery met Mr. Eskdale & the two Miss Phillips rambled about the grounds with them & walked part of the way home with them. In the evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson who preached a grand sermon forcible, eloquent & practical spent the rest of the evening singing Sacred music, selections from the Messiah Etc. Oct llth.1868
Lovely weather during the past week, very busy at the office, enjoying good health. I have very little of interest to note, leading as I do such a monotonous life with little variety. Monday & Wednesday evening I went to Stewarts for my singing lessons, met Miss Atkinson on the Wed evening & walked home with her. Friday evening having an order for the Theatre, I took her to see the “Octoroon” performed, after which I had a pleasent walk home with her. Tuesday evening the two Miss Flowers, with Mr. & Mrs. Sayce spent at our house I seeing the former home, much to my discomfiture, at 12 pm Thursday evening I went as usual to Richardsons Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play, met Mary there, looking very well - In the evening I went to town for a walk, met several {{Image|file=Aah-247.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/247}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-248 1322]

people I knew, home early. Sunday I went to Church in the morning Mr. H. had been taken suddenly ill a Mr. Greenwwod one of the Students, preached an excellent sermon. In the evening another of the Students, a friend of mine, Mr. West, preached. In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery for a walk, after leaving Church I met Miss Campbell & walked home with her to Carlton (a young lady in our choir, but no relation to the young lady I went to Emerald Hill with in company with Mrs. Hamilton a few days ago). Oct 18th.1868
Weather very unsettled but on the whole very pleasent. Monday evening, went as usual to Stewarts for my music lesson, Tuesday evening, I took a strool about town for an hour or so, Wednesday the 14th, being my sister Bessies 21st.Birthday, we invited a few friends a regular house full, & we enjoyed ourselves amazingly singing, flirting Etc. Etc. 2 am next morning when we broke up, next evening Thursday, I went to Richardsons had an hour or two good squalling, on leaving there, in company with Joe West, I went to Clarks, to bring my mother home, who had been spending the day there, found Clark, very busily engaged drawing plans, for a house he intends erecting on a {{Image|file=Aah-248.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/248}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-249 1323]

a piece of ground he possesses, Et. Melbourne, so we were not long making a move homewards. Friday evening, West & I went to the Collins St Baptist Chapel in company with W.Ford the organist to try over some pieces he kindly played the accompaniements for. I got through the “Cujus Animam” much better that I anticipated doing – Saturday afternoon I took a walk about town. In the evening Mr. Dewer from Echuca called & spent with us. Sunday morning went to Church, heard a good sermon In the afternoon I went for a walk to the Cemetery on arriving home found Miss Norriss & Mr. Schofield at our house, who stayd tea, after which we all went to Hendersons Church. I saw Miss N. home in company With the Bros West, on leaving her we made for home Wests remaining till 10.30 pm. - We received a letter from Mary Ann (my couzin) informing us of the death of her husband (Peet) who died a few days before writing, in South Australia, it was an illsorted match & being little love on either side the loss, if any, is not acutely felt, judging from the tone of the letter, I received a letter from Harry Vickerman (her brother) he alluded to the death of Peet, but made no comment on same. Oct 25th.1868
Been lovely weather during the week, very busy at {{Image|file=Aah-249.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/249}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-250 1324]

[the] office, all pretty well at home, except Fred, who has been ailing the last days. I am afraid he is not very strong, scarcely a week passing without he is complaining of something or another. Monday & Wednesday evenings I went to Stewarts, was in bad voice both nights & did not make much progress in my studies Tuesday evening in Bessie, Fred & Mr. Dewar I went to Clarks, he was not at home, but Mary entertained us, we spent an hour or two very pleasently. Thursday evening I went to Richardsons he intends giving another Concert next month, so we are working up some fine pieces for the occasion. Friday evening Bessie & I spent at Mrs. Odells, Et. Melb’. several people were there we knew & the time passed very agreeably until 11 pm when we left. 12 when we got home, tired enough, after our long walk, which tended to distroy in some sense the enjoyment we had previously indulged in. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens, after the music was over, we met Mr. West was accompanied us home stayd tea & spent the evening with, he is excellent company, well informed & intelligent, he is studying for the Ministry, preaches now occasionally. Sunday morning, went to Church, ditto in the evening, walked home with West. In the afternoon I took a long walk to the Botanical Gardens, everything looked beautifully fresh & green, the flowers & shrubs shedding a most delightful perfume around. Crowds of folks {{Image|file=Aah-250.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/250}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-251 1325]

were there met many I knew - I received a letter from Alf Peel on Thursday, informing me of the death of his father, he was a connection of my mothers, having married a cousin of hers, Alf is still in Dunedin & employed on the "Daily Times" there. Melbourne November 1st.1868
Weather very fine during the week, not felt very well, think it is owing to the change of the seasons. The English Mail arrived on Friday no letters for us from father, except a few lines we found scribbled in a paper, stating he was somewhat recovered from the effects of the complaint he was suffering from when last we heard from him. Monday & Wednesday evenings I went to Stewarts for my singing lessons. Tuesday evening I took a strool for an hour or two home early. On leaving Stewarts on Monday evening I went to a concert at St Georges Hall, given by Professor Hughes & pupils, on the whole it was a poor affair his leading tenors being formerly pupils of Richardsons who left him because he did not think them good enough to entrust a solo to them, Thursday evening I went to Richardsons as usual Friday evening Clark & Mary spent the evening with us & also J.West & Miss Ditcham, a young lady from Launceston, whose acquaintance we made 2 years ago when she was on a visit here, with the Revd. Mr. Beer, who lately got into such disgrace some 3 months ago, & had to leave the colony, after being expelled from the Church - Miss D. is really a nice {{Image|file=Aah-251.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/251}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-252 1326]

person. I saw her to town where I put her into a cab for Emerald Hill, where she is at present living. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I with Mr. West, (the student) took a pleasent strool to the Botanical Gardens where we met Clark & Mary – the day was fine & the Gardens lovely, being the prettiest promenade about Melb, I enjoyed my afternoon very well - In the evening I went to town, on my way home, I passed Burkes shop. Louis saw me & came after me we took a long walk together till nearly 12 pm. her husband has been brought from Sydney after completing his sentence there, he was brought up here on his arrival & put upon his trial for robbing a travelling Jeweller some 3 years ago near Geelong, & committed Louis poor girl is in a sad way, her baby is not well, nor is she herself very well, her husband has four aliases, she does not know the proper name she ought to bear, she was married by the name of Hayward, but thinks his proper name is Sybon - whatever his name may be it is a disgrace & she feels it, to bear, she hopes she will be able to get a divorce tho I am very much afraid she will have some difficulty in getting one. Sunday morning I went to to the Catholic Chapel, Choir & sang in Gounod’s New Mass, a fine production but nothing in comparison to {{Image|file=Aah-252.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/252}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-253 1327]

some of the Masses of Hadyn & Mozart, it was awfully hot In the afternoon a heavy thunder storm broke over Melb I went to Hendersons in the evening, got caught in a storm on my way home, had to stay an hour & a half under a verandah I met Marsden weather bound like myself- Novr 8th.1868
Weather, lovely, during the week, very slack at our office. Race week, very little business done, Sydney horses winning everything. Thursday the “Cup day” was observed as a holiday, a thing I dont approve of, holidays for Races, I did not go - Monday & Wednesday evening I went to Stewarts. Tuesday I went to an evening party at Pittmans Jollimont. Thursday I went to the Richardsons. Friday evening I went to the Baptist Chapel Collins St in company with W Ford the Organist to try over some music. I did not sing much myself there being a gentleman there named Fuller, who sang admirably he is lately out from England & has heard the best singers of the day & being a good musician he has picked up a style of singing that one seldom hears in the colonies. Saturday afternoon I took a walk, in the evening I took a strool into town met Louisa Burke, or Mrs. Hayward, her husbands trial took place the day before, he was sentenced to five years transportation with hard labour, we took a long walk together, nearly 12 when I left her, she is going {{Image|file=Aah-253.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/253}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-254 1328]

to make an effort to get a divorce, she is a lovely woman & will have little difficulty in getting married again if she is so inclined, her child is her only in- cumbrance - & she clings to it with all a mothers fondness Sunday morning & evening I went to Church, met Ford, in the evening & West who came home with me & staid an hour or so, making arrangements for a picnic for Tuesday next, which is to be observed as a holiday instead of Monday, the Prince of Wales Birthday – Novr. 15th.1868
Fine weather at the beginning, but very changeable since Wednesday when a change occured bringing with it rain & hail in fact it was more like winter weather the summer. Monday being Mail Day was not observed as a holiday, Tuesday being substituted instead Monday evening I went to Stewarts, on my return home found Mrs. Hamilton & her friend Miss Campbell at our house, who staid till near 11 pm. Tuesday in company with Clark & Mary Fred & Bessie & about 20 others mostly ladies I joined in a picnic, left Richmond punt at 11 am with plenty of provisions pulled up as far as the Survey Paddock where we landed & spent the day most pleasently returned about 8 pm, when most of the party {{Image|file=Aah-254.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/254}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-255 1329]

adjourned to Clarks house where we spent the evening, after supper we made for our respective homes – after spending a most delightful day together- Wednesday evening with Fred & mother & Miss Norris, I went to the German Liedertafel Concert, at Hoskins Rooms, Eliz. St, Bessie had gone to an evening party at Dalrymples, Richmond, to which I was invited, so after staying a couple of hours at the Concert, which was very fine, I left, much to my regret, & went there, found several people I knew, managed to spend a couple of hours pleasently, arrived home about 2 am very tired. Friday evening being wet I stayd at home, Saturday after leaving business I went to Clarks to dinner after which he & I went to see the Athletic Sports on the Cricket Ground. They were very fine, the attendance being more numerous than I remember ever seeing before. I went home with Clark & after tea, I went [met] as appointed a fellow clerk named Hart - called at Atkinsons, stayd about an hour, then went to town where I met Louis.B. we took a long walk together 11 pm when I left her I went to Church to day, morning & evening, after the evening service I again met Louis.B. took a walk together, talking over her prospects of getting a divorce Etc, In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery, met Adamson, the day was very warm - very few people being out - {{Image|file=Aah-255.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/255}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-256 1330]

Melbourne Victoria Novr. 22nd.1868
Weather very unsettled during the past week, but on the whole very pleasent. Very busy at the office, the same routine, with little variety, I am getting quite sick of hanging on, expecting a rise of screw, which never appears to come. I dont think there is a firm in Melbourne that pays so badly as the M & H B U Rly. Monday evening, I went to Stewarts, had a good hours practice at scales & exercises. Tuesday evening in company with Evans I went to Livingstones in George St Miss L. is a fine singer & musician, I sang several pieces, & so did she, very much to my enjoyment, 11 pm when we left. Wednesday, I went to tea at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]]s it was Jims Birthday & he had invited several friends & we managed to spend a very pleasent evening together, Thursday evening I went to Rehearsal at Richardsons, Friday, in company with Miss Wright my sister Bessie W. & J.West & Mr. Neighbour I went as per invitation of Willie Ford to the Baptist Cpl Collins St. where he is organist, he played several fine pieces Joe West & I sang several pieces from Oratoria – 11 pm when I got home - Saturday afternoon on arriving home I found my cousin Harry Vickerman at our house he intends remaining in town until Monday I spent the afternoon at Clarks singing & trying over {{Image|file=Aah-256.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/256}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-257 1331]

duets with my sister Mary. After tea I took my Sister Bessie to the Theatre Royal to see the new Burlesque of “King Arthur” we enjoyed it amazingly - 12 when we arrived home. Sunday morning, not feeling well, I did not go to Church, spent it reading. In the afternoon I took a long walk. In the evening I went to Hendersons - Church, after the service I met Miss Finegan walked home with her, on arriving home found the Bros West at our house, who stayd till 10.30 - Novr.29th.1868
Been lovely weather during the week excepting Saturday morning, when we had hot winds, a pleasent change occurred during the afternoon - Monday & Wednesday evening I went as usual to Stewarts for my music lessons Tuesday evening I went out for a strool for about an hour, home by 9 pm. Thursday evening I went to Richardsons, had a fine Rehearsal for his Concert which is to take place on the 2nd December Friday I took a walk into town on arriving home found Clark & Mary at our house, spent a hour or two very pleasently. Saturday afternoon I went, alone, to the Gardens to hear the Band play - In the evening Mr. West, with Neighbour, W.Ford, & Bob Williamson spent at our house, singing & music we had in quantity if not in quality – 11 pm when they took their departure - The English {{Image|file=Aah-257.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/257}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-258 1332]

Mail arrived on Wednesday bringing us a long letter from my father, he is much better than when last we heard from him, he has had to refund to Uncle Joe, the Trustee for my Uncle John Thomas, the money he had received when they divided the latters portion thinking he was dead The Chancery case is supposed to be settled, but after deducting the Atherstons share & the Law expenses, Etc. father is afraid there will not be much coming to us he expects that it will be fully 6 months ere [that] little can be obtained, bother the whole affair I wish we had never known anything of it, it has unsettled us very much This morning I went to Church, walked home with Carry Browning. In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery met Miss Phillips walked home with her. In the evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson deliver his promised Lecture to Young Men. The place was crowded to excess & all appeared eager listeners, it was a very good practical address, full of truth & good sound suggestions, dilated strongly upon young men disciplining their minds when young, spoke long on the necessity & dignity of work, & the incalculable mischief of idleness - I took my sister Bessie with me the Bros West with two young ladies walked home with us - {{Image|file=Aah-258.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/258}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-259 1333]

Decr.6th.1868
Very changeable weather during, hot & cold alternately. Still continue busy at he office, Monday evening I went to Stewarts. Tuesday evening I went to a Rehearsal at St Georges hall. Wednesday evening the Pupils Concert came off. The house was crammed with a fashionable audience, the Programme was very long, & contained works of the best composers, some of the performers were very indifferent, while other[s] say Miss Waymouth, Miss Noyt, Messrs Clark & Moule & Whitty were far above mediocrity. Richardson, I think, is very much to blame in giving some of his pupils too difficult pieces to perform they might sing at Rehearsal very well, but when they get before an audience they dont do so well, on the whole, the concert was not so successful as the two last ones were, after the concert was over, the Hall was cleared for the Ball only those remaining who were invited, the pupils & their friends. Bessie & I remained until about 3.30 a.m. the next morning, after spending a very enjoyable time - I felt very tired next day, went to bed early, Friday evening I went to Stewarts, sang for an hour at scales & exercises, very dry work, on arriving home I found Joe West who stayd till 11 pm Saturday afternoon I & Bessie went to the Band in Fitzroy Gardens, after tea, I took a strool & met Louis Burke 11 pm when I left her Sunday morning & evening I went to Church. In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery, met the two Miss Marsdens very nice girls, enjoyed myself very much in their company - {{Image|file=Aah-259.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/259}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-260 1334]

Decr.13th.1868
Weather very fine, but hot, time spent much as usual - Monday evening went to Stewarts. Tuesday evening, Fred & I spent at Clarks Wednesday in company with a friend, Evans, I went to Livingstones spent the evening singing Miss L has a splendid mezzo sophrano voice Thursday I attended a Lecture by our Pastor, Mr. Henderson in the Church which was crowded. The subject being the “Deluge” viewed in relation to Scripture, Tradition & Science The interst taken in the subject partly in consequence of a series of letters of a very sceptical tendency, signed by “Habitans in Cedar”, an anonymous writer, & the popularity of the lecturer attracted a large audience, he evinced a deal of study & cleverness in handling & arranging his subject which was exceedingly inter- -esting & profiting at least to me, Henderson does not believe in the universality of the flood, but only extended to that part where man existed, his conclusions from tradition alone were con[vinc]ing as to such an event having taken place, every part of the world or its inhabitants, all having the tradition of the world at one time being distroyed by water - Professor McCoy who was the Chairman assisted the lecturer with his usual amiability to make things pleasent, by affirming that there was nothing in Science as far as he had studied the various branches to affect the Scriptures in any way - altogether it was the {{Image|file=Aah-260.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/260}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-261 1335]

best Lecture I ever listened to & I came away feeling much more enlightened by the very intellectual treat than before - My sister & Miss Norris, the Bros West & Ford came home together at its conclusion. Friday evening, I went to Stewarts for my music lesson not having gone to him on the Wednesday as usual. - Saturday afternoon I spent reading "Jane Eyre". In the evening I went out for a walk met a young lady friend with whom I took a pleasent walk with, 11 pm when I got home. I wrote during the day to my Uncle John Tom who is at present living on a farm near Heathcote @ at a Mr. Cocks Wild Duck Creek I heard from him at the beginning of the week, he is anxiously looking forward for news by the next mail from Uncle Joe in reference to the disposal of his property - Sunday morning I spent at home reading. In the afternoon, I took a walk to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to Church, there was a collection & it is hoped enough will be collected to clear off the debt of the church, if so, it will reflect very great credit in the congregation, two years have scarcely elapsed since the building was commenced, its total cost being £16,000. The fact of its all being paid in such a short time is a thing unprecedented in the colonies & such a structure! one of the most elegant erected in Australia on leaving the Church I met G.Bond had a long walk & talk together on coming home, I was accosted by a young lady acquaintance who was in company with, & who introduced me to [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]], that I have not spoken to for upwards of four {{Image|file=Aah-261.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/261}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-262 1336]

years, & with whom I used to be very familiar she was very young at that time (16) & being pretty had a great many admirers & I may say was very foolish. I had occasion to take offence at her conduct for something that to me was unpar- -donable, I wrote a letter to her at the time, a pretty sharp one, but in which I took the liberty of pointing out to her evil results that would arise from her continuance of her line of conduct, scarcely a day has passed that I have not seen her, but have never spoken to her. I have observed that she has been very quiet & much changed, for the better, to my surprise I heard some time ago that she was very desirous of seeing me, having entertained a poor opinion of her I never cared about renewing the acquaintance, however on this occasion I could not get out of it, she told me it had pained her to be thought so badly of by me but that she had endeavoured to correct her many faults & thanked me most sincerely for the letter I wrote her, the contents of which opened her eyes to her foolishness & she was happy to state it had had the effect of keeping her out of mischief, her object in wishing to speak to me was she did not like to continue longer under the ban of my displeasure & the contempt she was sure I had entertained for her. I was very much surprised at her candour, & it certainly placed her character in a more favourable light, than I ever thought it would, tho I have heard from other sources, when I have expressed my opinion about her, that I was much mistaken in my ideas {{Image|file=Aah-262.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/262}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-263 1337]

concerning her. I stayd talking to her about an hour, parting on the understanding that we are to be good friends for the future Decr.20th.1868
Weather unsettled during the week, very busy at the office – Monday & Wednesday evening went to Stewarts as usual, also to Richardsons on the Thursday on leaving there, I called at the Baptist Chapel George St. where a rehearsal was taking place for a Tea Meeting to be given on Tuesday next. Met [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] who is the leading sophano for the occasion – I walked home with her. Friday evening I spent at Clarks Saturday evening I met L.B. in town, saw her home. Sunday, went to Church morning & evening, on leaving Church this evening I met Miss Stone & walked about an hour with her. I went to the Cemetery in the afternoon. Decr.27th.1868
X mas week, as usual holiday time, tho for my part, I never remember passing, on the whole, such a quiet one. Monday & Wednesday went to Stewarts, Tuesday I went to a Tea meeting, Miss. S. sang very well, after the singing was over, she left, & I joined her in a pleasent walk home. Thursday as if fate would have it, I met her again by accident & we took a long walk together, it was a lovely moonlight night & we enjoyed ourselves very much. Friday X mas day. I had intended {{Image|file=Aah-263.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/263}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-264 1338]

taking my mother out somewhere, but she not feeling well preferred remaining at home quietly I went to St Francis R.C. Chapel & heard the choir to sing Hadyns No. 3 Mass, the Adestes Fideles & the “Hallelujah Chorus”. I was delighted with the performance, spent the afternoon at home reading. In the evening Mother & I went to hear a Concert of miscellaneous sacred music at the Theatre Royal, Donaldson, Emery & Angus with Mrs Fox & the Misses Easdowns being the principal vocalists - saw Clark & Mary there, we walked home part of the way together. Saturday, Boxing Day, another quiet day, spent the morning reading walked into town, for an hour or so met Ambler, had a long chat with him, after dinner read again, left home about 3 pm walked about in the Gardens for an hour, then went to Richmond Punt where I met some people I was slightly acquainted with who were engaging a boat for a pull on the river they asked me to join them. [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] being of the party I was induced to do so, we had a nice pull for a couple of hours, on landing again I left her promising to call for her at her friends house at 10 pm. I went to town where I had tea & walked back to Richmond saw Miss S. home, by about 12 pm. Sunday morning I went to Church. In the afternoon went to the Cemetery. In the evening {{Image|file=Aah-264.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/264}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-265 1339]

I went to Church, Mr. H being unwell, a young man named Allen preached, after the service was over I met Miss S. took a walk with her. The Mail from England arrived on the 24th inst. bringing us no letters, one came from my Uncle Joe a/d to my Uncle John Tom. which I took the liberty of opening as he had requested me to do it contained no money, he says that being the executor of his fathers will, he intends acting upon the same, the will empowers him to give Uncle J.T. nothing but the interest unless he can bring a 6 years character for sobriety & industry ere he can claim the principal which he wants, which it is impossible for him to do, he expatiates upon his own industry & how he arrived at an independent position - John. T. will be terribly mortified on receipt of this letter. I wrote to him yesterday, & informed him of the contents. I did not like to send him Uncle Joes letter - not knowing whether he was living in the same place or not as when last he wrote, for I have received no answer to the letter I wrote to him 3 weeks ago - Jany 3rd 1869
Weather all that could be wished for this time of the year, cool & refreshing, for the pleasure seekers. I have spent my time very quietly considering it is holiday season, I had no money to spend, & I have been in very poor spirits caring little for amusements of any sort - {{Image|file=Aah-265.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/265}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-266 1340]

Monday evening I went to Stewarts practising scales & exercises. Tuesday, took a strool met some acquaintances home early Wednesday evening Bessie & I spent the evening at Mr Gotchs. Mrs. G returned from England last week by the Mail Steamer she looks very well after the voyage & in capital spirits as usual, several friends were there, & we managed to spend a delightful evening together 2 am next morning when we arrived home. I was annoyed at the beginning of the week by my Uncle J.T. calling upon us looking as dirty & disreputable as ever, he has been working on a farm near Kyneton, & hurt his hand, he had expected money by the last Mail, & was in an awful passion at Uncle Joes letter, he left town the following day much to our relief, but not before going into a low public house in our neighbourhood & informing those present of our relationship, he is a dirty old blaguard & looks as if he had been in a chain gang half his life. Thursday evening I went out for a strool met a lady friend, being a very pleasent moonlight night we took a delightful walk togther, on arriving home at 10.30, found the Wests at our house who did not leave until we saw the Old Year out & the New one in, 1 OC when we went to bed. Friday New years Day, being very gloomy & cloudy in the morning, did not feel anxious to go out. The {{Image|file=Aah-266.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/266}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-267 1341]

Bros. West called about 1 Pm & asked Fred & I to join them in a Boat & go up the river, we called for Miss Norris & a Miss Campbell (Carlton) & with my sister, making it 7 in all, we went & spent a few hours very pleasently, landing at Pearsons Tea Gardens where we had some refreshments took a walk on the surrounding hills & enjoyed the prospect all came to our house to tea. Clark & Mary called also stayd till 12 pm when we parted after spending a pleasent day. Saturday on leaving the office at 12, I went by train to Richmond, where I struck across the Survey Paddock to a spot opposite Hawthorn where I had appointed to meet a party of friends who had a picnic, came on them just as they were at dinner to which I did ample justice, after it was over we passed the afternoon dancing, singing & flirting, till tea time, after which we took boat & proceeded down to Richmond where we landed the party proceeded to their several homes. Marsden & I finding our way home at about 10 pm, on arriving home I found Effy Flower & Mr. & Mrs. Dewar at our house Mrs. D is a beautiful singer, she sang a song which quite charmed me, I felt sorry I had not been home earlier, however, I had no cause for complaint for a pleasenter day on the whole I never spent - I went to Church morning & evening to day. Mr. H is very unwell, he thinks he received a sunstroke about a week ago, that & the annoyance caused {{Image|file=Aah-267.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/267}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-268 1342]

lately by the illnatured letters which have appeared in the papers during the past week accusing him of piracy in regard to his late lecture upon the Deluge being the cause, his friends advise his going to Tasmania for a month. I think & sincerely hope the change will do him good – on leaving Church I met Miss S. took a pleasent walk together for an hour or so - Jany 10th.1869 Weather very hot, accompanied with plenty hot winds & dust, resumed the drudgery of the office on Monday, feeling much better in health and spirits for the respite. Monday evening I went to Stewarts. Tuesday I spent at my sisters. Wednesday, Marsden & I spent the evening at Stewarts, a Miss Webb from Sandhurst being on a visit with them, she is a fine jolly girl. 12 pm when we left, after spending a most agreeable evening. Thursday evening I met Miss S took a long walk with her, 11 pm when I arrived home, Friday I went to Stewarts to get my lesson after it was over, I was induced to accompany himself & wife, with Miss Webb to a friend of theirs, named Gerome at whose house we stayd till 11 pm, spending the evening very slowly, a lot of children being allowed in the drawing room, making an exhibition of themselves, by playing on the piano, pretty well for children, our praises may have been gratifying to their parents, but their performance {{Image|file=Aah-268.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/268}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-269 1343]

did not compensate for the annoyance. Saturday, very hot. In the afternoon I went to hear the Band play, remained till 5 pm then went over to Et Melb’ to see my sister Mary stayd about half an hour, returned home, after tea I went out for a strool, met Miss S. took a long walk with her, to Northcote & back nearly 12 when we parted. Sunday I went to Church, morning & evening, Mr. Henderson has gone to Tasmania for the benefit of his health. A Mr. Scales preached in the morning & Mr. Laisehly in the evening, on my way home I passed I News chapel, met Miss S. walked home with her – on arriving home I found the Bros. West at our house who stayd till near 11 pm. In the afternoon I went for a strool to the Cemetery, being a lovely day, great numbers were there My cousin Harry came down on Thurday evening & stayd with us till Saturday morning, when he returned to his school at Rochford - Jany 17 1869
Weather very fine, great want in the country districts for rain every thing in the shape of farm produce getting very dear. Very busy at the office. Monday & Wednesday nights I went to Stewarts, Miss Webb being there on both evenings I stayed till 1 am Thursday morning singing & dancing Etc - Tuesday evening I spent at my sister Marys house - Thursday I went to Richardsons Singing Class, my quarter being up, I think I wont go any more {{Image|file=Aah-269.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/269}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-270 1344]

three nights a week being too much to devote to music Friday night I took a strool about Fitzroy, met Marsden home early, found Mr & Mrs. Dewar at our house, I was very sorry I had been out for Mrs. D. is such excellent company & such an agreeable person. Saturday afternoon I read awhile then went to the gardens, on leaving I met an old diggings acquaintance & mate of mine formerly Harry Enniss, he has just come from N.Z. but since he left me on the Manuherikia River he has been to California, I find no change in him the same rollicking, reckless fellow as of old, he thinks of returning to N.Z. shortly - In the evening I met Miss S. took a long walk with her did not get home till 12 pm. Sunday been raining all day, did not go out until the evening when I went to Church heard Mr. Nims preach, met Miss S coming out of I New Church, walked home with her, found the Bros West at our house who stayd till 10.30. pm - Jany 24 1869
Weather very fine. Busier at the office than ever I remember being before since my time in the Rly great number of large ships discharging at our Pier. Monday evening Harry Enniss & G Bond & Fox {{Image|file=Aah-270.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/270}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-271 1345]

& West spent the evening at our house, parted about 11 I accompanied the former home to his lodgings – Tuesday evening I met Miss S. took a long walk with her Wednesday I went to Stewarts stayd till Marsden had had his lesson nearly 10 when we left for home - Thursday evening I met Miss S. took a pleasent walk home by about 10pm Friday evening I went to Livingstones Miss L being out I did not remain long on coming home I met a lady friend walked home with her (Miss S) Saturday afternoon in company with my mother, Bessie & Fred, I went to Mr. W.Bonds house at Abbotsford where we met [my] sister Mary & Clark with G.Bond & Miss Norris. Spent the afternoon playing Croquet after which we adjourned to the house where we found a spendid dinner provided, to which we did ample justice to spent the evening singing & flirting Etc – Mr. W.Bond drove the ladies home in his carriage at about 11 pm the gentlemen finding their ways home as best they could. This morning I went [& heard] my friend West Preach, at Mr. Hendersons Church, an excellent sermon, rained during the day fine at intervals – took a short walk in the afternoon. In the evening I went to hear the Revd Mr. Menzies preach at the Pres Church Collins St. where he is now the pastor, he preached a splendid sermon, but I would much sooner have read it than heard it delivered – he has a strong Scottish {{Image|file=Aah-271.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/271}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-272 1346]

accent, & his manner in the pulpit is very officious after sitting under Mr Henderson, who is so easy & graceful in his delivery - on the conclusion of the service, I called at I. New met Miss S. & walked home with her & her sister Mrs. Lusty – found the Bros West at our house – on arriving home who stayd till 10.30 pm The English mail arrived on Thursday, no letters from any friends or relations for us by it, very much disappointed at not hearing from Father – Jany 31st.1869
Weather, very hot during the week, in fact the hottest week we have had in Melbourne this season. We had no less than four heavy thunder storms, one of which took place on Thursday evening was one of the most terrific I ever remember, at least in Melb, it did not last above an hour. Monday night I went to Stewarts, stayd there till 11 pm several friends, musical, being there. Tuesday evening in company with a large party of Lady & gentlemen friends I went on the Yarra to a night boating party landed at the usual spot, Pearsons where we partook of refreshments after which we flirted, romped & danced till 12 pm, when we left for home, on our way down the river we managed to get on snag, & had to get out our ladies {{Image|file=Aah-272.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/272}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-273 1347]

in another boat that was passing, in order to lighten our own & get her off – fortunately, we managed to do so without our boat sustaining any serious damage – it delayed us about half an hour, making it 2 am Wednesday morning before we got home. Wednesday was a fearful hot day but a change took place in the evening when a copius shower of rain fell but, no change in the wind. I think the atmosphere was more sultry after than before, I went to the Stewarts, but did [not] stay long feeling knocked up from my previous nights exertions – Thursday evening I met Miss S & went out for a walk got caught in an awful thunder storm fortunately we managed to find shelter in a little shop at the bottom of Brunswick St where we remained upwards of an hour, on getting her home I went to Sheppards Wine Shop & had a long chat with Miss Sheppard, a nice girl who doles out colonial wine & flirts with any customer who drops into her place Friday night I remained at home Mr & Mrs. Drake Mr & Mrs. Dewar spending the evening with us, passed it very pleasently the latter lady is a fine musician sings & plays well, she is getting well up in years now & her voice is not what is used to be, but she sings with exquisite taste & skill – nearly 12 pm when they left. Saturday afternoon, I took a strool. in the evening I did ditto in company with Miss S. Sunday morning, I went {{Image|file=Aah-273.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/273}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-274 1348]

to hear a Mr. Day preach (from Castlemaine) in our Church In the evening I went to the Gaelic Church Carlton & heard a man preach, a Mr. McEachran. I liked him very much, he is an earnest plain matter of fact kind of preacher, but one that I am sure will do his masters work well, he has a large congregation on leaving I met Miss S, saw her home, Spent the afternoon reading. Feby 7th.1869
Weather very hot & oppressive, with occasional showers of rain, but not enough to do the country much good - Monday & Thursday nights I went to Stewarts. Tuesday I went to my sisters, Mrs. Clarks found several friends there, passed a pleasent evening together it was the 2nd of Feby & my 30th.Birthday. I begin to feel that I am getting very old & to make it worse, not much better in my position or prospects. Wednesday evening I took a strool about Fitzroy. Friday ditto in company with Evans & one or two more, about 9 I met Miss S walked with her till 10 pm. Saturday afternoon I went into town met several I knew, walked home to Et Melb in company with Miss Aitkin. In the evening in company with Miss S. I took a long walk to Northcote 12 pm when I got home. Sunday morning & evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson who I am happy to state has returned to his duties, much better in {{Image|file=Aah-274.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/274}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-275 1349]

health, for his trip to Schnapper Point. - found the Bros West at our house on arriving home - Feby 14th.1869
Weather very unsettled, not so hot as last week a deal of rain having fell, in occasional heavy showers. Monday evening I went to Stewart raining when I left & very sultry I went into town & got wet through, caught a severe cold which I have not yet got rid of. Tuesday night I & my sister Bessie went to a grand party at the Ramsdens Et Melbourne being the occasion of the second son Bob coming of age – about 120 were present, a large marquee, boarded & gas laid on served for a Ball Room the program consisted of 24 Dances all of which I danced with one exception, every luxury was provided that wealth could supply, the host & hostess & their family doing all in their power towards the enjoyment of their guests altogether it was one of the best affairs I ever was at nearly Six am the following morning when we broke up. I went to the office as usual but my cold being much worse & feeling seedy I was obliged to leave at 2 pm on arriving home I went to bed slept till 6 when after a good tea & feeling much refreshed I went out for a strool, met Miss S. & rambled about till 10pm {{Image|file=Aah-275.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/275}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-276 1350]

Thursday evening I went to Stewarts singing on leaving his place I went to George St Bapt Chapel where I met Miss S. who had been singing there I saw her home, on arriving at our house found Fox & Evans here, had some more singing. 11 when they left. Friday at noon I met [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] went with him to witness his signature to the Transfer Deeds of some ground he owned in Otago & is now disposing of we signed in the presence of the Mayor Mr. T.Moubray - In the evening I went to hear the Carandinis sing, mother & two daughters, the latter sing very well & have much improved since I last heard them Fannie Carandini the alto, having the richest & best trained voice I know of in Australia (Professional) there was a wretched house & has been all the week, very discouraging tomorrow however, is the last night they sing. Saturday afternoon I went to town shopping with my two sisters In the morning met L took a long walk together. - Went to Church this morning Revd. J.C.Symons preached an excellent practical sermon, a Mr. Greenwood officiated in the evening. I took a walk in the afternoon, met Marsden {{Image|file=Aah-276.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/276}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-277 1351]

Feby 21st 1869
Weather very hot & oppresive, during the week. English mail arrived on Thursday, a long letter from father containing a draft for the miserable sum of £10.0.0, all of which with half as much more being due for rent - Father is pretty well in health, he states that the Chancery suit is still in abeyance. I wish to God it was settled I am sick of hearing about it. Father thinks of returning home when it is settled. I wonder he is not ashamed to entertain the idea after leaving his wife & family for 10 years, at the most critical time of their lives. I am surprised my mother has kept up appearances, & kept her family respectiable during the time with so little help, few women in the colonies like her, pushing enegetic, with a spirit that nothing daunts, very upright & straightforward in all her actions, continually setting a good example to all around her. My Uncle John Tom paid me a visit on Friday, dirty & in rags as usual, he had expected Uncle Joe would have sent him money by the last mail, but father informs us such is not his intention, he will send him out the interest & that alone. I gave him a suit of clothes & some money, so I hope we shall not be bothered {{Image|file=Aah-277.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/277}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-278 1352]

with him again for some time, he is without exception the most dirty disreputable looking old vagabond I ever looked upon, & in my digging experience I have seen some queer characters – Monday evening went to Stewarts, practising scales & exercises. Tuesday evening, I spent at Marys, saw Georgie Clark home from there. Wednesday evening I went to the B.Chapel, Geo St. to hear the choir there practise some anthems. Miss S. was among the number. I saw her home after it was over. Thursday evening after my lesson was over at Stewart I went down by the 9.30. train to Brighton to meet the choir I had heard the night before, who had been singing at some Tea Meeting there. I knew several of them & we had a jolly time of it coming home after 12 when I arrived home with Miss. S, who was of the party. Friday evening I took a strool about Fitzroy, met several I knew Saturday was a fearful hot day did not go out till after tea when I met a friend with whom I took a long walk, 11 pm when I got home - Sunday morning I went to Church a Mr. Baker preached an excellent sermon In the afternoon I took a walk, met Miss.S. rambled about Carlton Gardens After tea, In company with my sisters, Miss Walters {{Image|file=Aah-278.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/278}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-279 1353]

Miss Wright, I went to Church after the service was over I took Mary home – got pretty wet myself before arriving home - Feby 28 Weather very cool & pleasent, until yesterday & to day when the sun shone out its finest, attended to day with a hot wind & plenty of dust. Monday & Thursday evening I went as usual to Stewarts. I am improving very much in my singing. Wednesday evening I took a walk with Miss .S. Friday evening in company with a large party, I went up the river boating, enjoyed myself very much 1 am next morning when I arrived home. Saturday afternoon I went to town with Bessie & Miss Wright shopping. In the evening I met Miss S took a long strool with her This morning I went to Church very glad to find Mr Henderson there, he preached a fine sermon In the afternoon, I went for a walk met Marsden & Joe Ford, being very hot we went to the formers house & spent the afternoon there singing, staid tea, after which I went to Church, Mr. H. preached a sermon to Sunday school teachers - one of the grandest discourses I ever listened to - [1869-03-07] March 7th {{Red|1868}}
Weather very hot at the beginning of the week a change took place on Tuesday morning attended with one of the most fearful dust storms I ever remember seeing, however it tended to make the weather much more endurable. Monday I wrote a long letter to my father. In the evening I went to Stewarts {{Image|file=Aah-279.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/279}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-280 1354]

on leaving I took a strool about Fitzroy. Tuesday evening I went to the vestry of the Gaelic Church. Stewart has started a Glee Class there. Thornton & I went to swell the numbers & give some color to the affair for a start, after it was over we adjourned to his house & staid till near 11 pm Wednesday evening I took a long walk with Miss .S. Thursday evening on leaving Stewarts I met her again & saw her home. Friday evening having been asked to assist at a Tea Meeting to be held next Tuesday night at Beers old Chapel I went there & rehearsed the tenor parts of a couple of anthems Bob Ramsden playing the organ, before going there I spent half an hour at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] Mrs. H & Jim were going to a fancy Ball so I did not remain long, they being busy dressing Saturday afternoon Bessie & I played Croquet in the Richmond paddock in company with Bond, Bruce & several others, home by teatime after which, as usual I went for a strool met a friend & rambled about till near 11 pm when I came home. Sunday morning I went to the Catholic Chapel (St Francis) & heard the Choir sing Beethovens Mass in C, very indifferently the organ solo & accompaniments played by Pringle (who is without doubt the finest organist in the colony) were very fine. In the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetary with a young lady friend. In the evening I went to Church, Mother & Mary were there {{Image|file=Aah-280.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/280}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-281 1355]

saw the former half way home when I met Miss S took a strool with her for about an hour - March 14th.1869
Been lovely weather during the week, very busy at the office. Time passed much as usual with little novelty or variety to break the monotony of my existence – Monday evening I went to Stewarts – on leaving I met Miss S. took a walk together. Tuesday I went to a Tea Meeting held in the Orderly Room Victoria Parade a very jolly affair great number there I knew, at its conclusion all adjourned to the Chapel near by where the Induction of the new Pastor Mr. Edwards took place. Several clergymen spoke, Hon. G Harker being in the chair, the singing was very poor, on leaving there at 10pm called at Mrs. Florauns staid about an hour - Wednesday evening, for a wonder, I remained at home. Joe West called & we spent the evening singing Etc - Thursday evening I went as usual to Stewarts on leaving I met Miss.S. & took a strool for an hour or so with her. Friday knocked about Fitzroy met her again coming from practice walked home with her. Saturday afternoon went to town with my sister, met Donovan & had a long talk with him, he is the clerk of one or two of the suburban Police Courts. I had not seen him for years.- In the evening I met Miss. S, took a long {{Image|file=Aah-281.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/281}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-282 1356]

walk with her, 11 pm when I reached home. Sunday morning I went to Church Mr. H preached a good sermon on the lights & shadows of Christian life In the afternoon I took a walk alone in Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening went to Church, on my way home I called at I. News Chapel, Albert St waited until the prayer meeting was over when I met Miss. S. took a strool around Carlton Gardens with her. 10 when I reached home, found the Bros West & Neighbour with Mr & Mrs. Dewar at our house I got pretty well talked to concerning my flirtation with Miss.S. she is a very nice quite dignified girl, but the fact of her father keeping a confectioners shop appears to be heinous in the eyes of my people & those of my friends, for my own part I am not at all tinged with the spirit of “Caste” in such a matter, & would not hesitate in associating or allying myself to anyone, whatever their position might be, so long as they were honest & respectable. I enjoy Miss S’s company very much, but I have not thought seriously concerning her I am not in a position to do so nor do I see any liklihood of such a thing taking place. My future seems very obscure what with my loss of sight, & the slow progress I have made hitherto in life - I get very dispondent on the subject - March 21st.1869
Weather much pleasenter than it has been lately, less hot winds Etc. Not quite so busy at the office, the arrival of a few ships {{Image|file=Aah-282.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/282}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-283 1357]

ships would soon make us the reverse. Monday evening I went to a Concert at the Orderly Rooms Carlton, an excellent programme was provided but the performers were scarcely equal to their task - I was glad to see the place filled, being for the Benefit of the Widow & children of Mr. Terleeki who died some weeks ago, he was a very worthy man, a companion of Kossuths when expelled from Hungary – at its termination I went to Stewarts staid there till 12 pm. Tuesday night I meet Miss S & took a walk with her Wednesday evening I remained at home. Misses Walters & Stoddart Bond, Bros West, Mr. Neighbour & Mr Burtt at our house, spent the evening very pleasently, principally singing. Thursday evening went to Stewarts met Miss S. after my lesson was over. Friday evening I took a strool about Fitzroy dropt into the Wesleyan Choir Brunswick St, heard them make an atempt to sing Mozarts 12th.Mass. Saturday after[noon] I went to the Stewarts & after a sing we went together to see a Cricket Match playd on the Carlton Cricket Ground In the evening I met Miss S. took a pleasent walk together. I forgot to mention that on Friday afternoon I was surprised to receive a letter from Uncle J.Tom, requesting me to see him in the evening. I went & found him engaged at a little Wood & Coal Yard corner of Peel & Cambridge St Collingwood where he has been at work since I last saw him he intends leaving for the country to morrow (Monday) Sunday morning I went to hear Mr. Henderson. In the afternoon took Bessie out for a walk to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to Lonsdale St Wesley Church, heard a grand sermon, after it was over I met Miss S. saw her home - {{Image|file=Aah-283.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/283}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-284 1358]

{{Image|file=Aah-284.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/284}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-285 1359]

{{Image|file=Aah-285.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/285}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-286 1360]

{{Image|file=Aah-286.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=6/286}} == Sources ==

=== Information extracted from the 1841 Census === Present: William Innes 25 plasterer. J. Not born in County. Jean Innes 25 Not born in County. David Innes 5 Not born in County. William Innes 3 Born in the County. Francis Innes 1 Born in County. David Marshall 20 Joiner. J. Born in County. John Henderson 20 Joiner. J. Born in County.

==Narrative== {{Image|file=06_Oct_1936_Assault_Robbery_of_Philip_G_Bouska_of_Great_Falls_Montana-2.jpg|size=500|caption='''Philip Bouska's Shack, where the incident occurred, as published in the Great Falls Tribune'''}} As of Tuesday, 6 Oct 1936, [[Bouska-97|Philip G. Bouska]], a 75-year-old farmer originally from Iowa, who’d resided in Great Falls, Montana for about 35 years, was residing in a small shack on the southern outskirts of the town, where he was raising chickens to make a living in his old age. On the day in question, Bouska had been in town to sell some of his chickens, for which he received $22. Some time after he returned home & retired to bed, he said he was awoken by a knock at the door. On the other side of the door were 28-year-old Ray Brooks & 30-year-old Paul Miller, rodeo followers & performers (described in at least one place as “clowns”), who were also engaged as agricultural laborers, & described as “transients,” without a home, in the newspaper.“Old Man Beaten and Robbed; Two Are Held.” ''The Independent-Record'', 8 Oct. 1936, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93240727/old-man-beaten-and-robbed-two-are-held/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. Ray “Blackie” Brooks, known by the alias of Sam Bolton, a native of Washington State, was an ex-convict whose criminal record included arrests in Washington & Nevada for intoxication, robbery & assault, with a conviction for the lattermost of those in Washington, where he was also declared a parole violator. Paul Clinton “Buck” Miller was a native of Bozeman, Montana, & had formerly worked as a painter in Fort Peck, MT. Though not convicted, Miller had been arrested previously for intoxication & assault. According to a written confession later made by Miller, he & Brooks had been drunk & continuing to drink in town the entire day, up until 8 P.M., when they went with their friend Wes Stone to his house, & it was there that Brooks suggested they steal chickens from Bouska’s property. In his discussions with the police, Bouska suggested that his assailants must have been aware of the money he had made that day in town, as the only possible incentive they would have had to target him, but whether this was the case or not is uncertain. Upon Bouska opening the door, Brooks stepped into the doorway, &, according to Bouska, asked if there was a man there named Mr Carey, or possibly Mr Kelly. When Bouska said that there was not, Brooks began choking him, followed by striking him about the head & body with a lead pipe. Hearing the commotion, Miller joined Brooks inside the shack & the two were continuing to assault Bouska, kicking him on the ground, according to Bouska’s account (Miller claimed to not recall details exactly because of his drunkenness). Bouska was pleading with them, telling them to take anything, & leave his person alone. By the end, in addition to extensive cuts & bruises, Bouska ended up with five broken ribs, & had been stripped of some of his clothing, left unconscious on the ground in a pool of blood. According to Miller, he talked Brooks into discontinuing the assault, upon which they took $2 from Bouska, though Bouska initially reported all $22 missing. By the time of the trial, it was stated that most of the money had been obscured under a tablecloth, & that was why it hadn’t also been taken. Brooks grabbed a watch, of Swiss make, & Miller took Bouska’s double-barrel, 10-gauge shotgun, fearing the man might manage to take it & try to shoot them with it. According to his later testimony, Bouska claimed to have regained consciousness at some point while his body was being dragged across the ground, but in what manner this may have occurred was never specified. He also initially believed there was a third man involved in attacking him, but it seems to later have been determined that this was not the case. Brooks & Miller left, throwing the shotgun off the side of the road, & returning to Stone’s house, where they resumed drinking. The next morning, Bouska awoke on the ground, in the pool of his blood, & crawled to his doorway, from which he called out for help, attracting the attention of a neighbor, C. O. McOmber, who brought another neighbor, painter Charles Lucas, to try to assist & provide first aid to Bouska. They found the shack, splattered with blood, in a state of disarray, with objects thrown about, & a can of oil spilt on the floor. Bouska’s face was battered, barely able to open his eyes, with his neck badly swollen, & groaning in pain. Going into town, Lucas alerted Bouska’s son Ed to what had happened, & it was Ed who brought news of the matter to Deputy Sheriff C. C. Johnson. {{Image|file=06_Oct_1936_Assault_Robbery_of_Philip_G_Bouska_of_Great_Falls_Montana-3.jpg|size=500|caption='''Interior of Bouska's shack following the incident, as published in the Great Falls Tribune'''}} Bouska was admitted to Columbus Hospital in Great Falls, where his condition was reported as serious later that day.“Three Robbers Beat Aged Man to Get Money.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 8 Oct. 1936, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93242084/three-robbers-beat-aged-man-to-get-money/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. The attending physician feared he may have internal injuries, & it was the next day that it was reported that Bouska was receiving surgical attention.“Bouska at Columbus Hospital for Surgical Attention.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 8 Oct. 1936, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93239319/bouska-at-columbus-hospital-for/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. County Sheriff Guy Palagi & Deputy Johnson brought in Brooks & Miller from Stone’s house for questioning the day after the incident. A piece of gum & some threads stuck to the bottom of Miller’s shoe left a distinctive mark in footprints near the shack, & Brooks’s had been splashed by the oil in the shack, which helped lead the Sheriff to the pair. Two days after the incident, the attending physician reported that Bouska was improving, & though his injuries were extensive, he was now in “fair” condition.“Aged Victim of Assault Is Improved.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 9 Oct. 1936, p. 20, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93244983/aged-victim-of-assault-is-improved/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. After another day went by, it’s reported he is sleeping & faring well. The Sheriff speaks with the press, saying he & Johnson are working on the case constantly, & that it has been difficult due to Bouska being unable to give a full description of the perpetrators, though Brooks & Miller were still in custody.“Probe Is Continued in Bouska Assault.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 10 Oct. 1936, p. 7, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93245818/probe-is-continued-in-bouska-assault/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. On 13 Oct, a week after the assault, Paul Miller signed a written confession to the crime in front of several witnesses.“Sheriff Gets Written Confession in Beating.” ''The Billings Gazette'', 15 Oct. 1936, p. 16, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93254210/sheriff-gets-written-confession-in/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.“Confesses Assault.” ''The Missoulian'', 14 Oct. 1936, p. 1, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93252700/confesses-assault/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. As published in the local newspaper, the confession read as follows:
“On Oct. 6, 1936, Ray Brooks and I were downtown drinking all day. At about 8 p.m. Wes Stone and his wife met us downtown. I was drunk and don’t remember exactly where. We all got in Stone’s car and drove out to his place, where we had a few more drinks. Then Ray and I decided to go and steal one of the old man’s chickens. When we got down there Ray Brooks went into the old man’s shack. I stayed outside. I heard a noise like someone scuffling and then heard Ray say ‘what is the matter, are you afraid?’ Then I went in and saw Ray hit the old man two or three times. I do not remember hitting the old man but if I did it was not more than once. I then told Ray, ‘For God’s sake lay off! Let’s go.’ When I first went in, the old man was out of the bed and Ray was hitting or choking him, and the old man fell on the bed. Then Ray hit him again, and I told him to lay off. The old man said, ‘You can have anything I’ve got, if you will let me alone. Here is all my money—$2.’ He handed the sack to me with the $2 in it. Then I heard something mentioned about a watch but I did not see it. I took the shotgun so that he would not shoot us, and then threw it down the side of the road. Ray and I then went to Stone’s house and right after we all went to town. We stayed around town until after the beer parlors closed and then returned to Stone’s house. The next afternoon Sheriff Palagi came out there and arrested us. This is the truth as much as I can remember of what happened that night. I had been drinking all day.”“Man Confesses to Assault on Aged Great Falls Man.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 14 Oct. 1936, p. 14, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93249786/man-confesses-to-assault-on-aged-great/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. A day after Miller’s confession, Brooks’s past criminal record is uncovered & revealed to the public. When confronted about his record, & with Miller’s confession, Brooks admits to beating & robbing Bouska of just $1, expressing a willingness to plead guilty, but remaining “non-committal” about the details. His confession is made in the presence of Palagi, Johnson, Deputy John Dwyer, & a reporter, Fred Martin. Despite the confessions from both men, the Sheriff continued investigating, due to inconsistencies surrounding the amount of money stolen, the possibility of a third assailant, & the still-missing shotgun & watch.“Admits Aiding in Assault on P. Bouska, 75.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 15 Oct. 1936, p. 7, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93254168/admits-aiding-in-assault-on-p-bouska/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. On 27 Oct, County Attorney C. F. Holt files charges of assault & robbery with intent to kill against both men in the District Court, with Judges H. H. Ewing & W. H. Meigs presiding over Miller & Brooks’s cases, respectively, each setting bail at $2,000.“Men Charged with Assault; Bond Is Set.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 28 Oct. 1936, p. 14, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93254585/men-charged-with-assault-bond-is-set/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.“Assault Alleged.” ''The Independent-Record'', 29 Oct. 1936, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93254614/assault-alleged/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.“Assault and Robbery Charges Are Filed.” ''The Billings Gazette'', 29 Oct. 1936, p. 12, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255203/assault-and-robbery-charges-are-filed/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. {{Image|file=06_Oct_1936_Assault_Robbery_of_Philip_G_Bouska_of_Great_Falls_Montana-1.jpg|caption='''Mugshots of Paul Miller & Ray Brooks published in the Great Falls Tribune'''}} On 1 Nov, Philip Bouska & his family published an advertisement in the newspaper, thanking Sheriff Palagi & his staff for their work in catching the culprits.“Notice to the Public.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 1 Nov. 1936, p. 15, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255249/notice-to-the-public/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. Miller’s trial comes nearly four weeks later, on 28 Nov, with the state being represented by Chief Deputy County Attorney J. Paul Freeman. Miller pleads guilty, & his court-appointed attorney, H. B. Hoffman, argues for leniency on the grounds that his association with Brooks was the sole reason Miller was involved in the incident, & that he was not primarily responsible for the crime. Judge Ewing expressed displeasure at sentencing anyone to time in prison but also stated plainly that, had Bouska died, Miller would likely face life imprisonment. He then sentenced Miller to five years imprisonment at the State Prison in Deer Lodge.“Miller Admits He Attacked Aged Man; Gets Prison Term.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 29 Nov. 1936, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255568/miller-admits-he-attacked-aged-man/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.“Pleads Guilty.” ''The Billings Gazette'', 2 Dec. 1936, p. 7, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255844/pleads-guilty/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.''The Independent-Record'', 3 Dec. 1936, p. 8, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255874/the-independent-record/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. Given that Miller is not listed in that facility as of the 1940 Census, he seems to have been granted parole. {{Image|file=06_Oct_1936_Assault_Robbery_of_Philip_G_Bouska_of_Great_Falls_Montana.jpg|caption='''Mugshot attached to state prisoner descriptions record'''}} The day after Miller’s sentence, while going on a walk, the mostly-recovered Bouska discovers his shotgun, which had been obscured by the sand, now revealed by the wind. The Sheriff & Deputy Dwyer come by & take the gun into evidence. The watch that Brooks & Miller stole remained elusive, & it’s unclear if it was ever recovered.“Wind Uncovers Shotgun Stolen by Assailants.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 30 Nov. 1936, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255740/wind-uncovers-shotgun-stolen-by/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.“It’s an Ill Wind That Blows Nobody a Stolen Shotgun.” ''The Independent-Record'', 1 Dec. 1936, p. 6, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93255807/its-an-ill-wind-that-blows-nobody-a/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. On 17 Dec, County Attorney Holt updated the charges against Brooks to acknowledge his prior convictions. Under state law, at the time, the charge of assault correlated to a prison sentence from 5 to 20 years, but in the case of prior conviction, the minimum sentence was increased from 5 to 10. With the case now before Ewing instead of Meigs, bail was increased to $5,000.“Suspect Will Face Added Charges Here.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 18 Dec. 1936, p. 12, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93256818/suspect-will-face-added-charges-here/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. Brooks pleads not guilty to the charges on 15 Jan 1937, having been appointed attorney Otto B. Kotz to represent him. The trial date is set for the spring jury term, in March.“Brooks Denies Assault Count; Bond Is Fixed.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 16 Jan. 1937, p. 12, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93256958/brooks-denies-assault-count-bond-is/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. However, at some point between this date & the trial date, a newly-elected County Attorney, Phil G. Greenan, moves for a dismissal of the charge, due to a lack of evidence that Brooks had intended to kill Bouska. Judge Ewing accepts the motion for dismissal. The charges are refiled again on 8 Mar, now as assault in the first degree & robbery, with intent to commit a felony, & the case is now put before District Judge Stewart McConochie of Lewistown. Brooks maintains his not guilty plea, still represented by Kotz, while Greenan is joined by his Chief Deputy Leo Graybill in representing the state, with the trial set for the next day.“New Charge of Assault Filed Here.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 9 Mar. 1937, p. 14, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93257107/new-charge-of-assault-filed-here/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. However, jury selection ends up taking longer than expected, with the defense using up all of its allotted challenges, & the trial is moved to 10 Mar. At the conclusion of jury selection, the following members are chosen:“Witness in Brooks Assault Trial Repudiates His Story.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 11 Mar. 1937, p. 16, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93257538/witness-in-brooks-assault-trial/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. * Percy Brees * J. W. Ferguson * Ralph R. Halliday * L. M. Haverty * J. T. Josephson * Fred W. Miller * M. E. Millious * George Osterman * Thomas Prewitt, Sr. * Charles Reid * Abe Thompson * Richard Verrell On the first day of the trial, Bouska is called to the stand as the first witness, recounting the incident. In his testimony, he described the man who choked him as “a creature with paws rather than hands” &, pointing at the defendant, proclaimed “that is the creature—Brooks.” Following Bouska were McOmber, Ed Bouska, & another of his neighbors, M. W. Edwards, who each testified as to the state that Bouska was in the morning after. The final witness of the first day was Paul Miller, who had agreed to testify against Brooks, but instead surprised everyone in the courtroom by repudiating his previous confession. In his testimony, Miller claimed instead that he had been far too drunk to recall anything from the evening in question, & accused the Sheriff of inducing him to make his confession. On the second day of the trial, Brooks’s signed confession is brought into evidence. Palagi, Johnson, Dwyer & Martin are all called to the stand to testify as to the confession as an attempt to impeach Miller’s testimony from the day before. Palagi & Graybill both speak to the promises that Miller had made to them before the trial, that he would testify against Brooks. The defense objected to the introduction of records proving Brook’s earlier conviction, but the judge allowed them anyway. Palagi testified that Brooks had been a difficult prisoner, attempting to cause disturbances, & at one point had to be “calmed with water from a hose.” The state then rested, with defense expected to present evidence the next day.“State Rests Case in Trial on Assault Charges Here.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 12 Mar. 1937, p. 20, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93257926/state-rests-case-in-trial-on-assault/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022.“Assault Case at Great Falls May Be Ended Today.” ''The Missoulian'', 12 Mar. 1937, p. 10, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93257639/assault-case-at-great-falls-may-be/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. On the third day of the trial, the defense surprised the court by not introducing any new testimony or witnesses, including Brooks himself. Instead, Kotz argued his confession had been made in duress, that he hadn’t been identified beyond doubt, & targeted Miller’s confession as well. Kotz also moved for a dismissal of the case on the grounds of insufficient evidence, but McConochie denied this request. The case was given to the jury at 5:30 P.M., & Brooks was found guilty that evening, with the decision delivered to a packed courtroom, & sentencing set for 2 P.M. on the following Monday, 15 Mar.“Brooks Guilty of Assault on Aged Great Falls Man.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 13 Mar. 1937, p. 12, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93317126/brooks-guilty-of-assault-on-aged-great/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022."Guilty of Assault." ''The Missoulian'', 13 Mar. 1937, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93317205/guilty-of-assault/"Great Falls Man Declared Guilty." ''The Montana Standard'', 13 Mar. 1937, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93317312/great-falls-man-declared-guilty/"Great Falls Jury Finds Ray Brooks Guilty." ''Billings Gazette'', 14 Mar. 1937, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93317805/falls-jury-finds-ray-brooks-guilty/“Surprise Move by Defense in Trial of Assault Case.” ''The Missoulian'', 13 Mar. 1937, p. 9, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93317628/surprise-move-by-defense-in-trial-of/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. That day, sentencing began as scheduled. Judge McConochie began by outlining the facts of the case & trial, & thanked Kotz for his service to the court in his appointment. He then gave the chronology of the trial, & the jury’s decision, before asking the defense if they could provide any reason for judgment to not coincide with the decision of the jury. Kotz moved that it be set aside due to the verdict not agreeing with the facts of the case, but this was denied. He then moved to arrest judgment because the charge failed to substantiate a “public offense.” This was argued between him & Greenan but ultimately overruled by McConochie. As a final attempt, Kotz provided what he claimed were “mitigating facts” to be taken into account. Kotz is quoted as follows:
“The information given to me by the defendant is that he was a member of a family of 14 children, being the second youngest. His education extended up to a part of the fifth grade. At the age of 16 or 17 years he commenced working as a logger in Washington. While in Washington he was convicted of assault in the second degree and burglary in the second degree. He was sentenced to 3 to 15 years and served about 26 to 27 months. He was then paroled.” Kotz then said that Brooks told him his wife had left him, taking a daughter with her, but leaving their son with him. He went to California & Nevada, & contends that he largely contributed to the support of both his mother & son. He came to Montana in 1935. Kotz added that Brooks had been drunk on “cheap moonshine whiskey” for several weeks before the assault, having entered a state he called “alcohol crazy.” Finally, Kotz said Brooks had an opportunity to escape after he’d been arrested by Palagi but hadn’t taken it. McConochie then delivered sentencing:
“Ray Brooks, alias Sam Bolton, the court wants to say that you were very ably defended by a hard working and capable attorney. The court has no comment to make in reference to the offense, although the testimony during the trial speaks for itself. It was a crime without an excuse, as the court sees it.” Brooks was ordered to be returned to the Sheriff, to be brought to the State Prison at Deer Lodge, where he was sentenced to 40 years imprisonment, with no chance of parole due to his former conviction.“40-Year Sentence Imposed on Ray Brooks for Assault.” ''Great Falls Tribune'', 16 Mar. 1937, p. 16, https://www.newspapers.com/clip/93320345/40-year-sentence-imposed-on-ray-brooks/. Accessed 27 Jan. 2022. ==Relevant Individuals== * Mr & Mrs J. R. Andrews - a couple killed in an automobile accident in the same area on the same evening * Edward F. “Ed” Bouska - son of the victim; is informed of the incident by Lucas, & is responsible for informing the authorities * [[Bouska-97|Philip G. Bouska (1861-1951)]] - 75-year old farmer raising chickens at a shack south of Great Falls; victim of the assault. * Percy Brees - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Ray Brooks (alias Sam Bolton) - rodeo follower, performer, & ex-convict & parole violator who was primarily responsible for the assault & robbery of Philip Bouska * Mr. Carey (or “Kelly”) - a potentially fictitious person that Bouska claims his assailant was asking for prior to assaulting him. * John Dwyer - a Deputy in Sheriff Palagi’s purview, who was present at Brooks’s confession, & accompanied the Sheriff in picking up Bouska’s lost firearm; later testifies in trial. * M. W. Edwards - a neighbor of Bouska’s who testifies at Brooks’s trial as to Bouska’s condition following the assault. * H. H. Ewing - District Judge who tries Miller, & before whom Brooks later appears. * J. W. Ferguson - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * J. Paul Freeman - Chief Deputy County Attorney of Cascade County, who represents the state in the case against Miller. Position is held by Leo Graybill by the time of Brooks’s trial. * Leo C. Graybill - Chief Deputy County Attorney of Cascade County, who joins Greenan in representing the state during Brooks’s trial. * Phil G. Greenan - Cascade County Attorney, following C. F. Holt, who filed new charges against Brooks & represented the state during the trial. * Ralph R. Halliday - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * L. M. Haverty - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * H. B. Hoffman - attorney appointed by District Court to represent Paul Miller in his trial. * C. F. Holt - Cascade County Attorney, who filed initial charges alleged against Brooks & Miller; later replaced by Phil Greenan * C. C. Johnson - Deputy Sheriff of Cascade County, who is directly informed of the assault by Bouska’s son, Ed. * J. T. Josephson - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Otto B. Kotz - attorney appointed by District Court to represent Ray Brooks in his trial. * Charles Lucas - a neighbor of Bouska’s, who works as a painter, & was called upon by McOmber to provide first aid to the injured man & later informs victim’s son * Fred Martin - a local newspaper reporter who was present at Brooks’s signed confession, who testified at his trial * Stewart McConochie - District Judge at Lewistown, MT, who tries Brooks’s case. * H. J. McGregor - a doctor who testifies at Brooks’s trial as to the nature of the beating that Bouska had experienced. * C. O. McOmber - a neighbor of Bouska’s, who he calls for upon regaining consciousness & provides first aid; later testifies at trial. * W. H. Meigs - District Judge before whom Brooks initially appears, though his case is later assigned to two other judges. * Fred W. Miller - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Paul Miller - rodeo follower & performer who participated in the assault & robbery of Philip Bouska * M. E. Millious - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * George Osterman - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Guy Palagi - Sheriff of Cascade County * Thomas Prewitt, Sr. - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Charles Reid - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Wes Stone - a friend & drinking companion of Brooks & Miller’s, who is said to have been with the assailants bother prior to, & following the attack on Bouska. * Abe Thompson - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial * Richard Verrell - member of the jury in Brooks’s trial == Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] {{Image|file=Aah-287.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-288 1362]

Journal Kept By John Henry Watmuff Melbourne From March 28th.1869 to June 5th.1870
{{Image|file=Aah-288.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-289 1363]

March 28th.1869
Weather very hot & oppressive & it is found that if the weather keeps so much longer that the country will be in a serious state A Govt proclamation has been issued for the population to observe the 2nd April as a day of fast & humiliation & prayer for providence to favor us with rain. I do not believe in set occasions for such purposes The ways of God are inscrutable & ordains everything for the best & I have no doubt that the present drought is of some good to man if we could only discover it This being Easter week & holiday time I have little to recount of interest except the manner I have spent my time when not engaged in business Monday evening I partly spent at Stewarts & in company with [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] On arriving home I found my Bro’ Fred very ill with spasms. Dr Hewlit in attendance, I sat up with him all night towards morning he got a little better, but he remained very weak all the week & was unable to resume his work, he intends to make an effort on Monday morning Tuesday evening I spent at Mrs. Florauns Wednesday staid at home Thursday evening I went to Stewarts for a practice on arriving home commenced preparations for a picnic for the following day “Good Friday, morning very gloomy looking, toward noon turned out lovely, our party consisted of twelve ladies & the same number of gentlemen all old friends & acquaintances. We engaged Boats at Richmond {{Image|file=Aah-289.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-290 1364]

& landed at the Survey Paddock & after regaling ourselves on the good things we brought with us we spent the rest of the day in the most jolly manner possible – playing a variety of out door games, singing & flirting was enjoyed & indulged in to a dreadful extent. We had tea at Roberts Tea Gardens, & having engaged some Italian fidlers who appeared on the scene at 6 Pm we adjourned to a croquet ground where we danced till 10 Pm when all being pretty well tired, we embarked in our Boats & being a lovely night we enjoyed our pull down our pleasure was somewhat marred by a young lady Miss Stoddart fainting no less than 3 times on the way down, I fancy she must have over exerted herself - Miss Beezely stayd all night at our house & the following day, Saturday, with Bessie & Miss B. we went to town Spent the afternoon reading Tennyson’s “Idyles of the King” In the evening I met Miss S & enjoyed myself very much in a strool with her for an hour or two - Sunday morning I went to hear Mr Henderson - Mary & Clark spent the afternoon at our house after tea I went to St Peters Church, enjoyed the choral service, but was rather disgusted at the manner in which the Revd – Handfield intoned the service. I left before the sermon was finished, having had enough of High Church & Ritualism I called at the A.S. Baptist Chapel & met [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] & walked home with her – {{Image|file=Aah-290.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-291 1365]

April 4th.1869
Weather been lovely the last few days, considerable quantity of rain having fallen doing a deal of good to the country. Monday last was a holiday. I knocked about town until dinner time time hanging rather heavily on my hands through not having made any arrangement for spending it. Spent the evening with [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]]. Wednesday evening Miss Campbell & Miss Pitts with Joe West called Bessie being away they would not remain I saw Miss Pitts home to Jollimont. Thursday evening I partly spent at Stuarts & with Miss S. Friday was observed as a Holiday, not being a general one most of the retail places of business being opened, services were held in most of the places of worship, it was intended to pray for rain but there was no occasion to do that having had such a quantity the last few days as to satisfy the most thirsty. I spent the day quietly, visited [[Dight-42|Harry Dights]] found him absent stayed about two hours with Mrs. D In the evening I left home to go to Et Melb to bring my mother home who had been spending the day at Mary’s Met Louisa Bourke on my way, strode about with her for an hour, poor girl she was very low spirited having been so far, unsuccessful in her efforts to procure some employment suitable for her. Saturday afternoon in company with my sister & Geo Bond I went to see the Athletic sports held on the M.C. Ground, not many there I knew. Bessie & Bond went to his mothers & had tea. I, {{Image|file=Aah-291.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-292 1366]

in the evening called for [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] & we took a pleasent strool together, on my arriving Bond & Bessie had returned from a concert they had been at & my sister informed me that Geo had proposed for her, she was very much affected & had not given him an answer but I sincerely trust she will give him a favourable reply for he is a fine young fellow steady & likely to get on in the world. Bessie is 22 & tis time she thought of getting settled, but she is a little peculiar & I fancy she loves someone else, however I think I have partly induced her to accept him. Sunday morning & evening. I went to Church. Mr Henderson has commenced a series of lectures (for Sunday evening {{Red|*}}discourse) on character that of this evening was on “Faith” being the basis on which our moral & mental structure rests upon, he spoke for an hour & a quarter upon the subject in the most eloquent & impressive manner. The church was crowded to excess & the night being very hot, it was anything but pleasent - April 11th.1869
Fine weather, very busy at the office several large vessels at the pier. My time spent much as usual Monday evening, Thornton & I went to Stewarts choir, at St Andrews Church where he is precentor. Tuesday {{Image|file=Aah-292.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-293 1367]

evening I went to his house & had some singing Wednesday evening our house was deluged with visitors spent it very pleasently Thursday evening after leaving Stewarts house, where I had been practising scales, I went to St Georges Hall to one of Madame Anna Bishop’s concerts I enjoyed the singing very well, especially one item a duet called “Sunset” sang by Mdms. Bishop & Wilkin. Friday evening I called for [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] & accompanied her to Revd I News chapel where she sings in the choir, being practice night, I waited till the Rehearsal was over, & saw her home. Saturday afternoon I spent Reading. In the evening Miss Campbell & Miss Hoskins with Saunders & Bond (rivals) called & had tea I left them as I had promised to take [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] to hear Mdm Bishop sing. The concert was an excellent one & I think my companion enjoyed herself. 11 pm when I got home found the visitors gone. Sunday I went this morning to St Francis chapel (R.C) to hear Mdm A.Bishop sing “Gratius Agimas” with an organ & clarinet accompaniement, it was the finest piece I ever heard her sing - The Choir sang Haydns. No 1 Mass in a very creditable manner. In the afternoon I visited the Cemetery. In the evening I heard Mr Henderson preach a sermon on “Christian Manliness” as usual he was eloquent & logical, the church was crowded to suffocation, on leaving & on my way home I called at News Chapel & was in time to meet [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone ]] & see her home. On arriving home I found G.Bond {{Image|file=Aah-293.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-294 1368]

& I am happy to state that my sister has agreed to become his wife, sometime next September - [1869-04-18 Sunday] April {{Red|17th}}.1869
Been lovely weather, still continue busy at the office, Time spent much as usual. Tuesday evening I went to Stewarts, had a practice, on arriving home I found [[Kidgell-41|Kidgell]], he had just returned from Queensland (Gympie) where he has commenced business & I think from what he states he is likely to be successful, he is looking very well & is the same jolly little fellow he always was he remained all night with us. Wednesday I staid at home Thursday evening, Bessie & I went to a party at Mr Gotchs. found many friends & acquaintances there all bent upon enjoyment singing & dancing Etc, discussing {{Red|*}}riar-ds & luxuries of all sorts & of the best description until about 3Am next morning when we broke up. Friday evening I visited A.St. B.C choir met Miss S. & saw her home. Saturday afternoon on leaving the office I went to Grant St. Emerald to see if I could assist [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] in getting his furniture Etc to rights, he having returned that day from Carlton found everything settled & as I could be of no use I took a strool up the Yarra River to see some boat racing. The sport provided was excellent in its way, on my way home I called at Mrs Florauns {{Image|file=Aah-294.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-295 1369]

found she had been married that day to a gentleman named Horne a well to do Cattle Dealer who resides at Castlemain I had been invited to the wedding but declined not being able to leave business, the Bride & Groom had left for a tour, but several people were there I knew so I stayed about an hour I should have remained the evening but I had promised to meet [[Stone-19624|Miss Stone]] so did not care about breaking my appointment. Sunday morning I start in company with my mother to hear the Revd [https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/clark-charles-3213 Charles Clark]] preach, he has just arrived from England to take the Reverend I. New place, who is to be superintended. Clarke is a young man in fact looks a boy in the pulpit but I suppose he is without exception the most eloquent preacher in the colony he possesses a beautiful clear bell like voice, his language is choice, full of beauty & rich in simile, he manages to clothe the most commonplace subjects in lovely garbs, he is exceedingly elegant & graceful in his manner & will prove a most attractive preacher. I was quite fascinated, but was not much impressed with the matter of his discourse, he is fanciful & imaginative, not logical nor argumentative. I question whether he will make many converts I may be mistaken, I hope I am, he does not convey the idea to me of a man who has chosen his profession in the spirit that is generally expected of a minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ, but more with the view of airing his {{Image|file=Aah-295.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-296 1370]

talent as a speaker I am led to this conclusion partly from what I have heard of him & from my own observations. In the afternoon I took a walk, in company with Miss Stone to the Cemetery & in the evening we went to Mr Hendersons to hear him deliver his sermon, or lectures on “Knowledge”, got wet coming home, the rain pouring down in torrents. April 25 1869
Pleasent weather during the week. Rather slack at the office, waiting patiently for vessels to arrive at the pier that are overdue. Monday night I took Miss Stone to the “Art Exhibition” which is now being held in the New Exhibition Building, open for ten months charge 1/- night is a bad time to view pictures, but I think with the large quantity on view, most of which have been kindly lent for the occasion by private individuals, judging the quantity & quality on view it goes far to prove the love the Victorians have for works of Art in this line, there are many originals & copies of the works of the best masters those being the most noteworthy of the latter are of Rubens, Tituns, Guido & Rafaelle – some of the pictures by the modern painters would not disgrace the finest gallery in Europe, “Rotterdam at Sunset” by Webb is a grand picture, “The First Snow” by Otto Weber, The Depart des {{Image|file=Aah-296.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-297 1371]

Fiana” by Koller & several others I enjoyed myself very much & I think my companion did ditto, but as a rule very few ladies are connoisseurs they generally [like] the worst pictures providing the subject happens to be one they have a sympathy for, some wax & paper flowers on view appeared to attract her the most I think the taste for pictures requires to be cultivated before one can fully appreciate painting in its higher flights & perfections, it is difficult for an amateur to arrive at a just estimate of the merits of a picture unless he knows something of the Art either by long & careful observations or to have studied it in some shape or another – it was 10pm when we left the building & nearly 11 when I arrived home – Tuesday evening I went to Stuart’s after practising scales for an hour I returned home. Wednesday evening I accompanied Mary & Clark to a Soiree given by the Freemasons at their Hall, Lonsdale St, Mesdames Sanderson, Young & Misses Donaldson, Amery Schatt and Seide being the principal performers, at the [conclusion of the] concert 10 pm the benches were cleared away & I stayd another 2 hours dancing Thursday evening I went to Stewarts on leaving I went to the Induction Service of Revd. C. Clark as pastor of the Albert St Baptist Chapel at the conclusion of the affair I met Miss Stone & saw her home – Friday morning I accompanied my Brother on board of the S.S. “Tasmania” bound for Tasmania where {{Image|file=Aah-297.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-298 1372]

he intends spending a fortnight for the benefit of his health. I sincerely hope the change may do him good he has not been well for a long time especially since his late illness. In the evening (which was very wet) I went to the Collins St B.C. where Willy Ford is Organist & who very Kindly plays for me anything I wish to learn that has an accompaniment for the Organ. I was practising Rosinis grand Solo from the “Stabat Mater” the “Cujus Animam” rather ambitious on my part to attempt such a piece, however it is fine practice. This evening I went to hear Revd C.Clark. I did not care so much for him as I did when I first heard him a very beautiful discussion but nothing in it. I walked home afterwards with Miss Stone - May 2 1869 Weather rather changeable but tolerably cold during the week I received a long letter from Fred on Thursday giving a most glowing dis- -cription of Tasmania & its society, his letter was written in Launceston where he had enjoyed very much having met a few kind friends there, he is now, I suppose, in Hobart town where he proposed visiting - Monday evening I spent at Mrs. Walters (Carlton) very slowly Tuesday evening I spent at Stewarts. Wednesday evening I attended a Baptismal Service at the B C {{Image|file=Aah-298.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-299 1373]

Albert St. saw several ‘dipped’ for what purpose I know not! Friday evening Miss Stone & [I] spent at the C St. BC, with W.Ford singing Saturday afternoon I went to the Art Exhibition & spent a few hours pleasently Picture gazing This morning & evening I went to Church. Mr H preached a fine sermon on “Patience & Constancy”. In the afternoon with Miss Stone I went to the Cemetery & my companion being pretty & agreeable I enjoyed my walk, on arriving home this evening I found Geo Bond at our house, he is a very constant Visitor. May 9th.1869
Beautiful weather. Slack at the office but for myself I had a deal of work to do owing to a desire I have of taking a few days rest to enable me undergoing an operation for strengthening my sight. Monday evening I went to a Concert given by Richardsons pupils at the Haymarket Theatre, it was a very poor affair, but the house was well filled being for the benefit of the new Alfred Hospital. Tuesday evening I spent with Miss Stone Wednesday evening I spent at Stewartss singing Friday afternoon, having left the office earlier than usual, I went to a German named Guttman who has been performing some extraordinary cures by a new process of what I call inoculation, lately discovered, I have been advised by several persons to try it for my eyes. I have {{Image|file=Aah-299.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-300 1374]

not much confidence in its efficacy yet I thought I ought not to neglect any chance, he commenced by stripping me & then he took a thing in shape of an ordinary paint brush, but instead of being made of bristles it consists of needles, with this he made punctures, slightly, but not enough to draw blood, but sufficient to puncture the skin, he did this up each side of the spine, round my ears and eyes, after which he applied some kind of oil (which is the grand secret) about two hours afterwards the places punctured became very warm & my face began to swell & in the course of a day every puncture gave forth a head of matter – I have had to wear a shade over my eyes, keep within doors & not to get cold there is very little pain attached to the operation the only inconvenience is a slightly irritable feeling I dont intend going to the office for a few days so as to let my eyes have as much rest as possible Sunday afternoon the inflamation commenced to go Down – I sincerely trust the experiment will do my sight, good, but I am afraid the weekness of my eyes has become chronic, & there is little chance of a thorough cure. Clark & Mary spent the afternoon with us. Yesterday I received a long letter from Fred he was in Hobart town, enjoying himself very much, he purposes returning home sometime next week – {{Image|file=Aah-300.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-301 1375]

May 16_1869
Lovely weather, I resumed my duties at the office on Thursday, fortunately things had been very slack there so I was not missed very much. The first days of the week I spent very quietly Several friends & acquaintances called in the evening to make enquiries concerning the progress attending the operation. I am sadly afraid I am not in the slightest benefitted by the operation I have been subjected to Wednesday morning I went into town and drew the £75 I lodged with a building society on receipt of which I paid £10.7.0 Fred had borrowed from Delnicold to take him to Tasmania. Thursday evening my Brt Fred returned from his visit looking & feeling much better for his trip. I spent the same evening with Miss Stone on arriving home I found Saunders Marsden & Williams at our house who remained till 12 Pm Friday I spent the evening with Miss Stone. Saturday afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetery to see the funeral of the Revd Mr Hill who was so brutally murdered by a prisoner named Rilson in the pentridge jail. Spent the day as usual, church night & morning a walk in the afternoon when I met W.Smart – saw Miss Stone this evening on leaving church & walked home with her. I am getting head over heels in love with her, much to the {{Red|*}}disgust of those at home who are always reviling her & myself. I do not care what {{Image|file=Aah-301.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-302 1376]

the[y] say to myself but I will not have a word spoken against her who I know is not deserving of the slightest reproach. My mother & sister unfortunately listen to every idle rumour concerning her, whose only fault consist in knowing that there is a prejudice existing against her by my relations & resents it by being very stiff & distant to them when ever they see or meet each other, I am sorry it is so for a feeling of this sort on my peoples part only confirms & strengthens my affection for the object of their dislike. May 23rd.1869 Weather been disagreeable & cold very slack at the office all the week, but yesterday quite a fleet of vessels made their appearance at the Heads so I suppose we shall be busy enough in a few days ”Whit Monday” I had a half holiday Tuesday evening spent at Stewarts. Wednesday & Thursday evening I spent with Miss Stone, Friday evening I spent with Mary (E.M.), on leaving I called for Bessie at St Phillips Church, Hoddle St where she had attended a Tea Meeting, Saturday afternoon I went to Guttsmans & had another operation performed for which he wanted to charge me another 3/- but I objected not having been in the slightest degree benefitted by the last trial, it was at {{Image|file=Aah-302.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-303 1377]

the mans own suggestion I tried it again, not being aware he proposed charging me for it, until he asked me for payment, I considered I had no right to pay & so the matter ended, by my promising if I really was cured to pay, a pretty safe promise on my part but one I wish to God I should have to pay. In the evening I went to Stewarts towards night my face began to swell but not to the extent it did before. I was near doing myself a great injury by having to go out in the cold air about 12Pm to search for a Doctor to attend my Br’ who took ill in a similar way he did before going to Tasmania. I am happy to say we are both all right now This afternoon R.Ryland called & had tea with us after which we went to hear Revd C.Clark The Church was crowded to excess & we had to stand the whole of the service, at its conclusion I met Miss Stone, got home with some difficulty as the rain came down in torrents, had the pleasure of spending two hours under a verandah My Br Fred left Williams the printer this last week whom he has been with the last 10 years, he has gone into partnership with a man named Smith, & have taken a place in Flinders Lane in the centre of the business part of the City, it will be a week or two before they are prepared for a start I sincerely hope they will be successful - {{Image|file=Aah-303.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-304 1378]

May 30th.1869
Weather very wet & miserably cold. I have been very busy at the office, during the week. Monday the 24th was observed as a general holiday I went to witness a Review held at Emerald Hill in company with G.Freer & Miss Edwards got back home by 2.30 found G.Bond here who staid tea, after which I went to a Tea Meeting at the Baptist Chapel, George St Fitzroy heard Miss Stone sing the Soph’ part in a Trio from “Elijah” “Lift thine Eyes” after which she sang “Thou didst not leave his soul in Hell”, from the Messiah, very well at the conclusion of the concert I saw her home nearly 12 when I got home Tuesday evening I went to Stewarts staid there about an hour on arriving home I found Saunders & J. Ballantyne at our house who who remained until 11.30. Wednesday evening I spent with Miss Stone, took a long walk together Thursday evening I spent at Stewarts, {{Red|*}}went right home early, Friday evening, I went to Clarks found him busy preparing specifications for his new house I spent a couple of hours very pleasently singing & practising Duets, On my way home I dropped into the Wesly Church Choir & {{Red|*}}striking Marsden he insisted upon my singing “If With all your Hearts” from the “Elijah” a Miss {{Red|*}}Amear playing {{Image|file=Aah-304.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-305 1379]

the accompaniment upon the Organ. I forgot to mention I left the office on Friday morning & in company with Fred I went to the funeral of my fathers cousin Stephen Watmuff who died on Wednesday he was a man I only met him about half a dozen times & never cared much about him his habits & that sort of thing being so different from my own, he was buried in the general Cemetery Fred & I being Chief Mourners & his only relatives in the colony (excepting my uncle John Tom) with the exception of his wife, who I think is tolerably well provided for, he left no family. Saturday afternoon being wet, I spent at home In the evening I met Miss Stone & the weather having cleared up we took a long & very pleasent walk together. Sunday morning & evening I went to Mr Hendersons church In the afternoon I took a strool with Miss S. to the Cemetery on arriving home I found Mr {{Red|*}}Bucide & Mrs Room friends of my brothers that he made in Launceston Mr[s] R is an exceedingly nice lady, a thorough Christian one I should think, on leaving chapel I called for Miss Stone (who is an attendant at C.Clarks) & saw her home - June 6th.1869
Weather still cold & unsettled, with plenty of rain Very busy at the office, in fact seldom more so since I have been in the Companys employ {{Image|file=Aah-305.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-306 1380]

I sent in an application a few weeks ago for an increase of salary, but as yet no mention has been taken of it. I dont suppose there is a more miserable or parsimonious Cmy in existence than the M & HBURl or where there is such a poor chance of an employee getting on in. I regret, often, staid so long in the service, hoping on, hoping on. Monday evening I went to hear “Weston & Husseys” Christy Minstrels at St Georges Hall who have done up the place very nicely & are drawing large audiences, they are very good in one service but I missed the really good singing I had heard from the two previous Companys that I have heard here. There is too much of the comic element. Stewart has been engaged by them as first tenor, & commences with them next week Wednesday & Saturday evenings I spent with Miss Stone – Friday evening I went with Bessie & Fred to a party given by Geo’ neighbours mother in honor of his Birthday, enjoyed ourselves very much 3Am next morning when we broke up - Sunday morning & evening I went to hear Revd. A.M Henderson, Miss S. went with me this evening, he delivered his last discourse on “Character” summing up the various virtues Etc that constitute a truly Christian one, impressing upon his hearers the importance of Faith as a groundwork, or basis, with Virtue, Knowledge, Dilligence Charity etc as a superstructure {{Image|file=Aah-306.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-307 1381]

to be particularly cultivated & practised – June 13 1869
{{Red|*}}Stinking bad weather all the week nothing but rain, rain day & night, dirty streets, & every place most miserable - Still continue busy at the office in fact never was more so, no less than 11 ships discharging & loading at the Rly Pier. I have felt very unwell during the week from a severe cold accompanied with an attack of biliousness I have been getting thinner & beautifully less if I do not improve shortly I intend to get Medical advice The English mail arrived on Monday & much to my surprise & disappointment no news from Father. I received a short note from my Uncle John Thos. on Tuesday, he was living on Bendigo when he wrote, he wished to know if any news came from England with respect to his affairs I answered his note the following day, informing him that no news had arrived. Uncle Joseph is rather long winded in sending him his share of the annuity he is entitled to, but which according to law I believe he is not entitled to, owing to his taking advantage of the “Bill of Limitation Act”. Monday evening I went to hear & see Stewart make his re debut with the “Christys” the place was very much crowded & taking it altogether I fancy he created a good impression {{Image|file=Aah-307.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-308 1382]

but there is no mistaking the fact that his voice is nothing in comparison to what it used to be Spent most of my evenings at home. Saturday afternoon I spent at Stewarts & in the evening with Miss Stone This afternoon we took a walk to the Cemetery & in the evening we went together to hear Mr Henderson. June 20th.1869
Weather very disagreeable. Our office has no fireplace in it & sometimes I feel the cold so much that I can hardly hold my pen to write. I wish our Secretary & Board of Directors had to sit & do my work for a week, I’ll be bound there would soon be a change. Monday evening I went to Fred’s office found it nicely fitted up, they have two good presses & plenty of type & are now ready to commence operations, it will be uphill work for many a day with them Wednesday evening I spent very pleasently at my sister Marys, Mr & Mrs. {{Red|*}}Bartlaw were there Friday evening I went to hear the Sable Minstrels in their absurd comicalities, & listen to their stale jokes & indifferent singing. The place was crowded & the performance seemed to be greatly relished, thus showing the taste of the age for everything that is low & debasing, comic singing & burlesque acting is all the rage, nothing else goes down, or pays to place upon {{Image|file=Aah-308.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-309 1383]

the stage, legitimate acting, high class classical music, & entertainment of an intellectual order are at a discount in Victoria at present - Saturday afternoon I spent at Stewarts singing & in the evening I spent a couple of hours with Miss Stone Morning & evening of to day I went to Chapel Mr H has commenced a series of sermons on the 16th chapter of John, In the afternoon I went to the cemetery in company with Miss S. My mother & sisters are greatly prejudiced against my connection with her & every day I am subjected to all manner of unpleasent remarks in reference to our acquaintance, she is an exceedingly nice girl, very quiet & with nothing of that fastness about her which characterises most of the colonial girls & young ladies of this town. The English mail left here yesterday & having to write to Uncle Joseph about my Uncle John Thomas I thought it a good opportunity of introducing myself & family to his notice. I wrote him a very long letter giving him a complete history of our family from being in the colony previous & subsequent to my fathers absence I gave him some broad hints as to our circumstances & position which I hope he will take in the spirit I intend they should, he has plenty of money I believe & no family to leave it to & I do not see why I should not try to interest him in our favour. I have heard he intends to leave us something when he dies, but a little now perhaps would be of far more benefit to us - {{Image|file=Aah-309.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-310 1384]

June 27th 1869
Miserable weather. Still continues busy at the office. Monday evening I went to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] & brought my mother home, who had been spending the day at Emerald Hill. I was extremely sorry to hear that Hamilton had lost his “billet” at W.H.Rocke & Co. more especially as he has nothing by him & his wife near her confinement. Tuesday evening I went to a fashionable Amateur Concert at the Duke of Edinbro Theatre given principally by members of Richardsons Class. Some portions of the programme were tolerably well rendered for Amateurs, whilst others were excusable The great fault I find with most amateurs that they invariably select music either of a too difficult & too classic a character to be successful, pieces that first class artists will only attempt at their best form Music becomes ridiculous when such people as J.B.West sing such pieces as “Fra Poco” from “Lucia di Lammemoor” Etc. Wednesday evening I spent at Mrs. Skinners a large party was assembled to do honor to the wedding of her daughter to an acquaintance of mine Henry Chadwick a clerk in the National Bank - I was not fortunate enough to see the happy pair they having gone on a wedding “tour” I met several there I was intimate with among the number Louisa Burke by far away the loveliest girl at the party I had eyes & {{Image|file=Aah-310.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-311 1385]

attraction for all but more in particular for her, there was plenty to eat & to drink & plenty of food, it was nearly 4 Am next morning when I took my departure – Louisa rieled me considerably about my new flame - as she terms Miss S., poor girl she feels her position very much & from her manner which she showed, rather foolishly, her “penchant” for her old admirer, caused me to be pretty considerably “chaffed” if she was single things might have been different. Thursday evening I spent at home Friday evening I spent at Pitts, Jollimont, practising Glees in company with the Misses Pitts, Lambert & Campbell, Messrs West, Pitts, Kitson Etc which we are to sing at a Soiree to be given shortly at the Church we all attend (Mr Hendersons). Walked home with Nelly Lambert afterwards, Saturday afternoon I spent at Stuarts & in the evening with Miss Stone I went to church this morning & ditto in the evening in company with Miss Stone, afternoon we took a long strool together – July 4th 1869
Disagreeable weather Very busy at the office Pier full of ships loading & discharging Monday evening spent the evening at Pitts rehearsing Glees, Tuesday evening spent with Lizzie (Mr & Mrs. W.Bond called & had tea). Wednesday evening I went to hear Weston & Husseys troupe of Sable Minstrels at St Georges Hall, they have improved since {{Image|file=Aah-311.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-312 1386]

I heard them last. Thursday Miss Stone & I went to a Concert given by the Philharmonic Sty at the Princess Theatre, the music was entirely of a secular character & most of it very well rendered especially some duets by Donaldson & Mrs. Fox they were both in fine voice & I never heard them sing better before, Mrs F “Dearest Companions” would not not disgrace any Concert Room, & Donaldson’s “Oh Tis a Glorious Sight” & his reading of the “Message” & “Sleep Well” - Friday evening we had a rehearsal of our Glees at the Church, David Lee conducting us, much to our benefit. Thursday was a holiday & a wretched wet day it was. Fred and I started to witness the Sports at the MCC Ground, but on arriving there we found they were postponed in consequence of the weather Called at Stewarts on Saturday afternoon, found he had left the “Minstrels” owing to the minister of the Church of which he is the precentor of having procured him a situation In the evening as usual I spent with Miss Stone To day, Sunday, I went to church morning & evening accompanied by Lizzie. [Sunday, 11 July 1869] {{Red|June}} 11th.1869
Tolerably fine weather during the week. English Mail arrived on Monday, no news for any of us – Tuesday evening I spent at Pitts, Jollimont, Wednesday evening I met Miss Stone & we took a long walk together {{Image|file=Aah-312.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-313 1387]

on arriving home my mother & sister, I am sorry to state, made some impertinent remarks in reference to my intimacy with Miss S. which ended in my losing my temper & leaving the house with a half formed determination never to enter it again. I did not return for hours & until my passion was cooled down, my sister & I have not spoken to each other since & I feel that is that, passed that for ever will hinder our ever being the same to each other than has been - Thursday evening I went to see Montgomery in Shakespears Grand play of “Anthony & Cleopatra” assisted by Miss Cleveland as the heroine, their playing was something magnificent & will be long remembered by Theatre goers, when the players are dead & gone, there are not many men who can say they have witnessed the characters of the Immortal Bard playd so well as by Montgomery, the glories of Brook & Sullivan & even Kean pale before this new light in scene characters - Friday evening on arriving home from business I found my cousin Harry here, he is in town on business connected with his school & also to attend an examination after tea I attended a rehearsal of our Glees at the Grammar School, Collins Street, D.Lee coaching us up in there - Saturday afternoon in company with Harry Vickerman I went to see the Athletic Sports on the M.C.C Ground running & that sort of thing I do not much care for The novelty of the day was a Velocipede race, the first ever {{Image|file=Aah-313.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-314 1388]

held in Australia, an acquaintance of mine J Finley winning it in fine style, there was an enormous amount of people present to witness the sports - After tea Harry left for home I accompanied him to the Rly Station & returned to Fitzroy where I called for Miss S. & we took a long ramble together. This afternoon, Sunday we did ditto & in the evening I went to church – [Sunday, 18 July 1869] July {{Red|19th}} 1869
Weather very unsettled during the week & as I have been suffering very severely from a cold makes it none the easier to bear Still busy at the office, plenty of ships been discharging at the Pier. My leisure time spent much as usual. Monday & Wednesday evenings making love in company with Lizzie. Tuesday night I spent at Stewarts, staid rather later than usual owing to a young fellow being there who had just returned from England & who had visited the continent I found his company very agreeable & his descriptions of the various places he had visited & the people he had met very interesting. Friday night I went to a Tea Meeting given by the members of the Collins St Independent Church, Mutual Improvement Association, it was well attended, several of the members spoke pretty well excepting poor Geo’ Neighbour from whom so much was expected owing to the high honor he has gained at the University & to the known fact of his studying for a Barrister. He was nervy {{Image|file=Aah-314.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-315 1389]

& stumbled over every word he uttered & at last completely broke down & had to appeal to some notes he fished out of one of his pockets & after considerable delay he arranged them & then found that he could not read his own writing & was obliged to take his seat not amidst approving cheers, but {{Red|*}}minimal laughter I felt for him, but I have no doubt in time when he overcomes his nervousness he will “shine” The best part of the Entertainment were the Glees, in which I took my share of the honor. Saturday afternoon I spent at home & in the evening I went in company with Miss S. took a long walk. Sunday, morning I went to Church, Mary was there I walked [part] of the way home with her, she is looking very much better than she has been doing for a long time. In the afternoon In company with Lizzie I went to the Cemetery for a walk – & In the evening I went to Church with Mother I received a note on Friday from Uncle John Thos. desiring to know if any money came by the last Mail for him. I replied in the negative, he is working on the farm of Mr. Gill, River Loddon, nr. Newbridge - July 25th.1869
Weather very cold & foggy & rather severe for those who suffer from Lung diseases & that sort of thing. Monday evening spent at home. My sister Bessies pupils the little Miss Snowdens had been spending the day at our house & I took them home at about 9.Pm. Staid playing cards there till 10 Pm when I returned - Wednesday evening I spent at {{Image|file=Aah-315.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-316 1390]

Clarks, the Miss Clarks were there, after indulging in some music (my sister Mary being in fine voice pleased me very much) we commenced to play “Besique” a new game of cards & likely to become a popular one for those who care for cardplaying for my part it appears like downright waste of time - Tuesday evening I took Miss Stone to a Concert held in the Wesleyan Chapel Emerald Hill being the occasion of the opening of the New Organ an excellent programme was provided & the singing was really good Mrs. Fox, Miss Watson, Exon & Maddon were the chief vocalists while Pringle was organist for the occasion Friday I left the office in company with a fellow clerk, Hart, & spent the evening very pleasently at his mothers house E.H. I met several nice people there among the number Miss McAndrew who plays & sings beautifully I sang several Duets with her & {{Red|*}}pieces some of which she accompanied upon the Harp It was nearly 12 Pm when I left after spending a most enjoyable evening. On my way home I witnessed a fine eclipse of the moon. Saturday after I went to see the Velocipede Tournament” at the Fitzroy Cricket Ground I left early in disgust, being one of the most uninteresting & shady affairs I ever witnessed. In the evening, as usual, I spent with Miss Stone, taking a long walk together - This afternoon (Sunday) we took a walk together around the Cemetery, Went to Church in the morning & ditto in the evening on coming home a dense Bank of fog enveloped the City. I never remember seeing such {{Image|file=Aah-316.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-317 1391]

heavy one before. On arriving home I found G.Bond & the Bros West here spending the evening they left after supper We had rather a singular visitor in the afternoon of the name of Cook, who used to be a boy in my fathers Warehouse, Manchester, he had seen our name on Freds Signboard & found us out, he is at present engaged in a large place of business & has succeeded in amassing a snug little property together & is altogether in a prosperous condition I wish his old employer was ditto, but such is life some go up & others come down – August 1st.1869
Weather still continues cold & unsettled, pretty busy at the office Monday evening I spent at home Miss Odell & [[Rakowski-86|Dalia Rekowskie]] being here. Tuesday evening I spent at Clarks, Wednesday with Miss Stone. Thursday I went to the Princess Theatre to hear Madame Simonsen & her husband who have just returned from Europe They are giving concerts assisted by Miss Rebecca Nordt & Mr Keilby who sing pretty well. Madame & her husband are as good as ever. I am sorry they are drawing such poor houses - I have been suffering lately from an acute pain in my groin accompanied by a dead kind of pain around my heart, which prevents me laying on my left side, caused I think by a sprain I gave myself at the Gymnasium which necessitated my leaving it, some weeks ago. I began to get frightened as I thought it would have gone away before this {{Image|file=Aah-317.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-318 1392]

not doing so I came to the conclusion to get some advice about it & was advised to go to Dr Beaney which I did on Friday evening. He says I have slightly ruptured myself but promised to cure me for £12, a lot of money, I gave him £4 on account & the balance I am to give him in a months time, he has recommended me taking cold baths regularly every morning & gave me a bottle of playsin, doses of which I am to take 3 times a day. I had no idea I was so bad, however I sincerely hope I shall get all right. Saturday afternoon I took a strool into town & in the evening in company with Lizzie I took a long walk to Northcote. Sunday morning I went to hear mass at St. Patricks R.C.Chapel Spent the afternoon at home in consequence of the rain Miss Norris called & spent the day at our house After tea I called for Miss Stone & we went to hear Mr Henderson on arriving home I saw Miss Norris home - August 8th.1869
Weather tolerably fair during the week very little rain & no frost. I have been suffering very severely during the week from a serious attack of Bile brought on I believe from taking the medicine I have done lately. I called the Dr attention to it & he changed my physic at once which I am happy to state has had the effect of making me feel better Monday evening I spent at Stewarts singing Tuesday evening remained at home ditto {{Image|file=Aah-318.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-319 1393]

Friday evening Wednesday I went out for a strool with Miss Stone Thursday evening I went to Simonsens Concert. Saturday afternoon I spent at Freds office opening a set of Books for him & posting up Etc to date In the evening Miss S & I as usual took a pleasent ramble together 11 Pm when I returned home In the morning I went to Church, took my mother in the evening & In the afternoon I went for a strool to the Cemetery with Miss S. being the only place in this neighbourhood where one can go to within easy walking distance The English Mail arrived in the beginning of the week no news from any relatives On Monday last I was greatly shocked to hear that my second cousin Alf Peel was dead, having died in Dunedin in July leaving a widow & one child to mourn his loss, he died of consumption, Mrs Peel wrote to us informing us of the fact I am truly sorry for her, it seems no time (4 years ago) that she came out, a merry bride to this colony I intend writing to her next week - August 15th.1869
Weather much pleasenter than it has been the last few weeks I have not been very well during the past few days owing to my late illness & being in very low spirits at the same time has not improved me. Monday evening I spent with my sister Mary, left about 11 Pm in company with my mother who had been spending the day with her - {{Image|file=Aah-319.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-320 1394]

Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday evenings I spent with Miss Stone, Friday evening I spent at the Choir of the Wesley Church Brunswick St roaring away in some anthems. I wrote to Mrs Peel & also to my Uncle J.T. that day. Saturday afternoon I spent in Fitzroy Gardens listening to the Head Quarters Band that has been reorganised I enjoyed the music very much Sunday morning tho’ very stormy I went to Church clearing up in the afternoon I went for a walk in company with Lizzie to the Carlton Gardens. Clark & Mary spent the afternoon & evening at our house. I went to church & meeting Miss S after the service saw her home August 22 1869
Weather very mild & summerlike, rather slack at the office, spent my leisure time much as usual. Monday evening I took Miss Stone to a Concert given at the Princess Theatre by Richardsons pupils assisted by Madame Simonsen who was the only one worth listening to during the evening none of the pupils appear to have improved since I last heard them. I firmly believe it is owing to their Masters bad system of tuition for some of them had really good natural voices but by what Richardson call[s] the closed force it is apparent it distroys the voice instead of improving it. It was amusing to look over the Programme containing as it did the choicest selections of the best masters & perhaps the most difficult that only first class artists can render effectively, such {{Image|file=Aah-320.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-321 1395]

things as the “Cujus Animam” & “Oh Tis a Glorious Sight” from Oberon attempted by amateurs who ca’nt read a line of music & perhaps not had a quarters instruction in the elementary branches of music. Tuesday, Wednesday & Saturday evening I spent with Miss Stone. Thursday evening the Miss Thwaites & G Bond spent the evening at our house – Friday I spent at home. Saturday on leaving business I spent a couple of hours doing up Freds Books at his office, on leaving I accompanied my sister Bessie to Lee & Kaye Piano Warehouse to choose a piano, we saw a very nice toned “Hopkinson” that Bessie seemed to like which I think her intended husband will purchase - Sunday morning I went to Church, being the anniversary, of the opening of the Church there were special services & a collection made for the erection of a Hall in connection with the Church, that will serve the purpose of a Sunday School, Lecture Room Etc – In the evening a sermon was preached to young men, 23 verse of the 23 Chp proverbs “Buy the Truth”. Mr Henderson started defining what was logical or verbal truth & also moral truth, the principle aim of his discourse appeared to be a demolition of the arguments in favour of “Protoplasm” Prehistoric man & the Darwinian Theory etc Upon these subjects he discoursed at considerable length in an easy discussion style suitable to the class he was supposed to be speaking viz the young he concluded by impressing upon his audience the general maxims & principles of Christianity August 29 1869
Weather very changeable, dirty & dusty with a little rain at the end of the week which made {{Image|file=Aah-321.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-322 1396]

things more refreshing. Time spent much as usual I am still going to Dr Beaney I think he is a humbug & that he overrated the complaint I am suffering from. I fancy if I had continued my own course I should have cured myself just as soon as he will, a sprained groin simply requires time & care & plenty of cold water. The physic he is giving now I am sure is nothing but tincture of iron mixed with plenty of water Wednesday evening Miss Stone & I went to a concert & Lecture at our Church. Saturday afternoon I went to the Fitzroy Cricket Ground to see some sports, found, they were so poor that I remained outside the fence & witnessed for an hour or so on the cheap - Thursday evening I went to hear the Revd C.Clark deliver a lecture at the Duke of Edinbro” Theatre, the subject being – “Christmas & its Carols” in old England. He was assisted by the Albert Choral Society who sang the carols, after being introduced by the lecturer who explained in a most humorous & interesting manner their origin Etc Clark is one of the most polished & fluent speakers we ever had in the colony & his powers of miming are equal to any actor I have seen, many of “{{Red|*}}some righteous” were greatly shocked with his manner & ‘abandon” displayed being so different from what are generally {{Red|*}}with {{Red|*}}men from the ordinary run of ministers, he imitated Cocks Crowing {{Image|file=Aah-322.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-323 1397]

Bulls Bellowing, Dogs Barking & those happy (?) souls who worship too liberally at the shrine of Bacchus - The Hon Jms McCulloch presided at the lecture who expressed himself delighted at it Sunday morning & evening I went to hear Mr Henderson. I took a strool in the afternoon with Miss Stone. Sept 5th.1869
Weather fine. Busy at the office. Seven ships having come alongside our Pier to discharge & load during the last 10 days. English Mail arrived (4 days after its time) no letters found a few pencilled lines in a newspaper from father that he intended writing by the next week, he was not well suffering from Rheumatic in his arms. Monday Mrs. Snowden & her sister Miss Jarvis spent the evening at our house. Tuesday evening I called at Dr B. had to wait two hours before seeing him, he must be doing very well, he gave me my usual bottle of physic which I have hardly tasted, nothing but Iron & water, on leaving him I went in company with a friend to listen to a final Rehearsal of “Ermain” which is to be given in ”Cameo” at the Haymarket Theatre on the 8th. Miss Belle Staff, an old friend of mine who used to sing at Hendersons Choir is to “come out” as Elvira, the music is admirably for her light soprano voice which she uses with good skill & judgement for one so young (18). I think she promises to become a first rate singer. The only thing I fear for her is she appears to be {{Image|file=Aah-323.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-324 1398]

very delicate, whereas a singer requires a strong robust constitution. Wednesday evening I went out for a walk with Miss S. Thursday I spent at my sister Mary spent a pleasent evening - Friday on arriving home I was grieved to find my sister Bessie had been taken seriously ill during the day when out teaching she had been obliged to take cab to come home & go to bed she had been suffering from a cold which I fear she neglected until it has lapsed into Billious fever & up to the present I see very little change for the better in her, & to make things worse my mother took ill yesterday & has been confined to her bed suffering from the same complaint as Bessie Dr {{Red|*}}Herret has been in regular attendance upon them both. Our house is like a little hospital, we have got a good nurse Saturday evening I went out for a short time. Sunday, I spent at home till evening, when Fred stayd at home while I went out to hear the Revd. C.Clark preach one of his pretty sermons, taking for his text the words of the angel who took the hand of Lot when leaving the City of the Plain “Linger Not” at the close of the sermon I met Miss Stone & saw her home My mother received a letter during the week from Capt Lane (Boston U.S) informing us of the death of his good & beautiful wife from Dysentry, my sister had a long letter from her only the last mail & at the time of {{Image|file=Aah-324.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-325 1399]

her writing she was quite well, she had visited Australia twice in her husbands Ship “Levanter” & spent her leisure [time] with [us] & we all became very much attached to her for her many good & amicable qualitites We grieved very much to hear of her death Sept. 12, 1869
The first few days of the week were very cold & unsettled but the last 2 or 3 have been lovely & fair, in fact quite hot & summerlike. My mother & sister have been very ill the doctor attending them regularly, neither of them arose from their beds until Friday when Bessie get up for a short time & I fancy it will not be long before she is well & strong, my mother still continues very weak & her recovery is not likely to be so soon as my sisters, our house has not been the most comfortable of places lately, however Fred & I have managed the best we could under the circumstances Monday & Tuesday evenings I staid at home, Wednesday, I promised to take Miss Stone to the Philharmonic Sty Concert, for the production of “Ernani”. I had purchased tickets, when on calling for her I found her parents objected, for some unaccountable reason or another, that she should not go. I staid about an hour with her, & on leaving her I went to the Concert alone, heard the last two acts which in my opinion contained the best music of the opera, Miss Staff fully sustained the opinion I had formed of her {{Image|file=Aah-325.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-326 1400]

of her as a singer. She has a light pure toned, flexible sophano voice with a good compass, she sang very correctly & with good taste & expression. Mr Exon was the tenor & Lamble, (of Ballarat) the Bass – Cazaly assisting, all of whom aquitted themselves very creditably, but no praise would be out of place for the chorus I never heard the {{Red|*}}Charleway Chorus given with such effect before. This week an event occurred which should long be remembered by those who have been long in the colony & who take an interest in it, the death of our oldest colonist John Pascoe Fawkner, (the founder of the colony) at the ripe old age of 78, he died last Sunday & was buried in the General Cemetery on Wednesday the 8th inst, a half holiday was proclaimed in respect to his memory. The funeral was an immense affair, no less than 250 carriages & vehicles forming a procession, with those walking, of about 1¼ miles in length, & such was the end of a very remarkable man, whose history every ones knows. Thursday evening I spent at home. Friday called at the Dr. on leaving him I called at the Albert St Chapel for Miss Stone who had been singing there (she is a member of the Choir) Saturday afternoon after finishing my domestic duties, cutting up wood & clearing up the yard & garden Etc I went out for a strool after tea called for Miss Stone & we took a long walk together 11 Pm when I got home. This morning I went to Church {{Image|file=Aah-326.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-327 1401]

after the service. I walked part of the way home with my sister Mary. I fancy she is looking very worn & ill I sincerely hope she is not suffering from some organic complaint, there is something wrong with her I am sure she is getting so sallow & appears so worried after any slight exertion. In the afternoon I went for a walk in company with Lizzie being a fine day we enjoyed ourselves - In the evening I went to church, afterwards met Miss Walters Miss Stoddart & Mr Burt, who accompanied me home to see Mother & Bessie, found several visitors at our house, after their departure I walked part of the way home with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] - Sept 19 1869
Weather has undergone quite a change: I never witnessed such a transition from winter to summer in so short a time. The first few days of the week were as hot as is generally experienced in Decr. I am happy to state that my mother & sister are fast recovering from the effects of their late illness, & are now make every preperation for the latters wedding which is to take place on the 25th. inst, if all goes well, as the time draws I am led to think more seriously of the event & of the loss we shall experience by her leaving us, however these sort of things will occur & in my case it will I hope tend to hasten my own marriage if I can only manage matters. Monday evening I spent at Stewarts {{Image|file=Aah-327.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-328 1402]

Tuesday & Wednesday evenings I spent in company with Miss Stone Thursday evening I spent at Mary’s Friday staid at home, Saturday afternoon at home reading In the evening I met Lizzie & we took a long walk together. Sunday afternoon ditto & in the evening we went to Mr Henderson’s together found several visitors at our house on my arrival home Sept 26 1869
Lovely weather during the week, been a very busy one for me, not only at the office but at home in consequence of the preperations respecting my sisters wedding & the event itself what with Dressmaking & house {{Red|*}}clearing Etc home has not been the pleasentist place in the world - Monday evening G Bond & his bro’ John with Miss Norris spent at our house. Tuesday evening I spent at Mrs Harts on Emerald Hill, several friends there, spent a most enjoyable evening singing Etc, had an excellent supper after which I left in company with the Miss {{Red|*}}Domalaws whom I saw home to their house in West Melb. nearly 3 am when I reached Johnston St., Fitzroy. Wednesday evening I met Miss Stone & we took a pleasent walk together I am getting dreadfully fond of her, I dont know what will be the result, marriage I fondly hope Ah! If my interest in the Vulcan Reef would only turn {{Image|file=Aah-328.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-329 1403]

out satisfactory I would marry her at once – Thursday evening I spent at home assisting in the preperations for the coming event (“Bessies Wedding”). I wish it was mine, most ardently, Saunders, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] & Bond were with us. Friday evening I spent at home assisting Etc went out for a short time, making purchases, for a short time. Saturday morning, having a holiday, & all being in readiness I went to St Marks Church with my sister Bessie & her bridesmaid Miss Norris, & my brother Fred, on arriving at the church we found G Bond & his Bro John with several friends waiting the ceremony which was performed in due course & in the usual manner by the Revd R.B.Barlow, the affair was soon over those interested behaving in the most admirable manner on leaving the church we adjourned to my mothers where a number of friends who had been invited met us & we sat down to an excellent dinner got up in fine style when after stuffing ourselves & getting over the Toasting Etc, the Bride & Bridegroom left about 2Pm & went for a drive to the Yan Yeans, the rest of us spent the affair very pleasently: a few of us in the evening went over to East Melbourne & Clark, having the key of Georges cottage, & went there & remained until the happy couple returned from their drive about 8 Pm where after seeing them comfortably settled Etc & indulged in a considerable amount of chaff we left {{Image|file=Aah-329.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-330 1404]

them to their fate & their new & novel position with best wishes for their future which I have little doubt will be all that could be wished - On seeing Miss Norris home, Swanston St, where she is living as Governess at Mr Beers Bookseller, I came home myself feeling regularly knocked up after all the bustle excitement Etc attending the affair - To day Sunday I went to church morning & evening, took a long walk in the afternoon in company with Miss Stone - Octr 3th.1869
Lovely weather the last few days, several pleasent showers having fallen the past few days doing a deal of good, as the farmers & others {{Red|*}}are crying out greatly for want of rain. Monday evening I remained at home & kept my mother company my sister Mary spent the evening with us & remained until near 11 Pm when I saw her home. Tuesday evening I went out for a strool with Miss S. Wednesday I spent at home in company with Mother as she feels very lonely now Bessie has left home. Thursday evening in company with Liz I took a long strool as far as Kew. Friday I went to Mrs. Walters, found her & the family very busy making preperations for Emily’s wedding with Burtt, which took place the next day (Saturday) {{Image|file=Aah-330.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-331 1405]

did not stay long, came home & spent the evening reading & singing. The English Mail arrived on Wednesday, bringing me a letter for John Tom. & enclosed in it was a draft for £20 & a request for me to forward to him the sum of £13.6.8. being her share of the interest accruing from her share of the money of John Toms which was divided before he turned up, it appears they have decided (that is my father, Aunt Sarah, & Uncle Joseph) to send him the principal, but the interest of his money his father intended it to realize £40.0.0 a year, but Aunt Sarah says her share of the principal does not realize that proportion of the amount, but out of her own income she purposes forwarding to him a sum yearly to the extent of what her father intended he should have & this is her first remittance, it is rather a strange agreement & one that Uncle Joe does not approve of as he was his fathers executor & wishes veto to get possession no more of the whole of the principal as formerly before my father & Aunt Sarah insisted upon its division, I forwarded John Tom the aforesaid amount, I was rather [annoyed] at not hearing from father, he sent us a few newspapers & in one which I opened I found a slip of paper, in which he had scribbled a few lines informing us that he had been taken very ill in a Railway carriage & carried beyond his destination where he had remained {{Image|file=Aah-331.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-332 1406]

until he had recovered, consequently he was not able to write as he had promised, but intended doing so by the following mail, he stated he had been to London & had been greatly worried by the business connected with the Chancery Case, all details are settled & the Court is to give its decision in November next, its immaterial considering the small amount there will be, to divide, & the immense amount of labor & trouble there has been over the affair. Saturday afternoon I went to see the opening of the boating season, on the Yarra, inaugerated by a grand procession of Boats representing the various clubs, it was an excellent turn out, some very fine Gigs, outriggers, pairoars, canoes Etc on the river. In the evening Miss Stone & I took a long strool together, ditto, this afternoon (Sunday) I went to Church morning & evening - Oct 10th 1869
Weather very wet & miserable all the week I have no doubt rain is much wanted in certain quarters & it is very selfish under such circumstances to wish a continuance of fair or fine weather, I have been very anxious & troubled in mind all the week owing to the sudden & unexpected illness of my dear sister Mary she had a servant, an illwilled stubborn cold blooded creature who had annoyed & irritated her to such a degree as to produce “Epileptic Convulsions” & being about five months gone in the “family way” proved so serious that on Tuesday {{Image|file=Aah-332.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-333 1407]

evening the doctors despaired of saving her life, they, after a consultation decided upon delivering her which was done by placing her under chloroform & with the aid of instruments the fits nearly finished her, & what with the extraordinary loss of blood it seems marvellous how she survived, but owing to a good constitution careful nursing & medical attention she became conscious on Thursday – poor dear her sufferings must have been great both to mind & body My mother spent Tuesday & Wednesday with her. I spent two evenings with them doing what laid in my power which did not amount to much. Friday evening I called found her improving & conscious to surrounding objects, staid about an hour, on leaving there I went to hear the great Revivalist Preacher (Revd. W Taylor, or Californian Taylor, as he is more generally called,) at the Wesleyen Chapel Brunswick St Fitzroy, I heard some years back when I liked him much better than on the present occasion he has been in Melb’ several [times] & according to his own accounts has converted many from the paths of sin & wickedness. I witnessed his manufacturing process, which did not impress me as being superior to many other clergymens method without the fuss & parade displayed by Yankee Taylor, the Church was like a noisy nursery with the crying out of poor sinners that seemed possessed with devils, & by pleading penetats howling at the mercy rail, who [were] encouraged to come forward by Taylor who was marching about the pews {{Image|file=Aah-333.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-334 1408]

beseeching those openly that he saw were affected by his exhortations, I noticed the converts were principally children & young girls. I have my doubts as to the genuineness of 5% of these so called converts, I believe its nothing but sentiment & impulse induced or brought about by some mesmeric influence, instead of its being brought about by calm dispassionate deliberation & by earnest prayer & a careful regard to ones conduct in life God moves in a mysterious way & this mode of bringing sinners to repentance may be one, I have no right to judge, but when someone asked me if I did not think it was a cheering sight to see so many convinced of the error of their ways Etc & so many coming forward to the penetent rail making a public confession I asked him what had become of hundreds that were converted on Taylors last visit to the same place – it is well known that not half a dozen of the scores who made a public profession on that occasion are now even attendants at a place of worship, this silenced my enquiring friend & I came away meditating in my mind upon the peculiar motives & sources of action which actuates such numbers in a particular direction, especially upon spiritual matters - I forgot to state that I met Lizzie at the Church, found she had been no more affected at what she had seen & heard than I was, perhaps not as much {{Image|file=Aah-334.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-335 1409]

in any way. I fancy the weakness of her character is in her want of veneration (at least a phrenologist would perhaps put it at that form of expression although I do not believe in the so called Science) I should say a lack of enthusiasm, although women get the character of being very matter of fact – I have invariably found them impulsive & enthusiastic, strange, but the very opposite of materialism - Saturday afternoon I remained at home reading, mother having gone to see Mary. In the evening I went out for my usual strool & with my usual companion. Sunday morning I went to Church. In the afternoon in company with Lizzie I went to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to see Mary & was agreeably surprised to find her so far recovered as to be able to converse & appear cheerful, so soon after the dreadful suffering she has undergone & her escape from Deaths door, she is dreadfully altered & I fear her illness will affect her to a certain extent as long as she lives. I always had a presentiment that she will never be a long liver, on leaving her I went to Albert St Chapel get there as it was disgorging its congregation met Lizzie and walked home with her. Octr 17 1869
Weather like a young steed, unsettled & restless, towards the latter part especially, hot winds & dust prevailing - I am happy to state that my dear sister Mary is fast recovering in a {{Image|file=Aah-335.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-336 1410]

manner which seems perfectly marvellous to me when I consider the state I believed her in this time last week she having been able to leave her bed the last two days. My sister Bessie has been very unwell during the week suffering from weakness in consequence, I think, of her being married so soon after her late illness. Monday evening I went to my doctors got my usual bottle of physic – on leaving, I went to Stewarts, found him very jolly owing to Mrs. S. having been confined of a boy during this day, both doing well. I met Joe West there who accompanied me home where we spent a couple of hours singing - Tuesday & Wednesday evenings I spent with Miss Stone, Thursday evening I went to see Mary & afterwards called upon Bessie found her & George very “Bob & {{Red|*}}Johanh” the former at the piano & the latter bending lovingly over her singing, very {{Red|*}}nicely, enough to make a fellow envy them their apparent happiness. I remained about an hour & on arriving home I wrote a letter to my Aunt Sarah Watmuff of Leicester which I posted the following day. Friday evening I remained at home, Saturday morning it commenced to rain & has done so without inter- -mission up to the present time - I get so sick of staying in doors that I went to St Peters Church this evening, found about 20 people present, the service was shortened as much as possible, for I {{Image|file=Aah-336.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-337 1411]

dont think it lasted above an hour. I hear the River is rising rapidly & if the rain continues I expect their will be another flood & probably a repetition of 1863. I heard also there is a large ship at the “Heads” called the “Victoria Towers” completely wrecked, all hands saved - Oct 24 1869
Very busy at the office as usual, plenty of work & little pay, & I am beginning to think it will be a long time before I get an increase - I am happy to state that my sister Mary is getting over her illness Monday evening George & Bessie spent with us I walked halfway home with them. Tuesday I met Miss Stone & took a long walk with her. Wednesday night I went to the Theatre Royal to see the newly arrived German Tragedian, Herr Bandmann, he has thoroughly mastered the English language & his pronunciation is as perfect as most Englishmen, he had a good appearance & appears to have studied the characters he plays with great care & attention. I saw him in the “Merchant of Venice” as Shylock. I cant say I altogether liked him, he pitches his voice too high, which to my mind mars the effect of elocution & firm declamation - I hear he is very fine as “Hamlet” a character I have heard from many he has never been surpassed in the colony, for my part I doubt it - The afterpiece was a Burlesque called the ”Maid & the Magpie” which served to introduce another new actress Miss Rose {{Image|file=Aah-337.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-338 1412]

Evans, a pretty little fair haired fasinating little woman who has already established herself as a first favorite to the Theatre loving public - Thursday evening I went to a public meeting held in Albert St. Bpt. Chapel, several ministers spoke upon the subject they met upon viz Christian Usefulness” I dare say it was interesting to many present. I certainly sympathised with the object of the meeting, but I must say I never listened to such a lot of dry commonplace speaches before – I at the conclusion I met Miss Stone, who had been singing there, & walked home with her. Friday evening we spent together, came home early & assisted Fred with some of his work, he & his partner are not doing much & in their spare time they are engaged in compiling an almanac for 1870 I fear they have undertaken a job they can scarcely carry out. Saturday afternoon I went to see Mary, found her very weak. I fear that she will never be herself again, she used to be so jolly & full of spirit, but this last year or two I have noticed her getting very lowspirited & anything but vivacious, unless with a very great effort I think Clarks manner has a great deal to do with it, he is a peculiar tempered man, very precise, very particular, & excessively irritable, to an enthusiastic & impulsive nature, like Marys. I think he means {{Image|file=Aah-338.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-339 1413]

well, but his overbearing self conceit & a sensitiveness peculiarly his own renders him a miserable man, unconsciously to himself – he is his own, greatest enemy, he is clever, there is no doubt, but there is an unsettleness & a ficlleness about him which renders him very obnoxious at times, unconsciously to himself he is very mean & then as if ashamed of himself at times he is lavishly extravagant & liberal I remained about an hour with them when I came home after tea, still being wet, I went to the Haymarket Theatre to see a company of very clever French Acrobats, one of them is the strangest man I ever saw, another one the Flying Trapeze does miracles of agility - Morning & evening of to day I went to hear Mr Henderson In the afternoon I took a long strool with Miss Stone The political world has been all action lately owing to the resignation of the McCulloch Ministry & the difficulty that has been found in forming a new one which has been accomplished by McPherson (a native born politician) I think on the whole his party will be able to give a good account of themselves - Octr. 31 1869 Melbourne.
Weather very unsettled raining nearly every day. The English Mail arrived on Monday, bringing me a long letter from my Uncle Joseph Watmuff of Brighton in answer to one I sent him some 7 months ago {{Image|file=Aah-339.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-340 1414]

he alludes principally to my fathers behaviour & treatment of his family since leaving Victoria in not very favourable terms, he accuses him of being guilty of all manner of petty meannesses, having borrowed money from my late Uncle Henry & never returned it & of being set up in business by him no less than three times & on each occasion having come to grief in consequence of his idle dilatory habits, he also states that Aunt Lucy had willed all her property Etc, which was considerable to him & his family (Joseph states he saw the Will shortly after its execution) but owing to some business transaction she had with my father, in which he did not act very honorably towards her, she altered her will & left it all to strangers, her antipathy lasted to her death. Uncle regards my father being so foolish not on account of my father but he is sorry we should suffer for his folly, (or selfishness as he terms it) he himself states that he has done with him for ever & hopes never to see him again – he wishes I had written to him years ago such a letter as I I sent him which he compliments me by calling a beautiful one, & desires now to continue my correspondence with him, & that in his next letter he will give me particulars as to his own affairs & its ultimate disposal, he says he does not intend leaving my father nor Aunt Sarah a penny & In {{Image|file=Aah-340.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-341 1415]

[regard] to my Uncle John Tom he says his money (£800) was equally divided between himself my father & Aunt Sarah on condition that if J.Tom turned up it was to be returned to Joseph, as trustee, & reinvested, he has lodged his third in the Bank & until the others do ditto, he says he will not send out a penny interest - he is a stubborn man I think, & will keep his word, & I feel assured the others will not refund but will send out to J.T. their share of the interest to J.Tom & keep control of the principal themselves - In fact my father sent out £12.10.0 for J.T. as his yearly share, he also sent £7.10.0 towards the expenses attending Bessies wedding, (which £50 would not cover) father does not like the idea of her being married he says he had other views in reference to her future that was for her to go to England & devote her life to him in the capacity of nurse, a pretty picture truly! but one that would have had no charms for Bessie, considering she barely remembers him & that he hasnt done anything for her to endear him to her. Monday evening I spent at Herr Schetts singing. Tuesday Thursday & Saturday evenings I spent with Miss Stone. Wednesday night I spent at my sister Bessies. Friday I remained at home Saturday afternoon I went to the Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play. Sunday morning & evening I went to hear Mr Henderson preach. In the afternoon Miss Stone & I took a long strool to the Cemetery - {{Image|file=Aah-341.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-329 1442]

Novr.7th.1869
Weather hot & sultry, very busy at the office Spent my leisure much as usual. Monday evening singing at Stewarts Tuesday, Thursday, & Saturday nights I spent in company with Miss Stone. My people taunt me a good deal about her making it very unpleasent for me, for I should like to introduce her to our house & try & establish something like a good feeling between my relatives & hers, but under present circumstances it is impossible so the breach gets wider & to make things none the better her parents are strange & distant in the manner. Since I have known Miss S. I have not been invited once inside the house. I go into the shop occasionally, where I see them sometimes, it is a great mistake on parents part to act this way, they allow her to come & meet me & they know we go about a great deal together & yet they dont bother or ask any questions concerning my intentions, indeed if they did I dont know what I should say. I certainly mean to marry her, as soon as I can in spite of everything if she will have me, sometimes she is so cold & stiff towards me that I feel inclined to cut her altogether & again she is all smiles & exceedingly affectionate in her manner, Heavens only {{Image|file=Aah-342.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-343 1417]

knows what the upshot will be. I have a presentiment tho’ I am not in the slightest degree superstitious that I am going to have a lot of trouble over the affair - Wednesday evening I spent at with my sister Mary, Clark was out, she advises me to get married if I can, if it wasnt for those infernal mining shares at Avoca I would have had enough to have furnished a house comfortably I have nearly £20 to pay before the year is out as it is on them & no prospect whatever of a return. Friday evening Mr & Mrs Bauman spent at our house, while here a fire broke out in the next street & on going to see it found it to be a small cottage belonging to Mrs Silk, a hard working woman who has for years been in the habit of doing my mothers washing & rough work she is a decent sober woman but her family are a bad lot, as it is she has lost every thing not being insured I am very sorry for her, I & some others intend trying to raise a few pounds to enable her to build up her cottage again - This has been a busy week in Melb’ owing to the races, the great event of the year the Cup race was won by “Warrior”. This morning I went to hear a new mass sang at St. Francis. In the evening I heard Mr Henderson preach he was very earnest & eloquent - {{Image|file=Aah-343.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-344 1418]

Novr. 14 1869
Still hot & sultry & likely to be worse for some months instead of better - Very busy at the office I have nothing of interest to note. I am sick of continually relating the same thing week after week smatters so of egotism. Monday night I spent at Schetts, Collins St., practising a lot of glees Etc for a concert he is to give shortly - Tuesday & Thursday I spent with Lizzie & on Saturday evening I took her to see the German Tragedian Herr Bandman in the “Corsican Brothers” he was very good, but I have seen others that I liked much better in the same character, Lizzie seemed pleased with the performance & that pleased me - Wednesday evening I spent with my sister Mary. I fancy she is looking much better lately - Sunday morning & evening I went to Church, collections were made for the Sabbath School - In the afternoon Miss S. & I went out for a walk. Novr. 21 1869
Weather very unsettled, but close & sultry. Time spent as usual, very monotonously. I seem to be losing all the enthusiasm of youth & with it ambition I feel that having got into a certain groove I am {{Image|file=Aah-344.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-345 1419]

incapable of getting out of it. I had thought that by industry & strict attention to business in the employ I am in that my services would be recognised, but such is not the case. I find the careless ones get along as well as the hard workers & careful ones in the Rly companys employ my salary is too small & inadequate for the work I perform - If I had been in any other employ I am sure I should have been very differently treated. It is folly repining, human nature seems ordained to bear & suffer & I am not to be an exception Tuesday & Thursday evenings I spent with Lizzie I cannot account for the fasination, or infatuation as some would term it, I feel toward her. Monday evening I spent at home with mother. Wednesday & Saturday evening I spent at Schetts singing he gives a Concert next Wednesday at which I am to sing - Friday evening I spent at Clarks, G.Clark & his family were there on a visit from Sydney for a few days. Saturday afternoon I went to the sports on the Melbourne Cricket Ground saw some excellent running by the best athletes the colony possess - I met a number of acquaintances, left the ground in company with Mrs. Young, Mrs. Burtt & Miss Stoddart, I wish it had been somebody else with us, I cannot induce Lizzie to come out any where with me except in an evening occasionally to the Theatre or to a concert, I {{Image|file=Aah-345.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-346 1420]

suppose it is owing to her having to assist in the business I was grieved this evening (Sunday) with her. I went to hear the Revd. C.Clark at whose chapel Lizzie attends, at the conclusion of the service I met her, she was exceedingly cool & distant toward me, which considering our close intimacy lately rather surprised me, & to make matters worse she could give me no reason for her strange conduct in fact I could hardly get a word out of her. I had seen her in these moods before & know it to be impossible to expect anything like an explanation from her. I cannot understand such an order of mind & the consequence was I got angry & she more reticent, than ever, & so we parted We may never meet again, I shall try & see her during the week & if she continues the same I shall break the spell that binds me to her & all that I hold dear in Melb - & take to my old life again, I cannot understand why she acts as she does occasionally like this Can some ill natured person have remarked to her my meeting lady friends yesterday & paying them only the usual every day attentions that any gentleman might pay a lady, & owing to her limited knowledge of the usages of society, being inspired with that devil created passion, jealousy, if so, how cruelly she wrongs me for I had her incessantly in my {{Image|file=Aah-346.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-347 1421]

thoughts & was surprised at finding myself thinking how very few of the vast numbers of ladies present would compare in point of beauty with Lizzie – & how proud I would be if she was only with me - I feel assured it is as I expect that some remarks have been made by some busy body or another that has annoyed her. - I was nearly forgetting to mention that I had a visit paid me at the office by Mrs Hooper & Mrs. Hickey on Monday to enquire if I had heard from Bobby who they last heard of was at the diggings in Gympie, Queensland, the old lady was in a great state of mind because I had not, but most singular to relate I was accompanying them from my office to the Railway platform when who should we meet but Bob himself, who had within an hour of the time arrived per steamer from Queensland – & was coming to enquire from me if I had heard anything about his mother & sister, I cannot discribe their joy at meeting so unexpectedly, they left the following day for Sandhurst together - Novr. 28 1869
Weather unsettled, & what is strange, very cold & stormy - Very busy at the office, several large vessels discharging at our pier - Great excitement has been created in Melb owing to the arrival of the Flying Squadron consisting of Six (6) large Man of War Ships arriving in our {{Image|file=Aah-347.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-348 1422]

port on the 26th.inst. which intend remaining in our port for a week Great exertions have been made to raise funds for the “Benevolent Asylum” by giving a series of Concerts & Lectures principally at the New Exhibition Building, but I am sorry to state with poor results as yet - The English Mail arrived on the 26th. no news of any importance to us colonists. The Disestablishment of the Irish Church & its consequences still occupying public attention at home - With regard to my own honorable self things are much about the same only much happier with regard to my relations with Miss Stone. I met her on Monday evening & peace was once more restored, but I could not get out of her the cause of her strange manner toward me of the night before. I suppose it will come out sometime or another. Tuesday & Thursday evening I spent with her. Wednesday night – Schetts “Invitation Concert” at the Mechanics Institute” came off, being very fashionably attended it was a nice little affair being mostly pupils of Schett’s who performed, on its concluding, most of the performers adjourned to Schetts private residence where we danced & sang until 3 Am next day got drenching wet coming home in company with J.Evans. Friday evening I spent at Burtts {{Image|file=Aah-348.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-349 1423]

Burtt was out (but Mrs B (formerly Emily Walters) was at home several other friends of hers dropped in & we managed to spend a pleasent evening together, on arriving home I found my mother very ill suffering from severe spasms. I am happy to state she is much better now, but they have left her very weak Yesterday afternoon I took a strool into town found it rather quiet & deserted owing to the sports, being held at the Friendly Societies Ground, proving attractive & to the fact of the ceremony of making over the ground to trustees, by His Excellency Sir J H Manners Sutton taking place. In the evening I met Miss Stone & we took a long walk as far as Johnstons Street Bridge & back together. This morning & evening I went to Church & in the afternoon in company with Liz I went for a walk to the Cemetery, on arriving home found Bessie & Bond, at mothers, who staid tea - Tuesday being “Constitution Day” was observed as a halfholiday by the Railway, being a wet day it was a matter of indifference to me whether it was a holiday or not Decr. 5th.1869
Tempus Fugit Another week passed, spent by me, that is my leisure, much as usual in spite of the festivities going on in consequence of feting the officers & crew of the Ships of War in Harbour - Friday a monster pic nic was given to them at FernTree {{Image|file=Aah-349.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-350 1424]

Gully, 1000 people were invited to it by the Mayor Mr Amess. The same day the Admiral of the fleet “Hornsby” allowed the vessels to be thrown open for inspection & for the reception of the School children – it really warmed ones heart to see the thousands of little girls & boys on our platform going down by Rail to Sandridge, the Compy for once acting liberally conveying them to & fro @ 3p ahead, another 3p took them on board & back & so was spent by them a day that will be remembered. Balls have been given every evening for the officers entertainment & they in return gave an Amateur Dramatic performance at the Haymarket Theatre, was {{Red|*}}proved a great success. Sailors in uniform have been swarming the streets for days past & on the whole I think they have nothing to complain about the manner they have been treated in Melbourne Monday Thursday Friday & Saturday nights I spent with Miss Stone, we went to Weston & Husseys Negro Entertainment one night - Tuesday night in company with my friend Marsden I went to hear the “Opera of Bohemian Girl” performed in “Camera” by the members of the Philharmonic Society in the Haymarket Theatre it was a great success not only in point of attendance but also with reference to the performance, the Choral work was the best ever heard in Melb’, & with regard to {{Image|file=Aah-350.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-329 1451]

principals considering they were only amateurs, they acquitted themselves very creditably. Bella Staff, who was so successful in “Ernani” was the Arline & sang her part remarkably well considering her youth & the little experience she has had. This reflects great credit on her teacher, David Lee, T.Lamble sang the Baritone part first rate, his singing was greatly admired. Angus the Basse was good. I am surprised he does not sing more, he is very stiff & inaccurate but he possesses a splended voice. Donaldson was the Thaddeus & he sang his music very tastefully & prettily, but the music on the whole considering the key it is written in was too high for him, his best effort was in the well known song “You’ll Remember Me” which he sang beautifully - The Duet the “Secret of her Birth” was far too much for him – altogether it was a very creditable performance, & I was very pleased with it - Wednesday evening I spent at Marys. Bessie & George Bond were there & my mother. Thursday I received a letter from John Tom enquiring if any money arrived pr. last mail for him I replied in the negative Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings I spent with Miss Stone, we went to hear the Christy Minstrels (Weston & Husseys) last night. This afternoon (Sunday) we took a long walk together & after church came out this evening, I met her & walked home with her-. I went to hear Mr Henderson this morning & evening - {{Image|file=Aah-351.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-352 1426]

Decr. 12th. 1869 Melbourne
Lovely weather for this time of the year The Flying Squadron left the Bay last Tuesday without my seeing one of the vessels - Monday evening I spent at Stewarts singing Tuesday & Thursday evening I spent with Lizzie. Wednesday, my mother was taken very unwell with dysentry I went over to Et Melb in the evening to see Bessie & request her to come & spend the next day with mother , which she did. I am happy to state she is quite well now - Friday evening I spent at Burtts, Miss Stoddart & the Misses Harrisons with others were there & I found the time pass so agreeably that it was late before I left - Saturday afternoon I went to the Picture Gallery, there being a new addition to the Gallery of a picture called “Autumnal Showers” which has cost the trustees £500, it did not strike me as being of such particular merit as to warrant the eulogies that have been passed upon it by the Art Critics it is a pretty English Landscape & a difficult work perhaps for a person who is not an artist to pass an opinion upon, however I cannot see £500 worth in the work. I met Belle Staff on leaving the place & we took a strool about town together, she could speak of nothing else but her {{Image|file=Aah-352.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-353 1427]

sweetheart a Mr Howitz a Dane, a very nice fellow, that I have met at Mrs. Florauns many times I dont know if he is going to marry her but she seems awfully smitten with him - In the evening I met Lizzie as usual & we took a long walk together. This afternoon ditto & in the evening I took her to hear Mr Henderson Decr.19th.1869
Beautiful weather for this time of the year - Time spent much as usual. Monday evening I called at Burtts did not stay long there but went to Stewarts singing until 11 pm. Tuesday & Thursday nights spent with Miss Stone, Wednesday I went to Clark & in company with Bessie & George who live in the neighbourhood we went to see Clarks new house which is nearly finished, while there Mr & Mrs MComas called, (Julia Davis that was, she has been married about 5 months) they gave me a very pressing invitation to visit them. I spent the evening at Bessies, mother & Fred were there – 12 pm when we got home. Friday, my cousin H Vickerman came down from the country to make some purchases, he is to be married on the 24 inst to a Miss Mary Ronald, a farmers daughter who lives in the neighbourhood. In the evening we all went to see Mr Robt.Heller at the Apollo Hall, {{Image|file=Aah-353.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-354 1428]

he is a very clever conjuror & succeeded in bamboozling his audience pretty considerably, he is assisted by his sister a Miss Heidei Heller who does some extraordinary feats on what is called second sight, what pleased me most was Hellers Piano Forte playing. I fancy he is the best player I ever heard & my opinion is borne out by the critics who allude to him in forms of the highest praise, & yet to my mind he is only a mechanical artist, there is a great want of taste & light & shade in his playing, but as far as execution & difficult manipulation is concerned he is A.1. On arriving home we found Miss Norris & her intended husband Mr Spinks {{Red|*}}who had been spending the evening with mother, they remained about an hour afterwards. Spinks seems to me to be a rather self centred little egotistical man, but with all a smart fellow. Saturday afternoon I went to hear the Band play at the Gardens & in the evening I met Miss Stone & we took our customary long walk together. To day has been frightfully hot, did not venture out in the morning but in the afternoon I went to Carlton Gardens & finding a shady spot, I spent an hour or two smoking a cigar Etc. In the evening in company with Miss Stone I went to Church - {{Image|file=Aah-354.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-355 1429]

[Sunday, 26 December 1869] Decr.{{Red|12th}} 1869
The weather during the week has been fearfully hot especially last Monday & Tuesday when the The’ stood at 109^º in the shade making life itself unbearable – fortunately the weather changed in the evening when a quantity of rain fell making things a little more pleasent. Monday evening I spent at Stewarts. Tuesday evening I spent with Lizzie, Wednesday evening I went to the Theatre to see a new actor named Bartlett perform in a play called “Lavater”, he taking the principle character, which of course was Lavater the physiogomist. I liked him pretty well, but he is not a C Kean or Brooke or Sullivan, I enjoyed the dancing of the sisters Duvalli afterwards, they are the best Terpsichorean that have ever visited the colony. Thursday evening Fred & I spent very pleasently at my sister Mary’s. Friday evening Miss Stone & I spent together. Saturday being X mas day I had a holiday. In the morning I went to hear Mozarts 12th.Mass at St Francis R.C. Chapel on arriving home I found Mary & Clark, Bessie & Bond at our house who staid dinner & spent the afternoon with us. In the evening we all went to the Theatre Royal, to hear the “Messiah”, the place was frightfully crowded. I took Miss Stone, & we succeeded in securing a good seat in the stalls, a Miss Bailey (Mrs Smythe) who used to be very popular in Melb. some years {{Image|file=Aah-355.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-356 1430]

ago, but who has been travelling in India, China & St Africa since, sang for the first time since her return, she took the sophano parts, but was far from successful she appeared to be extremely nervous, she has a voice of rather a midling quality, limited range & rather screeching, her best effort was in the Solo “He shall feed flock”. I have no doubt she will, improve & become a favorite in Melb. S.Lamble a Baritone from Ballarat, sang well, his rendering of “Why do the Nations” has scarcely been equalled in Melbourne Donaldson was never in better form & succeeded in pleasing a very critical audience. Nelly Lambert sang tolerably, & shows signs of improvement under David Lee her instructor, & who also acted as conductor of that is Lee, it was very late when we got home. Sunday morning I went to Church ditto, in the evening with Lizzie, very hot - The English Mail arrived in due time no letters from fathers relatives, mother had a short letter from Aunt Ellen Bryer (her sister). Jany 2nd 1870
Commencement of another year, & not without regret that the last one has passed & so very unprofitably as far as concerns myself. I trust the present one will be more fruitful, my journal {{Image|file=Aah-356.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-357 1431]

contains little that would give a stranger an idea of my thoughts & feelings, being principally a recital of the most interesting events I be connected with. What will this year bring forth “pleasure & pain! joy or sorrow! it is well the future is veiled from us or else in how many cases would our lives be unbearable - On Monday @ 10 am in company with a large party of friends & acquaintances (between 40 & 50) I went to a picnic at Heidelberg, the prettiest village out of Melbourne – most of the party went out in Buggies some on horseback, while the rest went out in the Coach that usually plys there, which we had engaged to convey us there & back We camped on a farm belonging to a person named Fanning who was very kind to us in providing us milk & allowing us to boil our Kettle & also granted us the use of the Piano & as the drawing room opened on the Verandah we enjoyed ourselves amazingly singing & dancing & playing all sorts of games, we visited a fine garden in the neighbourhood & as the fruit was ripe & the owner not chary of it we regaled ourselves pretty considerably We left about 8 pm & got back to town, but not without an accident happening which by more by good luck than judgement did not end seriously. A buggy Mr Spinks was driving broke down going out Mr. S. leg got a little bruised & the ladies had their dresses torn coming home the same Buggy broke down again, & its passengers had to be distributed amongst the others – {{Image|file=Aah-357.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-358 1432]

I went to Bessies house on getting into town arrived home at mothers about 11 pm found some of the party there enjoying themselves – my pleasure was somewhat damped, having called at my sister Marys & finding her very unwell I have been to many a picnic where I enjoyed myself better, I went to it very reluctantly. After I had promised to join some fortnight back I of course intended to take Miss Stone with me but she knowing my sister Bessie was going & their love for each other not being of a very warm nature, she declined going. I was annoyed, & yet couldnt back out of my promise as I had assisted in forming the party & many, if I had been absent, would not have gone, but for the future I intend to study my own feelings in such matters - Tuesday evening I met Lizzie & she was rather cool toward me, we parted without my knowing why she was so strange I suppose she thought it unkind of my going to the picnic without her. Wednesday evening I called to see Mary found her a little better, from there I went to Stewarts staidd about an hour singing scales - Thursday evening Fred & I sang a couple of songs each at a Soiree held in the Congregational Chapel Et Melb’ it was a very quiet affair Enoch Taylor & his daughter & son in Law Mr Wilson {{Image|file=Aah-358.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-359 1433]

were the other vocalists, after the affair was over we went to see Bessie who lives near by the Chapel, found her very ill & under the Doctors hands, from what I can make out she was suffering from a miscarriage which after all turns out to be a “false conception” found mother with her, but she came away with us - Friday evening I went to Stewarts, staid there till 9 pm, on leaving I took a strool down Brunswick St & met Lizzie returning from visiting her sister her coolness had vanished & she was as good natured & kind as ever we extended our rambles until 11 pm on arriving home found several people at our house & we sat up, being the last day in the year, to see the new year in Saturday was a lovely day. I did not leave home until 2 pm when I strooled over to the Royal Park, was astonished to find such a number of people there, principally children from the various Sunday schools, among the number I found the Albert St Baptist Chapel Sunday School, met Miss Stone, who was or is rather a scholar or teacher, she left & in company with me, we visited the Gardens of the Acclimatisation Stys spent a couple of hours very pleasently together, the grounds are nicely laid out & contain a variety of interesting specimens of natural history – after tea we met again & took a pleasent strool together in Carlton Gardens until 10 pm. Sunday morning I went to church {{Image|file=Aah-359.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-360 1434]

ditto in the evening when Mr Jeffries of Adelaide preached, considering the reputation he has there, I was rather disappointed, after sitting under Mr Henderson one gets rather fastidious, on leaving the church I went to Albert St Chapel & met Miss Stone coming out, walked home with her – On Tuesday I received a letter from Uncle John Tom anxiously enquiring if any letters had arrived per last Mail for him, I replied in the negative. Jany 9th:1870
Weather hot & sultry Monday being a Customs Holiday there was nothing doing so I left the office about middle of the day & came home, being very hot I did not go anywhere in particular, strooled into town & got caught in a thunderstorm on my way home, rained all night. I went to the Theatre in the evening & sat out the poorest pantomine I ever witnessed, called “Jack Sheppard,” there was a most miserable attendance. Tuesday evening I went to Et Melb & assisted Clark in removing his furniture to his new house in Powlett St.11 pm when I got home. Wednesday evening I spent with Lizzie. Thursday & Friday evenings I spent at home. Saturday afternoon I went to the Melb’ Cricket Ground to see the lately arrived {{Image|file=Aah-360.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-361 1435]

productions, Hewitt & Bird - & Toply the walker the price of admission to the ground being 2/6. I contented myself with an outside ticket but with the aid of an opera glass I saw as much of the races as if I had been inside the ground. The whole performance was a great disappointment, the Englishman sent being in condition were beaten in everything they they were entered for, they were rather heavily handicapped but they never gained upon their handicaps, our colonial walker Lyall & Woodhouse are much prettier & fairer walkers than Toply & I am sure our runners, will prove a tough match for Hewitt & Bird even when they are in their best form. In fact our Colonial Champion, Harris, has challenged, Hewitt to race him at five (5) different lengths for a large sum, & I hear it has been accepted, the race to bee seen in about 6 weeks from now – it speaks well for our colonial athletes that they can hold their own against the crack ones of England – After tea I saw my darling Lizzie & we took our customary strool together, which seldom ends till nearly 11.30pm her fathers shop is kept open till 12 on Saturdays & they does not object to her staying out to that hour but other evenings she has to be home by 9 pm, they are awfully quiet people & rather unsociable, all the time I have been going with their daughter they have never invited me inside the house, if I {{Image|file=Aah-361.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-362 1436]

wish to see Lizzie the only chance I have is when she happens to be in the shop. It is not right, in fact most parents would object, & {{Red|*}}resist properly to, having daughters in allowing them to go out, or abroad, To continually to see their lovers – but they dont appear to see any harm in it. Sunday morning I went to Church & in the afternoon I took a strool with Lizzie & in the evening we went to hear Mr Henderson deliver his promised lecture to “Young Men”, his sermon was principally taken up with the early life of the apostle Paul, from which I gained more information concerning his life & labour than ever I knew before, he illustrated his subject by relating the lines of many celebrated men who had risen to fame in the worlds history Jany 16th.1870
Weather very hot. Two days of the week been the warmest of the season so far, Very busy at the office never was more so, I think our Traffic is increasing, but it matters not, as far as the employees are concerned, whether the railroads {{Red|*}}carry 5% or 20%, they are not benefited. Spent Monday, Wednesday & Saturday evenings with Lizzie Tuesday evening I spent at my sister Mary’s Thursday my cousin Harry Vickerman (came to Town {{Image|file=Aah-362.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-363 1437]

leaving his wife at home, Monument Creek Nr Mount Macedon) & I spent the evening at My sister Bessies, Hotham St Et Melbourne, time passed very pleasently. Friday evening I met Marsden & accompanied him to the Choir of B.S.W Chapel where I joined in singing Some anthems Etc This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson In the afternoon, I took a strool with Miss Stone, & in the evening I went to hear the Rev Mr Clark who preached one of the most eloquent Sermons I ever listened to, met Lizzie at its close & accompanied her home – Jany 23 1870
Weather very fine, still busy at the office, the pier Crowded with ships. English Mail arrived last Friday no news of any importance. My pleasure time spent much as usual Monday evening I spent at Bessies. Mr & Mr Dewar, & Mary were there & we succeeded in passing a very pleasent evening – Tuesday evening I went to the Mechanics Institute in company with Marsden, to hear some pieces sang by members of the Philharmonic Society, at the conclusion I acompanied [[Rakowski-86|Idalia Rekowski]] & Miss Odele home to Richmond. Wednesday night I spent in company with my darling Lizzie, 10pm when we parted Thursday evening I spent at Stewarts, Friday evening Fred & I went to Emerald Hill to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] {{Image|file=Aah-363.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-364 1438]

Miss Campbell & Miss Daken called, so spent a very pleasent evening together, Miss D plays very well on the piano, [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] walked to town with, [us] 12pm when we got home. Saturday afternoon I went to get my portrait taken at Botterills in Collins St on leaving the place I went to the Yarra to witness a rowing match for a handsome Cup, presented by the well known Soft Goods Merchant G Stevenson Esq it was contested for by four crews selected by from from four different soft goods warehouses. The racing was very good. McNaughton Loves crew winning the cup, the day was very hot rendering it very unpleasent for the spectators who indulged in a race up the bank witnessing the race, after a good tea & bath, feeling refreshed I went out & calling for Lizzie we took a long walk together Sunday morning it was fearfully hot I did nt not go out In the afternoon, Lizzie & I spent together in a shady nook in Carlton Gardens & in the morning I accompanied her to C.S.Chapel where the Revd Mr Martin preached, he had lately arrived from England to take charge of the Collins St Baptist Chapel, rendered vacant by the dismisal of The Revd W Taylor, whose case has been so prominently Before the public, he preached an excellent sermon from Revelations 21 & 22 verses - {{Image|file=Aah-364.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-365 1439]

Jany 30 1870
Weather unbearable due to the excessive heat. Still busy at the office Spent several evenings With Lizzie – Thursday evening I went to the Theatre to Akhursts Benefit, a popular Extravaganza & newspaper writer, who is going to England, the place was fearfully crowded - Friday evening we had quite a party at our house, my sisters, & the Misses Pitts, Campbell, Dakin & {{Red|*}}Howitz & others, spent the time very pleasently – This afternoon (Sunday) Lizzie & I took a walk together & in the evening she accom- -panied me to hear the Revd Mr Graham, of Sydney preach, he & Mr Henderson have exchanged pulpits for a month- Feby 6th 1870
Hot weather on two occasions the thermometer has reached 100^ºf in the shade during the week. I have felt very unwell during the week, suffering from dysentry & from anxiety arising from a foolish action on my part & also from the failure of the Vulcan Reef company which means my having to pay a share of the losses, besides the loss of all I have already paid in & upon my shares, enough to drive a fellow crasy I had thought of getting married this month but {{Red|*}}how I am without a single penny. I recvd a letter from {{Image|file=Aah-365.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-366 1440]

from John Tom requesting me to send him something as he was not very well, not having any I could not comply with his request, tho if I had any to spare I doubt whether I would send him any if I had money for he is an old humbug & one whose voracity is not of the highest order Feby 13 1870
Weather very hot but not so bad as it was a fortnight since, very busy at the office The half yearly meeting was held a few days ago & resulted very satisfactely as far as the shareholders were concerned there being a better dividend declared than the last half year with a prospect of increased business – It is to be hoped that the clerks salaries will be taken into consideration with the Comps. increased prosperity I am sick of drudging along on my present “screw” I have not much faith in my employers they are proverbially mean & parsimonious, hardly a day passes without a letter appearing in the papers complaining of the {{Red|*}}raggardly manner things are conducted by the directors in some form or another – Monday night I went to hear the Opera Compy that Lyster has just introduced into the colony. Five principal in in all. Lucy Chambers the contralto is a colonial bred lady who went to Italy seven years ago to study, she appeared at La Scala Milan & I believe was successful there the other members are quite new to us. The sophano Signorina {{Image|file=Aah-366.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-367 1441]

Barratti is young & somewhat inexperienced I should imagine from her manners on the stage that is judging from her acting, but she has a magnificant Sophano voice, good quality combined with a great range, a voice that I doubt has ever been heard or equalled in Victoria, the Tenor is also good, Signor Neri, he an elderly man & must possess a fine constitution to have preserved the freshness of his voice at his age, he is a brother in law of the celebrated tenor Mongini of European celebrity, his voice is of a fine robust quality possessing great power & a very high range which is something unusual for that quality of voice Contini the Baritone has a sweet sympathetic voice & appears to be highly thought of, the Bass, Dondi is a fine fine looking man with a splendid voice, scarcely heavy enough [to] be styled a Basso profundi, but still a fine voice very even & resonant a singer who will become a great favourite I fancy when the rest will have become tame – although I must say that the tenor Basso voices are far from being equal to the Baritone & Basso we had here two years ago. I allude to Bertolini & Antoni, the latter who came to such an untimely end on his voyage {{Red|*}}4 California – Ernani was the opera I heard then performed & it was the greatest treat I ever had. I had heard it before but it was never so perfectly done, from the fact of our never having voices capable of singing the music of all the parts equally Tuesday & Thursday evening I spent with Lizzie Wednesday evening I spent very pleasently at Mary’s Friday evening Mary & Clark, Bessie & Bond called at {{Image|file=Aah-367.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-368 1442]

our house & staid until 11 pm at our house – Saturday morning I took Lizzie out for a long walk ditto this afternoon & in the evening she accompanied me to hear Mr Graham preach at Mr Hendersons Church at the conclusion of the service I met Mother & I introduced Lizzie to her I am afraid they did not take kindly to each other 20th.Feby 1870
Weather very hot. last Tuesday being the hottest day of the season the Thermometer registering 107º f in the shade Continues busy at the office. Spent my leisure much as usual. Monday night I went to hear “Lucrezia Borgia” in which Opera Lucy Chambers the Contralto made her debut in, she has a fine rich voice but considering her reputation & the way she has been extolled I fancy she has been greatly overestimated, she appears to me to be too fat & puffy to sing, she is the best actress of the Troupe, & what with her being a colonist & her personal attraction in the way of legs she created quite a furore I never knew any one to get such a reception as she did although I have known many more deserving, she is nothing in comparison to Sara Flowers as a singer & yet people are going into ectasies about her, her singing of theBrindis “Il Segreto” was much admired & was the best effort on her part of the {{Red|*}}evening. Baratti was very fine as Lucrezia as far as the singing was concerned, Neri & Dondi came up to expectation in their respective parts, taken altogether {{Image|file=Aah-368.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-369 1443]

it was the finest representation of the opera we ever had all the parts being properly filled. Tuesday Thursday & Saturday evenings I spent with Miss Stone, Wednesday evening I spent at Clarks my mother had been spending the day there so I brought her home. G Bond & Bessie went to Schnapper Point on Sunday last & will not return until next week Mother got a letter from them yesterday stating they were enjoying themselves very much & Bessie was very much better for her trip there. Saturday afternoon I took a ramble into town for an hour came home & read Sunday morning not feeling very well I went into the gardens & spent the time reading In the afternoon I did ditto but being in company with Lizzie made it more agreeable spent the evening with her. – Mail arrived from England, no letter from any relations by it. Feby 27th.1870
Weather excessively hot, Tuesday being one of the hottest I ever experienced. I trust the worst part of the season is over. Still continues busy at the office but not to the extent the proprietary desires, Thursday evening I went to hear Verdies Opera “Ballo in Maschera” but was disappointed owing to the indisposition of the Tenor, Deroti “Lucrezia Borgia” was substituted in its place & a finer production was never witnessed in this colony. I met Clark & Mary there & we enjoyed ourselves very much. I regret very much that Miss Stone cannot accompany me to here these entertainments, it would improve her tastes {{Image|file=Aah-369.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-370 1444]

very much, she has been out very little & not seen much owing to a great extent on her parents past in not allowing her out after a certain hour. Sunday morning I went to the Catholic Chapel & heard a very fine Mass sung. In the afternoon Lizzie & I went for a walk In the evening I went to Church Mr Legge preached an excellent sermon. I shall be glad when Mr Henderson returns, he is expected from Sydney during the week in time to renew his duties by next Sunday on leaving, after the service, I went to the Albert St Chapel & there met Lizzie coming out, saw her home- March 6, 1870
Lovely weather, cool, pleasent breezes blowing as a rule Very busy at the office, little time to devote to anything but business Monday night I called for Lizzie who had been spending the afternoon at her Uncles who is in business in the Boot & Shoe line in Bourke St. Tuesday I spent with Mary trying over some Duets Wednesday & Friday morning I passed in company with Miss Stone Thursday evening I spent at Clarks. Saturday afternoon I went along with thousands of others to the Melb’ Cricket Ground to witness the running matches between F Hewitt (who is considered to be the champion runner of the world) & J.Harris, (a colonial born & bred young fellow) the latter challenged Hewitt to run 5 races of various distances ranging from 100 yds to 440. Three to be run on 5th.{{Red|*}}say yesterday, viz 150 200 & 300 yds, there was an immense amount of people on the ground & the greatest excitement & enthusiasm prevailed. The first two distances, 100 & 200, {{Image|file=Aah-370.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-371 1445]

were won by Harris, but the third distance was hardly contested, but unfortunately resulted in a dead heat, great interest will be taken in the next two events, which are to take place tomorrow afternoon, it was late when I got home to tea, but afterwards I found time to visit Lizzie Sunday morning I went to church & was pleased to find Mr Henderson at his post again, he had landed from the steamer about 2 hours before service commencing Miss Stone accompanied me in the evening to hear him March 13th.1870
Weather very warm. Time spent much as usual during the past week & not time to waste on particulars March 20 1870
Weather very unsettled The English Mail arrived on Thursay bringing us a long letter from Father containing replys to my my mothers last letter home, he alludes very bitterly to the spirit in which mother writes, & also to Uncle Joes behavior to him for many years past, I cannot understand why this should be so, especially when I call to mind the kind letter Uncle Joe sent me, father severely alludes to the Chancery Case, our hopes in that quarter are not very bright. Wednesday evening my brother Fred was taken very ill with same complaint that he suffered from last year, but I fear in a more aggravated form. I sat up with him two nights, the first of which I thought he never would survive. Dr Hewlett has been in attendance upon ever since. I think he is much better {{Image|file=Aah-361.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-372 1446]

this evening – poor fellow he suffered dreadful pain, his digestive organs I fancy must be very much impaired Monday morning I went to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] found Mr & Mrs going to spend the evening at Campbells (Bank) & Miss Campbell being there she insisted upon me accompanying them which I did, found a large number of people there spent the night very pleasently dancing & singing. 3Am next morning when we broke up, the rest of the night I slept at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]], walked into business with Jim in the morning, saw Miss Stone several times during the week but owing to Freds illness not so often as usual. Sunday morning I went to Church – March 27th.1870
Lovely weather during the week, rather slack at the office first time I have been able to state such a case for many a long day. I am happy to state that my brother Fred is so far recovered as to be able to resume his business duties, tho he is still very weak & far from well I received a letter from Uncle John Tom last Monday he is annoyed at Uncle Joe not sending him his interests, he purposes writing to him tho by the next mail & giving him a “bit of his mind”. I fully expected having heard from Uncle Joe by the last mail myself. I wish he would send me some money for I have managed to get myself into a devil of a scrape the subject of which I dare not commit to these pages in case of accidents, when another who is very dear to me would be compromised – I must get over it, but the {{Image|file=Aah-372.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-373 1447]

anxiety I have endured & am enduring is fearful. Monday, Wednesday Friday & Saturday evenings I spent In company with Miss Stone Tuesday evening I was in very low spirits & I went to hear Barratti in Norma the first production of the season, she sang magnificantly no language can describe the enthusiasm of the crowed assemblage present produced by her rendering of the music I have heard several say who have heard Grisi in the character that that artiste, great as she was in the part, never sang it better. Neri [as] “Pollio” was excellent & spirited & Dondi was very fine as ”Ovorisso” I never was better pleased by a performance I ever witnessed, tho’ I was in low spirits & could not help being roused from my lethargy. Thursday evening Mrs. W.Bond came to tea & spent the evening with us. Sunday morning I went to Church took a strool in the afternoon & in the evening I went to St Peters Church – April 3rd 1870
Hot weather, Monday evening Mrs. Bauman & Jessie Smart called & had tea at our house & spent the evening, it is some time since I saw her last she is not altered in the slightest, after the explanation we had I thought her feelings towards me would have changed but no, she was as soft as ever & when she got an opportunity she commenced to allude to the state of her feelings towards me as not having changed, although she informed me that she knew all about my the attentions I was paying Miss Stone, I cut her short as mildly as {{Image|file=Aah-373.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-374 1448]

as I could by telling her that I really did love Miss Stone & my intention was if possible to marry her & to avoid further annoyance I cleared out at 8 o'c & called for Liz, but not before I had to give Jessie a promise that I would come & see her off by the Geelong steamer on Wednesday, which I did nothing accusing in our leave taking but the usual civilities common on such occasions, the same evening Wednesday, I spent at Clarks, Geo Bond got into a serious mess the same evening. Mrs. Dewar had been spending the day with them & Geo & Bessie were accompanying her home & when going through the Tresuary Gardens, a man or blaguard, insulted them by making some coarse remarks, they took no notice of the fellow at first when he continued his behaviour & on George remonstrating with him, the man rushed upon Geo’ & dealt him a terrific blow behind the ear which dropped him Bessie & Mrs D ran away screaming which had the effect of bringing others to the spot. Geo gathered himself up & with the assistance of Mr R.Jack, an acquaintance of Bonds, they succeeded after a desperate struggle with the wretch (who proved to be a strong powerful fellow,) in securing him & marching him off to the police station, next day he received 3 months with hard labor. Thursday & Friday I spent with Miss Stone. Saturday afternoon I spent at Bessies. After tea I called for Miss Stone & we went to hear the opera of “Maritana” with the exception of Beaumont & Madame Simonson the rest of the company were very poor Lucy Chambers didnt appear to know her part as “Lazerillo” {{Image|file=Aah-374.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-375 1449]

Albert Richardson was exceedingly lame & inanimate as Don Jose I dont think Beaumont's voice is as powerful as it used to be before he went to California but it is much sweeter & more flexible than it was. He sang “There is a Flower that Bloometh” beautifully Sunday morning & evening I went to Church. - April 10th.1870
Weather close & oppressive for this time of the year, the want of rain is beginning to be severely felt especially in the country districts. Very little news to relate except of a public character & that is a change of Ministry, one Mac turned out & another Mac gone in, that is to say Macpherson is out & McCulloch has resumed the reins of government, but what is very extraordinary the former premier has accepted office under the latter, as Minister of Lands. I am afraid the new Ministry will be of short duration. Spent most of my evenings during the week with my darling Lizzie. The scrape I have already alluded is assuming proportions that is frightening me would to Heaven it were over! Sunday morning & evening I went to hear Mr Henderson & in the afternoon I met Liz & we took a pleasent walk together - April 24 1870
A fortnight since I continued my journal & the Easter Holidays over spent most of my leisure time in the evenings with Lizzie, Good Friday it rained nearly all day, in the evening I went to a Concert at St Georges Hall, got up by Horsley & D. Lee rather a tame affair Saturday evening Miss S & I went to a friend of ours in Collins St, Sunday afternoon {{Image|file=Aah-375.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-376 1450]

we took a strool together. Monday morning I spent at home reading & in the afternoon I called for Lizzie & we went to St Kilda rambled about the beach until 5 pm got back home about 7 at 8 we met again & took a walk about Carlton Gardens. Tuesday & Wednesday evenings we passed together, Friday & Saturday ditto, Thursday evening I went to see [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] he has not been very well lately 11 Pm when I got home. Sunday it rained all day, but in the evening it cleared off a little & Lizzie went to hear Mr Henderson deliver his sermon on "Women". It was a fine oration & displayed a deal of learning & study upon the subject. The first half of his sermon was taken up by describing womens position in Society before the introduction of Christianity he took a glans at all parts of the world from antique to modern days & showed what a miserable state women lived in even in the most civilized & enlightened nations & cities of the world such as Athens & Rome Etc Etc the latter portion of his discourse was taken up in proving how thankful women should be for the introduction of Christianity for the increased privileges they enjoy, he alluded to J.Stuart Mills work on the subjection of women. Mr H. considers he is very wrong in publishing such a work & thinks it will ultimately prove a great blot on the character of 1 one who is considered one of the greatest thinkers & logicians of the age - The English Mail arrived during the week, no letters for any of us - I wrote to my Uncle Joseph & sent him Geo & Bessies & my own likeness. I wrote to Uncle John Tom yesterday, he is living at Hills Hotel, Newbridge - {{Image|file=Aah-376.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-377 1451]

May 1st.1870
Weather very unsettled & changeeble, been kept tolerably busy at the office - work increased for a short time owing to Mr Adamson, my fellow clerk having been removed to the Export Office this summer & Mr Reid being appointed to his place Mr R is a smart clever intelligent young fellow & proves to be a very efficient clerk - My leisure spent much as usual Friday evening I left home with the intention of visiting Mary but on the way I met her & Geo & Bessie coming to our house so I returned with them Mr & Mrs. Spink (Miss Norris) called & so between us we managed to spend an agreeable evening The other evenings of the week with Lizzie. Saturday evening I left her at a friends & I was to call for her late in the evening so I passed the time by going to see East Lynue a most melancholy tear producing piece I was so disgusted with it that after the 2nd Act I came away & calling for Liz I saw her home 12 before I got home Went to church morning & evening to day, in the afternoon in company with Liz I took a strool in the Cemetery May 8th.1870
Weather tolerably fine for this time of the year, mornings rather cold & a little frosty but when the sun gets out it makes every- -thing bright & cheerful, I have nothing to note of interest my anxiety is not lessened in the least, but rather increased since I last alluded to it, there is only one remedy for it & that I ought to have taken months ago. Spent most of my {{Image|file=Aah-377.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-378 1452]

evenings in company with Lizzie Thursday evening I accompanied her to an entertainment given in the Albert St Baptist Chapel for the benefit of the Gould St. Sabbath School The programme was rather a singular one considering the place it was given in, Revd. C.CLark gave some capital readings & Recitations from Dickens & T.Hoods Works – particularly the one from Dickens, he chose the subject from Pickwick” when that worthy goes out shooting being conveyed to scene of action by Sam Weller in a barrow & his subsequent impounding, which he gave in the most unctious manner. The performance was intersposed by Secular Glees by the Choir, on the whole a very suitable Bill for a Theatre or Concert Room but not at all an appropriate one for a Chapel, however it drew a good house & everybody went away delighted & satisfied with their moneys worth - on the whole I was rather disappointed at C.Clark reading. I had heard so much about it that I was led to expect something better, the Comic element seems to be his forte, I dont think I ever enjoyed anything of the sort better than his rendering of Sam Wellers account of his story about the pieman. Several letters have appeared in the papers since alluding to the performance the writers of which dont appear to take the most charitable view of Mr Clarks choice of subjects. Friday evening I spent at Bessies, Miss Wright & Mr Carroll were there 12 pm when I got home. Saturday afternoon I took a strool into town, had a look at the New Arcade that is just completed belonging to Mr Spenseley, running through {{Image|file=Aah-378.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-379 1453]

from Bourke St, opposite the post office into Little Collins St. it is very prettily fitted up & arranged with a fountain & numbers of small shops, the latter I think will let well After tea Lizzie went to a friends & I called for her afterwards – met her again this afternoon & took a walk together on arriving home I found Mrs Pantor & her sister Miss Clark who stayed tea Mr & Mrs. Dewar dropped in, after tea I went to Church, called for Lizzie & took her home - May 15 1870
Weather very unsettled, things were lively at the Railway owing to a number of large vessels having arrived at our pier to discharge their cargoes. English Mail arrived on Wednesday & much to our disappointment bringing no letters from any relatives in England. Friday evening I staid at home the other evenings I spent in company with Lizzie or at least portions of the time when she was not at her friends house, where she goes occasionally I wish to goodness she would not go, it is very much against my wish, I dont like the place I wish she would agree to be married, I am sick of this anxiety of mind I am suffering from. Saturday evening when waiting for her I went for an hour or two to the "Princesses" & saw an adaptation of "David Copperfield" called "Little Emily" performed the Dramatist has stuck pretty well to the main part of the story & on the whole its pretty well put together "tho it is rubbish". Harwood is “immense” & very funny as Micawber. The sisters "Duvalli" performed & danced in a small piece, they are without doubt the most finished & elegant dancers that have ever visited Australia This morning & evening I went to Church. In the afternoon took a walk with Liz. {{Image|file=Aah-379.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-380 1454]

May 22 1870
Weather at the beginning of the week very wet & cold, finer towards the latter end, nothing fresh to relate, affair with Lizzie still in status quo. As usual spent most of my evenings with Lizzie, if she wont agree to be married next week I shall leave the colony I am sick & miserable with the anxiety I have endured lately. I wrote to father {{Red|*}}early this week & informed him that I contemplated getting married & that he must provide more liberally towards mothers support - Wednesday evening I went to Stewarts for a change Miss Webb from Sandhurst & some other people were there & we managed to pass a very jolly evening together. Yesterday afternoon I went to Clark found my sisters & their husbands on the point of going for a walk to the botanical gardens so I accompanied them, after tea I went to Baumans to see Will Smart who has been very ill, he had gone away for a few days with some friends, no one at home but Jessie who I thought was at Geelong, I remained about an hour she was inclined to be as gushing as ever, but my heart is wrapped in another nearer & dearer to me, so I gave no encouragement but left as soon as I could & went to meet Lizzie, ditto this afternoon. Morning & evening found me at church called for Liz this evening at the chapel she goes to & walked home with her - May 29th 1870
Weather cold & disagreeable with an occasional fine day. Very busy at the office Tuesday being Queens Birthday was observed as a holiday. A Review was held at the Albert Park, Emerald Hill, I went to see it in company with Bessie & George {{Image|file=Aah-380.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-381 1455]

2500 volunteers were present who went through their evolutions Etc in a very creditable manner. The Governor & Major General Chute were present. I met a number of people there I knew 2 pm when I got home. In the evening I took Lizzie to a friends house where I left her till 11 pm in the meantime I met an acquaintance who took me to the Oriental Cafe Bourke St, a new place, found two or three rooms very crowded with people none of them particularly respectable looking the novelty appeared to be which attracted the numbers consisted of about a dozen of girls (?) dressed out in what was termed Oriental or Turkish dresses, many of them being nothing more or less than common prostitutes. I left, disgusted with the place. I am surprised the proprietor obtained a licence for such an immorally conducted place, it was 11.30 before I met Liz & saw her home Thursday evening I met her again & we had a long serious talk together & we came to the conclusion that we had better get married My position does not warrant my taking such a step at present with only £155 pr annum however if we can only manage to get the necessary household goods together we must try to manage upon it & live in hopes of something better turning up - on my informing those at home of my intentions my mother get into an awful state of mind & for the first time in my life I felt conscious of doing what seemed a selfish action & if it was not for the extreme urgency of the case I doubt if I would take the step so soon, but I feel I owe a higher duty to Lizzie than I do to my family - my word, few sons have done their duty in times past as I have done in fact ever since I was a mere child I appear to have done nothing else but live for my family & have lost sight of myself altogether so I fancy it is time I looked out for myself I am getting now a good age & its time I was getting settled. I feel I have nothing to reproach myself in reference to my conduct towards my family. I question if my sisters would be as they are now but for me nor would my mother have been able to keep a home together as she has done but for the assistance I rendered her in times past - what annoys me most & makes me less considerate in reference to my mother & more determined to marry arises from the fact of the rooted antipathy all members of my family have, particularly my mother & my sister Bessie, to her whom I love, they have not slightest grounds on which to base their dislike upon There is not a living soul who can breathe a word against her in any shape or form {{Image|file=Aah-381.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-382 1456]

she has been obliged for her own sake to appear stiff & distant to some people in consequence of her position in her fathers business, in order to keep herself free from scandel Etc which might arise from too much familiarity with customers in the shop. no! whatever there is in her wrong is of my own making & as such I must bear the consequences, but under whatever circumstances I am placed in with her I will try & do my duty & prove a good husband to her. Friday night I spent at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] & told him how I was situated, he has promised to assist me all his power in furnishing Etc he is a dear good fellow. Sunday morning I went to church. Afternoon took a walk with Lizzie, left her at her sisters Mrs. Lustys, met her again after tea, she was very unwell saw her home about 8 Pm on arriving home I found Hamilton here walked part of the way home with him
June 5th.1870
Very wet & cold nothing fresh. Liz & I have agreed to get married at the end of July so we are making desperate efforts to get things together & considering how I am situated, having lost so much money mining, & with a small salary, I shall be put to my wits ends to get the necessary things however it must be done - my mother is still predudiced & is in anything but an amiable mood at the prospect of my getting married, she makes out I am in her debt. I bought a piano some 2 years ago & she gave me a few pounds towards its purchase which I accepted as payment for a long outstanding debt of hers which I paid years ago - Monday night I spent at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]], met Mr R Jack there walked home together. Tuesday Thursday & Friday I spent with Lizzie. Wednesday night I spent at home. Mr & Mrs. Thompson were here. Saturday afternoons I went to Hamiltons, met a couzin of his who is on a visit from N.Z. where he has an extensive business I staid tea after which We came to town. I called for Liz & we went to her friends, where she staid till 11 Pm. In the meantime I knocked about town This morning I went to Church as usual, came on to rain heavily cleared up about 2 Pm when I called for Lizzie & we took a strool together after tea I met her again & we went to Church we talked over our approaching union & I found her very practical in her suggestions, she is a regular trump & is & intends doing her best towards making everything pleasent My brother Fred has proved very kind & considerate & is the only one of my family who seems to wish me well & thinks I am doing well as he is favourably inclined to Lizzie Mr & Mrs Stone, although strange people throw no obstacle in the way of our union - {{Image|file=Aah-382.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-383 1457]

{{Image|file=Aah-383.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-384 1458]

{{Image|file=Aah-384.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=7/98}} == Sources ==

'''Registration Number:''' 1036187. Deaths Registered in the District of Skibbereen in the Superintendent Registrar's District of Skibbereen in the County of Cork. '''No:''' 204. '''Date and Place of Death:''' 1988 Seventh January St. Anne's Hospital Skibbereen. '''Name and Surname:''' John Collins Bunalun Skibbereen. '''Sex:''' Male. '''Condition:''' Widower. '''Age:''' 92 years. '''Rank, Profession or Occupation:''' Retired Engine Driver. '''Certified Cause of Death and Duration of Illness:''' Cerebral Thrombosis (3 weeks) certified. '''Signature, Qualification, and Residence of Informant:''' Sr. M. Francis Horan, occupier St. Anne's Hospital Skibbereen. '''When Registered:''' Fourteenth January 1988. '''Signature of Registrar:''' M. O'Connell.

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===Journal 8=== Melbourne 1870
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Journal
Continued from June 5th.1870 (Melbourne)
June 12th.1870
Weather fearfully wretched nothing but rain & as a usual consequence dirty muddy streets. Nothing fresh to record - English mail arrived of the 6th inst three days before contract time - I was disappointed at not receiving news from my father or Uncle Joe I fully expected a letter from the latter I fancy he must have taken offence at some remark I made in a letter I sent him 6 months ago, if so I cannot help it now, its hard work to propitiate old folks especially when not thoroughly acquainted with them, but at the best of times rich relations are rotten sticks to depend upon - Monday evening Liz & I took a walk together. Tuesday I spent at Clarks, Wednesday in company with [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] I called for Liz & we took a strool together - Thursday evening Mother having gone to Clarks I went to bring her home found George & Bessie & the Miss Clarks there spent the evening very pleasently Friday evening I met Liz, coming on to rain we did not enjoy each others company very long poor girl she is looking very anxious & thin I shall not be {{Image|file=Aah-387.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-388 1462]

sorry when we are married. Saturday afternoon I took a long ramble about Et Melb’ & Richmond looking out for a cottage. In the evening I called for Liz & we took our usual ramble. This afternoon we did ditto & in the evening we both went to hear Mr Henderson preach his promised sermon to "men" he took for his subject the conversion of Paul & it was one of the most eloquent & interesting discourses I ever heard him deliver June 19th.1870
Weather very cold & wet & no appearance of it changing Nothing fresh to relate. Monday & Tuesday evenings I spent with my intended. Wednesday evening I went to [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]] found my sisters & their husbands there & several others, all seemed to enjoy themselves but Hamilton & on my asking him as to the cause, he informed me to my sorrow that he had that day received notice from his employers that owing to business being dull they would not require his services any longer I am very very sorry for he is just getting comfortably settled & employment is hard to obtain at present in Melbourne, Jim is a very pushing energetic fellow & I have little fear of his coming to grief but it is in the meantime that he {{Image|file=Aah-388.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-389 1463]

will suffer, he has a large family & likely to increase - Thursday night I met Liz left her about 9 Pm & then wended my way to the Dewars to bring my mother home who had been spending the day with Mrs. D. On our way home we had some words of not a pleasent nature over my approaching marriage, I must hope she will look upon my future plans more favourably - so what with one thing and another I am pretty well harrassed and bothered Friday evening I spent at Clarks a number of people were there, - amongst them [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] I accompanied him part of the way home nearly one before I got to bed. Saturday afternoon spent at home doing several little jobs about the house. This morning I went to Church, came on to rain very heavily in the afternoon & evening - June 26th.1870
Weather still continues unsettled I think without exception this has been the wettest season I ever experienced in Victoria. Monday & Tuesday evenings I spent with Lizzie, Wednesday I went to see my sister Mary found her just leaving home to spend the evening at Spinks, on leaving her I {{Image|file=Aah-389.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-390 1464]

went to the New Town Hall where a number of musical people had assembled to form a large chorus to sing at the three grand concerts that are to be given at the opening of the Hall the expenses of which is to be defrayed by the Mayor Mr Amess The best talent in the colonies is to be engaged for the occasion the first Rehearsal was a portion of the “Stabat Mater” & miscellaneous pieces finishing up with the Hallelujah Chorus from the Messiah. I met George Clark & Miss Francis there & walked home with them Thursday I met [[Hamilton-27562|Hamilton]] who informed me that his wife had gone to Tasmania for a visit which was arranged for before he lost his billet, he let her go without informing her of his misfortune, afraid lest her pleasure would be marred by the knowledge of it - Thursday & Friday I spent with Liz she is working hard making preperations for the coming event I am getting together what I possibly can. Saturday afternoon I spent at Hamiltons scrubbing and painting a four post bedstead he made me a present of. Sunday I spent as usual - at Church in the morning, with Liz in the afternoon & evening. My leisure time I have spent during the week house hunting I want to get {{Image|file=Aah-390.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-391 1465]

a cottage in Emerald Hill if possible. I have been to see several that are to let, but none {{Red|*}}will suit me, the neighbourhood is either bad, or else the house is not suitable or else the rent is too high July 3th.1870
Weather truly wretched, nothing but rain & wind producing a total stagnation in the way of business everybody complaining particularly those in business We cannot complain, as there is at present a large number of foreign vessels discharging at our pier with large cargoes. Monday & Tuesday evenings I spent with my darling Lizzie Wednesday evening I remained at home. Mrs. Room (from Launceston) & her two sons & my sister Mary came to tea & Clark & Bond came afterwards & we spent a most agreeable evening together Mrs R. is an exceedingly nice woman & one we all take a great liking for Thursday evening I saw Liz & we went about seeing houses to let, couldnt find anything to suit us, Friday being 1st.July & Seperation Day was observed as a general holiday by the Govt. & principal business firms. I went to the office for an hour or so in the morning, came home & passed the time between the showers in doing odd {{Image|file=Aah-391.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-392 1466]

jobs about the house & gardening for Mother after tea I went to see Liz spent a couple of hours with her & then came home. I received a letter from my cousin Harry Vickerman, congratulating me upon my approaching marriage & giving me some good advice, he knowing I had been unfortunate lately in connection with mining & knowing I was hard pressed for money sent me £5 to be repaid at my convenience, very kind of him - he informs me that his sister Mary Ann who is living in St Australia & is a widow is to be married to a young man named Finnis a son of Colonal Finnis well known in Adelaide, I believe an old school fellow of Harry's Saturday afternoon I went to see a house that was to let in Park St. E.H. that I thought would suit, but in the evening Liz went to see it it did not meet with her approval so I did not take it am not sorry for we dont want it for 3 weeks or so Sunday morning I took a long strool to the Hill & about Carlton house hunting could find nothing to suit myself & means. In the afternoon Liz & I took a strool together & in the evening we went to hear Mr Henderson - {{Image|file=Aah-392.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-393 1467]

July 10th.1870
Beginning of the week the weather was truly wretched but towards the end Nature put on her holiday garb & was really bright & blooming The English Mail arrived on the 7th.inst, without bringing us any family news, not so much as a newspaper, (The mail brought the news of the death of the great novelist Charles Dickens) my mother is very much annoyed at my fathers reticence I really dont know what to suggest her doing on my leaving home, I think she ought to go home to my father. Fred wrote to him last mail insisting upon him allowing her the half of his annuity at least - Monday & Tuesday I spent with Liz Wednesday evening I went to the Rehearsal at the Town Hall & after it was over I received an Orchestra ticket for the 3 Concerts that are to be given which will take place sometime in August at the conclusion of the practice I met Miss Hoskins & saw her to the station. Thursday evening I spent with Liz, got home early as my couzin Harry was staying at mothers, having arrived that day from the country where his school is situated in purpose to undergo an examination for a {{Image|file=Aah-393.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-394 1468]

certificated teacher at the “Board of Education” office I sincerely hope he will pass it will be some time before he knows whether he has been successful or not. Henry Edelman is also down from his school at Andersons Creek on the same errand as my couzin. Friday evening Harry & I went to the School Room of the Indpt Church Collins St where a tea meeting was being given by the Young Mens Mutual Inpt. Society in connection with the Indpt Church, where I left him, on doing so I found my way to Clarks, being my sister Marys 26th Birth day several people had dropped in & we managed to spend a very agreeable evening together I left about 11 pm in company with Miss Clark & Miss Moore who I saw home to Carlton, Saturday afternoon I went to town & made several purchases after tea I met Liz & we took a strool together parted at about 10 pm. Sunday morning I spent reading In the afternoon I spent with Lizzie after taking a short walk together we called at her Brother in Laws, Lustys’ where we staid tea it was the first time I had been invited by any of Lizzies relatives. Lizzies sister tried to make herself agreeable, her husband, I dont much care {{Image|file=Aah-394.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-395 1469]

care about he seems a rather conceited quaker educated person whose whole soul seems wrapped up in a chapel or a congregation he belongs to whose advancement or his own in connection with the said chapel appears to be his whole object in life judging from what I saw of him I should set him down as a bit of a cant, two subjects appear to be ever uppermost in his thoughts, his chapel & homopathy, his wife is a different person altogether from Liz possessing not half of her natural refinement either mentally or physically, she has two children, after tea I accompanied Lusty as far as Albert St Chapel where we parted, I going to Henderson at the conclusion of the service I called for Lizzie & saw her home, on arriving home I found Fred very ill from a severe faceache. Miss Thwaites his intended, was with him. I saw her home – July 17th.1870
Great improvement in the weather, had several fine days for a change. I have spent my lunch hour house hunting in the neighbourhood of Richmond & Emerald Hill, my object in doing so as to allow my going time to dinner in the middle of the day could find nothing to suit either the {{Image|file=Aah-395.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-396 1470]

rent was too high or the locality objectionable - In the evenings Lizzie would accompany me to see the houses that I had noticed to let during the daytime, & so the time has passed. Saturday afternoon I spent scouring Carlton as a last resource I dont like the suburb but I must find some place within the next week or so Thursday evening I went to a rehearsal of Horsleys "Euterpe" an ode by Kendall & set to music by the former to be sang on the occasion of the opening of the New Town Hall in August some of the choruses are very good & appear to be original, but I fear they are too difficult to render effectively by the large mixed crowd of choristers who have enrolled themselves as choristers - Sunday morning I staid at home reading being too wet to go abroad, In the afternoon I went to the funeral of Mrs. Knightly the wife of a fellow clerk of mine they had only been married about 18 {{Red|*}}months she was highly respected by all who knew her & a great number turned up to pay the last sad token of respect to her memory. I think I never saw such a downfall of rain, I was drenched to the skin before arriving at the cemetery & when there {{Image|file=Aah-396.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-397 1471]

we had to stand ankle deep in water - it cleared up in the evening when I called for Liz in whose company I spent a couple of hours - July 24th 1870
Weather very unsettled, been busy house hunting could not succeed in getting a house where I worked so was obliged to take one in Carlton, 6 Palmerston St about two minutes walk from my mothers in Fitzroy I am to pay 14/- pr week for it. Liz & I have been getting everything ready & making preperations to enter our new house - Wednesday night I spent at [[Hamilton-27562|Hamiltons]]. Mrs H is still in Tasmania, Jim is very low spirited having been unable to procure remunerative employment. I am exceedingly sorry for him & wish it was in power to assist him Lady McCulloch, who is under some kind of obligation to Jim, had called during the day but he unfortunately was out, but thinking that she {{Red|*}}thru her husband, who has been "Chief Secretary" for many years, could put something in his way we put our heads together & concocted a neat letter which he intends sending her, hoping to obtain her interest in procuring him a situation in some {{Image|file=Aah-397.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-398 1472]

of the Govt. offices. Saturday afternoon I went to Knightleys for some things I purchased from him I am afraid he has charged me too much for them, but he has given me 6 months credit I must not complain - On leaving him I went to Buckley & Nunn & purchased a carpet for my parlor. In the evening Liz & I took a long strool together - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson, he has commenced a series of sermons on the early history of the Jews, his subject on this occasion being the call of Abraham in which he presented the circumstances of the case in a much different light than that what it is usually taken at - afternoon & evening I spent with Liz. July 31 1870
Weather very cold, wet & unhealthy, everybody suffering from coughs & colds, not being exempt myself - Monday evening Liz & I went out together making purchases for our house. Tuesday evening I got my parlor carpet down & most of the things in the house. Wednesday spent putting up blinds Etc & fixing things - got quite dismayed at finding {{Image|file=Aah-398.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-399 1473]

the number of things, necessary ones I still require & have no means of acquiring - Thursday spent the evening similarly to the proceeding ones, Friday I left the office early & after making some purchases I managed to get my piano removed from my mothers house to my own – I had an awful job to get it in as the instrument was so heavy, I did not think it safe to leave the house with all the things in it, so I slept here for the first time alone next day Saturday I did not arise until 9 am did not go to the office, after breakfast I walked over to Emerald Hill to see Hamilton after dining with him I returned to my cottage & found Lizzie busy at work getting things in order - In the afternoon, the friends invited, came the company consisting of my brother Fred, Hamilton, Mr & Mrs. Lusty, Miss Finn & W.Lusty & Lizzies cousin George & Emma, Stone, the Revd A.M. Henderson & his coadjutor Mr Bailey came about 4 pm Mr Henderson at once proceeded to officiate & soon made Lizzie Stone Mrs. J.H.Watmuff - I felt when the ceremony was over that I had got an awful load off my mind which considering the circumstances we were placed in should not be a matter of surprise - I feel quite prepared to accept the {{Image|file=Aah-399.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-400 1474]

whatever responsibility my change may bring, further more especially that I have been led to see my wifes character in a much more favourable light than I formerly did, I had no idea of the power & depth of feeling she possesses under what to an ordinary observer would appear a rather cold exterior. God grant our union may be a happy one & be productive of much good to each other, is my earnest prayer. After the Revd gentleman had left the rest of the compy remained for tea after which they took their departure Sunday the 31st.being very wet we never left home. Clark called in the afternoon & spent a couple of hours with us discussing family matters Etc. Etc - [Sunday, 7 August 1870] August 6th 1870
Weather wet & cold, married a week, everything very pleasent, so far no two people could be more happy, Lizzie doing everything in her power to make our house comfortable & pleasent - I must admit having misjudged & misunderstood her character in many respects before & I regret most exceedingly the many unkind thoughts that I have entertained toward her previous to our union. I think the {{Image|file=Aah-400.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-401 1475]

trouble & anxiety she has endured lately has done much toward softening & toning down her general character. We have been very quiet not having had any visitors, nor are we anxious to cultivate the acquaintance of many - On Tuesday evening I went to a rehearsal of “Horsleys” Euterpe a work expressly composed for the occasion of opening the Town Hall with, the subject is the relation that music has to life in its varied phrases. Saturday afternoon I went to a full rehearsal held for the first time in the principal Hall of the Building, which is an immense site, one of the largest in the world, it will seat 3000 people being large & well proportioned & nicely decorated, I dont think the accoustic proportion of the Hall is much to boast of, tho’ many are going into raptures with it, to my mind it is a large enclosed place with little architectural merit to boast of - Sunday morning, I went to church to hear Mr Henderson In the afternoon Mr Stone called, & Liz & I accompanied him for a walk through the Carlton Gardens, after which we went home with him & had tea at his house, left at 6 pm & Liz & I went to Church together on our way home after the service we called at my mothers {{Image|file=Aah-401.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-402 1476]

& remained with her until 10.30, fancied she was rather stiff toward us, didnt seem at all amicable The English Mail arrived on Friday bringing me a letter from Uncle Joseph something after the style of his previous ones, he informs me that he has left the sum of £5,000 to various charities & that he has left his share of Tofft Farm to Fred & I & that since making his Will Four years ago he has saved over £2000, he is a careful cautious man & I have no doubt he has left us more than what he has stated - I heard sometime since that he had settled £5000 on his wife in case she should survive him. I wish to goodness he would open his heart & his purse strings, at the same time, & send me a trifle out of his wealth just now, it would relieve me from a considerable anxiety he appears to be very embittered against my father & does not write in the most complimentary terms of him, he also informs me that John Tom has forfeited his interest in the annuity his father left him through his relatives taking the benefit of the “Statute of Limitations Act” which means in his case that the next of kin can claim {{Image|file=Aah-402.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-403 1477]

any property that has been unclaimed for Six years - whereas J.T. was something fourteen years unheard of. Aunt Sarah wrote to mother & enclosed in her letter was a Draft for £20 which She desires to be forwarded to her Bro' John Tom as interest of the portion she holds of his principal, rather a contradiction to Uncle Joes account, however next Mail may bring a letter from father when I have no doubt he will throw some light upon the subject [1870-08-21-Sunday] August 22 1870
A fortnight since I last continued my journal & from this forth I purpose, if I dont think differently in the meantime, to discontinue a regular relation of circumstances as hitherto simply confine myself to note down anything out of the common that may occur in our family Etc in a few brief notes for purpose of reference - I have spent {{Red|*}}staying since my last entry, at home with two exceptions, the first being on the occasion of the Concert given at the opening of the New Town Hall when I sang in the choruses, the members of the Italian Opera Troupe sang on the occasion & altogether it was without exception the grandest concert ever {{Image|file=Aah-403.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-404 1478]

given in the Colony, the building holds upwards of 4000 people all of whom were admitted by ticket at the invitation of the Mayor Mr Amess at whose expense the affair was given as well as a grand Fancy Ball, on another evening, in the same building - Clark visits me occasionally but my sisters still keep aloof - my mother has not been well lately & it is generally assumed that my marriage has been the cause of her being so upset, they dont know my wife that is my relations, & they seem determined to make no ventures towards becoming acquainted, however time works wonders, but to show the bad feeling that exists a little fact came under my notice which annoyed me awfully. My mother wrote to Aunt Hartley (her sister) & entrusted me with the letter to post by accident the letter dropped out of my breast coat pocket & fell in the mud & the a/d being defaced I tore of the envelope to enclose in another, I glansed over the letter (not thinking there was any harm as there has never been any secrets in our family in fact have always read our letters to each other,) & was surprised to find that the contents displayed an amount of spleen & ill-feeling {{Image|file=Aah-404.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-405 1479]

on her part towards myself & wife that I could not credit to have existed. I looked in vain over the letter to discover one kindly word or wish in my favour & considering what I have done for my mother I looked upon her writing in such a spirit as very unkind & ungrateful. I wrote a long letter to my Uncle Joseph on the 12th. [1870-09-11-Sunday] Sept 10th 1870 Jogging along pretty comfortably, sorry to note my wife is not very well, seems to be in a low weak state - relatives still keep aloof – Clark visits us occasionally & so does Hamilton, the latter is still out of employment I spent an evening with him last week Mrs H & family all well, bear their misfortunes very philosophically I hope to goodness something will turn up for their benefit shortly - I have visited my mother pretty often, but its no pleasure doing so, she is so full of trouble & complaints, one would think no one had any beside herself, English Mail arrived fortnight ago no news from any relatives, but rather startling news of a political character War between France & Prussia declared on the 17th.July hostilities had commenced & France had {{Image|file=Aah-405.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-406 1480]

got the worst of it so far, the cause of the quarrel being the desire to place a prince of the house Hohenzollern on the Savant throne of Spain, to which France objects, but the real cause is in reference to the possession of the Rhinish provinces by France. The general opinion appears to be that Napoleon is on his last legs, & has forced on this war to divert public attention this movement makes or breaks the Napolionic dynasty, rather a risky game to play. I feel assured from what I have read & heard about the two powers that France will regret the step she has taken. I see the other European powers have decided to remain neutral. Our colonial rulers are at present sitting in solemn conclave to consider the best means of putting ourselves in a sound defensive form in case the war spreads to our shores, nothing is talked about but War! War! it is assented that the Volunteer force is to be done away & every man between the age of 18 & 40 to be enrolled as militrimen. Business is very slack all over the colony, very dull at the office, nothing doing, English Mail left here to day. I wrote to Messrs Goodwin & Brown, Finsbury Place, London, the Solicitors {{Image|file=Aah-406.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-407 1481]

conducting the Chancery suit of Uncle Henrys that we are so deeply interested in. I simply requested them to inform me whether there was any probability of there being a residue from the estate. I am sadly afraid the Law expenses will swallow up the whole of the amount [Sunday, 2 October 1870] Octr 1st.1870 Weather been miserable making everything in the way of business very dull in fact such dull times have not been experienced for many years. English Mail arrived in due time War news of the most startling description, the French through a series of blunders, inefficient general- -ship corruption in the Commissions Dpt. Etc Etc less numbers have been beaten at every point by the Prussians the climax was at length reached at Sedan where McMahan & the Emperor Napoleon with 90,000 soldiers surrendered to the Germans after a frightful slaughter, & so ends the Empire that a few months ago was considered the most formidable power in the world. France is now a head & in a terribly disorganized state, nothing but cries of Vive le Republic to be heard & a probability of France becoming as it was in the days of Robespiere & crew {{Image|file=Aah-407.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-408 1482]

at the end of the last century, Paris is declared in a state of seige, with the enemy advancing upon the city, it is enough to take one's breath away to hear of such extraordinary events ocurring so rapidly upon each other in such a short space of time. My dear wife is not well, confined to her bed, my mother has been to see her several times but my sisters still keep aloof perhaps time in time may soften down whatever ill feeling exists I sincerely hope so - my sister Mary is far from well I saw her a day or two ago & she looked very bad, its her kidneys that are affected with what is known as “Brights Disease” supposed to be incurable. Novr 1st.1870
A month since I wrote, getting on as pleasently as can be expected, my wife very much better in health, scarcely a day passing without my discovering a new trait in her, its another which enhances her worth in my eyes, we live very much to ourselves seldom visit or receive any visitors, rarely in fact leave our home without it is for a walk together My sister Mary has been very ill the last fortnight had a miscarriage & for a while her life was dispaired. {{Image|file=Aah-408.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-409 1483]

The doctor recommends change of air for her which she intends trying as soon as she is strong enough to bear a journey to Tasmania. I called to see [her] the other day, met Bessie there we were very cool to each other I had not seen her for a considerable time fully three months ago, Mother received a letter from father last mail contained a little money, he hinted at the idea of coming out & seemed to be doubtful as to the reception he would receive, for my part I think mother & him should let by gones be by gones & endeavour to make an effort to end their days together, father has a settled income of about £50 pr year & with what he could earn they ought to be able to live I have done my best & shall use every effort on my part to bring about a union if possible - The war news is more fearful than ever, Paris is in a state of seige, large armies continue to be formed by the French only to be beaten & nearly anhilated by the Prussians & their awful "needle guns" ! Was ever a country so truly humiliated in such a short space of time, their great general reported to be dead (McMahon) Napoleon a prisoner & his family fled their country, when one remembers the account published of the plebiscite taken in France on the 21st.May {{Image|file=Aah-409.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-410 1484]

last when 7,000,000 votes were given in favour of the Empire & presented to Napoleon in the “Louve” when surrounded by all the nobility of elite of France, how vain appears all mans power & ambitions, which prompts them to make war with all its abundant horrors, seems strange that in a civilized age like this is supposed to [be] that mankind will {{Red|*}}reaet [repeat] the scenes & butcheries of barbarous ages, God grant that this war, which lacks at present though all the modern appliances used for the destruction of our fellow creatures will open mens eyes to the evil caused by mans ambition & folly & that it may soon {{Red|*}}terminate & I sincerely hope that England will not be dragged out of her neutrality. We have many crokers who thinks Englands prestige has gone & even in this country there are plenty desirous & are actually advocating our cutting our connexsion with the parent state so as to free ourselves from any participation in Englands glory or downfall the latter they are craven enough to dread - The weather has been very unsettled, being the wettest winter ever experienced in Victoria 30 inches of rain having fallen already, very slack at the office ships arriving going to the Govt. pier for the sake of the Wool which is now rapidly coming from the country. {{Image|file=Aah-410.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-411 1485]

Decr 31 1870
Two months since I made an entry in my journal & I find it very painful to continue considering the painful position I have been placed in since I last wrote. My wife took seriously ill with Billious Fever Seven weeks ago & has been confined to her bed ever since, always complaining of pains in her stomach & general weakness, became very thin & weak & unable to eat. Dr Hewlett has been in constant attendance upon her but I am not at all satisfied with his mode of treatment, I have had a fearful time of it, night after night, I have hardly slept a wink being driven to distraction at times, by the wildness of her manner & continual “lightheadedness” she appears to be more reasonable this week & has been able to get out of bed for a few hours during the day. There was one fortnight I dont think she tasted ½ lb of food – but was kept alive by small doses of Champagne, could keep nothing in her stomach, what with one thing and another, Doctors fees having to keep a nurse & a girl my expenses have galloped a long way past my means & it will be a long time before we get straight, for that I care not {{Image|file=Aah-411.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-412 1486]

provided my dear wife recovers her health and strength I am happy to state that her mother & father have relented & have visited us many times & have been very kind - & also my wifes sister Mrs. Carpenter, the latter coming nearly every day to do what she could - My sister Mary went to Tasmania six weeks ago for the benefit of her health, but I fear, judging from the tone of her letters that the change has not been productive of much good, I feel very anxious concerning her. I was annoyed on the arrival of the English Mail by receiving a short note from my Uncle Joseph, accusing me of being a fool for writing to my Uncle John Tom as I have been in the habit of doing. The cause of his writing to me in such a spirit arises from the fact of John Tom having written to his Bros Joe & enclosing in his letter, one of mine, In which I alluded to his affair of the unpleasent relationship that exists between them. Uncle Joe infers from my letter that we must be must be great friends & that I am playing a double game Etc, a most absurd idea! - I have not heard from J. T for a considerale time, but if I have occasion to {{Image|file=Aah-412.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-413 1487]

write to him again I shall give it him pretty plainly for taking advantage of what friendly feeling I may have expressed, in using it as a means to undermine me in the opinion of Uncle Joseph. I am heartily sick of writing to one & another of them, there are three, that is my father, Uncle Joe, & Aunt Sarah & each has different views on the subject of J. T. affairs & I am unfortunately the medium of each, an awkward position to be placed in, however I intend to be more cautious in my correspondence for the future - I wrote to my Uncle Joe by the mail that has just left, in which I have explained or endeavoured to show him how illfounded, are his suspicious respecting my connection with John Tom - The same Mail brought a letter to my Bro Fred from Uncle Joe in which he alludes to the above subject by expressing regret at my being so friendly to J.Tom & yet describing his character in such an unfavourable light, however he smooths all down by informing Fred that he intends acting very liberally to us by sending us £25 each, it will be very acceptable to us when it comes, especially as {{Image|file=Aah-413.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-414 1488]

I am at present situated it will go towards liquidating the heavy debt I have contracted lately. March 22 1871
Still living in Carlton, several weeks since I last continued my entries. I had delayd writing until I thought I should have had something pleasent to write about but alas! I am grieved to state my sorrows have increased & multiplied since then, my cause for grief being the death of my dear darling sister Mary (Mrs J.J.Clark) my sister had long suffered from “Brights Disease of the Kidneys” which is generally considered, incurable, she was recommended change of air & went to Tasmania where she remained in Hobarton nearly 3 months – but not feeling any better she resolved upon returning home, she left Hobarton by coach for Launceston, but on the road she was taken very ill at a place called Green Ponds where she remained a few days, feeling a little better she succeeded in reaching Launceston {{Image|file=Aah-414.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-415 1489]

where she was kindly received by Mrs. Room who treated her most hospitably & affectionately & who tried to prevail upon her remaining with them until she was better able to continue her journey home, but nothing would stop her, she felt she was dying & was determined to die at home, fortunately she had a pleasent passage over, we were greatly shocked on seeing her she was so altered for the worse. Dr Tracey was consulted concerning her & a different course of treatment was prescribed under which she appeared to rally for a few days, but it was too late, her system was so weakened by disease & the physic she took was too powerful in its action that it tended to accelerate her death, for bleeding at the mouth set in, which gradually increesed to a day or two of her death when it flowed in a continuous stream, it was a shocking sight to witness, she could not speak her mouth was so sore, if she tried the blood used to choke her, I dont think she suffered much pain, her husband was ever at her side & with my mother paid her the most unremitting attention, We were all present {{Image|file=Aah-415.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-416 1490]

at her last hour. I was the only one absent at her last breath. Her death has been a great shock to us all, for she was so endeared to us by her many virtues & good qualities she was a good true wife & mother, & I always found her a kind & sympathising sister, a loving dutiful & affectionate daughter. God grant her future will be free from pain & sorrow and may he who knows all hearts forgive her sins, for to human eyes she had very few, what reconciles us more to her death was the fact of the doctors agreeing that even if she had lived & rallied she never would have thoroughly recovered & under the most favourable circumstances would remain an invalid. She died on Sunday the 12th.March at 8.30 p.m. and was buried in the general Cemetery on the 14th. the funeral service being performed by the Revd A.M Henderson, the funeral was attended by a large circle of friends and acquaintances My wife, though very ill managed to go and see my sister Mary the night before she died it was their first & last meeting, & better had it never been my sister was unconscious & my wife on entering the room & seeing the blood oozing from {{Image|file=Aah-416.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-417 1491]

her mouth caused her to faint away & it was a long time before we could get her round. The shock had quite upset her & was increased by the fact that our little boy who since his birth has suffered from dysentry, died from inanation & consumption two days after my sister was buried, through my wifes ill health the child was taken from the breast & gradually pined away I buried him the following day in the same grave as my Brother Charles in the general cemetery grave (82/B) Baptist Compt my wife took the childs death greatly to heart, as it is unnecessary to state, I did myself so what with one thing and another I I have had a great deal to contend with, physically & mentally & I suppose such will be the case to the end of the chapter, trouble, trouble, Etc - I visit my mother very often & she comes to our house pretty frequently. Clark feels Mary's loss very much, he has let his large house & gone to live in his cottage, (his brother Allison has gone to England for the benifit of his health & his wife Maggie is keeping house for James & looking after his little boy Edward James, now nearly 3 yrs. old - I received a note from John Tom about a month ago, written in his usual style, I replied {{Image|file=Aah-417.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-418 1492]

informing him that after his twofaced conduct I did not intend interesting myself for the future in reference to his affairs - I suppose he will do his best to influence my Uncle Joseph and Aunt Sarah against me, I shall be sorry if such is the case, for now I am married & likely to have a family, it will not be policy to quarrel with them - May 22 1871
Exactly two months since I continued my journal, not that I have anything particular to record but I have kept a journal such a length of time that I actually feel it a breach of duty to discontinue it altogether - I am happy to state that my wife and other members of our family are now enjoying pretty good health. I have no changes to note in any of us particularly My mother is a frequent visitor at my house & we visit her as often. G Bond spent one evening with us while Bessie was away on a visit to Mrs Costins (Ballarat) Miss Cass that was) many old acquaintances have called whether out of curiosity or with a desire to continue our acquaintance I know not, my wife and I have spent one or two evenings {{Image|file=Aah-418.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-419 1493]

at Mrs Clarks /Drummond St / & the Miss Clarks are constant visitors - J.J.Clark has let his large house & is now living in the cottage he built when poor Mary was in Hobarton, his little son is growing a nice little boy we spent the evening of the 19th. at his place. Maggy, (his Bros Allisons wife who is now in England) is keeping house for him. I am sorry to state that there is not the best of feeling existing between my mother sister & Clark in consequence of some imagined slight the former appear to think they have suffered, owing to the distribution of Marys clothes and jewellery in my opinion he had a perfect right to dispose of them as he thought best if he gave them to his own sisters well & good but Mother and Bessie think otherwise, I dont know what the custom is in such cases but I should never think of quarreling over such a matter however I dont mean to let it affect me, Clark & I are good friends & he has been very kind to me - We have spent one or two pleasent evenings at Hamiltons he has left his billet at the Treasury & is now with Cohen Bros (Furniture Dealers) My Uncle Joseph kept his word toward Fred & I by sending us £25 each which was very acceptable, helped me {{Image|file=Aah-419.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-420 1494]

to pay off some of my liabilities. The last mail brought mother £10 from father - Odds & Ends - May 31 [1872?]
Received communication from my old New Zealand friend [[Proctor-5947|Proctor]], who is living in Sandhurst (married a second time his first [[Hussey-2326|wife]] having committed suicide in Ballarat - My brother in law Clark & I speculated in a promoters share in the Rothschilds Tribute Sandhurst purchased from J.Stewart. Novr. 1871
Harry Vickerman spent a week with us beginning of January Hamilton and family left Vict. for Sydney as agent for J.Liddell Bookseller Etc Feby 1872 My cousin Mary Ann Finnis came from Adelaide in Novr. to bid us good bye prior to her going to Port Darwin where her husband is employed by the Overland Telegraph Coy, she left in the Gothenburg S.S. January 1872. Wrote to Uncle Joseph - 16th.July 1872. {{Image|file=Aah-420.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-421 1495]

Feby 24:th 1872 My sister Bessie delivered of a daughter (second) May 6th.1872 My wife delivered of a daughter, Dr Hunt in attendance, Mrs. Milne nurse, Mrs Hooper present, being on a visit to Melbourne at the time. (We have named the child Mary Josephine) May 12 Wrote to father in reply to a long letter from him respecting Chancery case - June 1872 - Mother received a long letter from father Chancery case just settled, with scarcely any dividend, when news came of the death of Rowena Atherstone & the probability of the sum appropriated for her annuity reverting to us - good job as there was nothing coming to us without it - July 1872 - Received a letter from Uncle Joseph in which he informs me that he has altered his will & that he has left us considerably more than he had done under his old one, same mail brought a a letter from Aunt Sarah containing £13.6.8 for Uncle John Thomas - which amount she proposes sending him annually - July 30th.1872 - Joined David Mirandas singing class {{Image|file=Aah-421.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-422 1496]

August 1872 Wrote to Uncle Joseph August 30/72 My little daughter Mary Josephine had an operation performed upon her to remove an excorsiation{{Red|*}} which had formed upon her head, a little spot like a pea was noticed when she was born which grew on in size until it became as large as a plum & very similar in appearance, she became exceedingly thin and delicate & had a disinclination for food. The doctor informed me that if it was not removed, she possibly would not live & if she did, that if by accident she fell or hurt herself so as to cause the lump to bleed, that she would die before surgical could be provided to stop it, it was a matter of life or death to remove it but he said it would be better to lose her now than when she would be older so I agreed with him to have it removed he put a needle through it & bound it round with a gold thread & the thing rotted off, as soon as the operation was performed she appeared to improve took her food & is beginning to gain flesh. (Dr Hunt) Sept 14th.1872. My brother in law Mr Clark had been for a considerable time trying to induce me to go & live at St. Kilda & take a house large enough to {{Image|file=Aah-422.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-423 1497]

enable us to accommodate him & his son, so after consideration, (particularly as my wife had been recommended a change of air) I did so taking a house in Gurner St £75 a year to which we removed, he is to pay us £12 a month, but it necessitates our keeping two servants a general one & a nurse girl & living in a style that my means will not admit of, so I think in a pecuniary sense the arrangement will not be a profitable one to us however we are going to try it for a year the house is nicely situated & handy to the train on which I fortunately travel free - Novr. 1872 Mother received a long letter from father in reference to her joining him in England in spite of my desire for such a reunion she wont entertain the idea, enclosed in it was a draft for £19.0.0 {{Image|file=Aah-423.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-424 1498]

Jany 10, 1873 Mr Brown, son of G.Brown Finsbury Place Finsbury, London & Solicitor in the case of Watmuff v Atherstone called upon me, he came to the colony for the benefit of his health & brought out all the papers necessary to be signed before receiving the balance due on settlement of the Chancery case, young Brown is a very nice young fellow has spent much of his time with us & has told us a great deal in reference to our family at home, his father having been solicitor to my uncle The Jany mail brought out power of attorney for us to sign, Brown returned to England by the Ship “Highflyer” on Feby 17/73 March 25th./73. Wrote to Aunt Sarah & also to Uncle Joe May 5th./73 - Receivd letter from father Draft for £35- (£9 of it for Uncle John Thomas, who is living on a farm on the Loddon) the balance for mother August Mail brought letter from Aunt Sarah L/C for £20, £13.6 8 for John Thomas balance for mother very kind of aunt {{Image|file=Aah-424.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-425 1499]

Sept/73 Wrote to Aunt Sarah forwarding her receipts for John Toms money October Mail/73 - Brought out our long expected legacies (& to my disgust £50 was struck off mine in consequence of my having received that amount some years ago which I expended partly on account of my brother Edwards death & burial & the balance in assisting mother [with] her liabilities) my share was £124, Clark on a/c of Mary about the same & Fred & Bessie each £176.0.0 I paid off some of my debts & lodged £100 in the E S & A Cht Bank - Decr/73 - My Bro Fred & I bought a piece a land from a Frenchman named Claude Besson in Waterloo St. St.Kilda. (Fred has 25 ft frontage mine has 30 ft with a 10 ft right of way alongside) for the sum of £3.15.0 per foot, but by the time we get our deeds & put it under the new Act (Torrens) it will have cost us £4 pr foot. The ground has no great depth but it stands in the highest of St Kilda & is capitally drained & healthily situated. We purpose building a cottage each & J.Clark our Brother in law is preparing plans for them {{Image|file=Aah-425.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-426 1500]

January 1874 at the beginning of the month we called for tenders for the erection of our houses accepted one from a man named, J.Brown who agrees to build them for the sum of £590.0.0 that is £320 for mine & £270 for Freds, before they are finished they will cost considerably more as there are many things required that are not in the specifications - February, Clark & his little boy left us & is now living with Mr Barrett in Burnett St, he left us because my wife was on the point of her confinement & owing to our breaking up the establishment in Gurner St consequent upon going into our new house where we would have no accommodation for them. The English Mail brought us a letter from Father, he proposes lending Fred & I £100 each @ 5% interest payable to mother. I hope he will send it out in time to meet our final payments on the building March 6, 1874 My wife safely delivered of a daughter, Dr Hunt of Fitzroy & Mrs. Amphelt in attendance (6 Am) (called the child Edith Marian) March 12 1874 I borrowed from John Buchan as agent for Isabella White the sum of £210.0.0 for four years at 7% with the option of paying off {{Image|file=Aah-426.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-427 1501]

£100 at the end of Two (2) years from the date of borrowing, (expenses attending mortgages per Mr Braham solicitor £6) At the end of the month I was greatly bothered by our contractor Brown giving up the contract, He is a scoundrel & never paid anybody, shirked the work fearfully, I fortunately had a fortnights leave of absence from my duties & was the better able to look after things. The only thing I regret having doing, was advancing him too much money I relet the finishing of the building to Mr Trimick (a man who I know well) for a sum which will make it no more than the original amount of Browns contract & I feel sure that the work will be better performed than by Brown April 1874 Got into our new house about the 20th. inst everything very sweet & clean & tolerably dry, find a deal to do in my leisure hours – yard to be made up level Etc. garden in front to be formed & made pathways tiled with heaps of other odds & ends, had to borrow money to finish owing to father not having sent the money he promised April 27/1874 My brother Fred was married to {{Image|file=Aah-427.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-428 1502]

Eliza Thwaites, by the Revd Mr Kent at the brides residence. They came down to their new house at once next door June 1st.1874 I received from my father £100 when I paid off the money I had to borrow my liabilities are now on mortgage £210.0.0 & the above £100. Fred is to get his money next mail July 24 Received letter from Aunt Sarah L/C for £20.0.0 £13.6.8 for Uncle John Tom, balance for mother. Letter from father to Fred containing £100. he informs us of the death of Uncle Josephs wife at Brighton England - Sang for the Metropolitan Liedertafel (July 20th), been a member some time August 1875 [1874] Accepted engagement to sing at St. Marys R.C. Church St Kilda £26 pr annum - Wrote to Uncle Joseph this month a letter of condolence on loss of his wife. Mother had a letter from Aunt Hartley informing her of the death of cousin Charles Bryer of Bristol where he was employed as town clerk Mother and my wife became reunited after a coolness of nearly 2 years Sept. 12 1874 - Paid my first 6 months {{Image|file=Aah-428.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-429 1503]

interest on mortgage to Jno Buchan - Novr. 17/74 – Hamilton came from England in the Northumberland where he had been for a trip on business, left for Sydney a few days afterwards. Decr./1874 Paid another £2.10- being 6 months interest on the £100 I received from father April 1875 - My little girl Edith Marian died of Scarlitina, buried her in the St Kilda Cemetery in a piece of ground I purchased there in the Congregational Dept. numbered [c173] July/75 - Mother very ill wrote home to father in reference to her going home or else his joining her here put her case very plainly to him Novr./75 Mail brought out from father, a letter containing £9 for Uncle John Tom & £15 for mother, father wishes mother to go home to him & spend the rest of their days together, she wont hear of it, is determined to remain in the colony & chance it - {{Image|file=Aah-429.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-430 1504]

1875
Novr.17th. My wife safely delivered of a son, Dr Rankin of St Kilda in attendance, the child is supposed to have come a month before its time & is a poor puny looking little thing, my wife is not in a very good state of health in fact ever since she was in the family way she has been ailing not been able to keep a meal in her stomach for months. The child has a most voracious appetite & seems determined to exist. Mrs. Hammond nurse. I registered the youngster at Mrs. Manleys, Clyde St calling him Charles Royde - Royde being an old Yorkshire family my mother is descended from & Charles being the name of my brother that died, who was born on the ship "Brothers" that we all came from England in in the year 1850 January 1876. My wife has been in very indifferent health. I really dont know what is coming over her I am sure the last 12 months I have known no peace of mind owing to her strange behaviour, she has most unfortunately given way to the most reckless extravagance & habits from which I can see no escape from the consequences, instead of trying to be economical & making an effort to control expenses {{Image|file=Aah-430.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-431 1505]

in order to try & pay of the money owing on the house she is deliberately plotting to ruin me, when I try to reason with her she flies into the most violent paroxysms of rage & it is with the greatest difficulty I can control her - curse the doctors, I say, for prescribing stimulants, they have a deal to answer for. I am sadly afraid she takes more than is good for her Dr.Dempster has been attending her lately, treating her for liver complaint, if he would make a teetotaller of her he might be succeesful in making her healthy, my poor little boy is sadly neglected. Lizzie positively refused to suckle it & the poor little fellow has a fearful struggle for existence - being fearfully emaciated, & suffering from a kind of rash which I am afraid he will never get rid of April 1876 I had a weeks holiday from the office & in company with T.B.Brown (the Basso) & Miss [[Lane-21716|O.Lane]] (sophano) I accepted an engagement to sing at an Art Exhibition in the Mechanics Institute Geelong. I enjoyed myself very much & made £5 over all my expenses - quite a break in the monotony of my life - my wife & child still very delicate, little Joe seems all right - {{Image|file=Aah-431.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-432 1506]

& is thriving admirably domestic affairs just as usual no improvement for the better June 1876 Had a nice trip to Warnambool at the beginning of the month, Mr Farmer a friend of mine who does business in the Western district engaged a large Hall there & came to Melbourne for a concert company he offered me very good terms to go so I managed to arrange with others in the office to go for 3 days. I left the office 5 pm, got the Geelong train at 7 pm arrived there at 9.30 in time for the night coach, got to Colac about 2 next morning, Camperdown for breakfast, Warnambool at 2.30. I was fearfully tired after my long journey not having slept a wink after a bath & a good dinner I felt somewhat better, went to the Hall & had rehearsal with Brown & Fanny Shepherd (who had gone there by steamer the day before) In the evening we sang to a large audience, it was Race time there & great numbers were in from the outlying districts at the conclusion of the concert we were all invited to a grand supper 2 Am when we broke up. In the morning we wandered about the {{Image|file=Aah-432.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-433 1507]

neighbourhood & soon made [saw] a great deal of [it.] Friday night sang again to a more moder[ate] house, at the conclusion another supper party [3 Am] when we got to bed, next morning at 9.30 [our] Landlord had a carriage & pair & also a trap with o[ne] horse at the door in which he took us out for a days driving - & to do a little picnicking. We took the road to Belfast through a magnificent tr[act of] agricultural country – the most of which [belongs to a] wealthy squatter named Rutledge who leases it [out] on average of £5 pr.acre {{Image|file=Aah-433.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-434 1508]

{{Image|file=Aah-434.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-435 1509]

[Blank page] {{Image|file=Aah-435.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-436 1510]

[rear board] {{Image|file=Aah-436.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=8/52}} [Events not covered by these journals. 28th July 1879 A fellow clerk murdered director Thomas Finlayson. Wednesday 18th Sept 1879 — Witness in murder trial of James Frederick Lawrence.] == Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===JOURNAL 9=== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-437 1511]

{{Red|*}}Esheridge
Woodlawn Place
Station Place
Nr Sandridge
£863.2.9
Mr B ?? ??? P????
Gr Kew - ???? at the
Copy Goods Office In the sheds
In Auburn platform
When in to get it
JHW
13.11.10
62
26
88 s
2
7 - 6
2 0 0
??? 10 0
4 2 ?
66 19 11
This book belongs to John Hy Watmuff
Royd Cottage
2 Waterloo St
St Kilda
{{Image|file=Aah-437.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-438 1512]

H. Vickerman Monument Creek School Hesket
W[est] Rochford [Victoria]
Miss S. Watmuff
X(Myrtle Terrace)X
Myrtle Road
Highfields
Leicester
England
J.R. Hamilton
74 William St
Wooloomooloo
Sydney
Mdm Pignolet
Barkly [Street]
St Kilda
F I I
{{Image|file=Aah-438.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-439 1513]

Cash Received from June 1877
June 28 Clark £5-0-0
July 1 Church £7-10-0
July 5 Wages £7-19-0
July 6 Clark £25-0-0
“ 18 Wages £7-19-0
Cup Monarque Falmouth Marldon I just had to put off a business engagement on Wednesday night in order to be at the practise. {{Red|*}}Mind bring up my attendance at the Town Hall on Wednesday night, I had to put off an engagement I had while truly under the impression there would {{Image|file=Aah-439.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-440 1514] be no [?]imports to night. I am very sorry. I Trust you will kindly excuse my attendance. X(To night)X I am very sorry X(but I)X that X(it should be so. Yours)X this was to be. Yours truly JHW 2/6 Sweep. Cup office. First Water
2/6 “ Hotham Hand/p Sootsayer
1/- “ “ Cambello
{{Image|file=Aah-440.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-441 1515]

[ This page continues the expenditure side of the ledger:]
Paid June 29 To Mother 2. 0. 0
July 2 Glanfield 2.10. 0
“ 2 Sandons 10. 0
“ 4 Atkinsons 4. 1. 0
“ 6 Lucys Wages 18. 0
“ 6 Bracketts etc 3. 0
“ 5 To Mother 10. 0
“ 5/6 Dinners 2. 0
“ 6 Wood 1. 0. 0
“ 7 Mother 1.10. 0
“ 7 Grocer 5. 0. 0
“ 7 Milkman 5. 0. 0
“ 7 Newspaper 1. 0. 0
“ 7 Nightman 13. 0
“ 7 GBarnes 2. 0. 0
“ 7 Sundercombe 1.11. 9
“ 7 Baker 4.10. 0
“ 7 R White 14. 3
{{Image|file=Aah-441.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-442 1516]

“ 7 Carriage Mother 13. 0
“ 8 Church 1. 0
“ 10 Butcher 5. 0. 0
“ 18 Paperhanger 4.13.10
“ 18 Houshold 5. 8. 8
“ 18 Taxes 2.12. 6
Miss Jukes
Return O God of Hosts
“Samson” Handels
Weslyan Sunday School
Commercial Road, South Yarra
Concert 13 November 1879
Memories of the Past
Maid of Athens
Duet The Sailor Sighs
Novr. 17th. [1879-11-17] Service at Scots Church {{Image|file=Aah-442.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-443 1517]

December 2nd Tuesday ̶79 [1879]
United Presbyterian Choir
Concert. Town Hall [Melbourne] Now Miss Hoskins
Walker of 263 Bk St W 7 y & Shelving 6ft 11. 8
12 “ – “ - 3ft
1 Table Cloth 10. 0
1 “ Steel 3. 6
1 Cane Chair 16
2 Prs Curtains 1. 8. 0
Socks 5
Flannels 13. 0
Collars 5. 6
Books 15. 0
Water Bottle 3. 6
Assurance 1. 5. 0
Dr Rankin 1. 1. –
Fenwick Rms 1. 8. 0
{{Image|file=Aah-443.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-444 1518]

8. 2. 10
1. 16. 7
Cash £ 9. 19. 5
Cheque 21. 10. 6
{{Red|*}}BBK £31. 9.11
{{Red|*}}Harry {{Red|*}}Soumt
IC 641
63
10
K {{Red|*}}any {{Red|*}}May f
March 11/80
K 9. 0. 0 20 16. 8
S 14. 0 7 10 0
C 1. 1. 0 18. 6. 8
W 2. 0. 0 17. 0 0
B.S. 4. 0. 0 11. 6. 8
16. 15.0
SC 5 0
17. 0.0
{{Image|file=Aah-444.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-445 1519]

3rd Feby 1880 Married to Elizabeth Pitts at the Manse South Yarra by the Revd. Mr. Maxwell present - John M Pitts, Mr Clark & my brother Fred, Mrs Deschamp, & Mrs. Pitts. {{Image|file=Aah-445.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-446 1520]

[Bessie Pitts and JHW sang for St Patrick’s night concert, Wednesday, 17th March] Saturday 17 April [1880-04-17] Afternoon Bessie went to stay at Boorondara with Mrs Deschamp Sunday 18 April [1880-04-18-Sunday] Bessie returned from Mrs Deschamps. Bessie stoppd. {{Image|file=Aah-446.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-447 1521]

Monday 19 April 1880 Went Hugenots [Huguenots: “Gli Ugonotti”] Boema, Farley, Paladini & Coys last night very fair performance – Boema magnificent. 20th [1880-04-20-Tuesday] Picture hanging. Miss Campbell spent the evening with us. 21st [1880-04-21-Wednesday] Witnessed “8 hours demonstration” very wet. Went to see the pictures at the Gallery, one by Claude Lorrain “an Italian seaport Scene” lent by Mr W Aitkin, very fine, but must admit I dont care so much for it as I do for many of the modern {{Image|file=Aah-447.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-448 1522]

painter’s works. In the evening, Bess & I spent with the Johnsons in Barkly Street. 22nd [1880-04-22-Thursday] Evening at home. Mr Pitts spent with us. Mother walked to end of Alma Road. Sold piano £23 - To Mr Tully. 23rd. [1880-04-23-Friday] Very wet. Rehearsals at Scots Church in evening. 24 [1880-04-24-Saturday] Afternoon. Bessie & I went to Hawthorn, called at Bartholds. From there went to Bessie Bonds for tea, spent evening there. 25 [1880-04-25-Sunday] Very wet. Church morning & evening. Afternoon Bessie & Charles & self went to Beach. {{Image|file=Aah-448.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-449 1523]

26th [1880-04-26-Monday] Getting house papered & cracks filled up in walls passage ceiling replastered etc. 27th [1880-04-27-Tuesday] House in a muddle. Got front room finished & papered, carpeted & furniture in. Mr Duke called with letter of introduction from Hamilton. 28th [1880-04-28-Wednesday] Remained at home evening setting up things. Smiths 29 [1880-04-29-Thursday] Mrs. Smith & Miss {{Red|*}}Sms [Smiths?] vening. Saw them home 30th [1880-04-30-Friday] Rehearsal at St Church 1st May [1880-05-01-Saturday] Home to dinner. A Mr Dukes {{Image|file=Aah-449.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-450 1524]

friend of Hamiltons dinner, going to England Pr.Sorata. Evening at home Wet. 2 May [1880-05-02-Sunday] Very Wet. Church morning & evening. Afternoon went to Pitts, got caught in a shower returned home. 3 May [1880-05-03-Monday] Fine. Went to Opera House to hear Elsa May (Mrs Colclough) in Grand Duchess. No good. Bessie disappointed. Pd & find an income anything to £250 for year - £250 pr year. 4 May [1880-05-04-Tuesday] Mr & Mrs Barthold & Mr & Mrs Marsden & Mr Pitts spent the evening with us. John Tom [down] from the Country. 5 May [1880-05-05-Wednesday] Plasterer finishing this week. Joe gone to Miss Bonds Birthday party. {{Image|file=Aah-450.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-451 1525]

Evening went to hear “De[r] Freischutz with Elsa May &[Madame] Rose Hersee. Bessie & I came home with the former (who is an old acquaintance of mine) & Mr & Mrs Plumpton. 6 May 1880 Joe’s birthday, 8 to day. Came home from Hawthorn this morning, from her cousin Minnies party. Clark called in the evening – stayd at home. 7 May [1880] Rehearsal for Concert. 8 May [1880] Bessie & George tea. In the evening I went to Maritana with Ellen Gordon as the Gitana. No good. {{Image|file=Aah-451.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-452 1526]

9 May/80 Sunday. Very wet. Church morning & eve. Called at Pittsfor Bessie got wet through coming home. 10 May [1880-05-10-Monday] Weather unsettled – at home. 11 May As yesterday 12 May Went to Lilly of Killarny. One of the poorest representations I ever heard. Templeton as Danny Mann was “execrable”. 19 May Went to hear Balfes Rose of Castile capital performance – Rose Hersee. 22 [1880-05-22-Saturday] Bessie & G Bond spent the afternoon. In the evening we went {{Image|file=Aah-452.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-453 1527]

to hear Barber of Seville with Rose Hersée. Cellaj as Baritone Figaro. Coy, Farley & Barili in one of the best performances I have witnessed in Melbourne. Monday 24 May [1880] Holiday. Wrote a long letter to father in reply to his by last mail in reference to the disposal of £1590 he received at uncle Joes death. Suggested his investing it Etc. 25 May Bessie & I went to hear Revd. C. Strong deliver his lecture on the German pastor & patriot Sheilmacher. Very dry & monotonous. 26 May Spent evening at Mrs Coster, she is a splendid pianist Bessie & I sang. {{Image|file=Aah-453.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-454 1528]

Thursday 27 May Bessie Bond to dinner. Posted letter to father. Ditto Fred in reference to the investment of money by father & suggesting to let us have some to clear off our mortgages Etc. Miss Lees, Mr Pitts & Clarks spent evening with us. 28 May Rehearsal in the evening at Scots Church as usual. Came home with Mdm. Tasca. Met Elsa May (Mrs Fairclough). 29 May Stayd at home afternoon. Evening, Bessie & I went to Signora Boema Concert. Piano attendance - fine Concert. 30 May Church as usual morning & evening. Afternoon, Bess & I took a walk, got [{{Red|*}}?caught in the?] rain. {{Image|file=Aah-454.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-455 1529]

31 May 1880 Very busy at the office. Kefford & I spent the morning in arranging our Books at the Vict Rlys Spencer St. with Mr Kent. In the evening I went to the opera to hear again the “Barber of Seville” delightful performance so perfect in all the parts. 1st June Busy. In the evening I accompanied Bess to her brothers, where she intends staying for a day or so to assist, as Mrs Pitts servant is away - spent the evening very pleasently – 11 when I got home 2 June In the evening I went to Pitts for Bess, from there went to the Opera house to hear {{Image|file=Aah-455.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-456 1530]

Carmen by Bizet very much pleased with the performance, but have heard it much better done. Rose Hersee, Farley, Beaumont as principals. 12pm when we got home. 3 June At home in the evening. 4th Rehearsal at church. 5th Spent afternoon at home. Miss Rose called [and] stayd [for] tea, saw her partly home, afterwards called at Jones for ticket for Leidertafel Concert. 6 Church morning & evening. Rehearsal after Evening service {{Image|file=Aah-456.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-457 1531]

at 9.30. Mdm. Tasca called & had supper with us. Bessie & I saw her home afterwards – Plumpton unamiable – got a bad cold Etcc. Took a long walk in the afternoon. Fanny, our servant away for a holiday – to return on Monday. Monday 7th June In the evening, Bessie & I went to town. She to the Liedertafel Concert & self to see the “Surprise Party”. I felt disgusted at being seen at the entertainment I witnessed. The concert at the Town Hall was grand. The members of the M[elbourne] L[eidertafel] sang Wagners “Twelve Apostles” the remainder of the performance was {{Image|file=Aah-457.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-458 1532]

filled up with the singing of Carlotti Patti, Cellaj & the playing of Munck to whom presentations were made in the form of wreaths & Golden Lyres. 12pm when we arrived home. 8th June Bessie Bond came down to dinner. Kefford came home with me & had tea & spent the evening with us. 9th June/80 Bessie & Joe went to hear the “Barber of Seville” I went in for them & saw the last two acts. 10 June At home. Clark & Miss McLean spent the evening with us. {{Image|file=Aah-458.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-459 1533]

[1880-06-11] Friday 11th June Fred saw John Tom in the hospital yesterday he is very ill but wishes to come out & sponge upon us – can’t see it. Rehearsals as usual at Scots Ch in the evening. Mdm.Deschamp & Monsiuer Picard to tea & spent the evening with my wife. Saturday 12 June Very unwell at the afternoon. After tea, Bess & I went to see Mrs. Rose, from there we went to Pitts – spent the evening with them. 11.30pm got home. 13 June Church as usual morn & evening. At the conclusion saw {{Image|file=Aah-459.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-460 1534]

Mr Stringer, an old acquaintance who has just arrived from Sydney. 14 June Monday Evening, Bess & I went to the Melb Leidertafel Concert at the Athenaeum. Miss Christian, Monsieur Munck, [Ciampi-]Cellaj, Staker & Moroney with Ortoria form a fine cantarta. The L[eidertafel] sang several part songs very well, & also did the scene of the end of the 2nd Act of Wm Tell “The Gathering[Meeting] of the Cantons” a splendid work. 15 June Tuesday Evening sang at the P[hil]harmonic Town Hall. pd - very poor affair. Bessie went to hear Guernetts [Guenett] lecture on Schumann at Glens Rooms. {{Image|file=Aah-460.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-461 1535]

16 June After tea, Bess & I went to visit the Turners @ Toorak spent a pleasent evening there but it was somewhat marred by the walk home from the Windsor Station through the wind & rain. 17 June Mr & Mrs. Pitts & Mr Barthold spent the evening at our place singing etc. Friday evening rehearsal Mrs Palmer & Miss Jukes too ill to attend. 19th June Bess & I in the afternoon went to see Mrs. & Miss Rose After tea, Bess & I went to {{Image|file=Aah-461.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-462 1536]

Hear Mr. Henri Ketten the most celebrated pianist of the day. The house was densely crowded by a most enthusiastic audience for two hours he kept 2000 people enthralled with his wonderful playing he astonishes & delights the most fastidious & critical & even attracts those who care very little for music. 20 June [Sunday, 2nd June 1880] Church morn & evening. Mrs P[almer] & Miss J[ukes] absent. Mdm. Tasca called about 9 styd till 10. Saw her home & had a yarn with Plumpton. {{Image|file=Aah-462.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-463 1537]

21 June Bessie spent the afternoon & evening at Mr Bartholds. I went for her after tea. 11.30 when we got home had a little singing. 22 June Staid at home 23 June After tea I went [sent] a message to the Linckers for Bessie home by 8.15. Clark called & spent the evening with us playing cards etc. 24 June 1880 Bessie Bond came in the morning & remained for dinner - at home in the evening. {{Image|file=Aah-463.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-464 1538]

Friday 25 June [1880] J. Service (Premier [Victoria]) “Reform Bill” thrown out on its second reading by 2 votes. Great pity for I see nothing but trouble over political matters in the future & goodness knows we have had enough lately. I think if a dissolution is granted & Service goes to the country he will come back stronger than ever. Rehearsal as usual. 26 June Dissolution granted. Spent the evening at Mr Caves. 27 June [Sunday, 27th June 1880] Church morning & eve. Afternoon, Bess & I took [a] walk along the Esplanade addition being made to pier. {{Image|file=Aah-464.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-465 1539]

28 June [1880] Kelly gang killed & captured. Great excitement! Stayd at home in evening. Mr. Stringer called & stayd a couple of hours or so. 29 June Mail arrived. Rcd short note from father, quite well, is going to London where he has investments, congratulations on my marriage etc. Dan Kelly - brought to town wounded Spent the evening at Pitts 30 June Clark spent the evening with us. Thurs 1 July 1880 Weather unsettled – thought it would clear off, left town by special {{Image|file=Aah-465.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-466 1540]

train to Sunbury at the invitation of the Hon. W. J. Parke to a coursing party. Got there by 10.30 & commenced everything very enjoyable till 12 o/c when the rain came down in torrents, we took shelter under some trees for about an hour, seeing no chance of its ceasing, we adjourned to the Marquee, where we found a splendid lunch provided to which we did more than justice at its conclusion we made for the Railway Stn arrived in town about 6 pm. & so ended what would have been a glorious days outing but for the rain. {{Image|file=Aah-466.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-467 1541]

In the evening, Mrs. Cave came in for a short time. 2nd July Rehearsal as usual, felt rather “seedy” from the effects of yesterday. Mr. & Mrs. Drake called & stayd [for] tea. 3rd July After dinner went into town for a short time to order wood. In the evening Bess & I pd. a visit to Mrs. Smiths, (Punt Road). Miss Lees lives with her & we had a little singing & some card playing. 11.30 when we arrived home. 4 July Sunday - morn & eve at Church sang solo in the morning. {{Image|file=Aah-467.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-468 1542]

Afternoon, Bess & I took a beautiful walk as far as Caulfield, fine day, had rehearsal after service. 5 July Fine day. At home in the evening. Miss Hoskins called pd her Joes School fees. 6 July Joe went to her aunt Bessies this morning for a few days. In the evening, Bess & I went to her brother’s (calling on the way at Mrs. Adams, Octavia St,) spent an hour or two very pleasently. 7 July Took a short walk after tea home early. {{Red|*}}also mother wrote home to father. {{Image|file=Aah-468.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-469 1543]

8 July At home 9 July Rehearsal as usual, left early & went to Mr Bartholds factory where he was giving a party to his hands. Bess & I left there about 11.30. 10 July Doing odd jobs about the yard in the afternoon. In the evening Bess & I went to Mdm. Simonsens concert at the Melbourne Town Hall, being the occasion of the Debut of two of her daughters, Leonora & Martina. The former has a nice mezzo-soprano voice & {{Image|file=Aah-469.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-470 1544]

the latter has a magnificent, light, flexible, sopham with an exceptionally high range She is as finished & sings as artistically as any vocalist we have in the colony & when she has gained more intelligence & has a little more expression ought to rank with the best of the day. 11th July [Sunday, 11th July 1880] Church morn & took a walk with Bess in afternoon. 12 July After tea I went to a political meeting of Carter & Harris’s, {{Image|file=Aah-470.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-471 1545]

nominees for the approaching Elections. I never was at such a disorderly meeting not a word was heard the Berryites [suppoters of Berry]were not numerous but they were strong in lung power. I got kicked & bustled about for simply requesting one to “shut up”. I do not doubt that the sitting members will be reelected viz Carte & Harris for St Kilda & Prahran. I only wish the conservatives in other constituencies will get as good a chance. 13 July At home in the evening {{Image|file=Aah-471.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-472 1546]

14 July An eventfull day, the Conservatives beaten hollow. I made sure [James] Service would have come back with a good majority but now he is in the minority. The Berryites through the Catholic vote are once more in power by a majority of 51 to 35, one comfort is that the majority has in it a large number who can never work together. Service does not intend to resign but will test the house on the 22 inst. – great excitement. {{Image|file=Aah-472.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-473 1547]

15 July General depression in commercial circles owing to the results of the Elections. It means poor trade & general stagnation, however one must hope for the best The Opera opened for a short season to night “Le Africaine" being the initial performance. Boema, Verdi, Paladini & the Coys principals. Very good, but will improve on a few more representations. Very long. 12pm at home. 16 July Very unwell severe cold {{Image|file=Aah-473.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-474 1548]

racked with pains,did not go to rehearsal. Bess went to see Mr Edison & apologised for my absence. 17 July Still unwell, feel very weak. Miss Campbell spent evening with us. 18 July At church morn & eve. Feeling very unwell. 19 July At home Monday evening. Mdm. Deschamp totea. 20 July Bess & I sang at Brunswick for [Phil]harmonic Society. Paid. 21 July Cold very bad – stayd at home in the evening. 22 July Reharsal [sic] to night instead {{Image|file=Aah-474.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-475 1549]

of tomorrow, as we are practising for a concert to be given in the church & wish to get our reader[’s] assistance Parliament met to day, when it was supposed. Service & Co would have resigned however they linger on till the 27th inst to the disgust of the opposition who are impatient for the sweets of office. Bess went to hear “Le Africaine” I waited in town until the performance was over. 12pm when we got home. 23 July Went to hear “Rigoletto”. A capital performance, Verdi as the Buffoon very good. 24 July At home in the afternoon In {{Image|file=Aah-475.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-476 1550]

the evening Bess & I spent at her brothers. 25 July [Sunday, 25th July 1880] Church morn & eve. Fearful tragedy happened at the opera last night A Mr & Mrs Grear who had only landed from the Garonne a week ago were at the performance of “The Heugenots” when a Mr Soudray (one of the French Commissioners - who was a fellow passenger of the Grecars & who was supposed to have had an improper connexion with Mrs Grear) left his seat to speak to her when the husband drew {{Image|file=Aah-476.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/40}} 41 [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-477 1551]

a revolver from his pocket & first shot Soudray & then his wife after which he shot him[-] self. They were conveyed to the hospital where Greer & his wife are not expected to live. Soudry is likely to recover. 26 July Went to the Opera house to hear “Don Giovanni” but owing to Boema being unwell, “Rigoletto” instead fine performance, Verdi very good. 27 July Mr & Mrs. Pitts spent evening with us. {{Image|file=Aah-477.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-480 1552]

28 July I went to hear “Don Giovanni”. Magnificent performance. Mr Verdi as the Don. Boema Coy & Hersee, very good Farley as Leporello, Beaumont as Don Ottavio, Riccardi as the Commandant, one of the grandest representations ever given in the colonies. 29 July Rehearsal at the church & poor attendance 30th. July Rehearsal & service. Poor attendance - Juniper & Miss Jukes absent. {{Image|file=Aah-480.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-481 1553]

31st. July Bessie & Geo Bond came in the afternoon, & staid tea. Left about 9pm. 1 August Church morn & eve. In the afternoon, after dining at my sisters, I went to Mrs. Junipers funeral, buried in the Melb Cmty. 2 August Had tea & spent the evening at our neighbours Mrs. Cave. 3 August The Miss Johnstones spent the evening with us. 4 August Rehearsal at Scots Church. {{Image|file=Aah-481.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-482 1554]

5th. August M Caron (the composer of the opening cantata for the new Exhibition which opens on the 1st Octr.) advertised for a chorus, being personally acquainted with him, I promised to assist & to night was the 1st rehearsal for it, which I attended, found over 800 singers at the Athenaeum tried over the first chorus or two, very good, home by 10pm. Bessie had been to her brothers – called for her on my way home. [1880-08-06] 6 August Fred went to the hospital & found that Uncle {{Image|file=Aah-482.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-483 1555]

John Tom had been dead & buried six weeks ago. Poor fellow, he was neither good to himself & only a disgrace to those belonging to him. {{image |file=Moao-4.jpg |align=l |size=1000px |label= John Thomas Watmuff Death, Schedule B. |caption=John Thomas Watmuff Death }} I went with Plumpton to St Patricks Choir & had a sing in Webers Mass. 7 August At home all the the afternoon. In the evening, Bess & I went for a short strol on the Jetty. 8 August Sunday. Church morn & eve. Afternoon took a strool by self. 9 July [9th August 1880] Carons rehearsal. {{Image|file=Aah-483.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-484 1556]

Got a note by the English Mail from father. Judging from its tenor he is investing his money, lending it where I fancy the security is not too good. I hope ere now he has got my letter, & will act upon the suggestion I made in reference to the investment of his money in the colonies & where it will be commutable in case of his death. 10 July August At home – Clark called. {{Image|file=Aah-484.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-485 1557]

11 August Rehearsal at church for our concert which takes place on the 25 inst. Poor attendance. 12 Augt. Carons Rehearsal. Bessie at her brothers to tea Called for her on my way home. 13 Agt. Went with Clark to the Opera House to hear “Pinafore” crowded house cant say I was charmed with the performance – good satire, but the artists engaged were too good for the performance remind[ing] me of thoroughbreds being harnessed in a cab. {{Image|file=Aah-485.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-486 1558]

14 Agt Bessie went to Mrs. Deschamps in the afternoon to remain till tomorrow. I went to Carons for a short time. In the evening I went to town met my old friend Pauline, home by 9pm. 15 August Sunday at church morn & eve, after the evening service Mr Palmer & Miss Lees & self went to St Patricks to hear selections from the Stabat Mater. On returning to the Station I met my wife, & in company with Miss Mertz, & Elsa May (Mrs Fairclough), came home together. {{Image|file=Aah-486.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-487 1559]

16 August Went after tea to Mrs. Smiths for a plant. Went into town afterward to meet Bess who had been to Jollimont [sic] missed her on coming home & met Mdm. Tasca & saw her home. 17 August Went to the Philharmonic Concert with Bess to hear Plumptons Cantata “Spring” & Schumanns “Pilgrimage of the Rose” the former is very pretty, original & descriptive. The other is too high class dull & difficult ever to be a favourite or popular {{Image|file=Aah-487.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-488 1560]

work. Principals - Miss Christian Miss Holland Mrs. Howitz, Messrs Lamble Lake & G.F. Smith & Staker. 18 August Rehearsal at Church. Berry & the rest of his ministry, all got returned. 19 August Carons rehearsal for the “Exhibition Cantata”. 20 August Mdm. Deschamp & Mrs Piccard to tea – cards etc. 21 August Bess & I spent the evening at Mr. Edisons Et Melb. 11.30pm before we got home. {{Image|file=Aah-488.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-489 1561]

Sunday 22 August Church morn & eve. Afternoon Bess & went to Miss Rose’s. Bess stayd [to] tea. I called for her on leaving Church. Monday 23 August Carons Rehearsal 24 August Sang two Irish songs at a Lecture given by the Revd Mr. Danne, on Ireland in the Independent Church, Alma Road [St Kilda]. 25 August Concert at the Scots Church “Hear My Prayer” Mendelssohn, “God thou art great” Spo[h]r {{Image|file=Aah-489.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-490 1562]

with other items. I sang in a Quartette, Duet & also sang “In Splendor Bright” introducing “The Heavens are Telling” [Haydn]. everything passed off first rate over at 10pm 26 August Carons Rehearsal, “Temperance Hall”. Great crowd. 27 Went to Pitts – out - called at Mrs Smiths. 28 At home - afternoon, Miss Rose to tea, saw her part of the way home, after which spent the evening at Caves. 29 [1880-08-29-Sunday] Church as usual {{Image|file=Aah-490.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-491 1563]

30 Mr & Mrs. Pitts spent the evening with me. Bessie went to the Leidertafel Concert. I called for her: home 11.30. 31st. Carons Rehearsal 1 September At home, Clark called the children ill, fancy they are sickening for the measles. 2 Caron rehearsals. Bessie went to hear “Pinafore”. 3 Rehearsal at Scots Church 4th Spent Afternoon laying Tiles in front garden. Children both in bed with measles, stayd at home in the evening. {{Image|file=Aah-491.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-492 1564]

5 September/80 Church morning & evening as usual. Two wrecks reported - the “Sorata” S.S. off Cape Jervis & the American ship “Eric the Red” off Cape Otway. Higinbotham of the Rly died. 6 Sept At home 7 I sang at WmsTown [Williamstown] for the Cricket Club to oblige some members of it [with] who[m] I am acquainted. 8 Rehearsal at the Scots Church for the United Presbyterian Choirs Concert. 9th Carons rehearsal. Bess went to hear it [at?] Principals {{Red|*}}Sonata {{Image|file=Aah-492.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-493 1565]

10th Sept Went to Scots Church - Rehearsal. Wet night. No members present except principals. {{Red|*}}Sang over some concerted music: “Ti Prego” & Quartets from “Elijah”, etc, etc. 11th September Afternoon went to the New Exhibition Building to rehearsal for Carons Cantata 1st. time in the building principals & orchestra present. Went off very well, beautiful work Solo for each of the principals besides some concerted music In the evening I went to Mdm. Tasca Concert at the Town Hall – great success. {{Image|file=Aah-493.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-494 1566]

12 [Sunday, 12th September 1880] Dreadfully wet – raining incessantly from yesterday morning the Yarra is rising & if it continues raining until tomorrow, we shall have a most fearful flood which will do an enormous deal of injury to property. I went to church morn & eve very poor choir & few worshipping. 13 September/80 At home - flood fearful - dreadful distruction [sic] of property from Ramsden Mills to Albert Park Lagoon & to Sandridge one large sea of water scores of houses & factories inundated - all {{Image|file=Aah-494.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-495 1567]

traffic with the excep of the railway stopped & the latter very dangerous the water rising over the lines in some places to such an extent as to nearly put out the fires in the engines. Mr [William] Elsdon appointed to the late Mr. Higinbothams position as permanent head of the Victorian Railway. 14 Sept At home. Mdm. Deschamp to tea. Wrote to my father in the evening. 15 At home. {{Image|file=Aah-495.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-496 1568]

16 Caron Cantata at the Town Hall. 17 Scots Church Rehearsal. 18 Caron Cantata at the Exhibition [Building]. Went very well, but I think a better sopham principal could have been got than Mdm. Simonsen. The other principals are Mrs Cutter, Beaumont & Verdi. Stayd at home in the evening. Fanny got the measles. {{Image|file=Aah-496.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-497 1569]

19 September 1880 Church morn & eve. Mdm. Tasca called in the afternoon. Children & Fanny quite recovered from the measles. 20 Sept. At home in the evening, been very low-spirited the last few days owing to the rumours of reductions & discharges to be made in the Rly. Dept. The present ministry are producing quite a scare by their wholesale system of retrenchment in the Civil Service. Mr Patterson has, so far spared the Dpt {{Image|file=Aah-497.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-498 1570]

of Railways, but in all the other Depts. scores have been discharged. 21st Sept I went to a rehearsal for a concert to be given next at St Andrews Church Carlton at its conclusion a great storm came on & I got nearly wet through before I got home. 22 Sept Spent the evening at home singing, reading & playing Euchre. {{Image|file=Aah-498.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-499 1571]

23 Sept Thursday evening rRehearsal of Caron Cantata - Athenaeum. 24 Rehearsal at Church 25 Afternoon Bessie & I went to the Exhibition [Building] to CaronRehearsal Went very well. At its close we took a strool around the place found everything very unfinished & considering the Exhibition opens on the 1st. Imafraid there will be a fiasco. On leaving the building we called atBaumans, had {{Image|file=Aah-499.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-500 1572]

tea at Clements, [Cafe] & afterwards having tickets given us by David Lee, we went to the Town Hall to hear Luptons Elocutionary Entertainment. Poorly attended. 26 Church morn & eve. Took a strool in the afternoon. 27th Carons rehearsal at the Town Hall. 28th Sang at the Prahran Town Hall for Mr Maxwell. Left by 9pm & went to Pitts where Bessie had been spending the evening. {{Image|file=Aah-500.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-501 1573]

29th Final Rehearsal of Carons Cantata held at the New Exhibition Building. Went very well, think it will be a great Success , home by 10.30 train. 30 Rehearsal at the church. 1 Oct. A Red Letter day in the annals of Victoria. The International Exhibition was opened with great eclat. Bess & I left home early in the morning,on going through the town we found it thronged with people to view the procession which took place {{Image|file=Aah-501.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-502 1574]

consisting of the various trades unions with the Volunteers & Naval brigades augmented by the sailors from the various war vessels that are in port both foreign & British. Bess spent the day at Mrs Baumans from whose balcony in Nicholson St. she could see the procession & also the grounds surrounding the Exhibition. I being a member of the chorus, to sing in ‘Carons’ Cantata went to the [Exhibition] building & witnessed all the opening ceremony etc. The Cantata went off splendidly, Caron {{Image|file=Aah-502.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-503 1575]

being the Lion of the day, the premiers & their suites of the various Australian Colonies were present & many distinguished visitors. At the conclusion of the performance, I took a lstrool about the place found many of the courts very unfinished,in fact it will take another month or so before all the exhibits will be opened up & displayd but taken altogether the effort is very fine & reflects great credit upon those whose duty it was {{Image|file=Aah-503.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-504 1576]

I question the proprietry of a young colony like this involving itself in such an exhibition. I cannot but look upon it as a huge dissipation - similar to a poor man trying to emulate in display a rich one. In the Evening, Bess & I went to the St Kilda pier & had a look at the Men–of-war illuminated. Saturday 2 Octr Went to the Opera House to hear the “[The Royal] Middy”, a comic opera in which appears a Mr. [Charles] Turner {{Image|file=Aah-504.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-505 1577]

a new tenor, who has a very fine voice & knows how to use it, his wife who sings under the name of Annis Montague, is also a good singer & will evidently become favourites here the pier itself is not good enough for them. Sunday 3rd Oct Church as usual. 4th. Rehearsal at Carlton 5th Sang at the St Andrews Church. Everything went off very well. 6th & 7th At home 8th My dear old friend {{Image|file=Aah-505.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-506 1578]

J[im] Hamilton came from Sydney – quite well just as usual. He took Bessie to the opera while I went to my usual rehearsal at the church. At its conclusion I went to meet them, when we adjourned to Hosies Academy [of Music] Cafe and had some supper. Caught the last train home. 9th Jim came to dinner & afterwards, he & I went to pay a cousin of his (Mr. Robinson) a visit found them just arranging with a cab-man to take {{Image|file=Aah-506.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-507 1579]

out house hunting. We joined them & drove all round the neighbourhood with them. After tea I went to the Exhibition to a Rehearsal for a concert to be given there next Thursday. Home by 10.30. Sunday 10th Octr Church as usual. After the evening service, I met Jim & Bob Williamson. Jim is staying with Bob at Ascot Vale. Had a long chat together concerning our prospects under the new {{Image|file=Aah-507.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-508 1580]

regime of things with the present Govt things very unsettled. I am sadly afraid a lot of our fellows will suffer, myself in the number. 11 Octr. At home – the Johnstones 12 Octr At home 13 Octr Went to Rehearsal at Exhibition 14 Octr Conversazione by invitation at the Exhibition 15000 people present who had to stand for 4 hours – most uncomfortable affair. The Choirs sang two choruses. Boema, Christian & Lamble {{Image|file=Aah-508.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-509 1581]

& Charbonnet – principals, a good band etc 12 when we got home. Bessie very tired. 15th Octr.. Rehearsal at Church 16 Octr Stayd at home afternoon. In the evening in company with some members of choir I went to Junipers house at Hawthorne to practise the “Kinder Symphony” - nearly 12 pm when I got home. 17 Octr Church as usual. I took a strool in the evening after church with Bessie - on the pier. {{Image|file=Aah-509.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-510 1582]

18 Octr After tea Bess & I went to Pitts stayd a couple of hours. Hamilton still in town see him pretty often. 19 Octr Went to the Revd. Mr. Strongs house & had a practise of the “Kinder Symphony”. Home by 10.30pm. 20 Octr Rehearsal at the Exhibition for Carons Cantata which is to be reproduced on the 23rd. Met P Scott. 21 Octr Rehearsal at Strongs at 7 & at 8 ditto in the church for the Conversazione which takes place tomorrow evening. {{Image|file=Aah-510.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-511 1583]

At 9.30 I went up to St Patricks & sang in the Hallelujah Chorus to finish up a concert from the choir, at which all the notables in the musical line were assisting. Friday 22 Octr Conversazione at at Town Hall, in connexion with the Scots Church. Like most affairs of that sort, rather tame. The Kinder Symphony & some part singing constituted the musical portion. The rest was made up with speeches. 23 Octr. After Business I met {{Image|file=Aah-511.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-512 1584]

Hamilton & we had dinner together in town after which we met Bessie, & Jim [ Hamilton] & her having tickets for the Exhibition, went there. I followed afterwards & took part in the Cantata which was produced for the second time, by new principals, who with the exception of the sophram “Boema” were not so good as the originals. On leaving the Ex we went to Clements & had tea, from there home. 24 Octr. Hospital Sunday. The collection at the Scots Church I believe will head the list it amounted to over £155. {{Image|file=Aah-512.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-513 1585]

25 Octr At home. Took a short Walk with Bessie called at Smith’s, Punt Road, out. 26 Octr At home. Mr & Mrs. Pitts spent the evening with us. 27 Octr Hamilton to dinner. In the evening in company with several members of our choir, I went to the “Temperance Hall” & helpd Mr. Strong to entertain a lot of poor people he had induced to meet together. Mr. Strong & his wife are going to devote {{Image|file=Aah-513.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-514 1586]

every Wednesday night to this purpose, his principal object [is] to get the poorer class of children from the City state schools together & give them instruction in things more spiritual than they receive at the above. 28 [October 1880] Hamilton went to Tasmania to see his father. In the evening we went out for a strool. 29th Sang at Kew being the occasion of the opening of the Kew Recreation Hall Miss Mertz, Miss F. Mitchell, {{Image|file=Aah-514.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/76}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-515 1587]

Maroney & myself were the vocalists. 12 pm when I got home. 30th Octr On leaving business at 1pm I went to Sandridge to see J.J. Clark off by the Lyeemoon S.S. to Sydney where he has gone to make arrangements for entering into partnership with a firm of architects. 31st. Sunday at church as usual. 1st. Novr I went to hear the Elijah,. Mrs. Howitz, Miss Christian, Mr Lamble {{Image|file=Aah-515.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/77}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-516 1588]

& Mr Turner, the latter is a new tenor to Melb.[ourne] who sang very well. 2 Novr. [1880] Cup Day. Bess & I spent it at the Exhibition home by 5.15. Miss Lees & Mr & Mrs. Lees with Mrs. Smith, spent the evening with us. 3 Novr. At the Temperance Hall with Mr. & Mrs. Strong singing. 4 Novr. Rehearsal at the Exhibition for a choral symphony by Caron. Home at 10.30.1030. {{Image|file=Aah-516.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/78}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-518 1589]

5 Novr.[1880] Rehearsal at the Church for Sunday & also for the United P[resbyterian] Choirs Concert, which takes place on the 15 inst. 6th Novr. After business I went to the Exhibition & assisted at the production of Carons Cantata & his Choral Symphony – great success. [Signora] Venosta was the alto & my old friend Brown the Bass, the other parts as before. Bess & I in compay with Mrs Azzopardi took a strool about the place & viewed the exhibits till 6pm. 7 when we got home {{Image|file=Aah-518.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/79}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-519 1590]

very tired. Miss Campbell called & spent the evening. Got a letter from Clark he has not yet settled with the firm he went to join he is well in health & writes in good spirits & that is something for him 7th Novr. Church morning & eve. 8 Octr [Monday 8th November 1880] Spent evening at Mrs Oakleys, Octavia St 9 Octr [Tuesday 9th November 1880]Prince of Wales Birthday general holiday. To my surprise Clark called {{Image|file=Aah-519.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/80}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-520 1591]

in the morning having arrived the night before from Sydney. I spent the day at the Exhibition. On arriving home found Mrs. Deschamp & Mdm. Azzopardi (her mother) & M Picard who staid [for] tea & spent the evening with us. 10th Octr [Wednesday 10th November 1880] Spent the evening at Pitts. 11 Octr. [Thursday 11th November 1880] Spent the evening at Marsdens. 12 Octr. [Friday 12th November 1880] Rehearsal in the Town Hall for the United P[resbyterian] Choirs Concert which takes place on the 15th. 11pm when I got Bessie to dinner. {{Image|file=Aah-520.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/81}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-521 1592]

13 Octr.[Saturday 13th November 1880] At home in the afternoon. In the evening, Bess & I took a long walk on the beach home by 10pm 14 Church as usual - Pitts to dinner. 15th Concert at the Town Hall. Everything very satisfactory with the exception of the attendance which might have been larger. 16 At home 17 Spent the evening at {{Image|file=Aah-521.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/82}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-522 1593]

Mrs Palmers (Miss Rosina Carandini). Went through a little operette called the ‘Rose of Salency’,she has a class & purposes doing the work in public where she wishes me to do the tenor part. 18 [Thursday 18th November 1880]Bess & I went for a strol on the pier. 19th Rehearsal at Church as usual. 20 At home afternoon & evening. 21 Church as usual morn & Eevening, afternoon walk. {{Image|file=Aah-522.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/83}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-523 1594]

22 Spent the evening at Mrs. Mrs. Strongs singing. 23 Constitution Day partial holiday at work till 3.30 when in company with Bess I went to my sisters, Mrs. Bond at Hawthorn had tea there & spent a pleasent evening afterwards. 24th. In company with Miss Jukes & Miss Lees Mr Juniper I went to the Temperance Hall to assist the Revd C. Strong & Mrs. S[trong] in their usual entertainment there to the waifs & strays. I felt I {{Image|file=Aah-523.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/84}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-524 1595]

I was assisting in a good work, but under any other circumstances I would be very sorry to sing to such audiences as congregate there. It is very praiseworthy for Mr & Mrs. S[trong] to take such an interest in such a cause. 25 At home 26th. Church rehearsal as usual Met Bessie who had been at Deschamps Hawthorn. 27th. At home afternoon & evening. 28 Church as usual very {{Image|file=Aah-524.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/85}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-525 1596]

disigrable day hot & Dusty McNeil to dinner & tea 29th. Spent the da evening at Pitts. 30th. Mail arrived letter from father, he is going to send me out £240 & Fred £160 - next month. In the evening I went to the ‘[Theatre] Royal’ & saw Miss Pomeroy as “Imogen” in Cymberline [Cymbeline]. She is uneven somewhat but take her altogether she is an accomplished & clever actress. {{Image|file=Aah-525.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/86}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-526 1597]

1 Decr. /80 Spent the evening at Mrs. Palmers, singing afterwards, met Bessie at the train. 2 Decr. Very hot. Bess & I took a strool in the evening on the Esplanade & pier. 3 Decr. Church as usual, at rehearsal on arriving home found Bess very unwell. Mdm. Tasca had spent the evening with her, & she saw her part of the way home. {{Image|file=Aah-526.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/87}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-527 1598]

4 Decr./80 Wife very ill all last night. At daylight this morning I went for Doctor Dempster who sent me off for a nurse - as she was near her confinement which took place at ¼ to 10am. I had to go to business but on arriving home at 12.30, I was presented with a son, both going well. I was very tired after dinner & fell asleep till dark. Took a short walk after tea. {{Image|file=Aah-527.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/88}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-528 1599]

5 Decr. Church morn & evening. Went home to my sister Bessies, Hawthorn for dinner. George has been very ill with dysentry. I called at Junipers from there went to see Mdm Deschamps, at Camberwell had tea there & from there came into church. Found Bess all right. 6th. Decr. Spent evening at home. Pitts called & stayd for a short time, & also Clark. The latter is leaving Melb for good {{Image|file=Aah-528.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/89}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-529 1600]

to enter partnership with a Mr Blackman & also a son of Sir Hy [Henry] Parkes (premier of N.S.Wales) in Sydney. 7th In the evening I went to town for a short time to the office. 8th On arriving at my office this morning, I found a letter on my desk from the Commissioner ofRlys. Mr J.B.Patterson informing me that my services would be dispensed with on the 28th Feby next, & that I should have compensation to the extent of one month’s salary for every {{Image|file=Aah-529.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/90}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-530 1601]

year I had been in the service. I am very much cut up about it, for when a man arrives at the age I am, it is very hard to commence afresh. My wife is in bed & is not so well as I would like her to be, the baby appears to be thriving. Mother went for a fortnight to stay at Bessies - until my wife is up & about. Clark sailed for Sydney to day on the S.S. ‘Learei’ [sic]. I sincerely hope he will do well in his new undertaking. He has had his troubles lately. In the evening I went to {{Image|file=Aah-530.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/91}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-531 1602]

Mrs. Palmers house & had a sing. Met the youngest Miss Caridini, a pretty frailful girl, about 18. 9th Decr. At Home 10 Rehearsal as usual. Poor attendance. 11 Afternoon I went to see the S.S. Sorata she is in the [Alfred] Graving Dock at Wms Town. I went under her & saw the hole & bulge in her bottom where she lay on the rocks in BackStairs Passage, it is a wonder {{Image|file=Aah-531.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/92}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-532 1603]

they got her off & floated her to Melbourne – for her repairs. Stayd home in the evening. Bess & baby doing well. 12 Church as usual. C. Strong morn & eve. Afternoon had swarms of visitors. 13 Went to the office & afterwards took a strool about town. 14 Spent evening at home the Miss Johnsons called. 15 Went to Mrs. Palmers {{Image|file=Aah-532.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/93}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-533 1604]

Rehearsal for ‘Rose of Salency’. 16 At home 17th Rehearsal at church as usual. 18th Recd letter from Clark arrived in Sydney all right set into work earnestly I replied to it. In the Evening I went into town for a strool, have not yet seen Mr. Elsdon, this I have tried often enough he is so busy & his time so occupied. I saw his secretary Mr. Bradby who advises me {{Image|file=Aah-533.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/94}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-534 1605]

to accept my compensation & try & get another billet in the service at less salary if possible, which I will undoubtedly do. 19th [Sunday 19th December 1880] Church as usual. 20 Saw Mr. Eldson this morning. I had a long interview with him, but could not extract a promise from him to give me further employment – that is he would not commit himself, but promised to keep me in remembrance confound him! I {{Image|file=Aah-534.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/95}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-535 1606]

only wish he could feel as I do for a day. Im sure it would create more interest & sympathy in his breast, than what he appears to possess, however I must hope for the best. In the evening I went to Mrs. Palmers final rehearsal. Concert to take place on the 23 inst at Prahran Town Hall. 21st At home - Mr & Mrs Pitts. 22 At home. Mrs. Deschamp & her mother spent the evening with us. Saw Bob Williamson he is working hard for me at Sp StSpencer Street {{Image|file=Aah-535.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/96}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-536 1607]

23rd Mrs Palmers concert at the Prahran Town Hall great success, everything went off satisfactorily. Wrote to Hamilton. 24th At home 25th [Saturday 25th December 1880] Xmas day. Went to St Patricks & assisted in the production of Mozarts 12th mass. In the evening I went to hear the Messiah. Capital performance with the exception of Miss Annis Montague, who did not seem equal to the sopham part. Turner as tenor {{Image|file=Aah-536.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/97}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-537 1608]

was very good but took great liberties with the text which I did not consider an improvement. Angus & Miss Christian did the other part very satisfactorily. Mr. & Mrs Pitts spent the afternoon with us. 26th Dreadfully hot in the morning: 102^º in the shade. Church morn & evening. Owing to the holidays we had a very poor choir & the singing was not to the mark. {{Image|file=Aah-537.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/98}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-538 1609]

27th Boxing Day. I went with a party to Sale, 127 miles from Melb. long journey there & back in one day saw a great deal of the country 2½ hours at Sale, 11pm when I got home. 28 Returned to business. Home in the evening. 29 Ditto at home. Miss Campbell spent the evening. 30 Rehearsal at Church. 31 At home {{Image|file=Aah-538.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/99}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-539 1610]

1st Jany/81 In town in the morning for a short time. After[noon]? Bess & I took a strool on the Esplanade. In the Evening I went to assist in Carons “Victoria” Cantata at the Town [Hall] – a very successful performance. 2 Jany/81 Church morn & eve. Afternoon H Vickerman called & stayd [for] tea, he is down from Mt Macedon for a day or two. He looks well, has 5 children. Lizzie is still on Sandhurst. {{Image|file=Aah-539.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/100}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-540 1611]

9th January Week spent much as usual. Mail arrived brought £C from father £160 for Fred & £240 for self to enable us to clear the liabilities of our houses. The money could not have come at a more acceptable time. I have not yet got my deeds, but shall in a few days. Church as usual morn & eve. 10th Jany {{Image|file=Aah-540.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/101}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-541 1612]

Blank torn page {{Image|file=Aah-541.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/102}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-542 1613]

[last page notes] 1880 Concert Engagements Tuesday 24 August Revd. Danne Wednesday 25 -“- Scots Church Tuesday 7 Sept. W[illia]ms Town -”- 5 Octr. St Andrews Miss Jukes Come lassies & lads Mr Juniper A Warrior Bold Mr. W Angels listen Duett Larboard Watch {{Image|file=Aah-542.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/103}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-543 1614]

(rotated) [part of a torn off page covering part of page 09-101] (P H Moss - {{Red|*}}Cassidy origin….[torn off] a/c 3# If by chance a tear drop fall {{Image|file=Aah-543.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/104}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-544 1615]

MUSPRAT’S Imperial Patent Metallic Paper Memorandum Book. [Etc] {{Image|file=Aah-544.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/105}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-545 1616]

{{Image|file=Aah-545.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=9/106}} == Sources ==

In an attempt to come up with some organization of facts for Ann Massey-353 and Ann Massey-2016 in WikiTree, I've come up with some charts. The first is a listing of facts I found in WikiTree about each and what I already had (which came out as a PDF titled "1, 2, 3 -- Ann Massey-353; Ann Massey 2016 and daughter Ann Image 1") . Then I put them into a “timeline” along with info from FamilySearch and color-coded all of it (attached file named "color-coded chart for Ann Massey-353 and Ann Massey 2016"). Hopefully others can follow these. My sources aren't as great as they should have been since I based what I have on the research of others without recording their sources at the time. We've all made those mistakes in the past. We try to do better now, My conclusions, right or wrong – There were two woman named Ann Massey/Radford, one being the daughter of the other. There were also two women named Elizabeth, one being Ann’s sister and the other her daughter. If that’s true, Massey-353 and Massey-2016 are basically for the same Ann – the mother. The conflicting information should be attributed to her daughter in a new Profile. That may be an oversimplification of the situation, but without more sources (proof), it seems logic has to enter into the equation.

The 4th Territorial Battalion of the1st Battalion of the East Yorkshire Regiment was actually on training camp at the start of the war, but was not yet well enough organised for real warfare. This began by the training of its officers in Newcastle on Tyne. The Battalion sailed for France 15 April 1915 at something like full strength : 27 Officers, 932 other ranks and 30 horses. A couple of days later they moved up to the reserve lines, now 29 Officers and 1023 other ranks. ===St Julien 22 Apr-4 May 1915=== Almost at once they were in action in the Battle of St Julien 22 April-4th May 1915. The French force immediately adjacent to them was subjected to the first Gas Attack of the war and retreated in disorder. The East Yorkshires were moved into the front line in support of the Canadians already there. The 4th Territorials were reduced to 11 officers and 621 men - so only 18 days after arriving in France they had lost 18 officers (7 dead) and about 400 men

:::::::::'''1 SAMUEL''' ::::::::''9th Book of the [[Space:Bible|Old Testament]]'' ==Chapter 1== 1 Now there was a certain man of Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name was Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite: 2 And he had two wives; the name of the one was Hannah, and the name of the other Peninnah: and Peninnah had children, but Hannah had no children. 3 And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, were there. 4 And when the time was that Elkanah offered, he gave to Peninnah his wife, and to all her sons and her daughters, portions: 5 But unto Hannah he gave a worthy portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up her womb. 6 And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb. 7 And as he did so year by year, when she went up to the house of the LORD, so she provoked her; therefore she wept, and did not eat. 8 Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and why is thy heart grieved? am not I better to thee than ten sons? 9 So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD. 10 And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. 11 And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. 12 And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the LORD, that Eli marked her mouth. 13 Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken. 14 And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee. 15 And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD. 16 Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto. 17 Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him. 18 And she said, Let thine handmaid find grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat, and her countenance was no more sad. 19 And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD remembered her. 20 Wherefore it came to pass, when the time was come about after Hannah had conceived, that she bare a son, and called his name Samuel, saying, Because I have asked him of the LORD. 21 And the man Elkanah, and all his house, went up to offer unto the LORD the yearly sacrifice, and his vow. 22 But Hannah went not up; for she said unto her husband, I will not go up until the child be weaned, and then I will bring him, that he may appear before the LORD, and there abide for ever. 23 And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned him; only the LORD establish his word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she weaned him. 24 And when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with three bullocks, and one ephah of flour, and a bottle of wine, and brought him unto the house of the LORD in Shiloh: and the child was young. 25 And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli. 26 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD. 27 For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him: 28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there. ==Chapter 2== 1 And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation. 2 There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. 3 Talk no more so exceeding proudly; let not arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed. 4 The bows of the mighty men are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength. 5 They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble. 6 The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up. 7 The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. 8 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them. 9 He will keep the feet of his saints, and the wicked shall be silent in darkness; for by strength shall no man prevail. 10 The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them: the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his king, and exalt the horn of his anointed. 11 And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto the LORD before Eli the priest. 12 Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the LORD. 13 And the priests' custom with the people was, that, when any man offered sacrifice, the priest's servant came, while the flesh was in seething, with a fleshhook of three teeth in his hand; 14 And he struck it into the pan, or kettle, or caldron, or pot; all that the fleshhook brought up the priest took for himself. So they did in Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither. 15 Also before they burnt the fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed, Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw. 16 And if any man said unto him, Let them not fail to burn the fat presently, and then take as much as thy soul desireth; then he would answer him, Nay; but thou shalt give it me now: and if not, I will take it by force. 17 Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD. 18 But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod. 19 Moreover his mother made him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice. 20 And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife, and said, The LORD give thee seed of this woman for the loan which is lent to the LORD. And they went unto their own home. 21 And the LORD visited Hannah, so that she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And the child Samuel grew before the LORD. 22 Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation. 23 And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people. 24 Nay, my sons; for it is no good report that I hear: ye make the LORD'S people to transgress. 25 If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them. 26 And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men. 27 And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly appear unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh's house? 28 And did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to offer upon mine altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? and did I give unto the house of thy father all the offerings made by fire of the children of Israel? 29 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? 30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed. 31 Behold, the days come, that I will cut off thine arm, and the arm of thy father's house, that there shall not be an old man in thine house. 32 And thou shalt see an enemy in my habitation, in all the wealth which God shall give Israel: and there shall not be an old man in thine house for ever. 33 And the man of thine, whom I shall not cut off from mine altar, shall be to consume thine eyes, and to grieve thine heart: and all the increase of thine house shall die in the flower of their age. 34 And this shall be a sign unto thee, that shall come upon thy two sons, on Hophni and Phinehas; in one day they shall die both of them. 35 And I will raise me up a faithful priest, that shall do according to that which is in mine heart and in my mind: and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever. 36 And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left in thine house shall come and crouch to him for a piece of silver and a morsel of bread, and shall say, Put me, I pray thee, into one of the priests' offices, that I may eat a piece of bread. ==Chapter 3== 1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision. 2 And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; 3 And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; 4 That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. 5 And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down. 6 And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again. 7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him. 8 And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child. 9 Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth. 11 And the LORD said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle. 12 In that day I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house: when I begin, I will also make an end. 13 For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not. 14 And therefore I have sworn unto the house of Eli, that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be purged with sacrifice nor offering for ever. 15 And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened the doors of the house of the LORD. And Samuel feared to shew Eli the vision. 16 Then Eli called Samuel, and said, Samuel, my son. And he answered, Here am I. 17 And he said, What is the thing that the LORD hath said unto thee? I pray thee hide it not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide any thing from me of all the things that he said unto thee. 18 And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is the LORD: let him do what seemeth him good. 19 And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground. 20 And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD. 21 And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD. ==Chapter 4== 1 And the word of Samuel came to all Israel. Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle, and pitched beside Ebenezer: and the Philistines pitched in Aphek. 2 And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the army in the field about four thousand men. 3 And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh unto us, that, when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies. 4 So the people sent to Shiloh, that they might bring from thence the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth between the cherubims: and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God. 5 And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again. 6 And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, What meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews? And they understood that the ark of the LORD was come into the camp. 7 And the Philistines were afraid, for they said, God is come into the camp. And they said, Woe unto us! for there hath not been such a thing heretofore. 8 Woe unto us! who shall deliver us out of the hand of these mighty Gods? these are the Gods that smote the Egyptians with all the plagues in the wilderness. 9 Be strong, and quit yourselves like men, O ye Philistines, that ye be not servants unto the Hebrews, as they have been to you: quit yourselves like men, and fight. 10 And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten, and they fled every man into his tent: and there was a very great slaughter; for there fell of Israel thirty thousand footmen. 11 And the ark of God was taken; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were slain. 12 And there ran a man of Benjamin out of the army, and came to Shiloh the same day with his clothes rent, and with earth upon his head. 13 And when he came, lo, Eli sat upon a seat by the wayside watching: for his heart trembled for the ark of God. And when the man came into the city, and told it, all the city cried out. 14 And when Eli heard the noise of the crying, he said, What meaneth the noise of this tumult? And the man came in hastily, and told Eli. 15 Now Eli was ninety and eight years old; and his eyes were dim, that he could not see. 16 And the man said unto Eli, I am he that came out of the army, and I fled to day out of the army. And he said, What is there done, my son? 17 And the messenger answered and said, Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath been also a great slaughter among the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God is taken. 18 And it came to pass, when he made mention of the ark of God, that he fell from off the seat backward by the side of the gate, and his neck brake, and he died: for he was an old man, and heavy. And he had judged Israel forty years. 19 And his daughter in law, Phinehas' wife, was with child, near to be delivered: and when she heard the tidings that the ark of God was taken, and that her father in law and her husband were dead, she bowed herself and travailed; for her pains came upon her. 20 And about the time of her death the women that stood by her said unto her, Fear not; for thou hast born a son. But she answered not, neither did she regard it. 21 And she named the child Ichabod, saying, The glory is departed from Israel: because the ark of God was taken, and because of her father in law and her husband. 22 And she said, The glory is departed from Israel: for the ark of God is taken. ==Chapter 5== 1 And the Philistines took the ark of God, and brought it from Ebenezer unto Ashdod. 2 When the Philistines took the ark of God, they brought it into the house of Dagon, and set it by Dagon. 3 And when they of Ashdod arose early on the morrow, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the earth before the ark of the LORD. And they took Dagon, and set him in his place again. 4 And when they arose early on the morrow morning, behold, Dagon was fallen upon his face to the ground before the ark of the LORD; and the head of Dagon and both the palms of his hands were cut off upon the threshold; only the stump of Dagon was left to him. 5 Therefore neither the priests of Dagon, nor any that come into Dagon's house, tread on the threshold of Dagon in Ashdod unto this day. 6 But the hand of the LORD was heavy upon them of Ashdod, and he destroyed them, and smote them with emerods, even Ashdod and the coasts thereof. 7 And when the men of Ashdod saw that it was so, they said, The ark of the God of Israel shall not abide with us: for his hand is sore upon us, and upon Dagon our god. 8 They sent therefore and gathered all the lords of the Philistines unto them, and said, What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel? And they answered, Let the ark of the God of Israel be carried about unto Gath. And they carried the ark of the God of Israel about thither. 9 And it was so, that, after they had carried it about, the hand of the LORD was against the city with a very great destruction: and he smote the men of the city, both small and great, and they had emerods in their secret parts. 10 Therefore they sent the ark of God to Ekron. And it came to pass, as the ark of God came to Ekron, that the Ekronites cried out, saying, They have brought about the ark of the God of Israel to us, to slay us and our people. 11 So they sent and gathered together all the lords of the Philistines, and said, Send away the ark of the God of Israel, and let it go again to his own place, that it slay us not, and our people: for there was a deadly destruction throughout all the city; the hand of God was very heavy there. 12 And the men that died not were smitten with the emerods: and the cry of the city went up to heaven. ==Chapter 6== 1 And the ark of the LORD was in the country of the Philistines seven months. 2 And the Philistines called for the priests and the diviners, saying, What shall we do to the ark of the LORD? tell us wherewith we shall send it to his place. 3 And they said, If ye send away the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty; but in any wise return him a trespass offering: then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand is not removed from you. 4 Then said they, What shall be the trespass offering which we shall return to him? They answered, Five golden emerods, and five golden mice, according to the number of the lords of the Philistines: for one plague was on you all, and on your lords. 5 Wherefore ye shall make images of your emerods, and images of your mice that mar the land; and ye shall give glory unto the God of Israel: peradventure he will lighten his hand from off you, and from off your gods, and from off your land. 6 Wherefore then do ye harden your hearts, as the Egyptians and Pharaoh hardened their hearts? when he had wrought wonderfully among them, did they not let the people go, and they departed? 7 Now therefore make a new cart, and take two milch kine, on which there hath come no yoke, and tie the kine to the cart, and bring their calves home from them: 8 And take the ark of the LORD, and lay it upon the cart; and put the jewels of gold, which ye return him for a trespass offering, in a coffer by the side thereof; and send it away, that it may go. 9 And see, if it goeth up by the way of his own coast to Bethshemesh, then he hath done us this great evil: but if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand that smote us: it was a chance that happened to us. 10 And the men did so; and took two milch kine, and tied them to the cart, and shut up their calves at home: 11 And they laid the ark of the LORD upon the cart, and the coffer with the mice of gold and the images of their emerods. 12 And the kine took the straight way to the way of Bethshemesh, and went along the highway, lowing as they went, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left; and the lords of the Philistines went after them unto the border of Bethshemesh. 13 And they of Bethshemesh were reaping their wheat harvest in the valley: and they lifted up their eyes, and saw the ark, and rejoiced to see it. 14 And the cart came into the field of Joshua, a Bethshemite, and stood there, where there was a great stone: and they clave the wood of the cart, and offered the kine a burnt offering unto the LORD. 15 And the Levites took down the ark of the LORD, and the coffer that was with it, wherein the jewels of gold were, and put them on the great stone: and the men of Bethshemesh offered burnt offerings and sacrificed sacrifices the same day unto the LORD. 16 And when the five lords of the Philistines had seen it, they returned to Ekron the same day. 17 And these are the golden emerods which the Philistines returned for a trespass offering unto the LORD; for Ashdod one, for Gaza one, for Askelon one, for Gath one, for Ekron one; 18 And the golden mice, according to the number of all the cities of the Philistines belonging to the five lords, both of fenced cities, and of country villages, even unto the great stone of Abel, whereon they set down the ark of the LORD: which stone remaineth unto this day in the field of Joshua, the Bethshemite. 19 And he smote the men of Bethshemesh, because they had looked into the ark of the LORD, even he smote of the people fifty thousand and threescore and ten men: and the people lamented, because the LORD had smitten many of the people with a great slaughter. 20 And the men of Bethshemesh said, Who is able to stand before this holy LORD God? and to whom shall he go up from us? 21 And they sent messengers to the inhabitants of Kirjathjearim, saying, The Philistines have brought again the ark of the LORD; come ye down, and fetch it up to you. ==Chapter 7== 1 And the men of Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD. 2 And it came to pass, while the ark abode in Kirjathjearim, that the time was long; for it was twenty years: and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD. 3 And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines. 4 Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only. 5 And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the LORD. 6 And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD. And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh. 7 And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines. 8 And the children of Israel said to Samuel, Cease not to cry unto the LORD our God for us, that he will save us out of the hand of the Philistines. 9 And Samuel took a sucking lamb, and offered it for a burnt offering wholly unto the LORD: and Samuel cried unto the LORD for Israel; and the LORD heard him. 10 And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel. 11 And the men of Israel went out of Mizpeh, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, until they came under Bethcar. 12 Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us. 13 So the Philistines were subdued, and they came no more into the coast of Israel: and the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. 14 And the cities which the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron even unto Gath; and the coasts thereof did Israel deliver out of the hands of the Philistines. And there was peace between Israel and the Amorites. 15 And Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. 16 And he went from year to year in circuit to Bethel, and Gilgal, and Mizpeh, and judged Israel in all those places. 17 And his return was to Ramah; for there was his house; and there he judged Israel; and there he built an altar unto the LORD. ==Chapter 8== 1 And it came to pass, when Samuel was old, that he made his sons judges over Israel. 2 Now the name of his firstborn was Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: they were judges in Beersheba. 3 And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment. 4 Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah, 5 And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations. 6 But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD. 7 And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. 8 According to all the works which they have done since the day that I brought them up out of Egypt even unto this day, wherewith they have forsaken me, and served other gods, so do they also unto thee. 9 Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet protest solemnly unto them, and shew them the manner of the king that shall reign over them. 10 And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king. 11 And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen; and some shall run before his chariots. 12 And he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties; and will set them to ear his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots. 13 And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers. 14 And he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your oliveyards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants. 15 And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants. 16 And he will take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your goodliest young men, and your asses, and put them to his work. 17 He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants. 18 And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye shall have chosen you; and the LORD will not hear you in that day. 19 Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, Nay; but we will have a king over us; 20 That we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles. 21 And Samuel heard all the words of the people, and he rehearsed them in the ears of the LORD. 22 And the LORD said to Samuel, Hearken unto their voice, and make them a king. And Samuel said unto the men of Israel, Go ye every man unto his city. ==Chapter 9== 1 Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power. 2 And he had a son, whose name was Saul, a choice young man, and a goodly: and there was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward he was higher than any of the people. 3 And the asses of Kish Saul's father were lost. And Kish said to Saul his son, Take now one of the servants with thee, and arise, go seek the asses. 4 And he passed through mount Ephraim, and passed through the land of Shalisha, but they found them not: then they passed through the land of Shalim, and there they were not: and he passed through the land of the Benjamites, but they found them not. 5 And when they were come to the land of Zuph, Saul said to his servant that was with him, Come, and let us return; lest my father leave caring for the asses, and take thought for us. 6 And he said unto him, Behold now, there is in this city a man of God, and he is an honourable man; all that he saith cometh surely to pass: now let us go thither; peradventure he can shew us our way that we should go. 7 Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, if we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we? 8 And the servant answered Saul again, and said, Behold, I have here at hand the fourth part of a shekel of silver: that will I give to the man of God, to tell us our way. 9 (Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to the seer: for he that is now called a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer.) 10 Then said Saul to his servant, Well said; come, let us go. So they went unto the city where the man of God was. 11 And as they went up the hill to the city, they found young maidens going out to draw water, and said unto them, Is the seer here? 12 And they answered them, and said, He is; behold, he is before you: make haste now, for he came to day to the city; for there is a sacrifice of the people to day in the high place: 13 As soon as ye be come into the city, ye shall straightway find him, before he go up to the high place to eat: for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth bless the sacrifice; and afterwards they eat that be bidden. Now therefore get you up; for about this time ye shall find him. 14 And they went up into the city: and when they were come into the city, behold, Samuel came out against them, for to go up to the high place. 15 Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying, 16 To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be captain over my people Israel, that he may save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me. 17 And when Samuel saw Saul, the LORD said unto him, Behold the man whom I spake to thee of! this same shall reign over my people. 18 Then Saul drew near to Samuel in the gate, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, where the seer's house is. 19 And Samuel answered Saul, and said, I am the seer: go up before me unto the high place; for ye shall eat with me to day, and to morrow I will let thee go, and will tell thee all that is in thine heart. 20 And as for thine asses that were lost three days ago, set not thy mind on them; for they are found. And on whom is all the desire of Israel? Is it not on thee, and on all thy father's house? 21 And Saul answered and said, Am not I a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel? and my family the least of all the families of the tribe of Benjamin? wherefore then speakest thou so to me? 22 And Samuel took Saul and his servant, and brought them into the parlour, and made them sit in the chiefest place among them that were bidden, which were about thirty persons. 23 And Samuel said unto the cook, Bring the portion which I gave thee, of which I said unto thee, Set it by thee. 24 And the cook took up the shoulder, and that which was upon it, and set it before Saul. And Samuel said, Behold that which is left! set it before thee, and eat: for unto this time hath it been kept for thee since I said, I have invited the people. So Saul did eat with Samuel that day. 25 And when they were come down from the high place into the city, Samuel communed with Saul upon the top of the house. 26 And they arose early: and it came to pass about the spring of the day, that Samuel called Saul to the top of the house, saying, Up, that I may send thee away. And Saul arose, and they went out both of them, he and Samuel, abroad. 27 And as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee the word of God. ==Chapter 10== 1 Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance? 2 When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The asses which thou wentest to seek are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son? 3 Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine: 4 And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands. 5 After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy: 6 And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man. 7 And let it be, when these signs are come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee; for God is with thee. 8 And thou shalt go down before me to Gilgal; and, behold, I will come down unto thee, to offer burnt offerings, and to sacrifice sacrifices of peace offerings: seven days shalt thou tarry, till I come to thee, and shew thee what thou shalt do. 9 And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day. 10 And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them. 11 And it came to pass, when all that knew him beforetime saw that, behold, he prophesied among the prophets, then the people said one to another, What is this that is come unto the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets? 12 And one of the same place answered and said, But who is their father? Therefore it became a proverb, Is Saul also among the prophets? 13 And when he had made an end of prophesying, he came to the high place. 14 And Saul's uncle said unto him and to his servant, Whither went ye? And he said, To seek the asses: and when we saw that they were no where, we came to Samuel. 15 And Saul's uncle said, Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto you. 16 And Saul said unto his uncle, He told us plainly that the asses were found. But of the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he told him not. 17 And Samuel called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh; 18 And said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, and of them that oppressed you: 19 And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands. 20 And when Samuel had caused all the tribes of Israel to come near, the tribe of Benjamin was taken. 21 When he had caused the tribe of Benjamin to come near by their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken: and when they sought him, he could not be found. 22 Therefore they enquired of the LORD further, if the man should yet come thither. And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff. 23 And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward. 24 And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the LORD hath chosen, that there is none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king. 25 Then Samuel told the people the manner of the kingdom, and wrote it in a book, and laid it up before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people away, every man to his house. 26 And Saul also went home to Gibeah; and there went with him a band of men, whose hearts God had touched. 27 But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought him no presents. But he held his peace. ==Chapter 11== 1 Then Nahash the Ammonite came up, and encamped against Jabeshgilead: and all the men of Jabesh said unto Nahash, Make a covenant with us, and we will serve thee. 2 And Nahash the Ammonite answered them, On this condition will I make a covenant with you, that I may thrust out all your right eyes, and lay it for a reproach upon all Israel. 3 And the elders of Jabesh said unto him, Give us seven days' respite, that we may send messengers unto all the coasts of Israel: and then, if there be no man to save us, we will come out to thee. 4 Then came the messengers to Gibeah of Saul, and told the tidings in the ears of the people: and all the people lifted up their voices, and wept. 5 And, behold, Saul came after the herd out of the field; and Saul said, What aileth the people that they weep? And they told him the tidings of the men of Jabesh. 6 And the Spirit of God came upon Saul when he heard those tidings, and his anger was kindled greatly. 7 And he took a yoke of oxen, and hewed them in pieces, and sent them throughout all the coasts of Israel by the hands of messengers, saying, Whosoever cometh not forth after Saul and after Samuel, so shall it be done unto his oxen. And the fear of the LORD fell on the people, and they came out with one consent. 8 And when he numbered them in Bezek, the children of Israel were three hundred thousand, and the men of Judah thirty thousand. 9 And they said unto the messengers that came, Thus shall ye say unto the men of Jabeshgilead, To morrow, by that time the sun be hot, ye shall have help. And the messengers came and shewed it to the men of Jabesh; and they were glad. 10 Therefore the men of Jabesh said, To morrow we will come out unto you, and ye shall do with us all that seemeth good unto you. 11 And it was so on the morrow, that Saul put the people in three companies; and they came into the midst of the host in the morning watch, and slew the Ammonites until the heat of the day: and it came to pass, that they which remained were scattered, so that two of them were not left together. 12 And the people said unto Samuel, Who is he that said, Shall Saul reign over us? bring the men, that we may put them to death. 13 And Saul said, There shall not a man be put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath wrought salvation in Israel. 14 Then said Samuel to the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there. 15 And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before the LORD; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly. ==Chapter 12== 1 And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have hearkened unto your voice in all that ye said unto me, and have made a king over you. 2 And now, behold, the king walketh before you: and I am old and grayheaded; and, behold, my sons are with you: and I have walked before you from my childhood unto this day. 3 Behold, here I am: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received any bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you. 4 And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man's hand. 5 And he said unto them, The LORD is witness against you, and his anointed is witness this day, that ye have not found ought in my hand. And they answered, He is witness. 6 And Samuel said unto the people, It is the LORD that advanced Moses and Aaron, and that brought your fathers up out of the land of Egypt. 7 Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you before the LORD of all the righteous acts of the LORD, which he did to you and to your fathers. 8 When Jacob was come into Egypt, and your fathers cried unto the LORD, then the LORD sent Moses and Aaron, which brought forth your fathers out of Egypt, and made them dwell in this place. 9 And when they forgat the LORD their God, he sold them into the hand of Sisera, captain of the host of Hazor, and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the king of Moab, and they fought against them. 10 And they cried unto the LORD, and said, We have sinned, because we have forsaken the LORD, and have served Baalim and Ashtaroth: but now deliver us out of the hand of our enemies, and we will serve thee. 11 And the LORD sent Jerubbaal, and Bedan, and Jephthah, and Samuel, and delivered you out of the hand of your enemies on every side, and ye dwelled safe. 12 And when ye saw that Nahash the king of the children of Ammon came against you, ye said unto me, Nay; but a king shall reign over us: when the LORD your God was your king. 13 Now therefore behold the king whom ye have chosen, and whom ye have desired! and, behold, the LORD hath set a king over you. 14 If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God: 15 But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers. 16 Now therefore stand and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes. 17 Is it not wheat harvest to day? I will call unto the LORD, and he shall send thunder and rain; that ye may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a king. 18 So Samuel called unto the LORD; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel. 19 And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not: for we have added unto all our sins this evil, to ask us a king. 20 And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart; 21 And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain. 22 For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people. 23 Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way: 24 Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you. 25 But if ye shall still do wickedly, ye shall be consumed, both ye and your king. ==Chapter 13== 1 Saul reigned one year; and when he had reigned two years over Israel, 2 Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent. 3 And Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, Let the Hebrews hear. 4 And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten a garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the Philistines. And the people were called together after Saul to Gilgal. 5 And the Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which is on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and pitched in Michmash, eastward from Bethaven. 6 When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits. 7 And some of the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling. 8 And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him. 9 And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering. 10 And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him. 11 And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash; 12 Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering. 13 And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. 14 But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee. 15 And Samuel arose, and gat him up from Gilgal unto Gibeah of Benjamin. And Saul numbered the people that were present with him, about six hundred men. 16 And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that were present with them, abode in Gibeah of Benjamin: but the Philistines encamped in Michmash. 17 And the spoilers came out of the camp of the Philistines in three companies: one company turned unto the way that leadeth to Ophrah, unto the land of Shual: 18 And another company turned the way to Bethhoron: and another company turned to the way of the border that looketh to the valley of Zeboim toward the wilderness. 19 Now there was no smith found throughout all the land of Israel: for the Philistines said, Lest the Hebrews make them swords or spears: 20 But all the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to sharpen every man his share, and his coulter, and his axe, and his mattock. 21 Yet they had a file for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks, and for the axes, and to sharpen the goads. 22 So it came to pass in the day of battle, that there was neither sword nor spear found in the hand of any of the people that were with Saul and Jonathan: but with Saul and with Jonathan his son was there found. 23 And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash. ==Chapter 14== 1 Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that is on the other side. But he told not his father. 2 And Saul tarried in the uttermost part of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree which is in Migron: and the people that were with him were about six hundred men; 3 And Ahiah, the son of Ahitub, Ichabod's brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the LORD'S priest in Shiloh, wearing an ephod. And the people knew not that Jonathan was gone. 4 And between the passages, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines' garrison, there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh. 5 The forefront of the one was situate northward over against Michmash, and the other southward over against Gibeah. 6 And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few. 7 And his armourbearer said unto him, Do all that is in thine heart: turn thee; behold, I am with thee according to thy heart. 8 Then said Jonathan, Behold, we will pass over unto these men, and we will discover ourselves unto them. 9 If they say thus unto us, Tarry until we come to you; then we will stand still in our place, and will not go up unto them. 10 But if they say thus, Come up unto us; then we will go up: for the LORD hath delivered them into our hand: and this shall be a sign unto us. 11 And both of them discovered themselves unto the garrison of the Philistines: and the Philistines said, Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the holes where they had hid themselves. 12 And the men of the garrison answered Jonathan and his armourbearer, and said, Come up to us, and we will shew you a thing. And Jonathan said unto his armourbearer, Come up after me: for the LORD hath delivered them into the hand of Israel. 13 And Jonathan climbed up upon his hands and upon his feet, and his armourbearer after him: and they fell before Jonathan; and his armourbearer slew after him. 14 And that first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armourbearer made, was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke of oxen might plow. 15 And there was trembling in the host, in the field, and among all the people: the garrison, and the spoilers, they also trembled, and the earth quaked: so it was a very great trembling. 16 And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked; and, behold, the multitude melted away, and they went on beating down one another. 17 Then said Saul unto the people that were with him, Number now, and see who is gone from us. And when they had numbered, behold, Jonathan and his armourbearer were not there. 18 And Saul said unto Ahiah, Bring hither the ark of God. For the ark of God was at that time with the children of Israel. 19 And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the priest, that the noise that was in the host of the Philistines went on and increased: and Saul said unto the priest, Withdraw thine hand. 20 And Saul and all the people that were with him assembled themselves, and they came to the battle: and, behold, every man's sword was against his fellow, and there was a very great discomfiture. 21 Moreover the Hebrews that were with the Philistines before that time, which went up with them into the camp from the country round about, even they also turned to be with the Israelites that were with Saul and Jonathan. 22 Likewise all the men of Israel which had hid themselves in mount Ephraim, when they heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed hard after them in the battle. 23 So the LORD saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over unto Bethaven. 24 And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the people, saying, Cursed be the man that eateth any food until evening, that I may be avenged on mine enemies. So none of the people tasted any food. 25 And all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey upon the ground. 26 And when the people were come into the wood, behold, the honey dropped; but no man put his hand to his mouth: for the people feared the oath. 27 But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened. 28 Then answered one of the people, and said, Thy father straitly charged the people with an oath, saying, Cursed be the man that eateth any food this day. And the people were faint. 29 Then said Jonathan, My father hath troubled the land: see, I pray you, how mine eyes have been enlightened, because I tasted a little of this honey. 30 How much more, if haply the people had eaten freely to day of the spoil of their enemies which they found? for had there not been now a much greater slaughter among the Philistines? 31 And they smote the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon: and the people were very faint. 32 And the people flew upon the spoil, and took sheep, and oxen, and calves, and slew them on the ground: and the people did eat them with the blood. 33 Then they told Saul, saying, Behold, the people sin against the LORD, in that they eat with the blood. And he said, Ye have transgressed: roll a great stone unto me this day. 34 And Saul said, Disperse yourselves among the people, and say unto them, Bring me hither every man his ox, and every man his sheep, and slay them here, and eat; and sin not against the LORD in eating with the blood. And all the people brought every man his ox with him that night, and slew them there. 35 And Saul built an altar unto the LORD: the same was the first altar that he built unto the LORD. 36 And Saul said, Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them. And they said, Do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee. Then said the priest, Let us draw near hither unto God. 37 And Saul asked counsel of God, Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into the hand of Israel? But he answered him not that day. 38 And Saul said, Draw ye near hither, all the chief of the people: and know and see wherein this sin hath been this day. 39 For, as the LORD liveth, which saveth Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he shall surely die. But there was not a man among all the people that answered him. 40 Then said he unto all Israel, Be ye on one side, and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side. And the people said unto Saul, Do what seemeth good unto thee. 41 Therefore Saul said unto the LORD God of Israel, Give a perfect lot. And Saul and Jonathan were taken: but the people escaped. 42 And Saul said, Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son. And Jonathan was taken. 43 Then Saul said to Jonathan, Tell me what thou hast done. And Jonathan told him, and said, I did but taste a little honey with the end of the rod that was in mine hand, and, lo, I must die. 44 And Saul answered, God do so and more also: for thou shalt surely die, Jonathan. 45 And the people said unto Saul, Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought this great salvation in Israel? God forbid: as the LORD liveth, there shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground; for he hath wrought with God this day. So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not. 46 Then Saul went up from following the Philistines: and the Philistines went to their own place. 47 So Saul took the kingdom over Israel, and fought against all his enemies on every side, against Moab, and against the children of Ammon, and against Edom, and against the kings of Zobah, and against the Philistines: and whithersoever he turned himself, he vexed them. 48 And he gathered an host, and smote the Amalekites, and delivered Israel out of the hands of them that spoiled them. 49 Now the sons of Saul were Jonathan, and Ishui, and Melchishua: and the names of his two daughters were these; the name of the firstborn Merab, and the name of the younger Michal: 50 And the name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam, the daughter of Ahimaaz: and the name of the captain of his host was Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's uncle. 51 And Kish was the father of Saul; and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel. 52 And there was sore war against the Philistines all the days of Saul: and when Saul saw any strong man, or any valiant man, he took him unto him. ==Chapter 15== 1 Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD. 2 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt. 3 Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass. 4 And Saul gathered the people together, and numbered them in Telaim, two hundred thousand footmen, and ten thousand men of Judah. 5 And Saul came to a city of Amalek, and laid wait in the valley. 6 And Saul said unto the Kenites, Go, depart, get you down from among the Amalekites, lest I destroy you with them: for ye shewed kindness to all the children of Israel, when they came up out of Egypt. So the Kenites departed from among the Amalekites. 7 And Saul smote the Amalekites from Havilah until thou comest to Shur, that is over against Egypt. 8 And he took Agag the king of the Amalekites alive, and utterly destroyed all the people with the edge of the sword. 9 But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them: but every thing that was vile and refuse, that they destroyed utterly. 10 Then came the word of the LORD unto Samuel, saying, 11 It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all night. 12 And when Samuel rose early to meet Saul in the morning, it was told Samuel, saying, Saul came to Carmel, and, behold, he set him up a place, and is gone about, and passed on, and gone down to Gilgal. 13 And Samuel came to Saul: and Saul said unto him, Blessed be thou of the LORD: I have performed the commandment of the LORD. 14 And Samuel said, What meaneth then this bleating of the sheep in mine ears, and the lowing of the oxen which I hear? 15 And Saul said, They have brought them from the Amalekites: for the people spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God; and the rest we have utterly destroyed. 16 Then Samuel said unto Saul, Stay, and I will tell thee what the LORD hath said to me this night. And he said unto him, Say on. 17 And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel? 18 And the LORD sent thee on a journey, and said, Go and utterly destroy the sinners the Amalekites, and fight against them until they be consumed. 19 Wherefore then didst thou not obey the voice of the LORD, but didst fly upon the spoil, and didst evil in the sight of the LORD? 20 And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. 21 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. 22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king. 24 And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. 25 Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD. 26 And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD hath rejected thee from being king over Israel. 27 And as Samuel turned about to go away, he laid hold upon the skirt of his mantle, and it rent. 28 And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou. 29 And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent. 30 Then he said, I have sinned: yet honour me now, I pray thee, before the elders of my people, and before Israel, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD thy God. 31 So Samuel turned again after Saul; and Saul worshipped the LORD. 32 Then said Samuel, Bring ye hither to me Agag the king of the Amalekites. And Agag came unto him delicately. And Agag said, Surely the bitterness of death is past. 33 And Samuel said, As thy sword hath made women childless, so shall thy mother be childless among women. And Samuel hewed Agag in pieces before the LORD in Gilgal. 34 Then Samuel went to Ramah; and Saul went up to his house to Gibeah of Saul. 35 And Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul: and the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel. ==Chapter 16== 1 And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons. 2 And Samuel said, How can I go? if Saul hear it, he will kill me. And the LORD said, Take an heifer with thee, and say, I am come to sacrifice to the LORD. 3 And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will shew thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me him whom I name unto thee. 4 And Samuel did that which the LORD spake, and came to Bethlehem. And the elders of the town trembled at his coming, and said, Comest thou peaceably? 5 And he said, Peaceably: I am come to sacrifice unto the LORD: sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice. And he sanctified Jesse and his sons, and called them to the sacrifice. 6 And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD'S anointed is before him. 7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. 8 Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this. 9 Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this. 10 Again, Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, The LORD hath not chosen these. 11 And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither. 12 And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he. 13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah. 14 But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him. 15 And Saul's servants said unto him, Behold now, an evil spirit from God troubleth thee. 16 Let our lord now command thy servants, which are before thee, to seek out a man, who is a cunning player on an harp: and it shall come to pass, when the evil spirit from God is upon thee, that he shall play with his hand, and thou shalt be well. 17 And Saul said unto his servants, Provide me now a man that can play well, and bring him to me. 18 Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him. 19 Wherefore Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David thy son, which is with the sheep. 20 And Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them by David his son unto Saul. 21 And David came to Saul, and stood before him: and he loved him greatly; and he became his armourbearer. 22 And Saul sent to Jesse, saying, Let David, I pray thee, stand before me; for he hath found favour in my sight. 23 And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him. ==Chapter 17== 1 Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and were gathered together at Shochoh, which belongeth to Judah, and pitched between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephesdammim. 2 And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines. 3 And the Philistines stood on a mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them. 4 And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. 5 And he had an helmet of brass upon his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass. 6 And he had greaves of brass upon his legs, and a target of brass between his shoulders. 7 And the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam; and his spear's head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and one bearing a shield went before him. 8 And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me. 9 If he be able to fight with me, and to kill me, then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us. 10 And the Philistine said, I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together. 11 When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid. 12 Now David was the son of that Ephrathite of Bethlehemjudah, whose name was Jesse; and he had eight sons: and the man went among men for an old man in the days of Saul. 13 And the three eldest sons of Jesse went and followed Saul to the battle: and the names of his three sons that went to the battle were Eliab the firstborn, and next unto him Abinadab, and the third Shammah. 14 And David was the youngest: and the three eldest followed Saul. 15 But David went and returned from Saul to feed his father's sheep at Bethlehem. 16 And the Philistine drew near morning and evening, and presented himself forty days. 17 And Jesse said unto David his son, Take now for thy brethren an ephah of this parched corn, and these ten loaves, and run to the camp to thy brethren; 18 And carry these ten cheeses unto the captain of their thousand, and look how thy brethren fare, and take their pledge. 19 Now Saul, and they, and all the men of Israel, were in the valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines. 20 And David rose up early in the morning, and left the sheep with a keeper, and took, and went, as Jesse had commanded him; and he came to the trench, as the host was going forth to the fight, and shouted for the battle. 21 For Israel and the Philistines had put the battle in array, army against army. 22 And David left his carriage in the hand of the keeper of the carriage, and ran into the army, and came and saluted his brethren. 23 And as he talked with them, behold, there came up the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the armies of the Philistines, and spake according to the same words: and David heard them. 24 And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid. 25 And the men of Israel said, Have ye seen this man that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be, that the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free in Israel. 26 And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel? for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God? 27 And the people answered him after this manner, saying, So shall it be done to the man that killeth him. 28 And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. 29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? 30 And he turned from him toward another, and spake after the same manner: and the people answered him again after the former manner. 31 And when the words were heard which David spake, they rehearsed them before Saul: and he sent for him. 32 And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine. 33 And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. 34 And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: 35 And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. 36 Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. 37 David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee. 38 And Saul armed David with his armour, and he put an helmet of brass upon his head; also he armed him with a coat of mail. 39 And David girded his sword upon his armour, and he assayed to go; for he had not proved it. And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them. And David put them off him. 40 And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine. 41 And the Philistine came on and drew near unto David; and the man that bare the shield went before him. 42 And when the Philistine looked about, and saw David, he disdained him: for he was but a youth, and ruddy, and of a fair countenance. 43 And the Philistine said unto David, Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 44 And the Philistine said to David, Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air, and to the beasts of the field. 45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. 46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 47 And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands. 48 And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 49 And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran, and stood upon the Philistine, and took his sword, and drew it out of the sheath thereof, and slew him, and cut off his head therewith. And when the Philistines saw their champion was dead, they fled. 52 And the men of Israel and of Judah arose, and shouted, and pursued the Philistines, until thou come to the valley, and to the gates of Ekron. And the wounded of the Philistines fell down by the way to Shaaraim, even unto Gath, and unto Ekron. 53 And the children of Israel returned from chasing after the Philistines, and they spoiled their tents. 54 And David took the head of the Philistine, and brought it to Jerusalem; but he put his armour in his tent. 55 And when Saul saw David go forth against the Philistine, he said unto Abner, the captain of the host, Abner, whose son is this youth? And Abner said, As thy soul liveth, O king, I cannot tell. 56 And the king said, Enquire thou whose son the stripling is. 57 And as David returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, Abner took him, and brought him before Saul with the head of the Philistine in his hand. 58 And Saul said to him, Whose son art thou, thou young man? And David answered, I am the son of thy servant Jesse the Bethlehemite. ==Chapter 18== 1 And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house. 3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. 4 And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle. 5 And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants. 6 And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick. 7 And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. 8 And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom? 9 And Saul eyed David from that day and forward. 10 And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as at other times: and there was a javelin in Saul's hand. 11 And Saul cast the javelin; for he said, I will smite David even to the wall with it. And David avoided out of his presence twice. 12 And Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, and was departed from Saul. 13 Therefore Saul removed him from him, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people. 14 And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him. 15 Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely, he was afraid of him. 16 But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he went out and came in before them. 17 And Saul said to David, Behold my elder daughter Merab, her will I give thee to wife: only be thou valiant for me, and fight the LORD'S battles. For Saul said, Let not mine hand be upon him, but let the hand of the Philistines be upon him. 18 And David said unto Saul, Who am I? and what is my life, or my father's family in Israel, that I should be son in law to the king? 19 But it came to pass at the time when Merab Saul's daughter should have been given to David, that she was given unto Adriel the Meholathite to wife. 20 And Michal Saul's daughter loved David: and they told Saul, and the thing pleased him. 21 And Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law in the one of the twain. 22 And Saul commanded his servants, saying, Commune with David secretly, and say, Behold, the king hath delight in thee, and all his servants love thee: now therefore be the king's son in law. 23 And Saul's servants spake those words in the ears of David. And David said, Seemeth it to you a light thing to be a king's son in law, seeing that I am a poor man, and lightly esteemed? 24 And the servants of Saul told him, saying, On this manner spake David. 25 And Saul said, Thus shall ye say to David, The king desireth not any dowry, but an hundred foreskins of the Philistines, to be avenged of the king's enemies. But Saul thought to make David fall by the hand of the Philistines. 26 And when his servants told David these words, it pleased David well to be the king's son in law: and the days were not expired. 27 Wherefore David arose and went, he and his men, and slew of the Philistines two hundred men; and David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full tale to the king, that he might be the king's son in law. And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife. 28 And Saul saw and knew that the LORD was with David, and that Michal Saul's daughter loved him. 29 And Saul was yet the more afraid of David; and Saul became David's enemy continually. 30 Then the princes of the Philistines went forth: and it came to pass, after they went forth, that David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of Saul; so that his name was much set by. ==Chapter 19== 1 And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David. 2 But Jonathan Saul's son delighted much in David: and Jonathan told David, saying, Saul my father seeketh to kill thee: now therefore, I pray thee, take heed to thyself until the morning, and abide in a secret place, and hide thyself: 3 And I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where thou art, and I will commune with my father of thee; and what I see, that I will tell thee. 4 And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to thee-ward very good: 5 For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the LORD wrought a great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest it, and didst rejoice: wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause? 6 And Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul sware, As the LORD liveth, he shall not be slain. 7 And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan shewed him all those things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as in times past. 8 And there was war again: and David went out, and fought with the Philistines, and slew them with a great slaughter; and they fled from him. 9 And the evil spirit from the LORD was upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his javelin in his hand: and David played with his hand. 10 And Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the javelin; but he slipped away out of Saul's presence, and he smote the javelin into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that night. 11 Saul also sent messengers unto David's house, to watch him, and to slay him in the morning: and Michal David's wife told him, saying, If thou save not thy life to night, to morrow thou shalt be slain. 12 So Michal let David down through a window: and he went, and fled, and escaped. 13 And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats' hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth. 14 And when Saul sent messengers to take David, she said, He is sick. 15 And Saul sent the messengers again to see David, saying, Bring him up to me in the bed, that I may slay him. 16 And when the messengers were come in, behold, there was an image in the bed, with a pillow of goats' hair for his bolster. 17 And Saul said unto Michal, Why hast thou deceived me so, and sent away mine enemy, that he is escaped? And Michal answered Saul, He said unto me, Let me go; why should I kill thee? 18 So David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done to him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in Naioth. 19 And it was told Saul, saying, Behold, David is at Naioth in Ramah. 20 And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied. 21 And when it was told Saul, he sent other messengers, and they prophesied likewise. And Saul sent messengers again the third time, and they prophesied also. 22 Then went he also to Ramah, and came to a great well that is in Sechu: and he asked and said, Where are Samuel and David? And one said, Behold, they be at Naioth in Ramah. 23 And he went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah. 24 And he stripped off his clothes also, and prophesied before Samuel in like manner, and lay down naked all that day and all that night. Wherefore they say, Is Saul also among the prophets? ==Chapter 20== 1 And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan, What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life? 2 And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either great or small, but that he will shew it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so. 3 And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved: but truly as the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, there is but a step between me and death. 4 Then said Jonathan unto David, Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will even do it for thee. 5 And David said unto Jonathan, Behold, to morrow is the new moon, and I should not fail to sit with the king at meat: but let me go, that I may hide myself in the field unto the third day at even. 6 If thy father at all miss me, then say, David earnestly asked leave of me that he might run to Bethlehem his city: for there is a yearly sacrifice there for all the family. 7 If he say thus, It is well; thy servant shall have peace: but if he be very wroth, then be sure that evil is determined by him. 8 Therefore thou shalt deal kindly with thy servant; for thou hast brought thy servant into a covenant of the LORD with thee: notwithstanding, if there be in me iniquity, slay me thyself; for why shouldest thou bring me to thy father? 9 And Jonathan said, Far be it from thee: for if I knew certainly that evil were determined by my father to come upon thee, then would not I tell it thee? 10 Then said David to Jonathan, Who shall tell me? or what if thy father answer thee roughly? 11 And Jonathan said unto David, Come, and let us go out into the field. And they went out both of them into the field. 12 And Jonathan said unto David, O LORD God of Israel, when I have sounded my father about to morrow any time, or the third day, and, behold, if there be good toward David, and I then send not unto thee, and shew it thee; 13 The LORD do so and much more to Jonathan: but if it please my father to do thee evil, then I will shew it thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the LORD be with thee, as he hath been with my father. 14 And thou shalt not only while yet I live shew me the kindness of the LORD, that I die not: 15 But also thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth. 16 So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, Let the LORD even require it at the hand of David's enemies. 17 And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul. 18 Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty. 19 And when thou hast stayed three days, then thou shalt go down quickly, and come to the place where thou didst hide thyself when the business was in hand, and shalt remain by the stone Ezel. 20 And I will shoot three arrows on the side thereof, as though I shot at a mark. 21 And, behold, I will send a lad, saying, Go, find out the arrows. If I expressly say unto the lad, Behold, the arrows are on this side of thee, take them; then come thou: for there is peace to thee, and no hurt; as the LORD liveth. 22 But if I say thus unto the young man, Behold, the arrows are beyond thee; go thy way: for the LORD hath sent thee away. 23 And as touching the matter which thou and I have spoken of, behold, the LORD be between thee and me for ever. 24 So David hid himself in the field: and when the new moon was come, the king sat him down to eat meat. 25 And the king sat upon his seat, as at other times, even upon a seat by the wall: and Jonathan arose, and Abner sat by Saul's side, and David's place was empty. 26 Nevertheless Saul spake not any thing that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, he is not clean; surely he is not clean. 27 And it came to pass on the morrow, which was the second day of the month, that David's place was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Wherefore cometh not the son of Jesse to meat, neither yesterday, nor to day? 28 And Jonathan answered Saul, David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem: 29 And he said, Let me go, I pray thee; for our family hath a sacrifice in the city; and my brother, he hath commanded me to be there: and now, if I have found favour in thine eyes, let me get away, I pray thee, and see my brethren. Therefore he cometh not unto the king's table. 30 Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou son of the perverse rebellious woman, do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion, and unto the confusion of thy mother's nakedness? 31 For as long as the son of Jesse liveth upon the ground, thou shalt not be established, nor thy kingdom. Wherefore now send and fetch him unto me, for he shall surely die. 32 And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Wherefore shall he be slain? what hath he done? 33 And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David. 34 So Jonathan arose from the table in fierce anger, and did eat no meat the second day of the month: for he was grieved for David, because his father had done him shame. 35 And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the field at the time appointed with David, and a little lad with him. 36 And he said unto his lad, Run, find out now the arrows which I shoot. And as the lad ran, he shot an arrow beyond him. 37 And when the lad was come to the place of the arrow which Jonathan had shot, Jonathan cried after the lad, and said, Is not the arrow beyond thee? 38 And Jonathan cried after the lad, Make speed, haste, stay not. And Jonathan's lad gathered up the arrows, and came to his master. 39 But the lad knew not any thing: only Jonathan and David knew the matter. 40 And Jonathan gave his artillery unto his lad, and said unto him, Go, carry them to the city. 41 And as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of a place toward the south, and fell on his face to the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with another, until David exceeded. 42 And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace, forasmuch as we have sworn both of us in the name of the LORD, saying, The LORD be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city. ==Chapter 21== 1 Then came David to Nob to Ahimelech the priest: and Ahimelech was afraid at the meeting of David, and said unto him, Why art thou alone, and no man with thee? 2 And David said unto Ahimelech the priest, The king hath commanded me a business, and hath said unto me, Let no man know any thing of the business whereabout I send thee, and what I have commanded thee: and I have appointed my servants to such and such a place. 3 Now therefore what is under thine hand? give me five loaves of bread in mine hand, or what there is present. 4 And the priest answered David, and said, There is no common bread under mine hand, but there is hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from women. 5 And David answered the priest, and said unto him, Of a truth women have been kept from us about these three days, since I came out, and the vessels of the young men are holy, and the bread is in a manner common, yea, though it were sanctified this day in the vessel. 6 So the priest gave him hallowed bread: for there was no bread there but the shewbread, that was taken from before the LORD, to put hot bread in the day when it was taken away. 7 Now a certain man of the servants of Saul was there that day, detained before the LORD; and his name was Doeg, an Edomite, the chiefest of the herdmen that belonged to Saul. 8 And David said unto Ahimelech, And is there not here under thine hand spear or sword? for I have neither brought my sword nor my weapons with me, because the king's business required haste. 9 And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the valley of Elah, behold, it is here wrapped in a cloth behind the ephod: if thou wilt take that, take it: for there is no other save that here. And David said, There is none like that; give it me. 10 And David arose, and fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath. 11 And the servants of Achish said unto him, Is not this David the king of the land? did they not sing one to another of him in dances, saying, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands? 12 And David laid up these words in his heart, and was sore afraid of Achish the king of Gath. 13 And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard. 14 Then said Achish unto his servants, Lo, ye see the man is mad: wherefore then have ye brought him to me? 15 Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house? ==Chapter 22== 1 David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him. 2 And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men. 3 And David went thence to Mizpeh of Moab: and he said unto the king of Moab, Let my father and my mother, I pray thee, come forth, and be with you, till I know what God will do for me. 4 And he brought them before the king of Moab: and they dwelt with him all the while that David was in the hold. 5 And the prophet Gad said unto David, Abide not in the hold; depart, and get thee into the land of Judah. Then David departed, and came into the forest of Hareth. 6 When Saul heard that David was discovered, and the men that were with him, (now Saul abode in Gibeah under a tree in Ramah, having his spear in his hand, and all his servants were standing about him;) 7 Then Saul said unto his servants that stood about him, Hear now, ye Benjamites; will the son of Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, and make you all captains of thousands, and captains of hundreds; 8 That all of you have conspired against me, and there is none that sheweth me that my son hath made a league with the son of Jesse, and there is none of you that is sorry for me, or sheweth unto me that my son hath stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as at this day? 9 Then answered Doeg the Edomite, which was set over the servants of Saul, and said, I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub. 10 And he enquired of the LORD for him, and gave him victuals, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine. 11 Then the king sent to call Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father's house, the priests that were in Nob: and they came all of them to the king. 12 And Saul said, Hear now, thou son of Ahitub. And he answered, Here I am, my lord. 13 And Saul said unto him, Why have ye conspired against me, thou and the son of Jesse, in that thou hast given him bread, and a sword, and hast enquired of God for him, that he should rise against me, to lie in wait, as at this day? 14 Then Ahimelech answered the king, and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the king's son in law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honourable in thine house? 15 Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute any thing unto his servant, nor to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this, less or more. 16 And the king said, Thou shalt surely die, Ahimelech, thou, and all thy father's house. 17 And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD; because their hand also is with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to me. But the servants of the king would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the LORD. 18 And the king said to Doeg, Turn thou, and fall upon the priests. And Doeg the Edomite turned, and he fell upon the priests, and slew on that day fourscore and five persons that did wear a linen ephod. 19 And Nob, the city of the priests, smote he with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep, with the edge of the sword. 20 And one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped, and fled after David. 21 And Abiathar shewed David that Saul had slain the LORD'S priests. 22 And David said unto Abiathar, I knew it that day, when Doeg the Edomite was there, that he would surely tell Saul: I have occasioned the death of all the persons of thy father's house. 23 Abide thou with me, fear not: for he that seeketh my life seeketh thy life: but with me thou shalt be in safeguard. ==Chapter 23== 1 Then they told David, saying, Behold, the Philistines fight against Keilah, and they rob the threshingfloors. 2 Therefore David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go and smite these Philistines? And the LORD said unto David, Go, and smite the Philistines, and save Keilah. 3 And David's men said unto him, Behold, we be afraid here in Judah: how much more then if we come to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines? 4 Then David enquired of the LORD yet again. And the LORD answered him and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand. 5 So David and his men went to Keilah, and fought with the Philistines, and brought away their cattle, and smote them with a great slaughter. So David saved the inhabitants of Keilah. 6 And it came to pass, when Abiathar the son of Ahimelech fled to David to Keilah, that he came down with an ephod in his hand. 7 And it was told Saul that David was come to Keilah. And Saul said, God hath delivered him into mine hand; for he is shut in, by entering into a town that hath gates and bars. 8 And Saul called all the people together to war, to go down to Keilah, to besiege David and his men. 9 And David knew that Saul secretly practised mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest, Bring hither the ephod. 10 Then said David, O LORD God of Israel, thy servant hath certainly heard that Saul seeketh to come to Keilah, to destroy the city for my sake. 11 Will the men of Keilah deliver me up into his hand? will Saul come down, as thy servant hath heard? O LORD God of Israel, I beseech thee, tell thy servant. And the LORD said, He will come down. 12 Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the LORD said, They will deliver thee up. 13 Then David and his men, which were about six hundred, arose and departed out of Keilah, and went whithersoever they could go. And it was told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare to go forth. 14 And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand. 15 And David saw that Saul was come out to seek his life: and David was in the wilderness of Ziph in a wood. 16 And Jonathan Saul's son arose, and went to David into the wood, and strengthened his hand in God. 17 And he said unto him, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth. 18 And they two made a covenant before the LORD: and David abode in the wood, and Jonathan went to his house. 19 Then came up the Ziphites to Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself with us in strong holds in the wood, in the hill of Hachilah, which is on the south of Jeshimon? 20 Now therefore, O king, come down according to all the desire of thy soul to come down; and our part shall be to deliver him into the king's hand. 21 And Saul said, Blessed be ye of the LORD; for ye have compassion on me. 22 Go, I pray you, prepare yet, and know and see his place where his haunt is, and who hath seen him there: for it is told me that he dealeth very subtilly. 23 See therefore, and take knowledge of all the lurking places where he hideth himself, and come ye again to me with the certainty, and I will go with you: and it shall come to pass, if he be in the land, that I will search him out throughout all the thousands of Judah. 24 And they arose, and went to Ziph before Saul: but David and his men were in the wilderness of Maon, in the plain on the south of Jeshimon. 25 Saul also and his men went to seek him. And they told David: wherefore he came down into a rock, and abode in the wilderness of Maon. And when Saul heard that, he pursued after David in the wilderness of Maon. 26 And Saul went on this side of the mountain, and David and his men on that side of the mountain: and David made haste to get away for fear of Saul; for Saul and his men compassed David and his men round about to take them. 27 But there came a messenger unto Saul, saying, Haste thee, and come; for the Philistines have invaded the land. 28 Wherefore Saul returned from pursuing after David, and went against the Philistines: therefore they called that place Selahammahlekoth. 29 And David went up from thence, and dwelt in strong holds at Engedi. ==Chapter 24== 1 And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him, saying, Behold, David is in the wilderness of Engedi. 2 Then Saul took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and went to seek David and his men upon the rocks of the wild goats. 3 And he came to the sheepcotes by the way, where was a cave; and Saul went in to cover his feet: and David and his men remained in the sides of the cave. 4 And the men of David said unto him, Behold the day of which the LORD said unto thee, Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Saul's robe privily. 5 And it came to pass afterward, that David's heart smote him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt. 6 And he said unto his men, The LORD forbid that I should do this thing unto my master, the LORD'S anointed, to stretch forth mine hand against him, seeing he is the anointed of the LORD. 7 So David stayed his servants with these words, and suffered them not to rise against Saul. But Saul rose up out of the cave, and went on his way. 8 David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, My lord the king. And when Saul looked behind him, David stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed himself. 9 And David said to Saul, Wherefore hearest thou men's words, saying, Behold, David seeketh thy hurt? 10 Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and some bade me kill thee: but mine eye spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he is the LORD'S anointed. 11 Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it. 12 The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee. 13 As saith the proverb of the ancients, Wickedness proceedeth from the wicked: but mine hand shall not be upon thee. 14 After whom is the king of Israel come out? after whom dost thou pursue? after a dead dog, after a flea. 15 The LORD therefore be judge, and judge between me and thee, and see, and plead my cause, and deliver me out of thine hand. 16 And it came to pass, when David had made an end of speaking these words unto Saul, that Saul said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept. 17 And he said to David, Thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil. 18 And thou hast shewed this day how that thou hast dealt well with me: forasmuch as when the LORD had delivered me into thine hand, thou killedst me not. 19 For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the LORD reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day. 20 And now, behold, I know well that thou shalt surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in thine hand. 21 Swear now therefore unto me by the LORD, that thou wilt not cut off my seed after me, and that thou wilt not destroy my name out of my father's house. 22 And David sware unto Saul. And Saul went home; but David and his men gat them up unto the hold. ==Chapter 25== 1 And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in his house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran. 2 And there was a man in Maon, whose possessions were in Carmel; and the man was very great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats: and he was shearing his sheep in Carmel. 3 Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb. 4 And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep. 5 And David sent out ten young men, and David said unto the young men, Get you up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name: 6 And thus shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, Peace be both to thee, and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast. 7 And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: now thy shepherds which were with us, we hurt them not, neither was there ought missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel. 8 Ask thy young men, and they will shew thee. Wherefore let the young men find favour in thine eyes: for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine hand unto thy servants, and to thy son David. 9 And when David's young men came, they spake to Nabal according to all those words in the name of David, and ceased. 10 And Nabal answered David's servants, and said, Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master. 11 Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be? 12 So David's young men turned their way, and went again, and came and told him all those sayings. 13 And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff. 14 But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal's wife, saying, Behold, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them. 15 But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we any thing, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields: 16 They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep. 17 Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household: for he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him. 18 Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched corn, and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid them on asses. 19 And she said unto her servants, Go on before me; behold, I come after you. But she told not her husband Nabal. 20 And it was so, as she rode on the ass, that she came down by the covert of the hill, and, behold, David and his men came down against her; and she met them. 21 Now David had said, Surely in vain have I kept all that this fellow hath in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that pertained unto him: and he hath requited me evil for good. 22 So and more also do God unto the enemies of David, if I leave of all that pertain to him by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall. 23 And when Abigail saw David, she hasted, and lighted off the ass, and fell before David on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, 24 And fell at his feet, and said, Upon me, my lord, upon me let this iniquity be: and let thine handmaid, I pray thee, speak in thine audience, and hear the words of thine handmaid. 25 Let not my lord, I pray thee, regard this man of Belial, even Nabal: for as his name is, so is he; Nabal is his name, and folly is with him: but I thine handmaid saw not the young men of my lord, whom thou didst send. 26 Now therefore, my lord, as the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, seeing the LORD hath withholden thee from coming to shed blood, and from avenging thyself with thine own hand, now let thine enemies, and they that seek evil to my lord, be as Nabal. 27 And now this blessing which thine handmaid hath brought unto my lord, let it even be given unto the young men that follow my lord. 28 I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid: for the LORD will certainly make my lord a sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles of the LORD, and evil hath not been found in thee all thy days. 29 Yet a man is risen to pursue thee, and to seek thy soul: but the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the LORD thy God; and the souls of thine enemies, them shall he sling out, as out of the middle of a sling. 30 And it shall come to pass, when the LORD shall have done to my lord according to all the good that he hath spoken concerning thee, and shall have appointed thee ruler over Israel; 31 That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: but when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid. 32 And David said to Abigail, Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, which sent thee this day to meet me: 33 And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging myself with mine own hand. 34 For in very deed, as the LORD God of Israel liveth, which hath kept me back from hurting thee, except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been left unto Nabal by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall. 35 So David received of her hand that which she had brought him, and said unto her, Go up in peace to thine house; see, I have hearkened to thy voice, and have accepted thy person. 36 And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and Nabal's heart was merry within him, for he was very drunken: wherefore she told him nothing, less or more, until the morning light. 37 But it came to pass in the morning, when the wine was gone out of Nabal, and his wife had told him these things, that his heart died within him, and he became as a stone. 38 And it came to pass about ten days after, that the LORD smote Nabal, that he died. 39 And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, Blessed be the LORD, that hath pleaded the cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and hath kept his servant from evil: for the LORD hath returned the wickedness of Nabal upon his own head. And David sent and communed with Abigail, to take her to him to wife. 40 And when the servants of David were come to Abigail to Carmel, they spake unto her, saying, David sent us unto thee, to take thee to him to wife. 41 And she arose, and bowed herself on her face to the earth, and said, Behold, let thine handmaid be a servant to wash the feet of the servants of my lord. 42 And Abigail hasted, and arose, and rode upon an ass, with five damsels of hers that went after her; and she went after the messengers of David, and became his wife. 43 David also took Ahinoam of Jezreel; and they were also both of them his wives. 44 But Saul had given Michal his daughter, David's wife, to Phalti the son of Laish, which was of Gallim. ==Chapter 26== 1 And the Ziphites came unto Saul to Gibeah, saying, Doth not David hide himself in the hill of Hachilah, which is before Jeshimon? 2 Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand chosen men of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph. 3 And Saul pitched in the hill of Hachilah, which is before Jeshimon, by the way. But David abode in the wilderness, and he saw that Saul came after him into the wilderness. 4 David therefore sent out spies, and understood that Saul was come in very deed. 5 And David arose, and came to the place where Saul had pitched: and David beheld the place where Saul lay, and Abner the son of Ner, the captain of his host: and Saul lay in the trench, and the people pitched round about him. 6 Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah, brother to Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will go down with thee. 7 So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him. 8 Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not smite him the second time. 9 And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the LORD'S anointed, and be guiltless? 10 David said furthermore, As the LORD liveth, the LORD shall smite him; or his day shall come to die; or he shall descend into battle, and perish. 11 The LORD forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed: but, I pray thee, take thou now the spear that is at his bolster, and the cruse of water, and let us go. 12 So David took the spear and the cruse of water from Saul's bolster; and they gat them away, and no man saw it, nor knew it, neither awaked: for they were all asleep; because a deep sleep from the LORD was fallen upon them. 13 Then David went over to the other side, and stood on the top of an hill afar off; a great space being between them: 14 And David cried to the people, and to Abner the son of Ner, saying, Answerest thou not, Abner? Then Abner answered and said, Who art thou that criest to the king? 15 And David said to Abner, Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to thee in Israel? wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy the king thy lord. 16 This thing is not good that thou hast done. As the LORD liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your master, the LORD'S anointed. And now see where the king's spear is, and the cruse of water that was at his bolster. 17 And Saul knew David's voice, and said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And David said, It is my voice, my lord, O king. 18 And he said, Wherefore doth my lord thus pursue after his servant? for what have I done? or what evil is in mine hand? 19 Now therefore, I pray thee, let my lord the king hear the words of his servant. If the LORD have stirred thee up against me, let him accept an offering: but if they be the children of men, cursed be they before the LORD; for they have driven me out this day from abiding in the inheritance of the LORD, saying, Go, serve other gods. 20 Now therefore, let not my blood fall to the earth before the face of the LORD: for the king of Israel is come out to seek a flea, as when one doth hunt a partridge in the mountains. 21 Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my soul was precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred exceedingly. 22 And David answered and said, Behold the king's spear! and let one of the young men come over and fetch it. 23 The LORD render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered thee into my hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed. 24 And, behold, as thy life was much set by this day in mine eyes, so let my life be much set by in the eyes of the LORD, and let him deliver me out of all tribulation. 25 Then Saul said to David, Blessed be thou, my son David: thou shalt both do great things, and also shalt still prevail. So David went on his way, and Saul returned to his place. ==Chapter 27== 1 And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: there is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand. 2 And David arose, and he passed over with the six hundred men that were with him unto Achish, the son of Maoch, king of Gath. 3 And David dwelt with Achish at Gath, he and his men, every man with his household, even David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal's wife. 4 And it was told Saul that David was fled to Gath: and he sought no more again for him. 5 And David said unto Achish, If I have now found grace in thine eyes, let them give me a place in some town in the country, that I may dwell there: for why should thy servant dwell in the royal city with thee? 6 Then Achish gave him Ziklag that day: wherefore Ziklag pertaineth unto the kings of Judah unto this day. 7 And the time that David dwelt in the country of the Philistines was a full year and four months. 8 And David and his men went up, and invaded the Geshurites, and the Gezrites, and the Amalekites: for those nations were of old the inhabitants of the land, as thou goest to Shur, even unto the land of Egypt. 9 And David smote the land, and left neither man nor woman alive, and took away the sheep, and the oxen, and the asses, and the camels, and the apparel, and returned, and came to Achish. 10 And Achish said, Whither have ye made a road to day? And David said, Against the south of Judah, and against the south of the Jerahmeelites, and against the south of the Kenites. 11 And David saved neither man nor woman alive, to bring tidings to Gath, saying, Lest they should tell on us, saying, So did David, and so will be his manner all the while he dwelleth in the country of the Philistines. 12 And Achish believed David, saying, He hath made his people Israel utterly to abhor him; therefore he shall be my servant for ever. ==Chapter 28== 1 And it came to pass in those days, that the Philistines gathered their armies together for warfare, to fight with Israel. And Achish said unto David, Know thou assuredly, that thou shalt go out with me to battle, thou and thy men. 2 And David said to Achish, Surely thou shalt know what thy servant can do. And Achish said to David, Therefore will I make thee keeper of mine head for ever. 3 Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had lamented him, and buried him in Ramah, even in his own city. And Saul had put away those that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land. 4 And the Philistines gathered themselves together, and came and pitched in Shunem: and Saul gathered all Israel together, and they pitched in Gilboa. 5 And when Saul saw the host of the Philistines, he was afraid, and his heart greatly trembled. 6 And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets. 7 Then said Saul unto his servants, Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit, that I may go to her, and enquire of her. And his servants said to him, Behold, there is a woman that hath a familiar spirit at Endor. 8 And Saul disguised himself, and put on other raiment, and he went, and two men with him, and they came to the woman by night: and he said, I pray thee, divine unto me by the familiar spirit, and bring me him up, whom I shall name unto thee. 9 And the woman said unto him, Behold, thou knowest what Saul hath done, how he hath cut off those that have familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land: wherefore then layest thou a snare for my life, to cause me to die? 10 And Saul sware to her by the LORD, saying, As the LORD liveth, there shall no punishment happen to thee for this thing. 11 Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel. 12 And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice: and the woman spake to Saul, saying, Why hast thou deceived me? for thou art Saul. 13 And the king said unto her, Be not afraid: for what sawest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I saw gods ascending out of the earth. 14 And he said unto her, What form is he of? And she said, An old man cometh up; and he is covered with a mantle. And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground, and bowed himself. 15 And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do. 16 Then said Samuel, Wherefore then dost thou ask of me, seeing the LORD is departed from thee, and is become thine enemy? 17 And the LORD hath done to him, as he spake by me: for the LORD hath rent the kingdom out of thine hand, and given it to thy neighbour, even to David: 18 Because thou obeyedst not the voice of the LORD, nor executedst his fierce wrath upon Amalek, therefore hath the LORD done this thing unto thee this day. 19 Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: and to morrow shalt thou and thy sons be with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines. 20 Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night. 21 And the woman came unto Saul, and saw that he was sore troubled, and said unto him, Behold, thine handmaid hath obeyed thy voice, and I have put my life in my hand, and have hearkened unto thy words which thou spakest unto me. 22 Now therefore, I pray thee, hearken thou also unto the voice of thine handmaid, and let me set a morsel of bread before thee; and eat, that thou mayest have strength, when thou goest on thy way. 23 But he refused, and said, I will not eat. But his servants, together with the woman, compelled him; and he hearkened unto their voice. So he arose from the earth, and sat upon the bed. 24 And the woman had a fat calf in the house; and she hasted, and killed it, and took flour, and kneaded it, and did bake unleavened bread thereof: 25 And she brought it before Saul, and before his servants; and they did eat. Then they rose up, and went away that night. ==Chapter 29== 1 Now the Philistines gathered together all their armies to Aphek: and the Israelites pitched by a fountain which is in Jezreel. 2 And the lords of the Philistines passed on by hundreds, and by thousands: but David and his men passed on in the rereward with Achish. 3 Then said the princes of the Philistines, What do these Hebrews here? And Achish said unto the princes of the Philistines, Is not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, which hath been with me these days, or these years, and I have found no fault in him since he fell unto me unto this day? 4 And the princes of the Philistines were wroth with him; and the princes of the Philistines said unto him, Make this fellow return, that he may go again to his place which thou hast appointed him, and let him not go down with us to battle, lest in the battle he be an adversary to us: for wherewith should he reconcile himself unto his master? should it not be with the heads of these men? 5 Is not this David, of whom they sang one to another in dances, saying, Saul slew his thousands, and David his ten thousands? 6 Then Achish called David, and said unto him, Surely, as the LORD liveth, thou hast been upright, and thy going out and thy coming in with me in the host is good in my sight: for I have not found evil in thee since the day of thy coming unto me unto this day: nevertheless the lords favour thee not. 7 Wherefore now return, and go in peace, that thou displease not the lords of the Philistines. 8 And David said unto Achish, But what have I done? and what hast thou found in thy servant so long as I have been with thee unto this day, that I may not go fight against the enemies of my lord the king? 9 And Achish answered and said to David, I know that thou art good in my sight, as an angel of God: notwithstanding the princes of the Philistines have said, He shall not go up with us to the battle. 10 Wherefore now rise up early in the morning with thy master's servants that are come with thee: and as soon as ye be up early in the morning, and have light, depart. 11 So David and his men rose up early to depart in the morning, to return into the land of the Philistines. And the Philistines went up to Jezreel. ==Chapter 30== 1 And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on the third day, that the Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire; 2 And had taken the women captives, that were therein: they slew not any, either great or small, but carried them away, and went on their way. 3 So David and his men came to the city, and, behold, it was burned with fire; and their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, were taken captives. 4 Then David and the people that were with him lifted up their voice and wept, until they had no more power to weep. 5 And David's two wives were taken captives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite. 6 And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God. 7 And David said to Abiathar the priest, Ahimelech's son, I pray thee, bring me hither the ephod. And Abiathar brought thither the ephod to David. 8 And David enquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake them, and without fail recover all. 9 So David went, he and the six hundred men that were with him, and came to the brook Besor, where those that were left behind stayed. 10 But David pursued, he and four hundred men: for two hundred abode behind, which were so faint that they could not go over the brook Besor. 11 And they found an Egyptian in the field, and brought him to David, and gave him bread, and he did eat; and they made him drink water; 12 And they gave him a piece of a cake of figs, and two clusters of raisins: and when he had eaten, his spirit came again to him: for he had eaten no bread, nor drunk any water, three days and three nights. 13 And David said unto him, To whom belongest thou? and whence art thou? And he said, I am a young man of Egypt, servant to an Amalekite; and my master left me, because three days agone I fell sick. 14 We made an invasion upon the south of the Cherethites, and upon the coast which belongeth to Judah, and upon the south of Caleb; and we burned Ziklag with fire. 15 And David said to him, Canst thou bring me down to this company? And he said, Swear unto me by God, that thou wilt neither kill me, nor deliver me into the hands of my master, and I will bring thee down to this company. 16 And when he had brought him down, behold, they were spread abroad upon all the earth, eating and drinking, and dancing, because of all the great spoil that they had taken out of the land of the Philistines, and out of the land of Judah. 17 And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening of the next day: and there escaped not a man of them, save four hundred young men, which rode upon camels, and fled. 18 And David recovered all that the Amalekites had carried away: and David rescued his two wives. 19 And there was nothing lacking to them, neither small nor great, neither sons nor daughters, neither spoil, nor any thing that they had taken to them: David recovered all. 20 And David took all the flocks and the herds, which they drave before those other cattle, and said, This is David's spoil. 21 And David came to the two hundred men, which were so faint that they could not follow David, whom they had made also to abide at the brook Besor: and they went forth to meet David, and to meet the people that were with him: and when David came near to the people, he saluted them. 22 Then answered all the wicked men and men of Belial, of those that went with David, and said, Because they went not with us, we will not give them ought of the spoil that we have recovered, save to every man his wife and his children, that they may lead them away, and depart. 23 Then said David, Ye shall not do so, my brethren, with that which the LORD hath given us, who hath preserved us, and delivered the company that came against us into our hand. 24 For who will hearken unto you in this matter? but as his part is that goeth down to the battle, so shall his part be that tarrieth by the stuff: they shall part alike. 25 And it was so from that day forward, that he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel unto this day. 26 And when David came to Ziklag, he sent of the spoil unto the elders of Judah, even to his friends, saying, Behold a present for you of the spoil of the enemies of the LORD; 27 To them which were in Bethel, and to them which were in south Ramoth, and to them which were in Jattir, 28 And to them which were in Aroer, and to them which were in Siphmoth, and to them which were in Eshtemoa, 29 And to them which were in Rachal, and to them which were in the cities of the Jerahmeelites, and to them which were in the cities of the Kenites, 30 And to them which were in Hormah, and to them which were in Chorashan, and to them which were in Athach, 31 And to them which were in Hebron, and to all the places where David himself and his men were wont to haunt. ==Chapter 31== 1 Now the Philistines fought against Israel: and the men of Israel fled from before the Philistines, and fell down slain in mount Gilboa. 2 And the Philistines followed hard upon Saul and upon his sons; and the Philistines slew Jonathan, and Abinadab, and Malchishua, Saul's sons. 3 And the battle went sore against Saul, and the archers hit him; and he was sore wounded of the archers. 4 Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. 5 And when his armourbearer saw that Saul was dead, he fell likewise upon his sword, and died with him. 6 So Saul died, and his three sons, and his armourbearer, and all his men, that same day together. 7 And when the men of Israel that were on the other side of the valley, and they that were on the other side Jordan, saw that the men of Israel fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they forsook the cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and dwelt in them. 8 And it came to pass on the morrow, when the Philistines came to strip the slain, that they found Saul and his three sons fallen in mount Gilboa. 9 And they cut off his head, and stripped off his armour, and sent into the land of the Philistines round about, to publish it in the house of their idols, and among the people. 10 And they put his armour in the house of Ashtaroth: and they fastened his body to the wall of Bethshan. 11 And when the inhabitants of Jabeshgilead heard of that which the Philistines had done to Saul; 12 All the valiant men arose, and went all night, and took the body of Saul and the bodies of his sons from the wall of Bethshan, and came to Jabesh, and burnt them there. 13 And they took their bones, and buried them under a tree at Jabesh, and fasted seven days.

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===JOURNAL 10 1881-1882=== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-546 1617]

This book belongs to J H Watmuff
2 Waterloo St
St Kilda
Please return the same if lost
Addresses −
Miss S. Watmuff
28 Myrtle Rd,
Highfields
Leicester
England
Mr R.H. Hartley
24 George St
Halifax Yorkshire
England
Messers Stone & Co
Solicitors
Leicester
England
{{Image|file=Aah-546.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-547 1618]

Mr J R Hamilton 74 William Street
Wooloomooloo
Sydney
[then]
188 Pitt St.,
Sydney
J J Clark
Pitt St
Sydney
Mrs Holm
X(Calvin St)X
Sandhurst
J. Hamilton
Sharebroker
Launceston
Mrs G.B. Bond
Riversdale Rd,
Hawthorn
{{Image|file=Aah-547.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-548 1619]

Multiguka - Dr Goulburne S[t]
Thompson
Chemist
Bourke St
Mr Alfred Smith
Matakohe,
Kaipara
New Zealand
Mr. Isbecher [Iesbecher?]
Storekeeper
9
-- 594
Mr Mercer
Contractor
Inkerman St
St Kilda
1 Kennedy, Goods Shed, Sydney
Goodchaps – for pass Sydney lines
2 Roberts – S Martin, Albury
Duet – 3b Sharps
Tantum Ergo – Cellini
Trio Now the Twilight Softly Stealinghttps://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/254549613
In F [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saverio_Mercadante Mercandante]
{{Image|file=Aah-548.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-549 1620]

1881 Febry 28
My notice of dismissal from the Railway Expired to day. Was informed to continue on until further notice. They were not prepared to part with me, much to my satisfaction, for I do dread being cast out as I am situated - with a young family & my mother living with me. March. Still continue at the Rly & from what I can gather I am likely to remain until the end of June. All well. April.
Important things to relate. My poor {{Image|file=Aah-549.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-550 1621]

Father died on 16th Feby/1881. Receivd a long letter from my fathers sister Aunt Sarah Watmuff of Leicester England - with the particulars - he had been in his usual health & was living in lodgings in Leicester, he had taken his bath in the morning, but not appearing to breakfast at his usual time, his room was visited & he was found insensible on the floor, he died the same day but never became conscious. My Aunt secured his papers, but did not find a Will, so there will be a pretty muddle over his affairs. It is very melancholy {{Image|file=Aah-550.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-551 1622]

that he should have died away from us all. It is twenty two years since he left us, & not one of his family here has seen him in the meantime. We have sent a Power of Attorney to my Aunt, signed by my mother, Fred & myself, for her to act & have authorised her to place the case in the hands of her solicitors, Messrs. Stone & Co Leicester. I am sadly afraid there will not be much coming to us after the Law & other expenses. I feel so thankful Father sent the money he did to Fred & myself enabling me to clear off all the liabilities on my house last December. On Good Friday, my wife & self & Mr S.Lamble were engaged for the principals {{Image|file=Aah-551.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-552 1623]

of the “Creation” at Sandhurst. We went there the day before the performance & left the day afterwards after acquitting ourselves tolerably creditably. It was the heaviest work I ever was engaged for, in the musical line. While on Sandhurst I hunted up my cousin Liz, Mrs. Holm, found her a widow with five children & in very poor circumstances her husband died about 12 months since. The children are very nice & apparently have been carefully brought up. The eldest girl Annie is an exceedingly nice modest girl & evidently a great help to her mother. 28th. Sang the tenor “Lay of the Bell” {{Image|file=Aah-552.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-553 1624]

at Hawthorn Harmonic Society. [1881] May. Still engaged on the Railway, have not heard of any change with regard to myself. Mrs Hamilton was over here on a visit from Sydney - she went to Launceston for three weeks and has just returned looking very well. Had news from Clark he is still in Sydney, but does not write hopefully of business his sister Georgie died in childbirth at Bathurst he seems very much cut up about it. No more news from England. All well. [1881] June. A month of sorrow and trouble. On the 1st June at 11 p.m. my poor mother breathed her last. -she had been in her usual health all day {{Image|file=Aah-553.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-554 1625]

having eat a hearty dinner & tea after which my wife & I went to Mr Pitts and spent the evening there on our return home at 11.15 she was dead Our servant Olive informed us that Mother spent the evening reading & at 10 pm had her supper & went to her room, undressed herself & on leaning back in her bed she felt a choking sensation & called the girl, who not liking her appearance, called in my Bro Fred, who lives next door - he immediately rushed for the Doctor, who pronounced her dead on his arrival. The cause of death was "fatty degeneracy of the heart". Poor mother it was a happy release for her, for her life was becoming a burden to her, she got very stout {{Image|file=Aah-554.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-555 1626]

the last few years, & it was only with the greatest difficulty that she could move about. We telegraphed her death home thinking it would arrive home in time to prevent the Lawyers taking action on the P of A we sent them, as mothers death will put a different complexion on affairs there. We also sent home a certificate of her death. I wrote to my mothers sister, Aunt Hartley of Halifax, giving full particulars of mothers death etc. I am still employed in the Railway: nothing being said or done to affect my position as yet. We are on the eve I think of a change of {{Image|file=Aah-555.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-556 1627]

Ministry - if such takes place I intend to make an effort to get my dismissal cancelled. July.
Another month, things going on pretty smoothly. I have had a very severe cold but I think I am getting better. I am still at the Rly. On 25 inst we received a long letter from my Aunt Sarah of Leicester, she seems very Kindly disposed toward us, she alludes of course, a great deal to my late fathers affairs & reveals to us the fact that he has been very indiscreet in the way he has disposed of his money lending it here & there to everybody without getting {{Image|file=Aah-556.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-557 1628]

any security for it, some of the people, from what Aunt writes about them, are very slippery customers, so what with one thing & another I am sadly afraid there will be very little that is procurable. The same Mail brought us out another "Power of Attorney" to sign, as the other ones were of no use when Mother died. We signed it and have posted it to day 31/7/81. I also wrote a long letter to Aunt. We have a new Ministry, Sir Bryan OLoughlin being at the head of it. It is a change from the Berry one, tho I dont think it will last long. T. Bent is the Minister of Railways. I must try & get at him. {{Image|file=Aah-557.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-558 1629]

We received a nice note last week from Annie Holm and she sent us portraits of her young brother and sisters & one of her own. I wrote to her mother yesterday & my wife wrote to Annie. I informed them of my mothers death, with other particulars. Bessie Bond & my bro’ Fred wrote home to Aunt Sarah. The sons of the Prince of Wales have been on a visit to this Colony in the "Bacchante". August
Heard Wilhemj - the great violinist play - he gave a few concerts at the Town Hall beginning of the month - not so well supported as he ought to have been. Mr Strong resigned his Pastorate of the Scots Church to take effect in 1882 - his action has caused great excitement in the Presbyterian Church. His reason for resigning arises from the fact that he cannot preach according to the "Standards of the Church" & also {{Image|file=Aah-558.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-559 1630]

since his perversitives some time ago, he has been ostracised by his fellow ministers - he will be a great loss, for he & Dr Moorhouse (the Bishop) are the two most able men we have in the pulpit of Victoria, & who draw the largest congregations. Alice Rees our Colonial Prima Donna 18 years of age has appeared in opera & done well, her great success was in Sonnambula - - Pinafore, Pirates of Penzance & Maritana being her other pieces. My wife has been singing for Alice Rees at St Patricks Church. I think she will be permanently engaged there as Miss Rees - has left the colony on a professional tour. I hope my wife will get it for I fancy since her {{Image|file=Aah-559.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-560 1631]

marriage with me she misses the singing engagements she used to get - so I shall be glad for her sake if she succeeds in getting the appointment.
31st. I received a note from Mr Lavater to day, he desired to see me in reference - to my trying to do[the] whole of the collecting, as Mr Lockhead (the other collector) is going away for three weeks. I have promised to do the best I can, but it will be very trying work under the present system. September. I have worked very hard the last month, particularly the first three weeks, thru Mr Lockhead being aware[away]. I now feel assured from {{Image|file=Aah-560.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-561 1632]

the nature of the duties & in view of the increasing traffic that it would be very unreasonable to expect one collector to do the lot - at least under the present system. Our concert at the Scots Church on 15th inst was a great success. The Work we performed was called “Placide” the Christian martyr. I have felt very unwell the last few days. Acute pains in my back & head. My wife has ceased singing at St Patricks owing to a little unpleasentness or misunderstanding between Plumpton & her, tho’ I have heard they wish to curtail expenses & try for a time to do without a paid Sophano. Mrs Pitts confined of a son. {{Image|file=Aah-561.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-562 1633]

October 1881.
Recd letter by mail, on 2nd from Aunt Sarah. Our last P of A had not arrived when she wrote so nothing had been done towards winding up fathers affairs. On the 9 inst I bought a piece of ground from O. A. Kefford situated in the Rathmines Road, upper Hawthorn - 60 X 330 ft for £165. I borrowed the money on the Deeds of my property at St Kilda from the Commercial Bank, & also £50 from a Mr Lavers. My object in buying it was twofold, 1st. I think it will increase in value should I feel disposed to sell it & {{Image|file=Aah-562.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-563 1634]

2nd. my own place at St Kilda is getting too small for my increasing family and it would be a nice place to live should I see my way clear to build upon it - as it is within 5 minutes walk of a Railway Station building in the Auburn Road which is to be finished in Jany. 16th. My wife has accepted an engagement to sing at St Ignatius Church, Richmond not so much salary as at St Patricks, but she will be far more comfortable - & have less work to do. On 11th I took my son Charles (to Dr Slieger, of Collins St a German Doctor who has a good reputation as an aurist.) he has displayed symptoms of deafness & I {{Image|file=Aah-563.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-564 1635]

was determined to have it seen to in time - the Dr laid down a certain rule of treatment which I intend to adopt - he thinks in a short time he will recover. On 12th Bessie as per Engagement sang at Fitzroy Town Hall, in Carons Exhibition Cantata which was reproduced for the occasion in aid of Dr Singleton's relief fund – altogether it may be considered a success. Bessie got the lions share of the applause, & the papers - gave her the credit of being most successful, in what has been considered a most trying part for any Sophano.
On 13th I wrote to my friend in Sydney, (J.Hamilton). On 17. lent my Bro Fred £8. 19th. Got my “Certificate of Title” from the Lands Title Office, for my ground in the Rathmines Road, Hawthorn. {{Image|file=Aah-564.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-565 1636]

23 Hospital Sunday - good collections at all the churches, the Scots Church, Collins, [St] heading the list with the sum of £173-0-0. 25 Conversazione of the Scots church held - at Town Hall. I sang at it - also the other members of the choir - altogether it was a very successful affair. The same day my wife went to spend the day with Mrs Marsden at Fitzroy. She took Joe & Charles & on the way she had to pass Mr. Stone's shop (my childrens Grandfather), Bess thought he might like to see his grand- children & took them in, he took no notice of them & was as cold & cruelhearted towards them as ever. My wife [was] surprised at his manner not knowing him as I did, & so were the children. One would have thought time would have softened his stony heart. -- {{Image|file=Aah-565.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-566 1637]

Well! God forgive him - he said Mrs Stone was out, tho’ had she been in I believe she would have acted as he did. They are a pair of the most stony hearted, cold blooded wretches I ever met with in my life. Cup Day I remaind at home, Zulu, an outsider won the gt event, with another outsider 2nd. In the evening Bess and I went to Simonsens farewell concert - poorly attended. The two daughters Leonora & Martina sang well – they, with their father are going to Europe where I am sure they will do well - particularly the Sophano. {{Image|file=Aah-566.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-567 1638]

November 1881. [1881-11-05-Saturday] On 5th I received orders from the Rly Dpt to take my annual holiday for three weeks. I was considerably surprised and a bit dismayd at such a summary mode of doing this as I had not applied for leave, nor was prepared to take [it]. The object of their doing this arises from the fact that they are under the impression that Mr Lockhead can perform the duties I do in connection with his own. So if he does I believe I shall have to go, that is, leave the service if they dont find me another billet equivalent to the one I have. I applied at once for a free pass overland by Rail to Sydney - & after waiting till the 11th [or 1881-11-10-Thursday?] I left {{Image|file=Aah-567.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-568 1639]

Melb at 3 pm arrived at Wodonga 10 30 pm from there I went by Coach three miles to Albury N.S.W. remained all night at the Globe. [1881-11-11-Friday?] Next morning wandered about. Met Mr Henderson, who took me to Fallons, Wine Place. Left Albury at 3 pm - for Sydney - arrived [1881-11-12-Saturday?] very tired and dirty at 7 am next morning - hunted up Clark & Hamilton - found them & their families quite well the latter insisted upon my making his house my home. Cruised around town in the afternoon & evening. [1881-11-13?]Sunday[?] - morning Mr & Mrs. H[amilton] and one [of] his daughters & myself went to a farm H[amilton] possesses 13 miles from {{Image|file=Aah-568.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-569 1640]

Sydney. I enjoyed the drive very much, going through some of the best suburbs of Sydney - arrived back by 6 p.m. [1881-11-14?] Monday I called at the Rly Dpt & got a free pass on the Western line. Strolled about Sydney till 1 pm, when in company with Emone Hamilton, I took passage in a boat for Paramatta. On arriving there we visited the Orange grove belonging to Moulder. We returned to Sydney by train arriving about 7 pm spent the evening pleasently singing etc. [1881-11-15?] Tuesday left Sydney for Bathurst at 9 am - crossed the Blue Mountains saw the Zig Zag Railway, reached Bathurst at 6 pm. Stayd at McLeays till {{Image|file=Aah-569.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-570 1641]

12 pm [a.m. 1881-11-16?] when I caught the return train for Sydney. Got out at Mt Victoria at 3 am. Got a bed at Perrys. At 9 am arose and after Breakfast - in company with another tourist I engaged a trap & visited one of the Lions of N.S.W.- Govetts Leap. Got back to the Station in time for dinner & caught the train at 1.30. Arrived in Sydney at 6 pm. Went to the Theatre with Hamilton in the evening. [1881-11-17?] Thursday morning Hamilton took me in his buggy for a drive to the South Head, Lighthouse Entrance of Port Jackson drove me to Googee [Coogee] Bay {{Image|file=Aah-570.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-571 1642]

& Botany Bay & returned by Randwick Racecourse - a most charming drive. In the afternoon I met Clark & we had tea together & spent the evening about town. [1881-11-18?] Friday I knocked about found out my old friend Bessie Harrison who is now married to a Mr F. Brewer. Old Mr & Mrs Harrison & the young couple all live together in Dowling St Wooloomooloo. I took Mrs and Miss Hamilton to the theatre in the evening. [1881-11-19?] Saturday after dinner in the company with Clark & his sister & Eddie I went to Manly in one of the passenger boats – a delightful trip. Had tea {{Image|file=Aah-571.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-572 1643]

at Clarks lodgings, who lives in Wynyard Square. [1881-11-20?] Sunday morning I went as per arrangement with Mr Brewer - to St Patricks Choir where he is engaged as principal tenor - after service I accompanied him home to dinner and spent the afternoon with the family. Clark called for me at 5 pm & together we went to his brother George's where we had tea. [1881-11-21?] Monday morning I went to the North Shore & took a long strool about. On returning to Sydney I visited the Picture Gallery & the Domain & Museum. Arrived at home at 4 pm {{Image|file=Aah-572.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-573 1644]

& after a bath & packing my carpet bag I made my adieus & [1881-11-22-Tuesday?] left Sydney at 8.30 am on the following day. At 11 pm arrived home found my wife & little ones all right. [1881-11-23-Wednesday - day at home or he has described wrong days] [1881-11-24-Thursday] Visited the office on the 24th found everything very disorganized. Was informed that my position was done away with. On the 28th I reported myself to Mr Anderson who informed me that my old position had been assimilated & that for {{Image|file=Aah-573.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-574 1645]

the future Mr Lockhead would do the whole of the collections, but that he would endeavour to find me employment in some other branch of the Dpt. He referred me to Mr Lavater the Accountant - to find me a place but at present it is a difficult matter to fit me in a position so I am in office & yet have no duties to perform. A day or two will settle affairs. I am in hopes that at the {{Image|file=Aah-574.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-575 1646]

beginning of Decr I shall be settled tho at present things look very uncertain. I wrote to Mr Strong (& also to Mr Orkney, member for W.Melb. requesting them to interest themselves in my favour, so I hope to come out all right. In the meantime I am in a great state of uncertainty. [1881-11-30-Wednesday] End of November. [1881] Still left out in the cold. Have been referred to the Secty Mr Labertouche who tried to induce me to accept my compensation & leave the service then he suggested my {{Image|file=Aah-575.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-576 1647]

accepting a less salary & take compensation for the loss of salary. I did not drop into his views, so he then appealed to my feelings, & stated that some other clerk would have to go to make room for me. I expressed sorrow, however I have to wait until my case has been submitted to the Minister, Mr Bent, when others beside myself who are similarly situated will have their cases settled, along with mine. Sang at a Concert at Mr Downs Church on 30th inst. {{Image|file=Aah-576.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-577 1648]

Decr [1881-12-07] 7th. Nothing done in my case - loafing about the office all day doing nothing.
On the 8th recd letter from Clark - replied on 12th inst. 12th Nothing done as yet toward finding me another billet. Doing any little jobs about the office to fill up my time. Recd letter from Uncle Hartley, my mothers bro-in-law, Halifax hopes Fred & I will contribute towards my mothers sister Aunt Bryars support {{Image|file=Aah-577.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-578 1649]

which my father did before he died at the rate of 2/6 per week. I suppose we must make an effort to do so, tho’ it will come very hard upon me at present unless I can secure another billet in the Railway or get confirmed in some other position. [1881-12-31-Saturday] 31st. Christmas holidays over nothing fresh concerning myself. I am still filling in my time at the office doing any little jobs about the place - no enquiries about me, I dont know what the upshot will be. In fact I am so callous I care not {{Image|file=Aah-578.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-579 1650]

what they do with me so long as my salary is continued, tho I must admit I am truly heartsick of this continued dalliance - something must be done shortly, either I must go or remain– it is unreasonable to suppose that they will pay me £250 a year to loaf about the place as I am doing at present. End of the year - where & what shall I be doing next year. {{Image|file=Aah-579.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-580 1651]

January 31st [1882] I had a lot of bother securing my last months salary - pay day was the 30 of the month & I found my name was struck out of the pay sheet. I saw Mr. Lavater & Mr Anderson about it– -the latter insisted on our Manager Mr Francis putting me again on, his pay sheet. Got my months salary after a lot of bother on the 10th inst. On that date Mr Francis received a memo from Mr Anderson to the effect that I {{Image|file=Aah-580.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-581 1652]

was to be employed wherever I could be placed until such time as a place was found me permanently. I was sent to assist Mr Rooke the Export clerk who is my junior to the extent of £25 pr annum. The exports office is a busy place this time of the year, & will be for the next six weeks or so. I go to work at about 8.15. & seldom get away till 6 pm. We have had as many as eight ships loading at one time. We received a long letter from Aunt Sarah {{Image|file=Aah-581.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-582 1653]

during the last week - it did not contain very encouraging news. She said property has very much deteriorated in value & that upon which my father had lent money she is doubtful if it would realize enough to repay the mortgages she also alludes to the various shares father had invested in just previous to his death. She has paid calls to the extent of £86 - upon them - she wishes us to decide upon what had better be done - as she does not think it advisable to go on paying on shares that do not appear likely to give any returns. Altogether it {{Image|file=Aah-582.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-583 1654]

was a gloomy epistle & showed us the necessity of taking some more decided action about the case, as we cannot be blind to the fact that my aunt, tho’ possessing all her faculties has neither the time nor strength to look after things as they require doing - so Bond, Fred & I had a consultation together & we decided to write to Aunt Sarah - which I did on this day (the 31st Jany) to the effect that if things are not in a fairer way of being settled on receipt of the letter - which will arrive at Leicester on 6th of March - that my brother Fred with our sanction - will {{Image|file=Aah-583.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-584 1655]

leave here by the Mail on the 16th March - thus allowing Aunt or the Solicitors 10 days to reply by Cablegram, stating whether it would be advisable or otherwise Fred going to England until which time we shall remain in anxiety. Freds expenses are to be paid equally by us, that is Bond & myself. Fred is willing to go home & back & do all he possibly can to get the affair settled for a £150 - he is fairly slack this time of the year & he can put a trustworthy man into his place to carry on his business during his absence. {{Image|file=Aah-584.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-585 1656]

Feby 1882
Another month passed & gone - the 2nd was my 43 birthday - beginning to get ancient. I am still at the Export Office - but my days are numbered there the season being nearly over for the wheat & wool shipment so that there is not sufficient work for two of us. On the 6th inst. my wife was safely delivered of a son & am happy to state both are doing well. Dr Harricks in attendance, & Mrs McRitchie nurse - - by the mail which arrived from England at the beginning of the month I recd a letter from my Uncle {{Image|file=Aah-585.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-586 1657]

Hartley of Halifax informing us of the death of my [[Vickerman-165|Aunt]] Bryer - which took place in December/82 she was my mothers Eldest sister & had been a widow over 40 yrs her two children - Charls & Chambers - I remember well in England - being both dead. Strange - my father & my mother, & her sister & brother, all died within the same year - In fact if I before alluded to my Uncle Charles Vickerman, who died in Adelaide I think in Sept last - I lived for several years with him on Sandhurst gold digging) - all lived to be over 70. {{Image|file=Aah-586.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-587 1658]

March 1882
At the Exports for the first week of the month - the latter portion been employed at the Goods Office - in various capacities - receiving cash & making statements & a/c etc. At the middle of the month we. Recvd a telegram from my [[Watmuff-9|Aunt Sarah]] in reply to a letter we sent her a few weeks before enquiring if my fathers affairs would be more likely to be forwarded if one of us went to England as we had a meeting of my sister & bro Fred & self on the subject - when Fred agreed to go to England, providing we shared the expense amounting {{Image|file=Aah-587.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-588 1659]

to £150 - he is generally slack at this time of the year & he thinks he can make it con- -venient to go we agreed, Bessie & I subscribing £50 each - he secured his passage the day Aunts telegram arrived - in the mail S.S. Shannon which left to day 31 March. The Telegram stated that there was no necessity for one to come immediately – however we thought it better as aunt is now 70 yrs65 years old old & it [is] impossible for her to look after things as they are in such a very confused state. I am to do the best I can to look after Freds business during his absence, but I am sadly afraid he has no business to look after - from the little {{Image|file=Aah-588.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-589 1660]

insight I have had of it the past day or two he was not in a position to leave me enough money to carry on with unless - business comes into the office that I am not aware of. Bessie & George & my wife went to see him off in the vessel which is one of the finest, as regards accommodation I was ever aboard - he had for fellow passengers - our new Agent General, R.M.Smith Revd C. Strong, & other notables Freds passage money was £105 return. I am not very sanguine as to the result of this step, it is like sending good money after bad, but we must hope for the best. {{Image|file=Aah-589.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-590 1661]

April 1882
Miss Clark & Eddy over for a trip from Sydney - returned on the 18th inst. My old friend Mrs McCaffray (Mrs Hooper) down from Sandhurst for a trip - she is getting old & very garrulous. My wife on Good Friday sang with Mdm Boema in the Creation - dividing the honours - very successful Philharmonic Sty Concert Since Good Friday I have been engaged at the Sandridge Pier as Clerk in Charge during Mr Adamsons absence for three weeks. Eliza Recd {{Image|file=Aah-590.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-591 1662]

two letters from Fred one from Adelaide & one from Albany - getting on. I wrote to him on the 24 inst. a/d to Leicester - which he will get about three weeks after he arrives. I have a deal of anxiety about his business - his weekly liabilities are nearly £4, & there is no business coming in - to meet & what little he left me was exhausted before he had been gone three weeks & I have now run out all I can possibly scrape together. I have been talking over matters with Eliza & she informs me that she {{Image|file=Aah-591.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-592 1663]

feels lonely living by herself, & that her mother wants her to live at her house. I suggested her letting her house furnished which she has done to Day - for 35/- per week - which will keep her until Fred returns. May
On 1st May, I recd a long letter from [[Watmuff-9|Aunt Sarah]] & also one from the solicitors at Leicester Messrs. Stone & Co. they sent out a list of all properties possessed by my father at his death {{Image|file=Aah-592.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-593 1664]

which proves to be much more than I anticipated providing all could be realized. They also sent out a draft for £600 (£200 Each) - on a/c & from the statement I should gather there was at least another £200 each coming to us. There is a large sum besides of upwards of £700 - which I am sadly afraid will not be realized having no tangible security for it. I immediately on receipt of the Draft got it cashed & pd my sister Bessie her share & also pd off what Fred & I borrowed from Bond to send my brother home - with interest amounted to £50/8/8 each. I also pd off the overdraft at the Bank {{Image|file=Aah-593.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-594 1665]

& the money I borrowed from Lavers - which took all my share. I have now got the deeds of my cottage at St Kilda & also the land at Hawthorn clear & thank God I owe no man anything - the balance of Freds money is to my credit at the Commercial Bank so I will be able to carry on his affairs without troubling anyone - from what I can gather from my Aunts letter she thinks there is no necessity for my brother going home, at the same time I think she would like to see one of the family, so perhaps under the circumstances, it is well_ Fred went to England, providing_ he acts circumspectly. I see by the papers that the Shannon arrived in London on the 18th inst. {{Image|file=Aah-594.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-595 1666]

June 1882 We have had several letters from Fred – posted from various ports of call on his way home - WA, Columbo, Aden Suez & Malta & Eliza got one from Plymouth Bay. I am employd at present in Mr S. Smith place who is on his leave of absence Plenty of work. Freds business {{Image|file=Aah-595.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-596 1667]

very precarious. Eliza has let her house furnished to a French family named Pignolet very nice educated people - the youngest is a good singer. [a lot of figures scribbled on this page, and the following shopping list?]
½ Tea 1/6
4 Sugar
1 Butter
1 pint ving
½ Strawb
1 Broom
4 flour
{{Image|file=Aah-596.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-597 1668]

[list of crossed off items, Eliza’s furnishings?]
16pks Bedsteads ✓
1 Case Glass ✓
[*?] Cases JH.W ?
1 Basket ?
1 pkg (Press) ✓
1 Trough_ Crockery ✓
1 Pkg Chairs ?
6 Chests Draws ?
1 Book Case ✓ 1 Piano ✓
2 Cases Odds & Ends
1 Drawing Trunk ✓
2 pkgs
1 Carpet ? 8 Chairs
9 Chairs ? 1 couch ✓
1 Table ?
1 Blind Bamboo
2 Box Grog
2 pkgs
{{Image|file=Aah-597.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-598 1669]

McM 50 0 0
Wood firm 10 0
Tank 6 5 0
Water 15 0
Risby 3 17 6
Bricklayer 3 0 0
Risby 14 6
65 2 0
Rent 1 10
66 12 0
Closet
Water Rate 6 5 0
72 17 0
Jackson 2 5 0
75 2 0
oven 1 17 6
76 19 6
{{Image|file=Aah-598.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-599 1670]

{{Red|Be aware, optical illusion in the scanning process, torn off pages appearing to be on top are actually beneath the page they are "on top of" and vice versa.}} 24 0 0
13 6 9
37 6 9
Retain £6 for P & Co
Bal in hand of
nice {{Image|file=Aah-599.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-600 1671]

{{Image|file=Aah-600.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-601 1672]

[draft of a letter composed to a Mr. Baylee]
D[ea]r Mr. Baylee I find from a letter I have just received from my Bro, that he has visited T.P. who informs him that he is still uncertain as to your views Re what we were discussing as yet, Friday the 8th inst not having heard from you.
J H Watmuff {{Image|file=Aah-601.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-602 1673]

Watch Tower
Turner & Co London
*Jn 32, 296-
Open found – ¾ plate
Hartly Water Cash 6/-
Mr *later Glul** 6/-
X(Kiss Rls Lochland)X
X(Thursday 1 Sept/81)X
No & copy of Deeds. Waterloo St.
Entered in the Registrars Book.
Vol. 658 F.2131,469 –
----- No. of Certificate 198,352
Land at Hawthorn.
X(M. F .)X
X(Visited Australian)X
X(M & F & M. J Co)X
X(20 Collins St S. West)X
{{Image|file=Aah-602.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-603 1674]

{{Image|file=Aah-603.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-604 1675]

[free end paper] {{Image|file=Aah-604.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-605 1676]

[free end paper] {{Image|file=Aah-605.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=10/60}} == Sources ==

Active members with the [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Badges&b=connections10000 {{Blue|CC7 10,000 Connections Badge}}] '''Date/Time Updated:''' 31 March 2023 • 12:30 UTC '''Badge Received:''' This is the date/time that the [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Badges&b=connections10000 {{Blue|CC7 10,000 Connections Badge}}] was awarded. '''Date Format:''' Year-Month-Day {| border="3" class="wikitable sortable" cellpadding="5" style="white-space:nowrap" |+'''Active Members with 10,000+ Connections thru Degree 7''' ! Rank !! Name !! WikiTree-ID !! Total CC7
Connections !! Date
Updated !! Badge
Received |- |1||Patty (Luker) LaPlante||[[Luker-573]]||30667||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-08-30 05:00 |- |2||Jim Loden||[[Loden-219]]||27044||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-09-18 05:00 |- |3||Cas Erasmus||[[Erasmus-1133]]||17610||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:43 |- |4||Randy LaPlante||[[LaPlante-283]]||16800||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-09-27 05:00 |- |5||Piet Steyn||[[Steyn-1939]]||16727||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:44 |- |6||Jeff LaPlante||[[LaPlante-284]]||15545||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-10-11 05:00 |- |7||Bill McCarty||[[McCarty-1164]]||14176||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:41 |- |8||Frederik Jacobus Scheepers||[[Scheepers-1029]]||14017||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:49 |- |9||Terry Rockstrom||[[Rockstrom-4]]||13501||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-11-15 05:00 |- |10||Stu Ward||[[Ward-21154]]||13398||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-28 05:00 |- |11||Jeffrey Ward||[[Ward-21155]]||13176||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-28 05:00 |- |12||Peet Venter||[[Venter-2854]]||12855||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:48 |- |13||Beth (Ward) Demko||[[Ward-21156]]||12671||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-12-22 05:00 |- |14||Pieter Odendaal||[[Odendaal-113]]||12460||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:37 |- |15||Daniel Nicholson||[[Nicholson-10740]]||12345||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-10-20 05:00 |- |16||Ronnie Halford||[[Halford-162]]||11996||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:45 |- |17||Patricia (Simon) LaPlante||[[Simon-5011]]||11932||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-03-14 05:00 |- |18||Donald Terry||[[Terry-1731]]||11742||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:37 |- |19||Marcel Cormier||[[Cormier-1949]]||10805||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-01-26 05:00 |- |20||M. Riding||[[Riding-234]]||10707||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-12 22:53 |- |21||Bill Vincent||[[Vincent-18]]||10622||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-07-25 05:00 |- |22||Bernard Heymann||[[Heymann-29]]||10561||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-03-15 05:00 |- |23||Etienne van Niekerk||[[Van_Niekerk-7051]]||10531||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-02-19 05:00 |- |24||Gisèle Cormier||[[Cormier-1939]]||10504||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-02-04 05:00 |- |25||Susan (Malan) Starke||[[Malan-1190]]||10445||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-11-02 05:00 |- |26||Denis Cormier||[[Cormier-2047]]||10353||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-02-17 05:00 |- |27||Rita Kidd||[[Kidd-1708]]||10333||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-01-15 05:00 |- |28||Susie Humbeutel||[[Humbeutel-1]]||10163||2023-03-31 12:30||2022-09-28 05:00 |- |29||John Spencer||[[Spencer-13906]]||10008||2023-03-31 12:30||2023-03-31 05:00 |- |}

== Introduction : The Circles of The Queen == This is a family everyone should be somehow familiar with, namely the [https://www.royal.uk/royal-family British Royal Family] of the late [[Windsor-1|Queen Elizabeth II Windsor (1926-2022)]] (hereafter QEII, with due respect). Most Royal Family close members have a profile in WikiTree, and the application [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special%3AMyConnections&w=Windsor-1 My Connections] is showing them, ordered by their distance in "degrees" to QEII. Each "degree" in the "My Connections" page is what we will call here a "circle" of the Queen. The first circle, or degree, gathers 8 people around her : 2 parents, 1 sister, 1 spouse and 4 children. The second circle gathers the parents, spouses, siblings and children of members of the first circle, 41 people altogether. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and in-laws of the initial profile. My Connections is limited to 1000 results and/or ten circles, a limit reached in the middle of the 5th circle for QEII. The WikiTree Browser extension installed allows to break through this limit. The more recent [https://www.wikitree.com/apps/Windsor-1#name=Windsor-1&view=cc7 CC7 application] (available from the Tree Apps menu) will list the seven first circles in a table. Following degrees/circles are computed the same way. Those profiles who were already counted in the previous circles should not be counted twice. It needs the smart algorithm of the Connection Finder to achieve that. Computing the shortest path from QEII to any of the 32+ million (as of Feb 2024) connected profiles allows to place each of them in one single circle, in any given state of the data base. For example former US President [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Obama-2&person2Name=Windsor-1 Barack Obama currently belongs to the 21st circle]. Counting the population of all circles beyond the seven first circles is possible, thanks to a query specially developed by Aleš Trtnik in late 2020 for the 100 Circles project provided we use it sparingly (it's quite heavy on the server). Do we really get as far as 100 Circles? Almost ... as of Feb 2024, the furthest connected profiles are 87 degrees from QEII, but actually less than 5000 profiles (the so-called "[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree Outer Rim]") are further than 60 degrees. Over 99.5% of connected profiles are within 40 degrees, and over 50% within 20 degrees. The following diagram is showing the distribution of circles population as of February 2024. {{Image|file=100_Circles-23.jpg |size=800 }} Several comments on this figure * The logarithmic scale allows to see details of the first and last circles. * The growth in first circles is quite regular, with a very slight inflexion around C15. * The decrease after the peak (most populated circle is C19) is also very regular. * After C60, the erratic aspect of the curve corresponds to a very few branches. An intriguing question is : who are the people in the 20th circle, one of the most populated one? The answer is : just about anyone. Random examples more or less famous : [[Plantagenet-36|Matilda (Plantagenet) of England (abt.1156-1189)]] (direct ancestor at 20 generations), [[Dunham-4|Stanley Ann Dunham (1942-1995)]] (mother of above quoted Barack Obama), [[Abgrall-1|Marie-Hélène Abgrall (1854-1905)]] (my maternal great-grandmother), [[Kobloth-1|Charles Joseph Kobloth (1870-1924)]] (cabinetmaker in Paris), [[Van_Asten-27|Henrica van Asten (1757-1832)]] ... The Connection Finder will help you find more of them. Take a distant profile in the [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree#Current_status Outer Rim] table, check his connection to Windsor-1, e.g., [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Windsor-1&person2Name=Kuneš-3 Václav Kuneš]. The profile at distance 20 from QEII in this path is in her 20th circle. Strike that one off the path, you'll get another one, etc. == In focus : more women ! == We are comparing in this section the distribution of circles population for some other reference profiles. The list has changed over time, and in February 2024 women have taken over, famous ones or less so, spanning nine centuries : * [[Aquitaine-84|Aliénor (Eleanor) d'Aquitaine (abt.1124-1204)]], Queen of France and England, with a huge descendancy. * [[Stewart-6849|Mary (Stewart) Stuart Queen of Scots (1542-1587)]] has been a longstanding "central node", with all connected profiles at less than 80 degrees from her. See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree Outer Rim] page for more details. * [[Bradford-45|Alice (Bradford) Fitch (abt.1659-1745)]] a New England settler, member of the Mayflower families, is one of the two top connected profiles in WikiTree, along with her brother [[Bradford-57|Joseph Bradford (1675-1747)]] * [[Roy-300|Geneviève Roy (1697-1771)]] is the top connected woman among Nouvelle-France early settlers. * [[De_Beer-124|Johanna Adriana (de Beer) Pretorius (1751-1797)]] is the top connected woman among South African profiles. * [[Larsdotter-1579|Anna Larsdotter (1793-1875)]], from Sweden, is taking over her husband [[Andersson-5056|Olof Andersson (1793-1860)]], who has been featured in this page for years. * [[Lannéval-1|Marie Anne Lannéval (1815-1883)]] was a miller in Gourin (Bretagne, France). With 17 siblings, 2 spouses and 16 children, her circles have a strong start with a C1 at 37. * [[Davis-26671|Emma (Davis) Schipp (1862-1949)]], Australia, has a remarkable symmetry in her distribution, probably due to the geographical diversity in her first circles. * [[Gardahaut-1|Jeanne Suzanne Gardahaut (1900-1992)]] sailed from France in 1920 to meet her fiancé in Seattle ... * [[Coleman-6364|Creola Katherine (Coleman) Johnson (1918-2020)]], a USBH profile, was an amazing computer and important contributor in the first US spatial missions. * [[Windsor-1|Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor (1926-2022)]], Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland for over 70 years * [[Luker-573|Patty (Luker) LaPlante (b. 1950s) ]], USA, currently the second "most connected" WikiTreer. See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Special:ConnectionCounts Most-Connected Members]. * [[Haupaix-1|Léa Haupaix (b.1990s)]], active WikiTreer in the France Project. {| border="2" class="wikitable sortable" cellpadding="5" ! Focus ID !! CC1 !! CC2 !! CC3 !! CC4 !! CC7 !! CC10 !! CC20 !! Peak!! Mean !! e !! update |- |[[Aquitaine-84]] || 17 || 117 || 463 || 1,561 || 14,469 || 39,590 ||1,065,155 || 25 || 27.3 || 84 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Stewart-6849]] || 17 ||118 || 525 || 1,970 || 28,060 || 166,163 || 20,784,896|| 18 || 19.9 || 87 ||2024-05-06 |- |[[Bradford-45]] || 29 ||292 || 1,974 || 9,557 || 333,551 ||2,359,832 || 26,575,965 || 14 || 16.8 || 85 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Roy-300]] || 32 || 291 || 1,818 || 9,059 || 271,034 || 936,779 || 22,251,988|| 17 || 19.1 || 87 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[De_Beer-124]] || 30 || 282 ||1,694 || 8,707 || 211,474 || 547,713 || 13,297,561 || 21 || 21.8|| 91 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Larsdotter-1579]] || 19 || 97 || 410|| 1,136 || 5,636 || 17,101 || 6,191,672 || 22 || 24.4 || 96 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Lannéval-1]] || 37 || 219 || 515|| 682 || 1,682 || 5,517 || 20,472 || 30 || 32.9 || 100 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Davis-26671]] || 28 || 148 || 413 || 924 ||12,217 || 128,741|| 15,894,573|| 20 || 21.4 || 93 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Gardahaut-1]] || 7 || 45 || 137 || 263 || 2,521||35,219 || 16,921,683 || 18 || 21.2 || 94 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Coleman-6364]] || 8 ||30 || 49 || 82 || 645 || 12,986 || 13,875,139|| 19|| 22.3 || 93 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Windsor-1]] || 8 ||49 || 189 || 537|| 9,199|| 85,913 || 17,605,105 || 19 || 20.9 || 87 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Luker-573]] || 14 ||97 || 428 || 1,461 || 45,413 || 247,568 || 20,409,954|| 16 ||19.6 || 92 || 2024-05-06 |- |[[Haupaix-1]] || 3 || 16 || 59 || 142 || 2,039 || 2,694 || 16,693 || 33 || 34.2 || 100 || 2024-05-06 |- |} Columns CC1 to CC20 give the '''cumulative population''' of circles. For example the column '''CC7''' gives the total population of circles up to the 7th, in other words the number of profiles at a maximal distance of 7 degrees from the Focus. This is the same CC7 number as the [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Help:Connection_Counts Connection Counts] appearing on member profiles. '''Peak''' value is the distance of the most populated circle. In standard statistics vocabulary, it's called "Mode" of the distribution. '''Mean''' value is the average of all distances to the Focus. Due to the "long tail" of the distribution, the mean value is always slightly greater than the peak value. As a reference, the average distance between two random connected profiles, based on samples constructed using Jamie Nelson's very cool [https://apps.wikitree.com/apps/nelson3486/random/ application], can be assessed, as of July 2022, to be in the interval [22-25] with a confidence of 95%. See [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1448105/mean-distance-in-the-single-tree-samples-of-random-profiles G2G discussion] for more details. '''e''' is the '''eccentricity''' of the profile, in other words the distance of the furthest profiles, or the radius of the greatest non-empty circle. Former featured profiles included : * [[Lothrop-29|Samuel Lothrop Esq (1622-1700)]], member of the Great Puritan Migration, was known before the project for having one of the smallest mean distance to every connected profile, and an impressively sharp growth of his first circles (over one million in the 10 first circles). * [[Allerton-6|Mary (Allerton) Cushman (abt.1617-1699)]], a Mayflower passenger, with a distribution quite similar to Samuel Lothrop. * [[Du_Toit-82|François du Toit (1664-1731)]] French Huguenot, one of the founder patriarchs of the Cape Colony (South Africa). His distribution presents the typical "South Africa Bump". * [[Vatant-5|Jean-Joseph Marie Vatant (1804-1875)]] was the original focus of the research, along with his Swedish counterpart [[Andersson-5056|Olof Andersson (1793-1860)]]. They are respective ancestors of the two co-authors of this page. Similar in many ways, native from very endogamic rural areas, with large families. * [[Banks-2508|Ernest Banks (1931-2015)]], famous baseball player, selection of the USBH Project. * [[Bacon-2568|Kevin Bacon]], our CC7 reference profile. Other profiles have been previously included at the beginning of the project in 2021 : [[Mars-121|Marie Mars (1689-1776)]], [[Carlton-1976|Adaline (Carlton) Van Wye (1826-1897)]], [[Von_Keyserling-13|Hermann Alexander von Keyserling (1880-1946)]] chosen by their respective PM, involved in the original project team. == Shapes of the circles distribution == Are circles distributions really as different as they seem from the above table? The differences are driven by different parameters at different scales. The sum of the populations of all the circles will be the same for all profiles, because it is the total population of the connected Tree. (This is exactly true only if data are retrieved the same day, the Tree is growing by about 10k profiles every day). * In the closest circles, the differences are mainly linked to the care taken of the Focus and close relatives by the local PMs, and of course the size of first few circles' families. Large families have potentially over 100 profiles in C2, between 300 and 400 in C3, and over 1,000 in C4. One important part of the work in progress here is to ensure that those first circles are as complete as possible. For our reference Focus [[Stewart-6849|Mary Stuart]], like for many "Euro Aristos" such a work has already mostly been achieved, hence the great values for C4 and C5. Similar values are expected to be reached for the (far less notable!) Vatant-5 and Andersson-5056, for whom a systematic completion is under way. * Differences in C10 and C20 are linked to the distance of the Focus to the (mostly American) bulk of WikiTree. For profiles such as Jean-Joseph Vatant, it takes up to the 15th circle to see a significant growth of the circles population, and the peak circle is currently C28. Shortcuts to the bulk are certainly yet to be discovered. (One important parameter in this case is the very low WikiTree adoption rate in France) * In all cases, the population of the peak circle is about the same, a little less than 10% of the total Tree population. When put together on the same diagram, most distributions look globally quite the same, simply more or less shifted to higher distances, and the peak more or less sharp. {{Image|file=100_Circles-11.jpg |size=800 }} Nevertheless, differences appear when looking more closely at a variety of cases. For most profiles under study, the growth to the peak is steeper than the decline to the long tail. In many cases, a secondary "bump" appears beyond the peak, as for Patty (Luker) LaPlante below. {{Image|file=100_Circles-16.jpg |size=800 }} Some cases show at the opposite a remarkable symmetry of the distribution on each side of the peak, such as Emma (Davis) Schipp. The reasons of such differences are not known at this stage. {{Image|file=100_Circles-13.jpg |size=800 }} South African profiles typically show a quick start, up to 100k around C8, then a dip between C10 and C15. This is due to a heavily connected local cluster. {{Image|file=100_Circles-17.jpg |size=800 }} Outer Rim profiles, generally connected through a long and tortuous path and several bottlenecks, display a chaotic distribution over many circles. Of course, such a distribution is likely to collapse drastically whenever a shorcut is found. {{Image|file=100_Circles-20.jpg |size=800 }} *More hill shapes on space page [[Space:Shapes_in_the_Tree|Shapes in the Tree]] == How the circles grow == === It's raining where it's wet === With WikiTree growth, the circles population is of course changing. The overall population of The Tree is growing at a rate of over 3 million per year. How is this growth distributed over the 100 circles? The first few circles growth is of course driven by the activity of the local PMs. If they have done a good job, up to the second and third circles can be complete after months of work, and are not subject to significative changes afterwards. In the "far circles" (C15 and beyond), growth is driven by the global, somehow random, activity of WikiTree, independent of local growth. Since it's always raining where it's wet, most of the growth happens in the already most populated circles. Moreover, new reconnections keep bringing back profiles down to lower circles, making the overall distribution sharper and sharper with time. As an illustration, the following plot compares the circles population for Jean-Joseph Vatant in November 2020 and November 2022. {{Image|file=100_Circles-19.jpg |size=800 }} In this global picture the work done during the same period to systematically populate the first circles (up to C4) is just invisible. Actually this work had practically no impact on the global distribution, given the strong endogamy of those first circles. The few reconnections with a visible global impact have happened beyond C10. === Seven circles ... and beyond === [[Haupaix-1|Léa Haupaix]], featured as our last reference profile, has joined WikiTree in January 2021 and her branch was first connected to the Big Tree a few months later. As for many French people, finding connection paths is not obvious, and the first ones are generally going through tortuous bottlenecks. With time, and a hard work on the first circles to grow her CC7, more connections have been found, and Léa's mean distance which was over 38 in 2021 has fallen below 35. Still far above the average, but following the good direction! The following plot compares Léa's circles population since July 2021. The progress on first circles is well visible thanks to the logarithmic scale, as well as the progressive reduction of the gap around the 10th circle, and the global shift of the curve towards smaller values. Note also the chaotic behaviour of the "long tail" of profiles beyond C70, which would look the same for any reference profile, see [[Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree|The Outer Rim of the Global Tree]] for more on this. {{Image|file=100_Circles-24.jpg |size=800 }} For other examples, see also the 2020 page [[Space:Bridges_from_Sweden|Bridges from Sweden]], which turned out as a comparison between Olof Andersson and four other profiles, has been updated to show the distribution changes in the circle populations of the same five profiles - showing the contrast between profiles affected only by the general growth of the Big Tree and profiles where "reconnections" have been actively worked on. === A slow but steady "collapse" of circles === For all studied reference profiles the peak of the distance distribution is getting sharper and shifted to lower values. The following table shows the changes in mean distance over 3 years for a few reference profiles. {| border="2" cellpadding="5" ! !! Jan 21 !! Jan 22 !! Jan 23 !! Jan 24 |- |[[Lothrop-29|Samuel Lothrop]] || 17.5 || 17.3 || 17.1 || 16.9 |- |[[Stewart-6849|Mary Stuart]]|| 20.4 || 20.2 || 20.2 || 20.0 |- |[[Windsor-1|Elizabeth II Windsor]] || 22.0 || 21.8 || 21.4 || 21.1 |- |[[Andersson-5056|Olof Andersson]] || 32.0 || 30.0 || 25.0 || 24.5 |- |[[Vatant-5|Jean-Joseph Vatant]] || 33.1 || 32.4 || 30.9 || 30.6 |- |} There is of course a limit to the growth of each circle, hence to the "collapse" of the distribution towards lower circles, but this limit is far from reached, for three main reasons : * Most connected profiles have not completed even their first circle : parents, siblings, spouse(s) and children are still missing. * Each new reconnection pulls profiles to lower circles, and the whole distribution to lower distances. Such collapse events can be spectacular for profiles still at far distances from the bulk of the Tree. * Many people in the first circles are yet to be born, or not yet included because they are too recent, for privacy reasons. This last point is fascinating to consider. For example the 12 great-grandchildren of QEII are not yet in WikiTree, and when they are they will add to her C3. Later on, hopefully, their children will add to C4 by 2040, and their grandchildren to C5 by 2070, the sixth generation will be born somewhere around the turn of next century. With a mean of 3 generations by century, C9 members will be added by 2200, etc. Even Mary Stuart, who might look quite ancient to most of us, has still more than two centuries to wait to see the last members of her 20th circle come to life. QEII belongs to her 12th circle only ... === The shape of things to come : Billion Profiles Single Tree === Based on current trends, one can conjecture what the circles distribution would look like when the Single Tree has passed the billion threshold. Such a figure seems a bold hypothesis, but keeping the current annual growth rate of about 15%, this would be achieved in less than 30 years! In the Billion Profiles Single Tree, it can be conjectured that for most connected profiles, the distribution would converge towards having a similar shape, with a peak in the 15-20 range, and a mean distance below 20. Differences would simply came from the population of the very first circles, Samuel Lothrop case would certainly stay as a reference of sharp growth. One can wonder how such figures are possible, but various estimations of the issue, based on the mean size of families, indicate a ballpark estimation of tenfold growth every 2 circles in the ascending part of this asymptotic distribution, once the 10,000 threshold is passed, somewhere around the 6th circle. A tenfold growth every 2 circles would give this kind of figures for cumulated population : *CC6 : 10,000 *CC8 : 100,000 *CC10 : 1M (figure already passed by Samuel Lothrop) *CC12 : 10M *CC14 : 100M ... ... reaching half a billion around C15, which would be the peak circle (as it already is in Lothrop distribution) All this is of course highly conjectural, but indicates that the shape of things to come is somehow already visible in the current state of affairs. But let the Tree grow, and let's keep gathering data! ------------- == Bottom line == One can ask what all this can bring to the WikiTree experience, the genealogist work and everyday life. Here come a few answers (non-exhaustive list). * Shifting viewpoint from "my ancestors", "my family", "my blood" to a more peripheral vision, towards an attention to all four directions of kinship (parents, children, siblings, spouses). * Systematic exploration and expansion of the first circles is likely to reach and go over your zone of genealogical comfort, discovering unexpected alliances and filiations, traveling further across time, space and social boundaries. * As the original [[Vatant-5|Jean-Joseph Marie Vatant]] and [[Andersson-5056|Olof Andersson]] cases show, even very endogamic first circles eventually expand towards every corner of The Tree. Checking how and when this happens is a good lesson in history of migrations and exogamy. -------------- ==See also== '''Free-space pages:''' *[[Space:Seven_Circles_Magic|Seven Circles Magic]] *[[Space:Beyond_CC7|Beyond CC7]] *[[Space:Connection_Facts|Connection Facts and Figures]] *[[Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree|The outer rim of the global tree]] *[[Space:Olof_Andersson_in_the_global_tree|Olof Andersson in the global tree]] *[[Space:Circles_and_Bridges_of_Suzanne_Gardahaut_(1900-1992)| Circles and Bridges of Suzanne Gardahaut (1900-1992)]] *[[Space:100_Circles_of_Hermann_Graf_von_Keyserling|The 100 Circles of the philosopher Hermann Graf von Keyserling]] (space page in progress) *[[Space:Families_cluster|Families cluster]] (About connections within family clusters) *[[Space:Bridges_from_Sweden|Bridges from Sweden]] - (About how to get from here to there) *[[Space:The_long_and_winding_path|The long and winding path]] - About profiles with a long distance to the "center" * [[Space:100_Circles_of_Marie_Mars|100 Circles of Marie Mars]] * [[Space:Closer_-_closer_-_closest|Closer - closer - closest]] - About profiles with short mean distance to the rest of the tree *[[Space:Paule%2C_An_XII_de_la_R%C3%A9publique|Paule, An XII de la République]] - a deep dive in rural endogamy (in French) * [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_Ancestry_of_Europe's_Royal_and_Princely_Houses:_Work_in_Progress The Ancestry of Europe's Royal and Princely Houses - Work in Progress] *[[Space:Ten_Circles_-_One_Million_Profiles|Ten circles meet each other]] - a conjecture based on figures observed in the current distribution and growth of circles : average WikiTree profiles should be less than 20 degrees from each other. *[[Space:100_Circles_-_more_discussion|100 Circles - more discussion]] - a discussion page on miscellaneous related issues . '''G2G discussions:''' *'''Follow the conversation on G2G under the tag "[https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/tag/100_circles 100_circles]"'''. * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/612063/mathematical-graph-structure-of-global-tree Mathematical graph structure of global tree] (Shawn Ligocki post, G2G May 2018) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/609061/who-the-main-center-profile-the-global-one-world-tree-anyway Who is the main or center profile of the global one world tree, anyway?] (G2G May 2018) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/920269/marketing-the-19th-century Marketing the 19th century] (G2G October 2019) While a main purpose of the post was to suggest that most potential WikiTree members could find at least one of their 19th-century ancestors on WikiTree, a second conclusion that can be drawn from the statistics is that WikiTree is heavily weighted towards 19th-century profiles, and this has consequences for the location of the current global tree's center * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1114555/scrap-closeness-what-your-most-distant-connection-global-tree Scrap closeness: what is your most distant connection in the global tree?] (G2G September 2020) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1130758/number-of-profiles-at-n-degrees-from-a-profile-p0 Number of profiles at N degrees from a profile P0] (October 2020) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1138263/100-circles-a-geometry-of-the-tree 100 Circles: A Geometry of the Tree] (November 2020) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1148498/what-shall-we-do-with-those-outer-rim-branches What shall we do with those Outer Rim branches?] (December 2020) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1187050/dr-gates-and-wikitree-challenge-made-us-closer-to-each-other Dr Gates and WikiTree Challenge made us closer to each other] (February 2021) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1192578/one-million-more-connected-how-far-are-you-from-them One million more connected, how far are you from them?] (February 2021) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1198715/reconnection-challenge-aberle-wurttemberg-germany-century Reconnection challenge: Aberle, Württemberg, Germany, 19th century] (March 2021) * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1202249/ancestry-europes-royal-princely-houses-progress-march-update The Ancestry of Europe's Royal and Princely Houses - March 2021 Update] * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1239899/ten-circles-meet-each-other? Ten circles meet each other: a conjecture] - May 2021 * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1256129/circles-of-hm-queen-elizabeth-ii-a-windsor Circles of HM Queen Elizabeth II A. Windsor] - June 2021 * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1258039/wikitree-and-network-theory WikiTree and Network Theory] - June 2021 * [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1258747/wikitree-network-defined WikiTree Network Defined] - June 2021 *[https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1261539/multiple-paths-to-ancestors Multiple paths to ancestors] - June 2021 '''External links:''' * [https://www.sligocki.com/2021/06/23/wikitree-and-network-theory.html WikiTree and Network Theory] - Shawn Ligocki * [http://goaf.fr/pages/shapes.html Shapes in the Great Tree] - Bernard Vatant * The original publication by [[Vatant-1|Bernard Vatant]] under the title [http://goaf.fr/jjv/cercles.html Cent cercles de Jean-Joseph] (in French).

These are discussions related to the project [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:100_Circles 100 Circles: A Geometry of The Tree]. Participants: Please initial and date your posts (or use the four tildes). Posts can be begun with an asterisk, or if they are replies to others' posts, they can be indented with the use of two asterisks. Alternatively, use the numbering method by following the existing format. Please select the relevant section for your post, or add a new heading if you are introducing a new subject. Finally, keep in mind that two people may be editing at once, which will cause problems, so for long posts you may wish to compose them off-line and paste them into this page. Please note that this page is still under construction and the format may change as various ideas are tried. ===Announcements=== The intent of this section is to make this page a central location for notifying project participants of useful updates to other pages in the 100 Circles series, thus reducing the need for e-mails. * BV 18 Dec 2020: Yesterday night I added to Eva's "Outer Rim" FSP a section about the quick-and-dirty triangulation method and the current Center and Outer Rim: https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree#How_to_find_a_central_node === The Outer Rim - Current === Current Outer Rim challenges. See also: [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree The outer rim of the global tree] and [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1148498/what-shall-we-do-with-those-outer-rim-branches What shall we do with those Outer Rim branches?] (G2G). *I have reworked [[Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree#Reconnections|the section about reconnections]] on the Outer Rim Page, reconstructing events. Hope I got it all. It does move fast. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 15:29, 20 December 2020 (UTC)) ** KJW, 20 Dec: Looks good. Thanks for reconstructing the whirlwind of connections, Eva! ====Württemberg==== :I have hard time to follow-up myself. After two days off, I ran the magic query for Jean-Joseph yesterday night and find out that the furthest circles has moved a few degrees outward to [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Rohle-7 Johann Georg Rohle] and his wife. This new Outer Rim branch is made of new profiles (created Dec 17). I tried to run the magic query on Rohle-7 this morning but got a blank page. I'm afraid things are moving too fast for our modest task force to follow-up. We aim at a moving target indeed... [[Vatant-1|Vatant-1]] 10:23, 22 December 2020 (UTC) ::But it's fascinating! (It's alive :-) And yes, the magic query comes up blank when the profile is too freshly created. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 10:48, 22 December 2020 (UTC)) Addendum: I've never seen such a long horizontal connection path before!! :::Maybe we should contact the PM to investigate how/why he got there.[[Vatant-1|Vatant-1]] 13:09, 22 December 2020 (UTC) ::::Yes, do that (I think you are a better contacter). I have looked; the emigrants from the line were created last year, then the last few months a lot of families with inlaws within a certain timespan - not going a lot further back and not much forward in time. There has been a method to it. Should probably not be difficult to find another connection point by going forward. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 13:55, 22 December 2020 (UTC)) ::::: Just checked https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Largest_Unconnected_Branches to discover that this branch has been recently connected by N Gauthier, on Dec. 20. That means we need a better coordination with the Connectors project.([[Vatant-1|Vatant-1]] 00:13, 23 December 2020 (UTC)) ::::: I'm checking Ancestry and FamilySearch for Catholic records for folks in the nearest circles to [[Rohle-7]]. I have added a few children but nothing so far that looks like a connection. [[Lowe-866|Lowe-866]] 20:40, 31 December 2020 (UTC) :::::: I turned my attention to the circles around the DE->US immigrant [[Pfister-386|Valentine Pfister]] and managed to shorten the chain by a step or two in the US. I think I'll turn back to the Württemberg Catholic records and hope for a marriage that will make a huge shortcut. [[Lowe-866|Lowe-866]] 16:19, 6 January 2021 (UTC) : The diameter is currently 150 : [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Zaidi-61&person2Name=Rohle-7&relation=0&ignoreIds= Muhammad Zainul Abideen Zaidi is 150 Degrees from Johann Rohle]. In the middle of this path the current center is [[Curtis-621|William Curtis III (1592-1672)]], with no other furthest profiles than the ends of this path. Radius = 75. Round numbers, for once. And this William Curtis III belongs to the Great Puritan Migration. Too typical to be true :-) [[Vatant-1|Vatant-1]] 20:17, 22 December 2020 (UTC) ::No, no. The implausibly typical does happen now and then. I suppose we should not expect it to last. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 11:21, 23 December 2020 (UTC)) ::I managed to integrate these new events in [[Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree|the Outer Rim Page]]. Best way to find the three chunks of addition is to look from the Changes tab. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 12:08, 23 December 2020 (UTC)) :: The diameter is up to 157 from [[Rohle-7|JG Rohle]] to Ali Imran Zaidi's father-in-law [[Hamdani-3|Khurshid Anwar Hamdani]] [[Lowe-866|Lowe-866]] 16:20, 6 January 2021 (UTC) =====February 2021 Update ===== When running the query during the past couple days, I noticed that distances to the outer rim have signficantly increased. For my focus profile, the maximum distance decreased from 95 (17 Nov 2020) to 89 (1 Feb 2021), only to increase to a value of 97 (6 Feb 2021). The figures have been similar for other profiles that I've checked. Does anyone have insights into the cause of the increase? [[Lavoie-802|Lavoie-802]] 6 Feb 2021 9:11 PM EST :This is linked to the work of [[Pfister-372|Peter Pfister Sr.]] in the "Württemberg branch"; e.g., [[Held-634|Joseph Held (abt.1830-)]]. Furthest from Marie Stuart as of today are 13 profiles, all of them in that branch it seems, at distance 95. At the opposite side of the Württemberg branch is the Pakistanese outer rim branch with e.g., [[Khanum-8|Faiz Ul Hasan (Khanum) Hamdani]]. Distance between those opposite branches is 171. Close to the middle of the path is [[Look-30|Thomas Look (abt.1622-1675)]], a founder of Nantucket. He has an eccentricity of 86 (current radius) and a distribution of circles quite similar to our Focus Samuel Lothrop, so is central by two criteria : eccentricity and mean distance.[[Vatant-1|Vatant-1]] 11:06, 7 February 2021 (UTC) ==== Czech ==== ===== [[Sedláček-155|John the immigrant]] (Sedláček-155) ===== : [[Lowe-866|Karen]] found a Czech American line on Geni along the path to [[Kratina-1|Tomáš Kratina]]. Tomáš and some Geni researchers have disproved [[Sedláček-155|John Sedlacek the immigrant's]] alleged parents from unsourced Geni, so those have been disconnected. A quick look at Newspapers.com for Sedlacek family newspaper records in Kolin, Louisiana, in John's late life did not turn up any leads on John's parents or hometown, so he has been set aside. We could get John's naturalization documents from Iowa (only the index card has been found) to find John's hometown and parents. John's family experienced discrimination in the Czech settlement of Kolin, Louisiana. His son Joseph was probably connected with an Indian school in South Dakota. Interesting stuff! :: Karen is now casting about for other Czech paths to draw Tomáš closer. [[Lowe-866|Lowe-866]] 02:13, 20 December 2020 (UTC) ::: I'm no longer looking at this area, so call me back if I can help. I don't know Czech research and was just mucking around on Geni. [[Lowe-866|Lowe-866]] 22:21, 31 December 2020 (UTC) === The Outer Rim - Past === Each newly dethroned Lord (or group of Lords) of the Outer Rim is being placed at the top of this list. Thus by reading this section starting from the bottom one can see the evolution of the Outer Rim, which is in part due to the work of the 100 Circles participants. The history of the Outer Rim is also discussed [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:The_outer_rim_of_the_global_tree#Lords_of_the_Rim here]. ==== Prague ==== * KJW, 1 Jan 2021: Update - As of New Year's Eve 2020, [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Zaken-5|Yehuda ha-Zaken], a Prague rabbi who died in 1539/40, was one of the three new Lords of the Rim alongside [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Rohle-7 Johann Georg Rohle] and his wife. Today Yehuda and most of his ancestors have been detached from the global tree as their linkages to [[Nagid-3|Joseph ibn Naghrela]] at one end of a long agnatic line and the Maharal of Prague on the other were equally false. ::That's the one who wasn't father of [[Loew-12|Bezalel Loew]] ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 13:49, 31 December 2020 (UTC)) * KJW, 19 Dec 2020: Solved. This proved to be a ghost based on a misreading of a tombstone in the Prague cemetery. The profile has now been merged into the real Bezalel Loew (father of the Maharal) who Eva mentioned below. *[[Loew-12|Bezalel Loew]]. No dates but is evidently Jewish and seems to hail from late sixteenth-century Prague. **Looks like the father of Rabbi Loew: [[Wikipedia:Judah_Loew_ben_Bezalel|Judah Loew ben Bezalel]] ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 10:14, 19 December 2020 (UTC)) Although this is actually denied in the profile. (EE reading too fast again) There is another [[Loew-14|Bezalel Loew]] with a different father... ''This highlights a need to look into the claims of descent from the House of David'' ***EE 20 Dec: This shortened path has now kicked in, with today's run of the connection script. I wonder when his false father, [[Zaken-5|Yehuda (Zaken) ha-Zaken (-1540)]] will turn up. *** KJW 20 Dec: Pretty soon, I suspect. He looks to be quite far out on the Rim. ****Many thanks for sorting this out, Kelsey! Fun to see that we predicted his return and suspected false claims in the line, both of which turned out to happen. Now they should be pretty far from the edge of the galaxy for some time. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 08:56, 2 January 2021 (UTC)) ==== Zaidis ==== KJW, 30 Dec 2020. These individuals are now, regrettably, detached from the global tree as there are conflicting accounts of the ancestry of [[Zaidi-30|Nawab Ghulam Muhammad Khan]] which seem at the moment unresolvable. KJL, 6 Jan 2021: I see that Ali Imran's father-in-law [[Hamdani-3|Mr. Hamdani]] is now 157 steps from [[Rohle-7|JG Rohle]]. The universe itself keeps on expanding and expanding... (also KJs unite!) A group of individuals at the edge of the Outer Rim, all lacking in dates or places: * [[Zaidi-61|Muhammad Zainul Abideen Zaidi]]. No geographical or chronological data. * [[Zaidi-62|Fatima Zahra Zaidi]]. Sister of the previous individual. * [[Zaidi-21|Masooma Zaidi]]. Father of the previous two. * [[Zaidi-67|Hassan Abbas Zaidi]]. Another member of this kinship group. * [[Zaidi-68|Shayan a Zainab Zaidi]]. Sister of the previous individual. * [[Zaidi-66|Iffat Zaidi]]. Father of the previous two. **Manager inactive since 2013. [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Zaidi-17&person2Name=%D8%A8%D9%86_%D8%B9%D8%A8%D8%AF%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-3&relation=0&ignoreIds= descent from the Prophet Muhammad] - 44 generations without dates. Most profiles in the line are on green privacy (public, but we cannot edit). Profiles listed above are the immediate family of the manager.([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 14:44, 19 December 2020 (UTC)) ** KJW, 19 Dec 2020: This will be a tricky one given the lack of editability and the fact that we seem to be working with a single, long agnatic descent from the [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/'Syed'-6 Imam Hussain]. Thoughts on how to proceed? **GL, 19 Dec 2020: John Atkinson has submitted the open profile request. Based on my experience, it shouldn't take long to get the releveant profiles opened. **EE, 20 Dec 2020: Yes, I also have good experiences of getting odd cases of greenlocks opened in bulk. ** KJW, 27 Dec 2020: These profiles have now been opened down to [[Zaidi-24|Hashmat Ali Zaidi]]. Time to get to work! ==== Oudh (north India) ==== KJW, 19 Dec 2020: [[Khan-83|Safdar Jang]] has been brought in from the cold. He is 38-58 degrees from this week's featured profiles this morning. * KJW, 17 Dec 2020: I've done some preliminary work on our new Lord of the Rim. He is better known as [[Khan-83|Safdar Jang]] (1708-1754) and was nawab of Oudh in north India. We even have a contemporary portrait! Now that we've located him in space and time I'm much more optimistic that he can be looped back into the core of the tree. * KJW, 17 Dec 2020: One possible way to loop Safdar Jang would be through [[Bahadur-1|Shahzada Mirza Muhammad Sulaiman Shikoh Bahadur]], a younger son of the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II. But are the Mughal emperors on WT? * KJW, 18 Dec 2020: I've identified two marriages of Safdar Jang's descendants with Anglo-Indians: [[Qadr-5|Sahibzada Anjum Qadr]] with [[David-3331|Kathleen David]] and [[Mirza-18|Sahibzada Muhammad Yusuf 'Ali Mirza]] with a daughter of [[Martin-63037|Havelock Martin]]. These are currently looking like promising bridges back to the main tree. ** EE: Thumbs up, Kelsey! * KJW, 18 Dec 2020: After some work on my morning coffee break Safdar Jang should now be looped in via a rambling route through Calcutta to Huguenot lawyers on the Isle of Wight. We'll see what the new numbers are at the next update. ==== Egypt ==== * KJW: الشريف/ علي المغراوي الحسني was brought back into the fold on 16 December. The new Lord of the Rim is [[Khan-83|Mirza Muhammad Muqeem Abdul Ghafoor Khan]]. # BV: [[المغراوي_الحسني-9|الشريف/ علي المغراوي الحسني]] : What can be done for him? ##EE: Has not some contact been made? The profile has been edited and given a date. [[المغراوي_الحسني-9|الشريف/ علي المغراوي الحسني]] ## BV: Indeed, I have contacted [[Nizamani-1495|Abdul-Rahim Nizamani]] ### Exchange above on Dec 15. # BV: As a clarification, our Arabic Outer Rim individual would appear to be the top of a traditional agnatic pedigree assigned to the eighteenth-century sheikh and muhaddith Ahmed Al-Malawi (1677-1767); [[Al-Malawi-1|Ahmed ibn Abd al-Fattah al-Malawi al-Azhari (1677-1767)]] The connection to the global tree then goes through his daughter Fatima ([[بنت_أحمد_الملوي_المجيري_الشافعي_الأزهري-1|عائشة بنت أحمد الملوي المجيري الشافعي الأزهري]]) and her husband Muhammad Abu Hadi bin Ahmed Al-Gohary (c.1729-1801). These folk appear to have all lived in Egypt, but I'm struggling to find reliable documentation. ##Well ,documentation was found by [[Nizamani-1495|Abdul-Rahim Nizamani]], who also connected Al-Maghrawi to [[بن_عبدالله-3|Muḥammad (بن عبدالله) ibn ‘Abd Allāh PBUH (abt.0570-0632)]]. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 06:53, 18 December 2020 (UTC)) ===Missing person=== What happened to [[Wirtz-25|Phillipp Wirtz]]? (EE 20 dec) (Note: Wirtz-25 was apparently one of the three points on the outer rim triangle around December 2-3, 2020. Bernard wrote of him in an e-mail regarding his triangulation method. - [[Kelts-7|Kelts-7]] 18:30, 20 December 2020 (UTC)) :Indeed! I thought profiles in WikiTree were never deleted? (BV, 20 Dec) * GL, 22 Dec 2020: Was he a living person? The profile could have been deleted if the profile was for a living person and the profile manager's account was closed * EE 23 Dec 2020: No, not a living person, although fairly recent. The account of the profile manager '''was''' already closed. The only thing I can think of is that somebody demanded deletion of the profile. [[Special:Delete]] * [[Mullins-2069|Mullins-2069]] 16:15, 4 January 2021 (UTC) If it helps, this was the branch I connected to the main tree in October. When I was making the connection, the profile manager's account was not closed at that time. ** [[Mullins-2069|Mullins-2069]] 16:34, 4 January 2021 (UTC) Here is [[Wirtz-26 | Wirtz-26]] from the same gedcom import and previous profile manager. I'm assuming Wirtz-25 was considered living and removed when the account closed (or something like that). The missing profile has disconnected this Wirtz line from the Verkissen profiles I worked on. ===First circles === See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:100_Circles#Current_Foci Current Foci] on the 100 Circles page for a table showing the status of the current Focus Profiles. ====Completing==== *I have taken a little break from adding profiles in Olof Andersson's first circles because I got interested in just exploring the circles for a bridge person. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 16:08, 18 December 2020 (UTC)) ====Exploring==== *[[Strid-27|Carl Victor (Strid) Streed (1858-1924)]] is a profile I have noticed as a frequent bridge from Sweden to the anchors of the week since 2016. I am exploring his circles in a spreadsheet: [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZiSmifo7qv1Ji5ybq--MOXQ8tBynD6dp06VqkYTxMxM/edit?usp=sharing here]. Five circles done, working on the sixth; think I'll stop there. Now and then I look at the Circles tab in 50% zoom, just to see the shape of it. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 16:08, 18 December 2020 (UTC)) === Bridges === #EE 15 Dec: One would think that the bridges are profiles for people who moved from one context to another - as opposed to the proverbial farmer who married the neighbour's daughter, who was also his third cousin. In the Swedish network the very noticeable bridges are the emigrants, but a master smith's daughter who married into low nobility will also serve as bridge, without leaving Sweden. ##EE 15 Dec: About marrying close to home: "the proverbial farmer who married the neighbour's daughter, who was also his third cousin" ##BV: that's my grandparents ##EE: for me it's my great grandfather, he who moved out, became a school teacher and adopted a surname = Ekeblad. I don't know straight off how/if they were related, but he married a girl from home, from just across the fields, who was the little sister of the wife of an elder brother Pettersson who stayed at the farm. ## BV: (About bridges to nobility): Same in Breizh. See my ancestor [[Jégou-15|Guillaume Jégou (1606-1669)]], le bâtard de Kervilio.
He's in the 8th circle of Jean-Joseph.
I'm pondering the idea of making him a new Focus. He'd be a good focus. I'd like to see more Foci/Focuses from the early modern period (16-18th centuries). I suspect we'd see different patterns for circles radiating out from then as opposed to the 19th century. ###EE: You can always explore profiles you find interesting by the magical query - it's not necessary to give them the "full treatment" ##GL: Guillaume Jégou has some interesting potential connection pathways. I see Barrin in the connections-I'm thinking that could be connected to Barrin-2
Barrrin-2 connects fairly closely to the New France population, through a Bégon/Rocbert marriage 2 and 3 degrees away. He's currently 12 degrees away from Mars-121. I've been trying to get Marie a bit closer to the Barrin/Bégon/Beauharnois set of families, so far without success #EE 15 Dec: We don't have anything like a formal definition of a bridge - we just notice that some connection paths appear very frequently when for example checking the anchors of the week. I have marked some of mine with a blue bridge image as primary photo which makes them stand out nicely in the connection finder - it limits the method to (mostly) profiles where I am the PM. Addition 18 Dec: this loose definition of a bridge is what I used here: [[Space:Bridges_from_Sweden|Bridges from Sweden]] ##BV: There is a formal definition in terms of graph connectivity. It's called a cut set.
[[Wikipedia:Connectivity_(graph_theory)#Components_and_cuts|Cut set]] (Wikipedia) ##EE (reading too quickly): So what I/we have been calling a bridge is usually not correct by the strict definition of a bridge.
It's not all that often that excluding a single node will disconnect a subgraph. ##BV: A cut set is a set, that is in general more than one node. ##EE:OK, so what I have called a bridge is "actually" one of the nodes in a cut set. ====A spinoff into paths from Italy to Sweden to Austro-Hungaria==== #15-16 Dec- EE: It (cutting a path by disconnecting a single node) could be done somewhere on Ali's one-liner graph; it could also be done where a connection has been found "artificially" through one long thin line, like I did with Gaetano Jaconelli. [[Space:Connection_of_Gaetano_Jaconelli|Connection of Gaetano Jaconelli]]. There is only one profile in each of his circles 4 and 5; I haven't written that into the page yet, but I should. ##KJW 15 Dec: Interesting that you also came across the rather strange dump of unconnected Italians in Sweden. I managed to connect one of these last year (actually from a Dalmatian family, if I recall correctly). ##EE: [[Vranyczany_de_Dobrinoviç-1|Margarita Valeria Dragoila Aloysia Vranyczany de Dobrinoviç (1878-1969)]] ##KJW: That's the one - thanks! ##EE:I got to know the content of that category fairly well - and that was one family I could never have done much with. ##KJW: I started working on it because I thought it would be quite easy, but the link to the main tree proved to be a long "telephone pole" connection through various families of minor Austro-Hungarian nobility (a group which isn't very well covered on WT at the moment). ##EE: Better a telephone pole than nothing at all! ==== Bridges in New France ==== * GL, 19 Dec 2020: The 100 Circles page for my [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:100_Circles_of_Marie_Mars focus profile] includes a few bridges, mostly between different New World founder populations (see [[Deschalets-1|Claude Deschalets]], [[Farnsworth-1192|Matthias Claude (Farnsworth) Phaneuf ]], and [[Otis-224|Rose Otis]]). I will add more bridges in the future, either to the exisitng page or to a separate one to make tracking easier. ====Bridges from Jean-Joseph Vatant to Marie Stuart==== I checked today the paths from Jean-Joseph Vatant to Mary Stuart, striking each time the 10th step. All "bridges" listed below are in the 10th circle of Jean-Joseph, which contains only 169 people as of today. [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Vatant-5&person2Name=Stewart-6849&relation=0&ignoreIds= 20 degrees through Jégou-36] (shortest path). Note that this path goes through only French profiles to the very mother of Marie Stuart. Then striking Jégou-36 ... :25 degrees through Durant_de_Mareuil-2 :28 degrees through Dampierre-36 :30 degrees through Robillard-586 :30 degrees through Saint_Jalmes-1 :32 degrees through Pardieu-3 :34 degrees through Ollone-16 :36 degrees through Ollone-15 :38 degrees through Salaun-5 :38 degrees through Kervella-10 :40 degrees through Jégou-26 :42 degrees through Lesmais-4 :45 degrees through Gondrecourt-1 :45 degrees through Menez-1 :48 degrees through Le_Goff-32 :54 degrees through Dréo-4 Striking Dréo-4 no more connection. Not sure what to do with that ... [[Vatant-1|Vatant-1]] 20:11, 9 January 2021 (UTC) ===Questions and suggestions=== ==== G2G ==== * GL, 20 Dec 2020: Are we planning to have periodic G2G posts regarding outer rims and other 100 Circles posts? Starting another G2G post like [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1148498/what-shall-we-do-with-those-outer-rim-branches this one] once a month or quarter will help generate further interest from others. * JK, 20 Dec 2020: The list of previous 100 Circles G2G discussions, along with a few others that might be of interest, is [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:100_Circles#See_also here]. ==== PPP Focus Profile ==== * GL, 22 Dec 2020: I think it would be interesting to add [[Young-93|Brigham Young]] as a PPP Focus profile. Due to his many marriages and children, he appears to have one of the lowest mean distances in the global tree, comparable to Samuel Lothrop (table below for comparison). * See [[Space:Approximating_the_Center_of_the_Global_Tree|Approximating the Center of the Global Tree]] space page. I thought it would be nice to have the tables for these reference profiles showing the development over time (for some time). ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 09:29, 7 January 2021 (UTC)) This page is obsolete. ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 10:40, 16 March 2021 (UTC)) *I forgot that I had been working on these profiles on that page two months ago and started a new page: [[Space:Closer_-_closer_-_closest|Closer - closer - Closest]]. [[Young-93|Brigham Young (1801-1877)]] will probably overtake [[Lothrop-29|Samuel Lothrop Esq (1622-1700)]] any day now in the race for shortest mean distance. They are both very well situated in the Global Tree, but for Young there seems to be more ongoing work on adding related persons to the tree. Included on the page are two other LDS pioneers, who are also in the linked spreadsheet. Development over time is probably best kept to the spreadsheet.
I also picked up [[Tilley-73|Elizabeth (Tilley) Howland (bef.1607-1687)]], whose circles I had sampled in Thanksgiving week. There is not so much text in that section (yet) but there is a separate spreadsheet for Elizabeth and her children (husband added as an afterthought) It turned out that all of her children had shorter mean distances than their mother.([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 10:40, 16 March 2021 (UTC)) {| border="2" class="wikitable sortable" cellpadding="5" ! Focus ID !! C1 !! C2 !! C3 !! C4 !! C5 !! C10 !! C15 !! C20 !!Peak!!Mean!!update |- |[[Lothrop-29 ]] || 27 ||202 || 954 ||3,996 || 15,397||590,422 ||1,867,496 || 1,113,932 ||15||17.5|| 2020-12-04 |- |[[Young-93]] || 124 ||457 || 1,293 ||3,665 || 10,353 ||533,992 || 1,974,495 || 1,176,986 ||15||17.6 || 2020-12-21 |- |} ==== New Focus? Victor Segalen ==== BV 9 Jan 2021: I'm very much tempted to start a new Focus, my fourth cousin twice removed [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Segalen-10 Victor Segalen], for two complementary reasons. * Completion of Jean-Joseph's circles is at risk of becoming a bit tedious, if only by the sheer number of profiles, most of them unlikely to create new connections with "the center" in my lifetime. I was hoping to get some help from my cousins, some of them have joined WikiTree but their action so far is just to congratulate me for the job done, and add to the to-do list by discovering yet new relatives :-) * Victor Segalen was a fascinating writer, traveler, and ''proto-geopoetician'', as Kenneth White calls him in [https://www.institut-geopoetique.org/en/founding-texts/133-the-great-field-of-geopoetics this page]. In other words, someone of whom life has been dedicated, through travel and writing, to connect the world, and singularly the extreme-occidental (celtic) and extreme-oriental (chinese) poetic views of the world. Moreover, Santa Claus had the rich idea to drop in my slippers the brand new edition of his works in the prestigious "la Pléiade" edition, helping me to "focus" ... I had connected Victor's profile very soon after joining WT, in April 2019, but not worked much around it since. I'm back to it those days, have contacted a couple of his descendants and close cousins (closer than me, that is). His first circles are not much populated (small families) but branch towards several interesting directions. *''Exploring branches in interesting directions sounds like a more rewarding strategy for shortening those "long winding paths" than filling circle by circle. One can, of course do a little bit of each.'' ([[Ekeblad-7|Ekeblad-7]] 20:04, 10 January 2021 (UTC))

This page tracks the [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:100_Circles 100 Circles] of the Baltic-German philosopher [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Von_Keyserling-13 Hermann Graf von Keyserling] (1880-1946). It is a space to record what is currently known of the philosopher's circles and to track progress on inputting those individuals into the global tree. Graf von Keyserling was chosen as a representative member of the Baltic-German elite: a significant cultural figure whose genealogical connections place him both solidly within the Baltic-German nobility, but also stretch out to Prussia, Austria, and beyond, such that by the fifth circle his relatives reach from London to Beijing. Work on his family is being undertaken by the [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Baltic-German_Team Baltic-German Team] but any and all contributions are warmly appreciated. ==== Progress at a glance ==== {| border="2" class="wikitable sortable" cellpadding="5" ! Focus ID !! C1 !! C2 !! C3 !! C4 !! C5 !! C10 !! C15 !! C20 !!Peak!!Mean!!update |- |'''[[Von_Keyserling-13]]'''|| '''8'''||'''31'''|| 115 || 196 || 315 || 6,573 || 327,957 || 5,431,422 || 22 || 24.0 || 2021-10-21 |- |'''[[Von_Keyserlingk-24]]'''|| '''8'''||'''31'''|| 115 || 196 || 315 || 6,187 || 290,881 || 4,738,554 || 22 || x.x || 2021-06-24 |- |'''[[Von_Keyserlingk-24]]'''|| '''8'''||'''31'''|| 115 || 196 || 313 || 5,609 || 272,614 || 4,425,791 || 23 || 24.4 || 2021-03-10 |- |'''[[Von_Keyserlingk-24]]''' || '''7'''||'''22'''|| 69 ||75 || 97||2295 ||135,782 || 1,379,290 ||23||x.x|| 2020-12-23 |- |'''[[Von_Keyserlingk-24]]''' || '''7'''||21 || 41 ||45 || 61||1671 ||120,378 || 1,200,296 ||23||x.x|| 2020-12-14 |- |'''[[Von_Keyserlingk-24]]''' || '''7'''||10 || 18 ||31 || 47||772 ||28,226 || 360,008 ||26||27.4|| 2020-12-13 |- |} ==== The Philosopher's Circles ==== In progress. This outline of the closest circles to von Keyserling provides references to relevant information and links where Wikitree profiles have been created. Please note that no attempt has been made to create profiles of living individuals and they and their connections have not been included after the second circle. '''Zero Point (Focus)''' [[Von_Keyserlingk-24|Hermann Alexander Graf von Keyserling]], 1880-1946 (GHBR Estland, iii. 143-144). Parents 1.1, 1.2; siblings 1.3, 1.4; spouse 1.5; children 1.6, 1.7. '''First Circle (7)''' 1.1 (father of 0). [[Von_Keyserlingk-23|Leo Graf von Keyserling]], 1849-1895 (GHBR Estland, iii. 143). Parents 2.1, 2.2; siblings 2.3, 2.4. 1.2 (mother of 0). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-4|Johanna Sophie Konstanze Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], 1856-1925 (GHBR Estland, iii. 143). Parents 2.5, 2.6; siblings 2.7-14; spouse 2.15. 1.3 (sibling of 0). [[Von_Keyserlingk-27|Elisabeth Helene Marie Amalie Gräfin von Keyserling]], * 1882. Unmarried. 1.4 (sibling of 0). [[Von_Keyserlingk-28|Jenny Zenaida Berta Leonie Gräfin von Keyserling]], * 1887. Spouse 2.16; children 2.17-19. 1.5 (spouse of 0). [[Bismarck-Schönhausen-9|Marie Gödela Gräfin von Bismarck-Schönhausen]], * 1896. Parents 2.20, 2.21; siblings 2.22-24. 1.6 (child of 0). [[Von_Keyserlingk-25|Manfred Adolf Philipp Ludwig Leopold Graf von Keyserling]], * 1920. Spouse 2.25; children 2.26-32. 1.7 (child of 0). [[Keyserlingk-5|Arnold Alexander Herbert Otto Heinrich Constantin Graf von Keyserling]], * 1922. Spouse 2.33. '''Second Circle (33)''' 2.1 (father of 1.1). [[Von_Keyserlingk-22|Alexander Friedrich Michael Lebrecht Nikolaus Arthur Graf von Keyserling]], 1815-1891 (GHBR Estland, iii. 142). 2.2 (mother of 1.1) [[Von_Cancrin-1|Zenaida Gräfin Cancrin]], 1821-1885. 2.3 (sibling of 1.1). [[Von_Keyserling-5|Helene Gräfin von Keyserling]], 1845-1929. 2.4 (sibling of 1.1). [[Von_Keyserling-6|Marie Gräfin von Keyserling]], 1856-1874. 2.5 (father of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-5|Friedrich Adolf Woldemar Pilar von Pilchau]], 1814-1870 (GHBR Estland, ii. 158). 2.6 (mother of 1.2). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-34|Bertha Johanna Freiin von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1826-1903. 2.7 (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-6|Charlotte Julie Cäcilie Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], 1847-1896. 2.8 (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-11|Adolf Konstantin Jakob Baron Pilar von Pilchau]], 1851-1925. 2.9 (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-7|Helene Bertha Johanna Adelheid Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], 1853-1889. 2.10 (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-8|Pauline Julie Elisabeth Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1855. 2.11 (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-12|Theodor Gustav Otto Peter Baron Pilar von Pilchau]], 1858-1916 (GHBR Estland, ii. 159). 2.11a (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-9|Hildegard Marie Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1863. 2.12 (sibling of 1.2). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-10|Beate Bertha Konstanze Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1869. 2.13, 2.14 (siblings of 1.2). two children, + young. 2.15 (spouse of 1.2). [[Masing-12|Wilhelm Masing]]. 2.16 (spouse of 1.4). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-33|Constantin Robert Eginhard Maximilian Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], * 1888 (GHBR Estland, i. 467). 2.17 and 2.18 redacted as possibly still living. 2.19 (child of 1.4). daughter, + young. 2.20 (father of 1.5). [[Bismarck-Schönhausen-2|Herbert, 2. Fürst von Bismarck]], 1849-1904 (Almanach de Gotha [1923], 323). 2.21 (mother of 1.5). [[Hoyos-11|Margarethe Gräfin von Hoyos]], * 1871. 2.22 (sibling of 1.5). [[Von_Bismarck-Schönhausen-4|Johanna Leopoldine Alice Gräfin von Bismarck-Schönhausen]], * 1893. 2.22a (sibling of 1.5). [[Von_Bismarck-Schönhausen-5|Otto Christian Archibald, 3. Fürst von Bismarck]], 1897-1975. Spouse 3.99; child 3.100. 2.23 (sibling of 1.5). [[Bismarck-Schönhausen-1|Gottfried Alexander Georg Herbert Graf von Bismarck-Schönhausen]], * 1901. 2.24 (sibling of 1.5). [[Von_Bismarck-Schönhausen-3|Albrecht Edgard Heinrich Karl Graf von Bismarck-Schönhausen]], 1903-1970. 2.25-2.32 redacted as probably or certainly living. 2.33 (spouse of 1.7). [[Von_Auersperg-7|Wilhelmine Marie Sieglinde Prinzessin von Auersperg]], * 1921 (GHdA Fürstliche Häuser [1987], 138). '''Third Circle (114+)''' 114 individuals known from Graf Keyserling's third circle are listed here, but it should be noted that Raffaele Mariano may have had other children and that some living individuals have been redacted. 3.1 (father of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserlingk-21|Heinrich Diedrich Wilhelm Graf von Keyserling]], 1775-1850 (GHBR Kurland, i. 139). 3.2 (mother of 2.1). [[Von_Nolde-6|Anna Amalia Benigna von Nolde]], 1780-1851. 3.3 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserlingk_zu_Rautenburg-1|Otto Ulrich Johann Graf von Keyserling]], 1802-1885. 3.4 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserlingk-31|Georg Theodor Carl Graf von Keyserling]], 1804-1853. 3.5 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserlingk-18|Louise Charlotte Dorothea Wilhelmine Gräfin von Keyserling]], 1807-1876. 3.6 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserling-8|Peter Wilhelm Carl Ludwig Robert Graf von Keyserling]], 1808-1837. 3.7 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserling-9|Eduard Ernst Hermann Graf von Keyserling]], 1809-1876. 3.8 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserling-10|Werner Hermann Theophil Graf von Keyserling]], 1812-1880. 3.9 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserling-11|Amalia Justina Auguste Christine Gräfin von Keyserling]], 1814-1831. 3.10 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserling-12|Ludwig Carl Peter Julius Otto Graf von Keyserling]], 1819-1836. 3.11 (sibling of 2.1). [[Von_Keyserling-7|Eveline Theophile Wilhelmine Auguste Johanna Julie Gräfin von Keyserling]], 1820-1880. 3.12-3.14 (siblings of 2.1). children, + young. 3.15 (father of 2.2). [[Cancrin-2|Georg Graf Cancrin]], 1774-1845 (GHBR Estland, iii. 142-143). 3.16 (mother of 2.2). [[Муравьева-1|Ekaterina Zakharievna Muravieva]], 1795-1849. 3.17 (sibling of 2.2). [[Von_Cancrin-2|Franz Fabian Graf Cancrin]], + 1891. 3.18 (sibling of 2.2). [[Von_Cancrin-3|Valerian Graf Cancrin]], + 1861. 3.19 (sibling of 2.2). [[Von_Cancrin-5|Victor Graf Cancrin]], + 1882. 3.20 (sibling of 2.2). [[Von_Cancrin-6|Oskar Graf Cancrin]], 1831-1875. 3.21 (sibling of 2.2). [[Von_Cancrin-7|Elise Gräfin Cancrin]], * 1824. 3.22 (spouse of 2.3). [[Von_Taube-11|Otto Woldemar Friedrich Baron von Taube]], 1833-1911 (GHBR Estland, i. 386). 3.23 (child of 2.3). [[Von_Taube-12|Otto Adolf Alexander Baron von Taube]], * 1879. 3.24 (child of 2.3). [[Von_Taube-13|Marie Editha Helene Eleonore Baronesse von Taube]], * 1882. 3.25 (child of 2.3). [[Von_Taube-14|Helene Charlotte Benedikte Beate Johanna Baronesse von Taube]], * 1883. 3.26 (father of 2.5). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-13|Jakob Johann Pilar von Pilchau]], 1774-1814 (GHBR Estland, ii. 158). 3.27 (mother of 2.5). [[Suckni-1|Juliane Elisabeth Suckni]], + 1838. 3.28 (sibling of 2.5). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-14|Pauline Luise Pilar von Pilchau]], 1812-1866. 3.29-3.33 (siblings of 2.5). children, + young. 3.34 (father of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-35|Peter Ludwig Konstantin Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1779-1836 (GHBR Estland, i. 456-457). 3.35 (mother of 2.6). [[Von_Below-57|Charlotte Helene Elisabeth von Below]], 1796-1850. 3.36 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-37|Magdalene Charlotte Wilhelmein Freiin von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1804-1881. 3.37 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-38|Magdalene Lucia Freiin von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1806-1893. 3.38-41 (siblings of 2.6). children, + young. 3.42 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-40|Peter Andreas Konstantin Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1815-1872. 3.43 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-39|Pauline Charlotte Freiin von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1817-1852. 3.44 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-43|Adam Theodor Andreas Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1819-1847. 3.45 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-44|Karl Gustav Andreas Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1821-1876. 3.46 (sibling of 2.6). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-45|Ewald Alexander Andreas Graf von Ungern-Sternberg, 1824-1899]]. 3.47 (spouse of 2.7 and 2.10). [[Mariano-103|Raffaele Mariano]], 1840-1912. 3.47a (daughter of 2.7). [[Mariano-105|Alda Bertha Hildegard Mariano]], * 1883. 3.48 (daughter of 2.7). [[Mariano-104|Elisabetta 'Nicky' Mariano]], 1887-1968. Other children? 3.49 (spouse of 2.8). [[Von_der_Pahlen-37|Julie Olga Eugenie Gräfin von der Pahlen]], * 1865. 3.50 (child of 2.8). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-16|Adolf Konstantin Theodor Baron Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1885. 3.51 (child of 2.8). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-17|Olga Marie Hildegard Bertha Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1886. 3.52 (child of 2.8). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-18|Friedrich Bernhard Peter Paul Baron Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1888. 3.53 (child of 2.8). [[Pilar_von_Pilchau-19|Andreas Balthasar Walter Baron Pilar von Pilchau]], * 1891. 3.54 (spouse of 2.9). [[Von_Grünewaldt-8|Walter Johann Georg Konstantin von Gruenewaldt]], 1843-1920 (GHBR Estland, ii. 56-57). 3.55 (child of 2.9). [[Von_Grünewaldt-10|Bertha Pauline von Gruenewaldt]], * 1876. 3.56 (child of 2.9). Adolf Alexander Moritz von Gruenewaldt, 1878-1921. 3.57 (child of 2.9). Johann Georg Berndt von Gruenewaldt, 1879-1887. 3.58 (child of 2.9). Walter Arthur Leo von Gruenewaldt, 1881-1925. 3.59 (child of 2.9). Katharina Elisabeth Margarethe von Gruenewaldt, 1883-1913. 3.60 (child of 2.9). Otto Wolfgang Adolf Klaus von Gruenewaldt, * 1886. 3.61 (spouse of 2.11). Helene Olga Sophie Gräfin von der Pahlen, * 1863. 3.62 (child of 2.11). Helene Bertha Ada Johanna Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau, 1883-1909. 3.63 (child of 2.11). Adelheid Vera Cäcilie Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau, * 1885. 3.64 (child of 2.11). Konstantin Friedirch Adolf Baron Pilar von Pilchau, * 1886. 3.65 (child of 2.11). Georg Theodor Konrad Baron Pilar von Pilchau, 1888-1915. 3.66 (child of 2.11). Ada Sophie Dorothea Eugenie Baronesse Pilar von Pilchau, * 1889. 3.67 (child of 2.11). Nikolai Leo Johann Alexander Baron Pilar von Pilchau, * 1891. 3.67a (spouse of 2.11a). Gustav Rudolf Freiherr von Maydell, 1858-1925. 3.68 (father of 2.15). [[Masing-13|Heinrich Alexander Friedrich Masing]], 1820-1876. 3.69 (mother of 2.15). [[Gaedte-1|Selma Gaedte]], 1833-1875. 3.70 (sibling of 2.15). Mathilde Auguste Emilie Masing, * 1854. 3.71 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-16|Carl August Adolph Masing]], 1855-1904. 3.72 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-17|Karl Heinrich Michael Masing]], * 1860. 3.73 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-14|Marie Selma Masing]], 1863-1891. 3.74 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-15|Wilhelmine Elisabeth Henriette Masing]], 1868-1917. 3.75 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-18|Johann Emil Masing]], * 1870. 3.76 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-19|Bertha Henriette Charlotte Masing]], 1871-1919. 3.77 (sibling of 2.15). [[Masing-20|Hugo Heinrich Woldemar Masing]], * 1873. 3.78 (father of 2.16). [[Ungern-Sternberg-6|Theodor Leonahrd Rudolf Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1857-1918x23 (GHBR Estland, i. 465). 3.79 (mother of 2.17). [[Wimpffen-2|Sophie Charlotte Freiin von Wimpffen]], 1861-1907. 3.80 (sibling of 2.17). [[Ungern-Sternberg-5|Nikolai Robert Max 'Roman' Freiherr von Ungern-Sternberg]], 1885-1921. 3.81-82 (siblings of 2.17). two daughters, + young. 3.83 (sibling of 2.17). [[Von_Ungern-Sternberg-41|Renée Maria Theodora Elisabeth Freiin von Ungern-Sternberg]], * 1897. 3.84 (father of 2.20). [[Bismarck-Schönhausen-8|Otto Eduard Leopold, 1. Fürst von Bismarck]], 1815-1898. 3.85 (mother of 2.20). [[Puttkamer-1|Johanna von Puttkamer]], 1824-1894. 3.86 (sibling of 2.20). Maria Elisabeth Johanna Gräfin von Bismarck-Schönhausen, 1848-1926. 3.87 (sibling of 2.20). [[Von_Bismarck-Schönhausen-2|Wilhelm Otto Albrecht Graf von Bismarck-Schönhausen]], 1852-1901. 3.88 (father of 2.21). [[Hoyos-17|Georg Anton Maria Graf Hoyos]], 1842-1904. 3.89 (mother of 2.21). [[Whitehead-2128|Alice Whitehead]], 1851-1936. 3.90 (sibling of 2.21). [[Von_Hoyos-1|Leopoldine Gräfin Hoyos]], 1870-1935. 3.91 (sibling of 2.21). [[Von_Hoyos-2|Edgar Viktor John Robert Anton Georg Graf Hoyos]], 1875-1952. 3.92 (sibling of 2.21). [[Von_Hoyos-3|Ludwig Alexander Georg Graf Hoyos]], 1876-1937. 3.93 (sibling of 2.21). [[Von_Hoyos-4|Lilian Gräfin Hoyos]], 1877-1923. 3.94 (sibling of 2.21). [[Von_Hoyos-5|Gabriele Elisabeth Manuela Theodora Gräfin Hoyos]], 1879-1945. 3.95 (sibling of 2.21). [[Von_Hoyos-6|Camilla Johanna Amelie Luise Robertine Gräfin Hoyos]], 1880-1953. 3.96 (spouse of 2.22). [[Von_Bredow-40|Leopold von Bredow]], 1875-1933. 3.97 (child of 2.22). Wolfgang von Bredow, 1921-1945. 3.98 (child of 2.22). [[Von_Bredow-41|Philippa von Bredow, 1923-2010]]. Other children redacted as living. 3.99 (spouse of 2.22a). [[Tengbom-14|Ann-Mari Tengbom]], * 1907. 3.100 (child of 2.22a). Carl Alexander Guido Otto Leopold Graf von Bismarck-Schönhausen, 1935-1992. Other children redacted as living. 3.101 (spouse of 2.23). Melanie Gräfin Hoyos, 1916-1949. 3.102 (child of 2.23). Vendeline Luitgard Alice Edmée Gräfin von Bismarck-Schönhausen, 1937-1968. 3.103 (child of 2.23). Andreas Hebert Alexander Graf von Bismarck-Schönhausen, 1941-2013. Other children redacted as living. 3.104 (spouse of 2.24). [[Strader-789|Mona Strader]], * 1899. 3.105 (father of 2.25). [[Calice-3|Franz von Assisi Alfred Heinrich Josef Graf Calice]], 1875-1935. 3.106 (mother of 2.25). [[Adelmann_von_Adelmannsfelden-2|Brigitte Gräfin Adelmann von Adelmannsfelden]], 1888-1972. 3.107 (sibling of 2.25). [[Calice-4|Heinrich Franz Rudolf Graf Calice]], 1909-1978. 3.108 (sibling of 2.25). [[Calice-5|Marie-Agnes Brigitta Dorothea Gräfin Calice]], 1911-2010. 3.109 (sibling of 2.25). [[Calice-6|Rudolf Heinrich Franz Alfred Graf Calice]], * 1913. 3.110 (sibling of 2.25). [[Calice-7|Franz Siegfried Ferdinand Hilarius Graf Calice]], 1916-1941. 3.111 (sibling of 2.25). [[Calice-8|Elisabeth Helene Dorothea Gräfin Calice]], * 1920. 3.112 (father of 2.33). [[Von_Auersperg-10|Karl Hieronymus Vincenz Maria Fürst von Auersperg]], 1892-1944. 3.113 (mother of 2.33). [[Mikes_de_Zabola-1|Klementine Gräfin Mikes de Zabola]], 1897-1984. 3.114 (sibling of 2.33). Wolf Engelbert Siegfried Pankraz Hubert Maria Prinz von Auersperg, 1919-1942. Another child redacted as living.

== Why Marie Mars? == I primarily chose [[Mars-121|Marie Mars]] as my focus profile because she is a direct ancestor who provides interesting pathways to a variety of population groups. == New World Connections == === New France and its Descent === Marie was an immigrant to New France, and had close ties to many early and important figures in the colony. Example connections include the following: * [[Joliet-16|Louis Jolliet]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Joliet-16&relation=0&ignoreIds= 2 degrees] * [[Riverin-9|Joseph Riverin]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Riverin-9&relation=0&ignoreIds= 2 degrees] * [[Riverin-39|Denis Riverin]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Riverin-39&relation=0&ignoreIds= 3 degrees] * [[Couillard-6|Guillaume Couillard]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Couillard-6&relation=0&ignoreIds=23088723 4 degrees] * [[Hebert-1312|Louis Hébert]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Hebert-1312&relation=0&ignoreIds= 5 degrees] * [[Le_Tardif-3|Olivier Le Tardif]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Le_Tardif-3&relation=0&ignoreIds=23088723 5 degrees] * [[Nicolet-1|Jean Nicollet]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Nicolet-1&relation=0&ignoreIds= 5 degrees] * [[Rigaud-42|Philippe de Rigaud de Vaudreuil]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Rigaud-42&relation=0&ignoreIds= 5 degrees] (See also the Aristocrats section below) * [[Chaussegros-9|François Joseph Chaussegros de Léry]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Chaussegros-9&relation=0&ignoreIds= 7 degrees] * [[Couvent-6|Anne Couvent]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Couvent-6&relation=0&ignoreIds=23088723 7 degrees] * [[Liénard-77|François Charles Liénard de Beaujeu]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Li%C3%A9nard-77&relation=0&ignoreIds= 7 degrees] * [[Marsolet-2|Nicolas Marsolet]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Marsolet-2&relation=0&ignoreIds=23088723 7 degrees] * [[Deschalets-1|Claude Deschalets]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Deschalets-1&relation=0&ignoreIds= 8 degrees] * [[Dufrost-7|Marguerite d'Youville]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Dufrost-7&relation=0&ignoreIds= 8 degrees] * [[Farnsworth-1192|Matthias Claude (Farnsworth) Phaneuf ]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Farnsworth-1192&relation=0&ignoreIds= 8 degrees] * [[Martin-2179|Abraham Martin]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Martin-2179&relation=0&ignoreIds=23088723 8 degrees] * [[Baillon-1|Catherine de Baillon]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Baillon-1&relation=0&ignoreIds= 9 degrees] * [[Otis-224|Rose Otis]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Otis-224&relation=0&ignoreIds= 9 degrees] * [[Begon-53|Claude Michel Begon]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Begon-53&relation=0&ignoreIds= 10 degrees] Post-New France descendants and connections include the following: * [[Taché-3|Étienne Paschal Taché]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Tach%C3%A9-3&relation=0&ignoreIds= 3 degrees] (great grandson of Marie) * [[Hébert-3828|Anne Hébert]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=H%C3%A9bert-3828&relation=0&ignoreIds= 6 degrees] (4th great granddaughter of Marie) * [[Taschereau-8|Elzéar Alexandre Taschereau]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Taschereau-8&relation=0&ignoreIds= 6 degrees] * [[Taschereau-18|Henri Elzéar Taschereau]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Taschereau-18&relation=0&ignoreIds= 7 degrees] * [[Allen-24702|Grant Allen]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Allen-24702&relation=0&ignoreIds= 8 degrees] * [[Wilder-995|Thornton Wilder]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Wilder-995&relation=0&ignoreIds= 8 degrees] (5th great grandnephew of Marie) * [[Laurier-128|Wilfrid Laurier]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Laurier-128&relation=0&ignoreIds= 10 degrees] === 13 Colonies and USA === Many of Marie's connections to the 13 colonies and the subsequent United States run through her grandniece, [[Riverin-8|Marie Charlotte Riverin]], who married [[Antill-44|Lt. Col. Edward Antill]]. Example connections include the following: * [[Tappan-137|Arthur Tappan]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Tappan-137&relation=0&ignoreIds= 5 degrees] * [[Lansing-153|John Lansing]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Lansing-153&relation=0&ignoreIds= 6 degrees] * [[Morris-5281|Gouverneur Morris]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Morris-5281&relation=0&ignoreIds= 7 degrees] * [[Morris-5273|Lewis Morris]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Morris-5273&relation=0&ignoreIds= 7 degrees] * [[Morse-11|Samuel Morse]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Morse-11&relation=0&ignoreIds= 8 degrees] * [[Franklin-1|Benjamin Franklin]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Franklin-1&relation=0&ignoreIds= 9 degrees] * [[Jefferson-1|Thomas Jefferson]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Jefferson-1&relation=0&ignoreIds= 11 degrees] === First Peoples === * [[Manitouabeouich-9|Marie Olivier Manitouabeouich]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Manitouabeouich-9&relation=0&ignoreIds= 5 degrees] == European Connections == === Aristocrats === Many of Marie's closest arisocratic connections run through the Rigaud de Vaudreuil family, a noble family associated with the governance of New France. Through this important connection, she is just 7 degrees from the [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Durfort-22&relation=0&ignoreIds= Durfort de Duras] and [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Riquet-39&relation=0&ignoreIds= Riquet de Caraman] families. Example connections include the following: * [[Stuart-19|James II of England]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Stuart-19&relation=0&ignoreIds= 12 degrees] * [[Bourbon-106|Louis XIV of France ]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Bourbon-106&relation=0&ignoreIds= 12 degrees] * [[Bowes-Lyon-5|Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Bowes-Lyon-5&relation=0&ignoreIds= 13 degrees] (connection runs through the Grant de Longueuil family) === Other European Connections === * [[Airy-55|George Biddell Airy]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Airy-55&relation=0&ignoreIds= 9 degrees] * [[Thackeray-13|William Makepeace Thackeray]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Thackeray-13&relation=0&ignoreIds= 11 degrees] * [[Renoir-1|Auguste Renoir]] [https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Special:Connection&action=connect&person1Name=Mars-121&person2Name=Renoir-1&relation=0&ignoreIds= 14 degrees] == Data == C''n''* below refers to the percentage of connected profiles that are within ''n'' circles of the focus. "Mean" value is the average of all distances to the focus. {| border="2" class="wikitable sortable" cellpadding="5" ! Update !! C5* !! C10* !! C15* !! C20* !! C25* !! C30* !! C35* !! C40* !! Mean |- |2020-11-17|| 0.011 || 1.178 || 8.601 || 45.828 || 80.476 || 93.839 || 97.892 || 99.207 || 21.685 |- |2020-12-07 || 0.011 || 1.184 || 8.778 || 46.373 || 80.720 || 93.905 || 97.909 ||99.210 || 21.634 |- |2020-12-14 || 0.011 || 1.186 || 8.787 || 46.418 || 80.761 || 93.929 || 97.914 || 99.213 || 21.627 |- |2020-12-21 || 0.011 || 1.187 || 8.797 || 46.485 || 80.804 || 93.953 || 97.924 || 99.214 || 21.619 |- |2020-12-28 || 0.011 || 1.191 || 8.967 || 46.668 || 80.890 || 93.983 || 97.933 || 99.217 || 21.596 |- |2020-01-04 || 0.011 || 1.192 || 8.982 || 46.721 || 80.930 || 94.015 || 97.940 || 99.218 || 21.589 |- |2020-01-11 || 0.011 || 1.192 || 9.004 || 46.756 || 80.942 || 94.021 || 97.943 || 99.222 || 21.585 |- |2020-01-18 || 0.011 || 1.194 || 9.032 || 46.828 || 80.990 || 94.056 || 97.968 || 99.233 || 21.573 |- |2020-01-25 || 0.011 || 1.193 || 9.033 || 46.882 || 81.031 || 94.069 || 97.968 || 99.232 || 21.569 |- |2020-02-01 || 0.011 || 1.200 || 9.070 || 46.945 || 81.130 || 94.106 || 97.980 || 99.236 || 21.556 |- |} == Links == * [[Space:100_Circles|100 Circles: A Geometry of the Tree]] * [https://www.wikitree.com/genealogy/Riverin-Descendants-8 Descendants of Marie-Charlotte (Riverin) Antill] A good starting point for identifying additional connections in the United States

== WikiTree Challenge Week 21 == '''Guest Star''': [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Philibert-101 Gena Philibert-Ortega] {| border="2" class="wikitable sortable" cellpadding="5" ! C1 !! C2 !! C3 !! C4 !! C5 !! C10 !! C15 !! C20 !!Peak!!Mean!!Date |- |3||7||15||34||63||5,734||349,153||2,127,220||25||26.217||2021-05-27 |- |3||7||24||68||158||9,564||693,678||7,701,287||20||23.247||2021-05-28 |- |3||7||24||72||178||9,736||693,379||7,690,025||20||23.248||2021-05-29 |- |3||7||26||78||198||9,875||693,573||7,691,397||20||23.248||2021-05-30 |- |3||7||27||96||245||14,299||881,398||8,564,197||20||22.788||2021-05-31 |- |3||7||18||87||257||14,396||890,699||8,619,287||20||22.769||2021-06-01 |} == Links == * [[Space:100_Circles|100 Circles: A Geometry of the Tree]]

FIELD & STAFF. ::[[Hall-29732|Colonel Albert S. Hall]] ::[[Tolles-111|Lieutenant Colonel William R. Tolles]] ::[[Perkins-9797|Major George T. Perkins]] ::[[Fowler-14524|Surgeon Charles N. Fowler]] ::Asst. Surgeon Harvey S. Taft ::[[Paulding-62|Asst. Surgeon Joseph G. Paulding]] ::[[Robbins-5509|Adjutant Ambrose M. Robbins]] ::[[Wright-27097|Regimental Quartermaster Marshall W. Wright]] ::[[Van_Nostrand-200|Chaplain Aaron Van Nostrand]] SUBSEQUENT STAFF OFFICERS. ::[[Edwards-17391|Major Charles G. Edwards]] ::[[Turnbull-2679|Assistant Surgeon John Turnbull]] ::[[Dickerman-247|Adjutant Albert Dickerman]] ::[[Lockwood-2821|R. Q. M. Stanley B. Lockwood]] ::Chaplain Aaron D. Morton ORIGINAL NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF. ::[[Dickerman-247|Sergeant Major Albert Dickerman]] ::[[Smith-136444|Quartermaster Sergeant Horatio M. Smith]] ::[[Gibson-7186|Commissary Sergeant William J. Gibson]] ::[[Meharg-108|Hospital Steward|John Meharg]] ::Principal Musician Horace Rawden SUBSEQUENT NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF. ::Sergeant Major Irwin Butler ::[[Watson-17751|Sergeant Major Porter Watson]] ::[[Taylor-50711|Sergeant Major Lester D. Taylor]] ::[[Cheney-3179|George W. Cheney]] ::[[Doty-2943|Principal Musician William Doty]]

== 1079 VERRINDER AVENUE, VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA == The eldest of [[English-1791 | Laura (English) Fraser]]'s children, [[Fraser-2841|"Lolly" Mary Catherine (Fraser) Large]], was held in a Japanese internment camp in Shanghai during WW2. She and her small daughter were repatriated on the exchange ship [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MS_Gripsholm_(1924) MS "Gripsholm"] in 1944 and lived for two years at this house. Her husband [[Large-584 | Clifford Large]] joined them after his release from internment in Sept/Oct 1945. After serving abroad for many years for Nestlé, they retired back to Victoria in 1965. [[Fraser-2843 | J.S.C. "Chissie" Fraser]], Laura's son, a graduate of the Royal Military College (RMC) in Kingston, Ontario, and a reserve officer, served in the Canadian Artillery from 1939 to 1945. On his return from the conflict in Europe, he and his wife, [[Ransome-108 | Vivian (Ransome) Fraser]] resided for a time at 1079 Verrinder Avenue, before settling at Cobble Hill and raising their eight children. == Sources ==

Roster for the Field Officers and Staff of the 108th Regiment, Illinois Infantry

The following information is from Ancestry.com.''Military'': "U.S., American Civil War Regiments, 1861-1866", database, ({{Ancestry Record|3866|604}} : accessed 12 March 2023); citing Data compiled by Historical Data Systems of Kingston, MA. : '''Regiment''': 10th Infantry Battalion Georgia : '''Date of Organization''': 17 Mar 1862 : '''Muster Date''': 9 Apr 1865 : '''Regiment State''': Georgia : '''Regiment Type''': Infantry : '''Regiment Number''': 10th : '''Battles''': Fought on * 5 May 1864 at Wilderness, VA. * 14 May 1864 at Spotsylvania Court House, VA. * 24 May 1864 at North Anna River, VA. * 22 Jun 1864 at Weldon Railroad, VA. * 22 Jun 1864 at Petersburg, VA. * 22 Jun 1864 at Davis' Farm, VA. * 10 Aug 1864 at Deep Bottom, VA. * 16 Aug 1864 at Deep Bottom, VA. * 21 Aug 1864 at Weldon Railroad, VA. Regiment History: The Tenth Battalion of Georgia Volunteers were organized at Camp Stevens, located at Griffin, Georgia. They were mustered into service on 17 March 1862 and Captain John E. Rylander was elected and promoted to Major. The following companies were instituted: :: Company A, Macon County Guards, Macon County, Captain J. D. Frederick :: Company B, Worth Rebels, Worth County, Captain Daniel Henderson :: Company C, Zollicoffer Rifles, Sumter County, Captain B. F. Bell :: Company D, Whittle Guards, Bibb County, Captain W. L. Jones In July 1862, a fifth company was formed by order of Brigadier General Mercy, commanding Department of Georgia: :: Company E, Granberry Guards, Sumter County, Captain John L. Adderton The unit remained at Camp Stevens until 14 May 1862, where they participated in drill practice overseen by Major Rylander. They were then ordered to Macon, Georgia for guard duty. While there, they were in charge of several thousand prisoners confined at Camp Oglethorpe. This was an arduous task and led to many soldiers falling ill due to sickness. They were not relieved until all the prisoners had been exchanged at Richmond. On 15 December 1862 they were ordered to Virginia to join General Lee's army at Fredericksburg. They were attached to General G. T. Anderson's Brigage, General Hood's Division, Longstreet's Corps, when they arrived 27 December 1862. They marched from Fredericksburg to Richmond on 17 February 1863, with the rest of the army. They suffered incredible hardships including five days of being exposed to a bitter Northern Virginia snowstorm without shelter of any kind. They participated in the campaign against Suffolk, after which they were ordered to Fort Powhatan on the James River. They held this position for a couple of months until they were ordered to evacuate since there were plans by the enemy to take the fort by attacks from both land and sea by a superior force. The battalion fell back to Petersburg. After sparring with the Blackwater line, the battalion was ordered to Franklin where it held the line for eight months against enemy incursions. with entire satisfaction to the commandment of
the department. About the 25th of April, 1864, it was ordered
to report to General Lee, at Orange Court House, Virginia.
Immediately upon its arrival at this place it was assigned to
the brigade of General A. R. Wright, Anderson's Division, A.
P. Hill's Corps. In connection with this division and
brigade, the Tenth Battalion participated more or less in all
the fierce battles and fatiguing marches of this memorable
campaign. It gained no little credit for itself, in the
desperate charge upon the fortified position of the enemy on
the 14th of May, at Spottsylvania Courthouse.
On the 2nd of June it had the misfortune to lose its most
efficient and gallant commanding officer, Major J. E.
Rylander, who was instantly killed at Cold Harbor or Gaines'
Mill, on that date. "He was one of Georgia's most noble and
worthy sons, and in this fall the battalion has sustained a
most serious loss." Upon his death the command developed upon
captain, now Major James D. Frederick.
On the 22nd and 23rd of June, near Petersburg, the battalion
suffered severely in battle, losing eighty-one men in killed
and wounded, out of two hundred engaged. Upon the battlefield
of the 22nd, the battalion was highly complimented by General
Wright for its dashing gallantry.
The battalion was not engaged, with all the balance of
Wright's Brigade (except the Second Georgia Battalion), in the
terrific battle of the 30th of July, it being on picket duty,
three-quarters of a mile in advance of the line of
entrenchments, and probably about two miles from the scene of
the explosion of Grant's mine, and the magnificent charge of
Wright's Brigade. That this little battalion deserves a great
deal of credit, there can be no doubt, as its list of killed
and wounded sufficiently attests, and it will be a matter of
wonder to many of the readers of this work, that they ever
managed to stand and be cut down as they were. The men were
unused to fire having been performing garrison duty almost
from the time of its organization until the battle of the 14th
of May, and could not be expected to bear themselves through
the fight like the old veterans of Lee's Army; but they did
stand, did fight and proved the efficiency of the noble
material of which it is composed. They have reflected great
credit upon their noble commander, who so "bravely fighting
fell" on the 2nd of June.
The present commander, Major Frederick, is a young man of
great promise, who will, with his noble battalion, yet win
fame in his country's service.
== Sources ==

Information about the 10th Regiment, New York Volunteer Cavalry during the US Civil War. [https://archive.org/stream/historyoftenthr00pres#page/n3/mode/2up History of the Tenth regiment of cavalry New York state volunteers, August, 1861, to August, 1865 by Preston, Noble D. Published 1892]

July 2 Arrived with the Brigade in the morning and took position on the right of the Twelfth Corps. Later moved to the left and at 6 p.m. the Brigade form ed line with left on north slope of Little Round Top the right extending into the woods. Advanced across Plum Run and to the crest of the rocky wooded hill in front near the Wheatfield and facing left occupied the stone wall on the edge of the woods. The Confederates having opened fire on the right flank and advanced through the Wheatfield in the rear the Brigade was withdrawn under a heavy infantry fire on both flanks and from the rear and shot and shell from the batteries and was formed in line on the right of Little Round Top. July 3 Remained in same position. Casualties: killed 1 officer and 15 men; wounded 5 officers and 27 men; missing 3 men

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===Journal 11 Sydney=== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-606 1677]

Addresses 1882
X(J R Hamilton
Pitt St
Sydney)X
Miss Watmuff
28 Myrtle Road
Highfields
Leicester
England
Mr J.J. Clark
283 George St
Sydney
Stone & Co
Solicitors
Leicester
Engd {{Image|file=Aah-606.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-607 1678]

Feby 20th 1883
Balance in Com[mercial] Bank
£69–16-10
Bought from Mrs Brown land in Gr Davis St St Yarra 50 x 116 for £227-10-0. Pd on 20/2/83 deposit £50, balance £177-10 on the 21st March/83. {{Image|file=Aah-607.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-609 1679]

J.J. Clark
Col Architects Etc
X(283 George St
Sydney)X
Brisbane
Mr Harrison
Bellove Terraces
Oakley Road
Paddington
Mr J. Hamilton
74 William St
Wooloomooloo
Or Pitt St
Sydney
Auctioneers etc.
Revd. Dalton
St. Ignatius College
River View
Lane Cove
{{Image|file=Aah-609.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-610 1680]

Dillon & Burrows
Sample of French
Lollies & French
Chip Fruits -
Whole pieces &
1 doz of Chig Fts[?fruits],
1 Imported
Hanson n 2/6
Mrs Moore
Thornhill Villa
Marsh
Huddersfield
Yorkshire
{{Image|file=Aah-610.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-611 1681]

Miss S. Watmuff
Highfields
Leicester
England
Mr T A Hamilton
Bankstown
Nr Sydney
N.S.W
J R Hamilton 20/8/85
Campbell St
Glebe
{{Image|file=Aah-611.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-612 1682]

*Remdale
P. B. Road
Forest Lodge
[a lot of scrawled figures]
{{Image|file=Aah-613.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-614 1683]

Copper 16 glns
For Sale
Kitchen Chairs
-“ - Table
*Filter
Lamp & Globes
Drawing Room *Sinke
2/10 Safe
Old Tools & Tins
2/10 Wash Stands 2
X(Commode)X
2/11 Small Tables 2
Tendor
Curtain poles
Odds Ends
Pallaises
{{Image|file=Aah-614.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-615 1684]

[6th April 1884 Sunday] Arrived in Sydney 12.20 6/4/84. Met Griffiths went with him to Preddy Hotel - no room for both, so I went to the Coffee Palace in Geoge St & had dinner & engaged & pd for a Bedroom 2/- so as to have to have a place to leave my traps in on being shown the room, it was most horribly & stinking that I decided not to sleep in it. On going into town, I met Alick Hamilton who gave me his {{Image|file=Aah-615.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-616 1685]

mothers a/d. When I took a tram out to the Glebe & after some trouble I at length found the house but to my annoyance, no one was at home, so I returned to Sydney, & to my surprise I met Mrs. Hamilton who insisted upon my returning to tea which I did shortly afterwards - but in the meantime I visited the Baumans, who made me extremely {{Image|file=Aah-616.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-617 1686]

welcome & insisted upon my making their house my home while in Sydney. I promised to on return from Hamiltons to stay all night, which I did. I had a good bedroom, but oh, the mosquitos I was dreadfully tired& yet never slept a wink tho I had been travelling in the train from Melb all the previous night. {{Image|file=Aah-617.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-618 1687]

Wednesday [23rd April 1884] I went to Neutral Bay & had an hours Saunter, about the hills & returned. Saw the “Iberia” come in. On landing I went & had lunch & a good look about the wharves & the old p[ar]t of Sydney. Called at Hamiltons office Met several gentlemen there - who were {{Image|file=Aah-618.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-619 1688]

going home with him to dine & spend the evening together with their wives & families. I left them for a hour & walked to Wooloomooloo & found out Mr & Mrs Clark, who have taken a large house at 163 Forbes St. Miss C.[Clark] intends opening it as a Boarding {{Image|file=Aah-619.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-620 1689]

house. I returned to Sydney & called at Hamiltons Office & accompanied him to his house & spent the evening & night Mrs H[amilton] made me very comfortable. [24th April 1884, Thursday] Next morning I came to town & went to Googi [(Coogie)] Bay returned to Sydney & got a steamer & went to Paramatta. Returned to Sydney by rail. Went for {{Image|file=Aah-620.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-621 1690]

an hour to hear the Minstrels, left about 9.30 & went to Baumans & slept there - next morning knocked about town & left Sydney at 2.15 pm on an excursion to the Hawksbury River Starting from Circular Quay, I went to Manly took coach from there for about 14 miles to “Pitt water” where we Remained, at the only house there, kept by {{Image|file=Aah-621.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-622 1691]

by a Mr & Mrs Schafer the latter formerly sang with me at a choir in St Kilda. Pitt Water is a lovely spot beautifully situated a few miles from the Mouth of the Hawks- -bury river. After an early breakfast, 6.15 we left by a comfortable little steamer called the “Flora” & steamed away between high rocky mountains until reaching the {{Image|file=Aah-622.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-623 1692]

mouth of the river at Barrenjoy lighthouse from there to where we staid for dinner at Wisemans Ferry the River turned & twisted about around points & between high headlands here & there, might be seen little cots[?cottages] but so little land is available for cultivation that {{Image|file=Aah-623.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-624 1693]

I am afraid little is, or ever will be made out of the district - the river is a fine broad noble one & is one of the most picturesque in the world - if it had the historical associations of the Rhone or Rhine neither could equal it. After leaving Wisemans Ferry {{Image|file=Aah-624.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-625 1694]

(which is an old penal settlement) we pushed up to where we landed ‘Clarence Reach’ at 4pm, where a coach awaited us & conveyed us to Windsor, over a beautiful fertile country - covered with large farms It was 6pm when we arrived at W[indsor] & after tea, we left there by the {{Image|file=Aah-625.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-626 1695]

train at 7pm & came to Sydney where we arrived at 9-pm, the trip being one of pleasentest I ever enjoyed. From Sydney & back cost 30/-, apart from expenses of meals etc. Sunday morning [27th April 1884] Mr & Mrs B[aumans] & self took a strool {{Image|file=Aah-626.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-627 1696]

for 2 hours around the Exhibition Garden & also the Botanical Gardens etc. After dinner Mr B[auman] invited me to a drive in his buggy to go to Sandringham a watering place 14 miles from town on Botany Bay beautifully situated at the mouth of {{Image|file=Aah-627.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-628 1697]

the George River, back in town by 7pm. After tea went to a Sunday evening concert at the Opera House. Monday morning [28th April, 1884] I went to Watsons Bay & in the afternoon to the new Picture Gallery & other places. [29th April 1884] Tuesday morning I went to Mossmans Bay {{Image|file=Aah-628.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-629 1698]

& on returning to town I met C Humbein & went with him to a pretty place called Bondi. In the afternoon I knocked about & in the evening I spent at Baumans very pleasently. Wednesday [30th April 1884] morning I knocked about town bid good bye to musician friends Miss Clark & Mrs Hamilton [(or Hamblin)] met Capt Brinks. After dinner at Baumans - I left {{Image|file=Aah-629.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-630 1699]

for the train for Melbourne, which left Sydney @ 5pm arrived in Melb’ at 12 following day – found my wife & children all right & well. {{Image|file=Aah-630.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-632 1700]

Jones & Edwards Langtree Avenue Planted horticultural land within 1 mile of town 12.3.92 10 am {{Image|file=Aah-632.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-633 1701]

Mr. Heaven
12½ acres planted
with gordo blanco grapes
£800 Cowra Avenue
G[ordo] B[lanco] grapes 5 acres
Lemons & Oranges.
£70 per Acre.
Paid up. Planted
3 years.
One frontage ‘Benetook’ Avenue.
Lot 4 Sec 28B7.
{{Image|file=Aah-633.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-634 1702]

Mr. Heaven
10 acres planted
5 with G.B. Vines
one year old,
one acre Lisbon Lemons
2 Ac Figs.
A few select Oranges
Man[?darins], Navels.
Passion fruit
planted down avenue. Almonds - 40 tons
Firewood - Lucerne patch graded.
Two room house.
gal stable.
{{Image|file=Aah-634.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-635 1703]

To let
Auburn – Bournville, 15 Rathmines Rd,
Villa 8 Rooms, Bath, pantry, - Land 60x335 ft.
Reasonable - Scullery -
J Sharp & Co 96 – 3 - 10
Copper 1 – 2 - 6
{{Image|file=Aah-635.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-640 1704]

Cr Commercial Bank Bonds Self
[Some figures not transcribed]
{{Image|file=Aah-640.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-641 1705]

11 029 [some figures not transcribed]
{{Image|file=Aah-641.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-642 1706]

February 7/85
Bought Land 49[‘]-6[“]- by 170[‘]-0- Lot 14, Rathmines Road
C 3-17.0 foot
Paid deposit £50.11.6
Fare Bill for 18
Balance and Interest £152.12.0
Dun 10 August 1886
Total £203.3.6
[Notes from a later time in the same diary]
{{Image|file=Aah-642.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-643 1707]

[free end paper] {{Image|file=Aah-643.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-644 1708]

[end paper] {{Image|file=Aah-644.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=11/32}} End of Journal 11 == Sources ==

== Will == : Bladzijden: 197 t/m 203 : Notaris: Leonard van Zijl : Akteplaats: Rotterdam : Aktesoort: overeenkomst Inhoud: Cathalina Bonnecroij, weduwe van Crijn Jansen Blanckert, in zijn leven lakenkoper, van wie zij usufructuare erfgenaam is, geassisteerd door haar zwager Stoffel Stoffelssen Deijnoot en haar advocaat Barhard Swaardecroon, komt met erfgenamen van haar man overeen dat zij hen een bedrag van 4100 gulden zal uitkeren. Henrick Veenbergen, baljuw en schout van Hazerswoude, is gemachtigde van de nagenoemde erfgenamen: 1. Jacob Janssen van Venetien en Trijntgen Jansdr van Venetien, beide kinderen van Jan Joachimsen van Venetien, die een zoon was van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien. 2 Willem Huijbertsen van Arckel, gehuwd met Martijntgen Joachimsdr, dochter van Joachim Janssen van Venetien en kleindochter van Jan Joachimsen van Venetien, die een zoon is van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien. 3. Jacob Ewoutsen van Venetien, Jan Ewoutsen, en Willem Janssen, gehuwd met Neeltgen Eeuwoutsdr van Venetien, allen kinderen van Ewout Janssen van Venetien en kleinkinderen van Jan Joachimsen van Venetien, die een zoon is van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 4. Henrick Janssen van Groenevelt, Jan Joosten van Groenenhouck, gehuwd met Maritgen Jansdr van Groenevelt, en Jacob Claessen van Dijck, gehuwd met Jannittgen Jansdr van Groenevelt, allen kinderen van wijlen Geertgen Jansdr van Venetien, dochter van Jan Joachimsen van Venetien en kleindochter van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 5. Arjen Arjenssen van Venetien, Teunis Jaspersen, gehuwd met Maghdeleentge Arjensdr van Venetien, Dirck Sijmonssen Croon, gehuwd met Machtelt Arjensdr van Venetien, Jan Janssen van Sicijnen?, gehuwd met Gerritgen Arjensdr van Venetien, Willem Gerritsen, gehuwd met Aeltgen Arjensdr van Venetien, Jan Gijsen, gehuwd met Trijntgen Arjensdr van Venetien, '''vervangende en haar sterkmakende voor Pieter Pietersen Quackenbosch, gehuwd met Maritgen Arjensdr van Venetien''', en wijders namens Aechjen Arjensdr van Venetien, en nog uit naam van Jan Jacobssen, gehuwd met Jannetgen Jansdr, die een Inhoud vervolg: dochter is van Jan Arjensen van Venetien, allen kinderen van Maritgen Jansdr van Venetien, dochter van Jan Joachimssen van Venetien en kleindochter van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 6. Cornelis Maertenssen van Rossem, gehuwd met Machtelt Pietersdr, Arent Janssen van der Vin, mede voor Wouter Pietersen, allen kinderen van wijlen Neeltgen Jansdr van Venetien, dochter van Jan Joachimssen van Venetien en kleindochter van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 7. Maghdeleentgen Jansdr van Venetien, dochter van Jan Joachimssen van Venetien en kleindochter van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 8. Wouter Dircx, zoon van Annetgen Jansdr van Venetien, die een dochter is van Jan Joachimssen van Venetien en kleindochter van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien. De genoemde Wouter Dircx vervangt mede Joachim Cornelisen van Venetien, de drie kinderen van Neeltgen Cornelisdr van Venetien, en het nagelaten kind van wijlen Jan Cornelissen van Venetien, allen kinderen en kleinkinderen van wijlen Cornelis Joachimssen van Venetien, die een zoon is van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien. 9. Magdaleentgen Henricxdr van Venetien, Neeltgen Henricxdr van Venetien en Abraham Henricxe van Venetien, allen kinderen van Henric Joachimsen van Venetien, zoon van wijlen Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 10. Arjen Janssen, zoon van Magdeleentge Jansdr van Venetien, dochter van Jan Joachimsen van Venetien en kleindochter van Joachim Henricxe van Venetien 11. Arjen Dircxe Loot en Marijtgen Dircxdr van Venetien, mede vervangende de kinderen van Cors Dircxe van Venetien, Claes Dircx van Venetien en Lijsbeth Dircx van Venetien, allen kinderen van wijlen Maritgen Cornelisdr van Venetien, dochter van Cornelis Cornelissen van Venetien, die een zoon was Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien. 12. Cornelis Arjensse van Venetien, mede namens zijn broer Cornelis Arjens van Venetien(?), Dirck Alewijnssen van Leeuwen, gehuwd met Maritgen Arjensdr van Venetien, Henrick Janssen Lieste, gehuwd met Niesgen Inhoud2: Arjensdr van Venetien, allen kinderen van Lijsbet Cornelisdr van Venetien, dochter van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien 13. Cornelis Claesen van Venetien, mede vervangende de kinderen van Claes Ariensen van Venetien, alsmede Arij Claesen van Venetien en Lijsbeth Claesdr van Venetien, en nog benevens Jacob Aelbertsen van Heusden, vervangende de kinderen van Maritgen Claesdr van Venetien, en nog Cors Lourisen die met Cornelis Claesen voogd is van het nagelaten kind van Jan Claessen, allen kinderen en kleinkinderen van Claes Aerjenssen van Venetien, zoon van Lijsbeth Cornelisdr van Venetien, die een dochter was van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien 14. Leenert Cornelissen, mede vervangende Gerritgen Cornelisdr van Venetien en Maritgen Cornelisdr van Venetien, allen kinderen van wijlen Marijtgen Arijensdr van Venetien, dochter van Lijsbeth Cornelisdr van Venetien, die een dochter was van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien 15. Maghdalena Jansdr van Venetien, mede vervangende Cornelis Janssen van Venetien, Huijgh Janssen van Venetien, het nagelaten kind van wijlen Maritgen Jansdr van Venetien, en de nagelaten kinderen van wijlen Sijmon Huijgen van Venetien, allen kinderen en kleinkinderen van wijlen Adriaentge Cornelisdr van Venetien, dochter van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien. 16. Cornelis Janssen van Venetien, zoon van Jan Cornelissen van Venetien en kleinzoon van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien 17. Jacob Dircx van Venetien en Arij Leenerts Bovenwater, gehuwd met Trijntge Dircxdr van Venetien, mede vervangende Crijntgen Dircxdr van Venetien, Jan Dircxe van Venetien, Dirck Dircxe van Venetien, en het nagelaten kind van Marijtgen Dircxdr van Venetien, allen kinderen en kleinkinderen van wijlen Dirck Janssen van Venetien, zoon van Jan Cornelisen van Venetien, die een zoon was van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien. 18. Cornelis Janssen van Venetien nog als vervangende de kinderen van Jacob Janssen van Venetien, die een zoon was van Jan Cornelisen Inhoud3: van Venetien en kleinzoon van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien. 19. Leentgen Jacobs, mede vervangende Frans Jacobsen en Dirck Jacobsen, kinderen van Trijntgen Cornelisdr van Venetien en kleinkinderen van Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien, en wijders nog vervangende Annitgen Pietersdr van Venetien, Maritgen Pietersdr van Venetien, Neeltgen Pietersdr van Venetien, het nagelaten kind van Leentge Pietersdr van Venetien, allen kinderen en kleinkinderen van wijlen Pieter Henricxe van Venetien, die een broer was van wijlen Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien. Genoemd worden verder: :- Adriaen Slingerlant, wonende te Schiedam :- Jannitgen Pietersdr van Venetien, gehuwd met Cornelis Janssen Colijn, wonende te Voorbrugh :- Jan Jacobssen de Geus, wonende te Delft, gehuwd met Leentgen Jacobsdr :- Pieter Thonisse, wonende te Nootdorp, gehuwd met Annitgen Pietersdr van Venetien :- Michiel Cornelissen Moolenaer, gehuwd met Neeltgen Pietersdr van Venetien :- Frans Jacobsen :- de genoemde Pieter Tonissen en Cornelis Janssen Colijn als voogden van de vijf nagelaten kinderen van wijlen Leentgen Pietersdr van Venetien :- Frans Jacobsen en Jan Jacobsen de Geus als voogden van Jacob Dircxe, nagelaten kind van Dirck Jacobsen Smit. Allen kinderen en kleinkinderen van wijlen Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien :- Jochem Henrickxe van Venetien, fluweelwerker te Delft :- Magdaleentge Henricx van Venetien :- Govert Henricxe van Groll, wonende te Delft, gehuwd met Neeltgen Henricxdr van Venetien. :Kinderen van wijlen Henricx Joachimsen van Venetien en kleinkinderen van Joachim Henricx van Venetien :- Joachim Cornelissen van Venetien, wonende buiten de Waterslootsenpoort van Delft, mede als oom en voogd van het nagelaten kind van wijlen Cornelis Woutersen en Aeltgen Pietersdr. :- Jacob Henrickxe, gehuwd met Arijaentgen Pietersdr :- Gijsbert Huijgen, wonende te Delft, gehuwd met Neeltgen Pietersdr, mede uit naam van Trijntge Pietersdr die in Duitsland is. :Kinderen en Inhoud4: kleinkinderen van Cornelis Joachimsen van Venetien, die een zoon is van wijlen Joachim Henrickxe van Venetien. :- Cornelis Leenertsen de jonge, wonende te Schiedam, mede handelende uit naam van zijn broer Jan Leenertsen. Beiden kinderen van Neeltgen Jans, dochter van wijlen Marijtgen Jans van Venetien en kleindochter van Jan Henricxe van Venetien. :- De genoemde Cornelis Leenertsen en zijn broer uit naam van hun moeders zuster Aechjen Jans. :Erfgenamen van Gerrit Arents Slingelant, zoon van Geertruijt Jans, die een dochter was van Jan Janssen en kleindochter van Marijtgen Jans van Venetien, die een dochter was van Jan Henricxe van Venetien, die in zijn leven erfgenaam was van Crijn Janssen Blanckert. :- Arij Gerritsen Slingelant, mede namens zijn zuster Geertruijt Gerrits, zijnde kinderen en enige erfgenamen van van Gerrit Arjensen Slingelant. Verder nog optredend uit naam van Geertruijt Jans Moens, zijn tante, nagelaten halfzuster van zijn vader, die tezamen nagelanten kinderen waren van Grietgen Jans van Venetien, die een dochter was van genoemde Jan Henricxe van Venetien. :- Frans Janssen van Santen :- Mathijs Cornelisen van Altena, gehuwd met Maritgen Jans van Santen. Beiden kinderen en erfgenamen van Elisabeth Pieters van Venetien, die een dochter was van Pieter Henricxe van Venetien. Mede optredend namens Jan van den Kerckhove, gehuwd met Maritgen Pieters van Venetien, alsmede voor Jannittgen Pieters van Venetien en Dirckgen Pieters van Venetiens, beiden wonende te Leiden. Alle drie kinderen van Pieter Jansen van der Plas, die enige nagelaten zoon was van Jan Pieters van Venetien, die naast de voornoemde Lijsbet Pieters van Venetien een kind was van Pieter Henricx van Venetien, welke Pieter Henricxe van Venetien, Joachim Henricxe, Cornelis Henricxe en Jan Henricxe van Venetien alle tesamen kinderen zijn geweest van Henrick Janssen Schooneman, die de grootvader was van Crijn Janssen Blanckert. Alle personen in deze procuratie zijn Inhoud5: erfgenamen van Crijn Janssen Blanckert :Datering: 21-okt-1655 :Aktenummer: 114 :Standplaats: Rotterdam == Family tree == The family tree based on the will, as of 1655: # Henrick Janssen Schooneman ## Willem Henrixsen van Venetien married Ariaentgen Corsen Cranen "118 overeenkomst 05-nov-1655." www.stadsarchief.rotterdam.nl. Accessed 29 Jun 2018. http://www.stadsarchief.rotterdam.nl/archieven?mivast=184&mizig=365&miadt=184&miaet=54&micode=18_459&minr=2127578&miview=ldt ## Pieter Henricxe van Venetien ### Jan Pieters van Venetien #### Pieter Jansen van der Plas ##### Maritgen Pieters van Venetien married Jan van den Kerckhove ##### Jannittgen Pieters van Venetien, living in Leiden ##### Dirckgen Pieters van Venetien, living in Leiden ### Elisabeth Pieters van Venetien #### Frans Janssen van Santen #### Maritgen Jans van Santen married Mathijs Cornelisen van Altena ### Annitgen Pietersdr van Venetien ### Maritgen Pietersdr van Venetien ### Neeltgen Pietersdr van Venetien ### Leentge Pietersdr van Venetien ## Joachim Henricxe van Venetien ### Henric Joachimsen van Venetien #### Magdaleentgen Henricxdr van Venetien #### Neeltgen Henricxdr van Venetien married Govert Henricxe van Groll #### Abraham Henricxe van Venetien #### Jochem Henrickxe van Venetien, velvet worker in Delft ### Cornelis Joachimssen van Venetien #### Joachim Cornelisen van Venetien, living outside the Waterslootsenpoort of Delft, also as uncle and guardian of the late child of the late Cornelis Woutersen and Aeltgen Pietersdr #### Neeltgen Cornelisdr van Venetien #### Jan Cornelissen van Venetien ### Jan Joachimsen van Venetien #### Annetgen Jansdr van Venetien ##### Wouter Dircx #### Maghdeleentgen Jansdr van Venetien ##### Arjen Janssen #### Neeltgen Jansdr van Venetien ##### Machtelt Pietersdr married Cornelis Maertenssen van Rossem ##### Wouter Pietersen ##### Arent Janssen van der Vin #### Maritgen Jansdr van Venetien ##### Arjen Arjenssen van Venetien ##### Maghdeleentge Arjensdr van Venetien married Teunis Jaspersen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/81bf9476-afeb-4964-a4ab-0a3715d0e798 '''Second to the last''' ###### Maertgen Teunisdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/7d6565de-74cb-42ef-b66b-560d8d45d4bf '''Sept 7, second entry''' ###### Jasper Teunissen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/8b0e07c9-b0da-46c0-911b-6667abae0359 '''Third entry''' ###### Claes Teunissen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/d5d03dfe-79c0-4325-953e-5aa3b2578dcc '''Fourth entry''' ###### Pieter Teunissen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/0b7a1f59-e4e1-4b29-a061-9a41432dfc9b '''Seventeenth entry''' ##### Machtelt Arjensdr van Venetien married Dirck Sijmonssen Croon http://proxy.handle.net/10648/a4e8e184-f6f3-45fb-b716-1a499cc4ddf9 '''Second entry''' ###### Jan Dircksen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/9e350372-32ec-4c60-b96e-78038f8a7dc1 '''16 June''' ###### Machtelt Dircksdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/c5b6c95a-d9c4-4d51-a4a4-5426bf82d57e '''Fourth entry''' ###### Nelltgen Dircksdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/334983f0-627d-4544-aaca-0769a1f915f8 '''Twenty-seventh entry''' ##### Gerritgen Arjensdr van Venetien married Jan Janssen van Sicijnen (?) http://proxy.handle.net/10648/78a87311-a474-45d5-8af1-1b7696a19fc5 '''Last entry''' ##### Aeltgen Arjensdr van Venetien married Willem Gerritsen ###### Jan Willemsen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/0ab7df0a-09d6-4790-ba0e-ffba2e7b6b31 '''1634, first entry''' ###### Neeltgen? Willemsdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/d5d03dfe-79c0-4325-953e-5aa3b2578dcc '''Fifteenth entry''' ###### Maertgen Willemsdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/075ecc7c-0c68-43ed-b044-2dd702877a74 '''Last entry''' ###### Tryntgen Willemsdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/075ecc7c-0c68-43ed-b044-2dd702877a74 '''Last entry''' ###### Claes Willemsen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/c733548e-3f11-42aa-af84-c97d9701f255 '''Sixth entry''' ##### Trijntgen Arjensdr van Venetien married Jan Gijsen http://proxy.handle.net/10648/1c70f9ad-3b6f-4e92-b84c-b7fccc555178 '''Last entry''' ###### Aeltie Jansdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/f5178ce8-f16c-4b6d-a2c0-6903275cfbf3 '''Fourth entry''' ###### Maritgen Jansdr http://proxy.handle.net/10648/b46706ec-983f-430a-80f9-48c50ae4704b '''Nineteenth entry''' ##### [[Ariens-3|Maritgen Arjensdr van Venetien]] married [[Quackenbosch-3|Pieter Pietersen Quackenbosch]] https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QS7-89QJ-DV47?cc=2037907&wc=SMML-92H%3A1292923701%2C346020701%2C347657002 '''Right page'''https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:3QSQ-G9QV-WJKQ?cc=2037907&wc=SMMP-BZZ%3A1292923701%2C346744301%2C347862102 '''Left page, first entry''' ##### Aechjen Arjensdr van Venetien ##### Jan Arjensen van Venetien ###### Jannetgen Jansdr married Jan Jacobssen #### Geertgen Jansdr van Venetien ##### Henrick Janssen van Groenevelt ##### Maritgen Jansdr van Groenevelt married Jan Joosten van Groenenhouck ##### Jannittgen Jansdr van Groenevelt married Jacob Claessen van Dijck #### Ewout Janssen van Venetien ##### Jacob Ewoutsen van Venetien ##### Jan Ewoutsen ##### Neeltgen Eeuwoutsdr van Venetien married Willem Janssen #### Joachim Janssen van Venetien ##### Martijntgen Joachimsdr married Willem Huijbertsen van Arckel #### Jacob Janssen van Venetien #### Trijntgen Jansdr van Venetien ## Cornelis Henricxe van Venetien ### Trijntgen Cornelisdr van Venetien #### Leentgen Jacobs #### Frans Jacobsen #### Dirck Jacobsen ### Jan Cornelissen van Venetien #### Jacob Janssen van Venetien #### Dirck Janssen van Venetien ##### Jacob Dircx van Venetien ##### Trijntge Dircxdr van Venetien married Arij Leenerts Bovenwater ##### Crijntgen Dircxdr van Venetien ##### Jan Dircxe van Venetien ##### Dirck Dircxe van Venetien ##### Marijtgen Dircxdr van Venetien #### Cornelis Janssen van Venetien ### Adriaentge Cornelisdr van Venetien #### Maghdalena Jansdr van Venetien #### Cornelis Janssen van Venetien #### Huijgh Janssen van Venetien ##### Sijmon Huijgen van Venetien #### Maritgen Jansdr van Venetien ### Lijsbet Cornelisdr van Venetien #### Claes Aerjenssen van Venetien ##### Cornelis Claesen van Venetien ##### Arij Claesen van Venetien ##### Lijsbeth Claesdr van Venetien ##### Maritgen Claesdr van Venetien ##### Jan Claessen #### Cornelis Arjensse van Venetien #### Maritgen Arjensdr van Venetien married Dirck Alewijnssen van Leeuwen ##### Leenert Cornelissen ##### Gerritgen Cornelisdr van Venetien ##### Maritgen Cornelisdr van Venetien #### Niesgen Arjensdr van Venetien married Henrick Janssen Lieste ### Cornelis Cornelissen van Venetien #### Maritgen Cornelisdr van Venetien ##### Marijtgen Dircxdr van Venetien married Arjen Dircxe Loot ##### Cors Dircxe van Venetien ##### Claes Dircx van Venetien ##### Lijsbeth Dircx van Venetien ## Jan Henricxe van Venetien ### Grietgen Jans van Venetien ### Marijtgen Jans van Venetien #### Jan Janssen ##### Geertruijt Jans ###### Gerrit Arents Slingelant ####### Arij Gerritsen Slingelant ####### Geertruijt Gerrits #### Aechjen Jans #### Neeltgen Jans ##### Cornelis Leenertsen de jong, living in Schiedam ##### Jan Leenertsen == Sources == * "18_459 Leonard van Zijl in Rotterdam, 01-Jan-1651 to 31-Dec-1669." www.stadsarchief.rotterdam.nl. Accessed 28 Jun 2018. http://www.stadsarchief.rotterdam.nl/archieven?mivast=184&mizig=365&miadt=184&miaet=54&micode=18_459&minr=2127574&miview=ldt == See also == * [[Ariens-3|Maritgen (Maritje) Ariens aka van Venetien, Quackenbosch]]

114 Van Siclen Ave
Brooklyn, New York [[Special:Whatlinkshere/Space:114_Van_Siclen_resident_tracker|Profiles that link here]] ---- 1915 New York State CensusAncestry.com. New York, State Census, 1915 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2012. New York State Archives; Albany, New York; State Population Census Schedules, 1915; Election District: 44; Assembly District: 22; City: New York; County: Kings; Page: 15. {{Ancestry Record|1915NYStateCensus|11860989}} ---- 1920 US Census: New York > Kings > Brooklyn Assembly District 22 > Election District 1409"United States Census, 1920," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:33S7-9RND-411?cc=1488411&wc=QZJT-BQN%3A1036473601%2C1036473602%2C1039377501%2C1589340558 : 12 September 2019), New York > Kings > Brooklyn Assembly District 22 > ED 1409 > image 1 of 36; citing NARA microfilm publication T625 (Washington, D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.). "United States Census, 1920," database with images, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/3:1:33S7-9RND-4YC?cc=1488411&wc=QZJT-BQN%3A1036473601%2C1036473602%2C1039377501%2C1589340558 : 12 September 2019), New York > Kings > Brooklyn Assembly District 22 > ED 1409 > image 2 of 36; citing NARA microfilm publication T625 (Washington, D.C.: National Archives and Records Administration, n.d.). # Street: Van Sicklen # House number: 114 # Number of dwelling house in order of visitation: 6"A dwelling house, for census purposes, is a place in which, at the time of the census, one or more persons regularly sleep. It need not be a house in the usual sense of the word, but may be a room in a factory, store, or office building, a loft over a stable, a boat, a tent, a freight car, or the like. A building like a tenement or apartment house counts as only one dwelling house, no matter how many persons or families live in it. A building with a partition wall through it and a front door for each of the two parts, however, counts as two dwelling houses. But a two-apartment house with one apartment over the other and a separate front door for each apartment counts as only one dwelling house." [https://www.census.gov/history/pdf/1920instructions.pdf 1920 Census instructions to enumerators, p. 25] # Number of family in order of visitation: 8-15total 8 families in this house : 08 | Verbell, Nathan - Naturalization witness for [[Kahan-283|Tom Cohen]] :: Pauline :: Henry ::Abraham :: Joseph : 09 | [[Addis-606|Addes, Philip]] :: [[Lewis-39144|Bella]] :: [[Addis-634|Beatrice]] : 10 | [[Silverstein-81|Silvey, Max]] - Naturalization witness for [[Kahan-283|Tom Cohen]] :: [[Kahan-282|Gertrude]] :: [[Silvey-356|Charlotte]] :: [[Silvey-358|Pauline]] :: [[Silvey-357|Florence]] : 11 | Lambrecht, George : 12 | Ratnaf, Harry :: Libbie :: Josie :: Saul :: Blanche ::Hannah : 13 | Nelson, Philip :: Dora :: Matilda :: Freda : 14 | Ralph, William :: Christina :: Herbert :: Edward :: Lawry, Sara Francis :: Lewis, Sara : 15 | Huber, Emil :: Mary ---- 1925 New York State Census: New York > Kings > Brooklyn Assembly District 22 > Election District 25Ancestry.com. New York, State Census, 1925 [database on-line]. Provo, UT, USA: Ancestry.com Operations, Inc., 2012. New York State Archives; Albany, New York; State Population Census Schedules, 1925; Election District: 25; Assembly District: 22; City: Brooklyn; County: Kings; Page: 2. {{Ancestry Record|1925NYStateCensus|18626354}} : Street: Van Sicklen : House Number: 114 :[[Silverstein-81|Silvey, Max]] :: [[Kahan-282|Gertrude]] :: [[Silvey-356|Charlotte]] :: [[Silvey-358|Pauline]] :: [[Silvey-357|Florence]] : Silverstein, Herman :: Mary :: Henry :: Silvia :: Jess :Ratnaf, Harry :: Libbie :: Josie :: Saul :: Blanche : Henney[?], Mary :: Toner[?], Ellen :: Toner[?], James :Verbell, Nathan :: Pauline :: Henry ::Abraham :: Joseph : Huber, Emil == Sources ==

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===Journal 12 Lusitania Voyage to England=== [Lusitania, built 1870 or 1871, wrecked Cape Ballard, Newfoundland 1901. (Not the Lusitania sunk in First World War, it was built 1906)] [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-645

1709]

Lusitania SS
“Bound for London”
May 28/87
Dr Bessie. On your leaving me last night I got along first rate the giddy feeling, I was suffering from left me, to a certain extent, & I paced the deck alone for an hour when who should I {{Image|file=Aah-645.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-646 1710]

come across but your Bro John. I was so glad to see him, we spent an hour together as he will inform you I went to bed, but as for sleep that was impossible, about 12 the mails came aboard & the boatmen had supper Et[c] & parties from the shore drinkg Etc, Stewards up all night scrubbing & {{Image|file=Aah-646.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-647 1711]

scouring & washing Etc. I arose this morning about 6am & found the vessel just hauling off from the pier, it was 7am when we made a fair start the weather was hasy but the water was like glass, I forgot to tell you I eat the oysters & did enjoy them (last night) at 8 am sat down to {{Image|file=Aah-647.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-648 1712]

to a good breakfast eat ½ lb rump steak & drank a couple of cups of coffee. I was determined to have a good meal before I got into rough waters which I suppose we shall get outside the Heads which we are now approaching_ My fellow cabin mate is a serious fellow before turning in last {{Image|file=Aah-648.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-649 1713]

night, I saw him on his knees, ditto this – morning - he carries his bible in his pocket I enquired from him what he was reading, he informed me “Pauls journey to Rome” 10.30, got thru the Heads Sea very smooth, hope it may continue so − pilot just leaving us 3pm Just abreast of Cape Otway, having kept {{Image|file=Aah-649.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-650 1714]

close to shore since leaving the Heads, sea still smooth but wind rising - managed to make a capital dinner. have been reading the papers. Not met a vessel as yet. We have very few passengers & those seem to keep up pretty well about half a dozen so far collapsed – (a very mixed lot). I can walk about splendidly considering the state you left me. Menu for Dinner {{Image|file=Aah-650.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-651 1715]

“Soup” Bouilli R[oas]t Lamb Mint Sauce Curry & Rice Beef Steak & Kidney Pudding Rice & Prunes Pastry Cakes Etc Bread & Butter Pudding Boiled & Baked Potatoes Cabbage Boiled Corn Beef A lady enlivened us by playing Mozarts 12 Gloria & the Mabel Waltz. I {{Image|file=Aah-651.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-652 1716]

28th dont anticipate much pleasure from musical sources on board, judging from the appearances of my fellow passengers. 5pm. Ship beginning to roll. Sea rising – several losing their legs trying my best to keep straight - hope I will be able to partake of tea. Crossing the entrance of “Portland Bay” making for Cape Bridgewater. {{Image|file=Aah-652.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-653 1717]

28th May 11pm Just off Cape Nelson Lighthouse which is in sight. Made a good tea & feel first rate You will remember my sore neck from the effect of the mustard plaster, it has given me a deal of trouble & is very sore & chaffed. I had to discard my collar, the doctor noticing it, gave me some salve to put upon it, at the same {{Image|file=Aah-653.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-654 1718]

time he enquired how I became so situated When I told him how I took ill Etc. he stated that it must have arisen from mental causes but thought that my heart must be affected & requested me to allow him to examine me which I did after doing so, all the remark he made was that he wished {{Image|file=Aah-654.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-655 1719]

his heart & lungs were as strong & healthy as mine are. I find we have a tenor vocalist in our Saloon from Sydney - who brought out of his cabin a large number of new & good tenor songs many of which I am acquainted with, he sang 2 or 3 very nicely. I am now about to retire. Good night. {{Image|file=Aah-655.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-656 1720]

Sunday 29th May
Could not sleep very well, have not yet got accustomed to the noise continually going on on deck it appears, as soon as the passengers get to bed, the stewards commence to clean up, & such a noise of scouring & scrubbing is kept up all night that it is a perfect nuisance. I would prefer a little {{Image|file=Aah-656.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-657 1721]

more dirt & less noise. I managed to eat a good breakfast in spite of a strong wind & high sea which made the ship roll terribly all night. however the weather is bright & fine. At 11am the Church of England service was very well read by the Captain, in the Saloon & I never was more struck by its beauties {{Image|file=Aah-657.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-658 1722]

than I was at this time. We expect to reach Adelaide sometime to night. I find an advertisement posted about the vessel that tomorrow Mdy [Monday] a steam launch will convey passengers ashore 1/- each way to the Jetty to meet a train for Adelaide which returns to the ship at 5pm {{Image|file=Aah-658.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-659 1723]

when the ship leaves at 6pm - I intend going ashore & visiting the Town, where I will post these memos to you (hoping you will be able to read them) I find it no easy thing to write as the ship rolls, being rather lightly laden. 3.30 just Entering the “Backstairs Passage” Strait between the Main Land & {{Image|file=Aah-659.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-660 1724]

Kangaroo Island. We had a splendid dinner to which I did full justice. Roast Duck being my weakness, with plenty of pastry & fruit[,] fruit it appears, is on the table every Thursday & Sunday. I find there are some very nice people on board sociable & well educated many of whom have travelled a great deal, {{Image|file=Aah-660.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-661 1725]

mostly very temperate. At dinner I have not observed anyone drink anything but water. I sincerely hope the rest of our voyage will pass as pleasently as the last two days have been. What astounds me is my not having any inclination to be sick, wheather it arises from the fine weather or from my recent illness {{Image|file=Aah-661.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-662 1726]

I know not - from the latter I fancy - if so how providential for I do pity those who are sick I see around me. The doctor informed me so when conversing with him that I have long wanted the change I am taking – if not I would have found my brain getting softened, like so many Australians he meets with going home to recruit [recuperate?] by taking {{Image|file=Aah-662.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-663 1727]

a sea voyage. 9pm we are just preparing to drop anchor in Holdfast Bay so I must now close this my first contribution hoping you & the children give my love to them all & accept same Dr Bessie from your Affect Husband JH Watmuff Remember me to all enquiring friends {{Image|file=Aah-663.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-665 1728]

I will continue a daily Journal as I go along & send you same on every opportunity Kiss all my little ones for me. Goodbye Dearest love,
JHW {{Image|file=Aah-665.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=12/20}} == Sources ==

== 12 Belmont Hill == === [https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VB6Q-9XQ 1871 Census] === {| class="wikitable sortable" border="1" cellpadding="5" |- style="background: #9b91b7;" ! scope="col" | Name ! scope="col" | Role ! scope="col" | Sex ! scope="col" | Age (Est. Year) ! scope="col" | Birthplace ! scope="col" | Connected |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Austin-12119|Jane Penson]]||Head
''Schoolmistress''||Female||33 (1838)||Oxford, Oxfordshire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Penson-84|Amelia Elizabeth Penson]]||Daughter||Female||3 (1868)||Oxford, Oxfordshire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Austin-12121|Letitia Austin]]||Sister||Female||23 (1848)||Oxford, Oxfordshire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Digby-542|Harriet Maria Digby]]||Teacher
''English Governess''||Female||43 (1828)||Meath, Ireland||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |Jane Ellen Roberts||Teacher
''Governess''||Female||22 (1849)||Breconshire||No |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Lear-1222|Catherine Grace Lear]]||Teacher
''Governess''||Female||19 (1852)||Cape of Good Hope||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |Mary Francis Percival||Scholar||Female||17 (1854)||Cobridge, Staffordshire||No |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Marnham-3|Marion Elizabeth Maraham]]||Scholar||Female||16 (1855)||Blackheath, Kent||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Clinch-435|Ellen Agnes Clinch]]||Scholar||Female||15 (1856)||Bewdley, Worcestershire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Boulton-880|Dora Caroline Boulton]]||Scholar||Female||15 (1856)||Toronto, Canada||No |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Chellingworth-52|Frances Chellingworth]]||Scholar||Female||15 (1856)||Areley, Worcestershire||No |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Samuel-882|Emma Jane Samuel]]||Scholar||Female||13 (1858)||Heythrop, Oxfordshire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Moxon-248|Letitia Christiana Moxon]]||Scholar||Female||13 (1858)||Rangoon, Burma||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Allaway-134|Eugenie Allaway]]||Scholar||Female||13 (1858)||Mapledurham, Oxfordshire||No |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Morris-29324|Jessie A Charlotte Morris]]||Scholar||Female||12 (1859)||Hulcote, Bedfordshire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Stevens-21918|Katie Trebery Stevens]]||Scholar||Female||8 (1863)||Goring, Berkshire||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Holmes-16102|Charlotte Grattwick Holmes]]||Cook||Female||29 (1842)||Littlehampton, Sussex||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#d3cee0" |[[Brisley-138|Catherine Brisley]]||Housemaid||Female||22 (1849)||Margate, Kent||Yes |-align="center" style="background:#e4e0eb" |[[Utting-415|Amelia Jane Utting]]||Parlourmaid||Female||15 (1856)||Hainford, Norfolk||Yes |}

'''Join us in our 2024 photo sharing! Each month there is a new theme to inspire us to share an old family photo.''' == How to Participate == === First, choose a photo === See this week's G2G post here: {{Tag Link|12_photos}}. Do you have an old family photo that fits this month's theme? Our sharing prompts are meant to be open-ended — feel free to interpret it any way you like. For example, one theme was "New." Members posted photos of new babies, newly-married couples, new cars, and houses, etc. === Second, add it to the gallery === Every month's G2G post is linked to a free-space page where we collect the photos in a gallery. If your photo is not already on WikiTree you can add it to the page by clicking the "Images" tab and then the upload link. If your photo is already attached to a profile: # Go to the image details page that appears after you upload the image or when you click on an image from a profile page. # Scroll down to the "Edit Image Details" section where it says "Add a person or free-space profile:". # Enter the name of the free-space page, e.g. "Space:12_Month_of_Photos_New". # Scroll down and click "Save Changes". ==== What if it's not your photo? ==== Most members share photos from their own collection or photos that were uploaded to WikiTree by a close family member. If someone else uploaded the photo to WikiTree, be sure they don't mind seeing it shared. Never upload a photo to WikiTree if it is copyrighted by someone else. === Third, share it with the group === [https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/tag/12_photos Click here] to see this week's post and previous posts. To see future posts, [[Special:Following|follow]] the tag {{Tag Link|12_photos}}. To reply to a post, click the "answer" link below it. ==== How do you include the photo in your post? ==== If you would like to include the photo in your G2G post: # Copy the URL of your image. On the image details page (what you see after uploading it a WikiTree profile, or if you click on the photo from a profile) right-click on the photo and select "copy image address." # In the editing toolbar of your G2G answer select the icon that looks like a mountain landscape picture. Right-click and paste the image URL in the URL field. All other fields in the form, e.g. to change the display size or alignment, are optional. You don't need to include the photo in your post. You can just add it to the free-space gallery for the week. === How do you put the Profile Sticker on your profile? === There is a "[[Help: Stickers|Sticker]]" that participants can add to their WikiTree profile. See [[Template:52_Photos]] for how to use it. Even if you have to enter 52 photos in the code, 12 will be displayed from 2023 onwards. You can post a reply to a month's theme at any time. You can go back and post on weeks that you missed at any time during the year. === What if you don't have a photo for a theme? === The photo themes are intended to be open-ended and inclusive. You can interpret the theme however you like. Be as creative as you need to be in order to participate. == Themes in 2024 == * Jan: '''Grandparents''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2024_Grandparents) * Feb: '''Homes''' (https://www.wikitree.com/g2g/1698703/12-months-of-photos-february-2024-homes) * Mar: '''Sport''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2024_Sport) *Apr:'''Couples''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_April_2024_Couples) * May : '''Children''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_May_2024_Children) * Jun: '''Music''' * Jul: '''Military / Police / Firefighter''' * Aug: '''Dressed for the time''' * Sep:'''Portraits''' * Oct: '''Family Reunion''' * Nov: '''Pets''' * Dec: '''Favourite Photo''' == Themes in 2023 == * Jan: '''Grandparents''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Grandparents) * Feb: '''Homes''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Homes) * Mar: '''Sport''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Sport) *Apr:'''Couples''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Couples) * May : '''Children''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Children) * Jun: '''Music''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Music) * Jul: '''Military / Police / Firefighter''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Profile_of_12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Military_Police_Firefighter) * Aug: '''Dressed for the time'''(https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Dressed_For_The_Time) * Sep:'''Portraits'''(https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Portraits) * Oct: '''Family'''(https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Family) * Nov: '''Pets'''(https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Pets) * Dec: '''Favourite Photo''' (https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Favourite_Photo)

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of May 2023 is Children You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Children then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of April 2023 is Couples You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Couples then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of August 2023 is Dressed For The Time You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile and entering Space: Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Dressed_For_The_Time then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of October 2023 is Family You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Family then click save changes to image details

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of December 2023 is Favourite Photo You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and enter https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Favourite_Photo&action=edit then click save changes to image details

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of January 2023 is '''Homes''' You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Homes then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of January 2023 is Music You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Music then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of November 2023 is Pets You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Pets then click save changes to image details

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of September 2023 is Portraits You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2023_Portraits then click save changes to image details

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2023. The theme of March 2023 is '''Sport''' You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2023_Sport then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2024. The theme of January 2024 is '''Grandparents''' You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and enter Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2024_Grandparents then click save changes to image details

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2024. The theme of February 2024 is Homes You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile and entering Space: Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2024_Homes then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2024. The theme of March 2024 is Sport You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile and entering Space: Space:12_Months_of_Photos_2024_Sport then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2024. The theme of April 2024 is Couples You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space: Edit_Profile_of_12_Month_of_Photos_2024_Couples then click save changes to image details.

This free-space page is for members participating in the 12 Months of Photos 2024. The theme of May 2024 is Children You can add your photo to this free-space page by going to your image's page, scrolling down to where it says Add Person or Free-Space Profile, and entering Space:12_Months_of_Photos_May_2024_Children then click save changes to image details.

{{#switch: {{{1}}} |image=122-124_Columbia_Heights_House_History_Info-1.jpg }}

{{blue|space page written by Allan Harl Thomas}}

12th &13th Consolidated Louisiana Regiment

The Florida Parishes had actually been part of Spanish Florida until 1810, when they declared independence and for a few weeks proclaimed themselves the "Republic of West Florida". 1810 Governor Claiborne had marched his troops into the Florida Republic to claim it for Louisiana, but the people there were deeply divided as to whether they wanted to join Louisiana, the Mississippi territory, or remain independent. Claiborne resolved the question by military fiat. So when he tried to call up the troops four years later, one could imagine that not everyone trusted him. In 1813 Governor Claiborne, anticipating an attack by the British, issued an order to summon militia. The men of the 10th,11th,12th, & 13th regiments of the 3rd Brigade (from what we now call the Florida Parishes, i.e. those above Lake Ponchartrain and east of Baton Rouge) were to report at Baton Rouge not later than Jan 20, 1814. (A year before the Battle of New Orleans). This order was issued Dec 25, 1813. :Resolutions were adopted by the non-coms and privates refusing to obey. Thy assured the government that they would respond if the state was invaded. They did not take invasion seriously until late in 1814. In 1814 work had begun on the Naval Yards in Madisonville A War Dept letter of July 4, 1814 called for 1 Regiment of 1000 men from LA. The general mobilization was not made until after Dec 16, 1814. The 12th Louisiana Regiment under Col Abner Womack was from St Helena and the 13th under Col Thomas Warner was from the Florida Parishes east of the Tangipahoa River. Both were part of the 3rd Brigade, commanded by General Robert McCausland. The 3rd Brigade was part of Major General Philemon Thomas' 2nd Division. Line Dupre was reinforced on Jan 1 by portions of the 2nd Div brought from B.R. Line Dupre, the second line of defence, was on the Dupre Plantation 1.75 miles above Line Jackson (the Rodrigues Canal at Chalmette). Later some elements of the 3rd brigade were moved to the west bank to reinforce General David B. Morgan's troops. Soon afterward on January 12th 1815 General McCausland's entire brigade was moved to Chef Menteur. The 12th and 13th were consolidated January 31, 1815. (After the Battle of New Orleans). After the British had withdrawn and the danger had passed the entire Louisiana Brigade was mustered out and discharged March 7th 1815 (at Madisonville Naval Yards) ---- '''Louisiana in the War of 1812''' by Powell Casey. From "Louisiana in the War of 1812", by Powell A. Casey. 2nd Division, 12th & 13th Regiments Consolidated of Louisiana Militia (Florida Parishes, Section East of Amite River, 1814 - 1815) Alexander, Robert W.
Albritton, Richard W.
Alford, Edwin
Allan, John S.
Allen, Nathaniel
Abbott, Benjamin
Adams, Aaron
Adams, Holden
Adams, John
Adams, Shared
Adderson, Britton, Lt.
Adderson, John, Lt. (?)
Adderson, Thomas
Addison, John
Adkinson, Jesse
Anderson, Abraham
Anderson, Isaac
Anderson, Samuel W., Sgt.
Ard, William
Baddo, Auguste
Baggott, Jesse
Baker, Isaac
Bankston, Henry
Bankston, Howell
Bankston, John
Bankston, Levi
Barrett, Michael
Barlow, Thomas d. 2/23/1815
Barrow, Zodock
Bartte, Jacob
Bates, John
Bates, Joseph
Beason, Uriah
Bedwall, William, Sgt.
Balew, William
Bell, John
Bell, William
Beleu, William
Bickham, Benjamin
Bickham, Francis
Bickham, James
Bickham, Thomas, Captain
Bickham, William
Bickham, William, Captain
Black, Benjamin
Blackwell, Natham
Boughan, Hector
Bradley, James
Bradock, Johnn
Bratton, Robert, 1st Sgt.
Breden, Paul
Breed, Avery
Breinack, Simon
Brennack, Simon
Brent, William
Breshears, James
Brinkley, John
Brinok, Simon
Bromfield, Charles
Bromfield, Davis
Brooks, Joseph
Brown, Gregory
Bruden, Paul
Brumfield, Charles
Brumfield, Davis
Brumfield, Flemming
Brumfield, Ridley, Cpl.
Brumfield, William, Sgt.
Brumfield, Willis, Cpl.
Bullock, James d. 2/23/1815
Burck, Richard
Butler, Noble
Camp, Caleb
Camp, Charles
Camp, Dempsey
Campbell, Beasley
Campbell, James
Canty, Thomas
Carruth, William C., Cpl.
Carter, John, Sgt.
Cavannah, Charles
Chain, William
Chance, Samuel
Chapman, John
Chapman, Wiley
Chavis, Gideon
Chavis, Joseph
Clayton, Thomas
Coatney, Alexander
Cober, Ebenezer
Cole, Solomon d. 2/15/1815
Coleman, Daniel
Con, John M., Sgt.
Connally, Price, 3rd Lt.
Cooper, Carlton
Cooper, Harrison, Cpl.
Cooper, William
Corker, James
Cotton, James
Courtney, Alexander
Craker, Isaac
Craker, Cornelius
Crane, Dennis
Crawford, George
Critington, Jeremiah
Crittenton, Bartlett
Criterton, Jeremiah
Crofford, James d. 3/3/1815
Crumpton, Isiah
Cryer, Daniel
Cryer, Honer
Cryer, Thomas
Cutrer, Henry
Daughterty, James, 1st Lt.
Davidson, Richardson
Davis, Raphel
Davis, William, Cpl.
Daws, Isaac
Day, Asa
Day, Henry
Day, Jesse
Day, John
Day, Oriton
Day, Samuel, Sgt.
Day, Thomas
Day, William
Deas, Jesse
Deece, Jesse
Dicks, John
Doss, Joel, QM. Sgt.
Dougherty, James, 1st Lt. DuBeson, Juder
Ducream, Leander
Dunford, John
Durben, James
Durbin, Jeremiah
Dychex, Isaac, Cpl.
Dykes, Dennis
Eady, John
East, Isaac
Estep, Joseph
Eddy, John
Edwards, John
Edwards, Robert
Elwell, Uriah
Estep, Joseph
Evans, Jesse
Evans, Jesse J., QM Sgt.
Ferguson, James
Finch, Francis
Fletcher, Samuel
Fletcher, Thomas
Fluallen, Thomas
Fluker, Robert
Fouser, Joseph
Franklin, Ralph
Franklin, William
Freeland, John
Freeland, Ralph
Friland, John
Fulcer, William
Fuller, Robert
Fuller, Simeon
Furgerson, James
Fussell, William
Fussell, Edwin, 2nd Lt.
Gallaway, Charles
Gallaway, John
Gallaway, Peter
Gallaway, William
Garret, Jonathan
Gossell, Joel
Ganell, Batties
Gennage, John W.
George, John
George, Joseph
George, Nicholas
George, William, Capt.
Glascock, John
Glover, David
Glover, William
Goeans, Ernes
Goins, Amos
Gordon, William
Graham, James
Gray, James, Sgt.
Grinage, John W.
Grisley, John
Gwin, James, Cpl.
Haden, Allen
Haden, Elisha
Hall, James
Hambleton, Arthur
Hamilton, Henry
Harrel, Elisha, 1st Lt.
Harrel, Moses
Harris, James, Capt.
Harroll, Moses
Harvey, James
Haydon, Clisha
Hays, John
Headen, Allen
Henry, ----
Herrin, Smyth
Herron, Smith
Hickman, William
Higginbothan, Joseph
Higginbothan, Jacob
Higginbothan, Willis
Hillen, Robert
Hoge, Alexander
Holden, John
Holden, John M.
Holden, Joseph
Holding, Joseph
Holding, Simeon
Holloway, Robert
Hooper, Amos, Cpl.
Hornsby, Elisha
Horsfield, William
Hosfield, William
Hossel, Alexander
House, David
House, Isaac
House, Joseph
Howell, William
Hughes, William
Hunt, Edmond D.
Hutchison, William
James, Tomas
Jemmison, John
Jenkins, Abner
Jennell, Baptiste
Joe, servant
John, servant
Johnson, Daniel
Johnston, James d. 2/25/1815
Joiner, John
Joiner, Nathan
Jones, Abram
Jones, Jeremiah, Sgt.
Jones, Jesse R.
Jones, Michael P.
Jones, Wiley
Jones, Woody
Judisse, Urban
Kemp, Kaleb
Kennedy, Thomas
Kennedy, Nathan, Surgeon
Kennedy, Thomas
Kenney, Allen
Kemp, Calep
Kinchen, William, Sgt. Maj.
Kinney, Allen
Kirkland, Archibald, 1st Lt.
Lacy, Austin
Lane, Anderson
Laughridge, Samuel, d. 2/20/??
Lawrence, James P.
Lea, Stephen
Lea, Jesse, Cpl.
Leach, William
Lewis, William
Lilley, James, 2nd Lt.
Lindsey, Isaac
Littlyjohn, John, Sgt. Maj.
Loide, Braxstone, Cpl.
Longine, William, Cpl.
Lawrence, Gabriel
Loughridge, Samuel B.
Loveless, Benjamin
Loyd, Braxston, Cpl.
Loyd, Mack
Magee, Banjamin
Magee, Evan
Magee, Hezakiah
Magee, Jonathan
Magee, William
Mageehee, Daniel
Mains, William
Maples, John
Marlow, John
Martin, Benjamin
Martin, Zedekiah
Maxfield, John
McCaleb, Ephrim, Lt.
McClausen, Daniel
McClendon, Alfred
McClendon, Jesse
McCoon, John
McCormick, William
McCoy, Thomas F. , Surgeon
McGee, Benjamin
McGee, Even
McGee, Gezkiah
McGee, Jonathan
McGee, William
McKean, Edward
McKeine, Edward
McKie, James
McLauren, Daniel
McUllen, Micajah
Melong, Joseph
Melton, William K.
Melvin, Colman
Mercer, Rainey
Methoin, Colman
Miller, Aaron
Miller, Abner
Miller, Frederick
Milton, William K.
Mitchel, Davis
Mitchel, Hezekiah
Mitchell, George, Sgt.
Mitchell, John
Monroe, John
Montau, Francis
Montgomery, John
Montgomery, Joseph
Monto, Francis
Moor, William
Moore, Lawrence H., Maj.
Moore, William
Morrow, John
Moss, William
Munroe, John
Murphy, Daniel
Nettles, John
Nettles, Josiah
Nettles, Zachariah
Newsom, Moses
Nicolls, William
Noblet, John
Noland, Percy
Odare, Uriah
Odom, Richard
Osborn, John B., Cpl.
Ott, Joel
Ott, Samuel
Page, Wilson
Painter, Alexander
Paris, William B., QM. Sgt.
Parker, Elisha
Parker, Isaac
Parker, Jesse
Parmer, Jerrad
Patterson, George, Cpl.
Pearson, Harvey
Pearson, Obadiah, music
Peate, Jacob
Pendleton, James
Pennington, Absalom
Perkins, Daniel
Phillips, William, d. 2/27/1815
Porter, David
Pratt, Jacob
Primus, servant
Pruet, Jesse
Pruett, Uriah
Quillen, Leven
Quillin, Nathan, Cpl.
Quilling, John
Quilling, Loving
Quilling, Nathan, Cpl.
Rainor, Daniel
Ratliff, Robert C.
Reames, Benjamin
Reames, James
Redding, William
Reever, Griffin
Repshaw, John, Sgt.
Rester, Gideon
Rheams, Benjamin
Rheams, Jacob
Rheams, James
Richardson, Benjamin
Richardson, John
Richardson, Samuel
Richardson, Stephen, 2nd Lt.
Richardson, William
Rivier, Griffin
Robertson, Eli
Roberts, Elisha, 1st Lt.
Roberts, Thomas
Roberts, William
Robertson, Eli
Robertson, John, Sgt.
Robertson, Wiley
Robertson, William
Robinson, James
Rodey, James
Rodgers, Atwell L.
Rodgers, Job, Tr. Master
Rogers, Atwell L.
Rose, William P.
Ross, Francis
Rowe, Reubin
Rupsher, George
Salisberry, John R., Adj.
Sanders, Cullen
Self, Joseph
Self, William
Settoon, James
Settoon, Samuel
Shaboard, William
Sharp, Joseph
Sharpland, William
Short, Abraham
Short, Davis
Simes, William
Simmons, Joel
Simmons, John
Simmons, Robert M.
Simmons, William
Simms, John
Simms, Phillip
Simms, William
Singleton, Robert, 2nd Lt.
Stokum, William
Smelser, Michael, Ensign
Smith, Andrew
Smith, Bailey
Smith, Ephriam
Smith, John
Smith, Joseph
Smith, Thomas
Smith, William
Smith, William N., 1st Lt.
Smyth, Bailey
Sodon, John
Speers, Abraham
Spell, Aaron, Cpl.
Spell, John
Spell, Sanders, Sdj.
Spell, Thomas, Jr.
Spell, Thomas, Sr.
Spikes, Leoman
Spillers, John
Spillers, Micajah
Spinks, William
Spinks, Zachariah
Stafford, Stephen, Sgt.
Starnes, James
Starnes, Samuel
Stathan, Barksdale, 1st Sgt.
Stephenson, John
Stewart, Humphrey
Stewart, James
Stewart, Matthew
Sticker, Laurance, Cpl.
Stinson, Asher
Storch, John
Strother, Richard
Strother, William
Tally, John
Tate, John
Tate, Harvey
Tate, James
Taylor, Andrew
Taylor, Daniel
Taylor, David
Taylor, Thomas
Taylor, Grant (buried in Taylor Cemetery)
Teacle, George
Teacle, Nathaniel
Teacle, Richard
Terry, David
Thomas, servant
Thompson, Lemuel
Toney, Charles
Toney, William
Townsend, John
Tyler, Moses
Wails, William
Wainwright, Dixon
Waller, James
Wallis, William
Womack, Abner, '''Colonel'''
Womack, Andrew
Womack, John
Womack, Richard
Womack, Robert
Womack, Abraham
Warmick, Jacob
Warner, Thomas C., '''Colonel'''
Watson, William, '''Captain'''
Watson, William
Webb, Holland
Wells, Benjamin
Wells, James
Wells, Pearson
Wells, Rice, Sgt.
Wells, William
West, Berry
West, Ezekial
West, James
West, Levi
West, William
White, Bledsoe
White, John, Sgt.
White, Robert
Whitemore, Jesse
Wilkins, Thomas
Williams, Charles
Williams, John
Williams, John W.
Williams, Samuel
Williams, Simeon
Williams, Thomas
Williams, William
Williams, Young
Williamson, John, Sgt.
Williamson, John
Wilson, William
Woods, John
Woolverton, William
Wright, David, Sgt.
Wright, John, '''Major'''
Younge, Lemuel
Young, Samuel
Young, Wiley
Verdaman, Ammizeah
Verdaman, Elijah
We are grateful to [http://scripts.lsus.edu/libarchives/collections.php?collection=045 Bickham Christian] of Shreveport for the list reproduced below, which was copied from the original in the National Archives in Washington. It is the pay roll of a company of Louisiana Militia commanded by Captain William Watson of the 12th & 13th Consolidated Regiments, in the service of the United States from Dec. 28, 1814, to March 10, 1815. :CAPTAIN William Watson :LIEUTENANTS #Robert C. Ratliff 1st Lieut. Deceased 2 March 1815 #Robert Singleton 2nd Lieut :SERGEANTS #Robert Bratton #John Repshaw #Samuel Day #John Carter Absent, Sick since 4th February, 1815 :CORPORALS #Phillip Simms #William Hickman Sick in Camp #Amos Hooper #Nathan Quilling :PRIVATES #Henry Day Absent, Sick since 15 Feby. 1815 #David Terry Absent, Sick since 24th Feby. 1815 #Jeremiah Critington #Alexander Painter #John Storch #Moses Newson #Colman Melvin #Leoman Spikes #Benjamin Rheams Deceased 23 February 1815 #James Waller #Reubin Rowe #John Joiner Absent, Sick since 4th Feby 1815 #Ramey Mercer #James Rheams #Henry Arnold #James Satoon #Samuel Satoon #Joel Simmons #James Starnes #William Phillips Deceased 24th February, 1815 #William Howell #Micajah Spillars #Thomas Wilkins Sick since 4th February, 1815 #William Hutchinson #Zachariah Spinks #Frances Finch #James Crofford Deceased 8th March 1815 #Samuel Richardson #Anderson Lane Deceased 14th February 1815 #Uriah Elwell #Samuel Loughbridge Deceased 20 February 1815 #Ezekiel West Deceased 2 March 1815 #Dennis Dykes #William Sharboard #Samuel Starnes #Moses Taylor Furloughed 19 Feby. 1815, unable for duty #Absalom Peningron #Alexander Courtney #James Johnston Deceased (illegible) Feby. 1815 #Simon Darnly ? (illegible) #Humphrey Stewart #Joseph Montgomery #Wm. Watson, Junr. Furloughed 15 Feby. 1815, sick, unable for duty #Wm. Moore #Wiley Young #Michael Barnett #Zachariah Nettles #John W. Grinage #John Wamach #Daniel Taylor #Joseph Holding #Atwell L. Rodgers #Richard Teacle Absent, sick on 20 Feby. 1815 #Nathaniel Teacle Absent, Sick on 20 Feby. 1815 #George Teacle Furloughed on 20 Feby. 1815 to assit his brothers #Richard Albritton #Isaac Daws #Alexander Hessel #John Noblett #John Nettles #Robert Wamach #David Mitchell #Andrew Wamach #Josiah Nettles #Richard Wamach ? (Illegible) #Uriah Odear Sick, unable for duty since 4 Feby. 1815 #James West #John Montgomery #William Simms #Loving Quillings #John McCoon #John Williamson #Jerrad Parmer (sic) #Perry Noland #John Simms #Thomas Clayton #Amos Goins #John Bell #Thomas Kennedy #George Repshaw #Thomas Fletcher #Benjamin Wells #James Wells #William Slokum #William Redding #Benjamin Abbett #Calep (sic) Kemp #Wm. Belue #Samuel Fletcher #Robert Alexander #William Wells #John White #Nicholas George #Uriah Pruett #Jesse Lee #William Bedwell #Henry Hamilton #William C. Carruth #William Spinks #Abram Jones #John Freeland #John Spillars #William Watson, Jr. '''SOURCES:'''

Twelfth century references are few but it seems clear that the hamlet of Gosewic (which became Goswick) was settled by 1093, when the 'red sandstone' blocks were hauled to Lindesfarne to (re)build St Cuthbert's priory.

In 1093.."two quarries were worked on the island, though it is said the deeply tinted red sandstone was brought from Goswick, a small hamlet a mile or two away from the Snook. The building period finished about 1112.

"Lindesfarne or Holy Island", [https://www.google.com/books/edition/Lindisfarne_Or_Holy_Island/LIllAAAAMAAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=monks%20of%20holy%20island%20lindisfarne&pg=PA15&printsec=frontcover pg 13] 1322 Siege of Berwick left the city in the hands of Robert the Bruce, with those who failed to hold the city held in the Kings contempt and what lands were not already seized by the Scots, were forfeited, mostly to the Bishop to resell. In 1326, Fenham Manor belonged to the Priory. (Is Fenham Manor the same as Fenwick manor?) 1384, Ord, Murton, Scremerston, Cheswick, Goswick, Kyloe, laid waste by our enemies the Scots, no thithes this year. Source: Rev. James Raine, pp.94-128 ----- Earliest Gosewic's ----- '''''Morgan de Gosewic''''' :born bef 1169 :married abt 1185 :died abt 1220 : Grant by Ralph & Aldith of lands & messuage in Bowsden :: to Monks of St Cuthbert, Durham

Witnesses: Adam of Branxton, William of Ford, Walter of Stainsby, Gilbert son of Walter, Roger of Hameldon, Robert Manners, Henry of Detchant, Robert of Hameldon, Richard of Twizell, Patrick of Cheswick, '''''Adam and Morgan of Goswick''''', Alan brother of the prior, William of Jarrow, John of Ketton, Richard Brun, Arnis Dogge, William le mentur.

We know that Morgan was father of Constantine & Patrick the Elder # Constantine de Gosewic # [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Patrick_de_Goswyk_the_Elder Patrick de Gosewic, the Elder]"Durham Cathedral Archive: Miscellaneous Charters" [database on-line]. [http://reed.dur.ac.uk/xtf/view?docId=ark/32150_s15138jd84q.xml#S-2-1-33 Durham University Archives], Entry for Patrick of Goswick, son of Morgan, abt1217, Ref: 4.1.Spec.4 ----- '''''Adam de Gosewic''''' :born bef 1167 :died aft 1217 : Grant by Ralph & wife Aldith of Bowsden (land) from the ford known as Milheforde to the footpath leading to Faucruckes to the stream from the mill.

Witnesses: Alexander son of Ralph of Bowsden, Geoffrey parson of Ancroft, William chaplain of Fenwick, Ralph chaplain of Lowick, Robert of Scremerston, Patrick of Cheswick, John of Haggerston, '''''Adam of Goswick''''', Juhel, Adam.

----- == Sources ==

The monument to the Twelfth Illinois Cavalry is west of Gettysburg on Reynolds Avenue between the Railroad Cut and Chambersburg Road. (39.837082° N, 77.248556° W; map; Tour map: North Reynolds Avenue) The monument was dedicated in 1891 by the State of Illinois. The regiment had parts of five companies at Gettysburg and was combined with the 3rd Indiana Cavalry under the command of Colonel George H. Chapman. The combined regiments totaled 588 men and lost 4 killed, 10 wounded and 6 missing.

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===Journal 13 Lusitania Voyage Continued=== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-666 1729]

[Posted] Suez 25/6/87 S.S. Lusitania May 30 1887 Dr Bessie I trust you received “memos” all right, which I sent you from Adelaide this day. As I informed you I purposed visiting Adelaide which I did to day. We are laying out in the roadstead fully 2 miles from the shore, been taking in cargo since 1am this morning. At 9am {{Image|file=Aah-666.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-667 1730]

a small Steam Tender conveyed a number of our passengers, myself among the number, to Largs Jetty where we found a special train awaiting to convey us to town, about 9 miles distant, where we arrived about 10. In company with a gentleman we began to explore the City – it is 30 years since I was last in it & I found it greatly altered & improved, altho I was quite at home & could visit old {{Image|file=Aah-667.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-668 1731]

scenes quite easily I saw the first house I ever lived in in Australia, in Grenfell St (a broken down dilapitated old place). I also visited North Adelaide & the last house I ever lived in where my mother & family lived before going to Melbourne- visiting them & other places brought to mind many sad & some pleasent recollections. I also visited the Library & Museum & picture gallery they are very similar in {{Image|file=Aah-668.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-669 1732]

comparison with those of Sydney & Melbourne, there are very few pictures, but they are very good. I also saw the new Exhibition Building which the Adelaide people think will be the means of reviving business, which is at a very low ebb at present there. I think Adelaide, is without Exception the best laid out & prettiest cleanest City I was ever in, fine open well planted {{Image|file=Aah-669.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-670 1733]

reserves surround the town on all four sides, looking beautiful & green, a greenness which I have seen nowhere Else in the colonies, similar to what is so noticeable in England, an opinion expressed by most of our passengers who have travelled the colonies & many who have recent remembrances of home {{Image|file=Aah-670.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-671 1734]

I did wish you had been with me- you & the youngsters are never out of my mind. I feel that I would give anything to have a peep at you all, even if the little ones were on their worst behaviour “God bless you all”. I got back to the ship about 6 & found a splendid supper awaiting, to which I did full justice. During our absence on {{Image|file=Aah-671.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-672 1735]

shore 5 stowaways were discovered in the Coal Bunkers, on being discovered they were put in a boat & landed, but before leaving the vessel one of them snatched up a butchers knife & began cutting his throat, he was just stopped in time ere he put an End to his life, as it was, he bled very profusely, the doctor bandaged him up & sent {{Image|file=Aah-672.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-673 1736]

him on shore with the rest of the stowaways. The lighters which brought the cargo alongside did not finish discharging until about 8.30, & it was not long afterwards Ere we made a start, unless we sight the “Leuwin” [Leeuwin] we shall see no land for the next 16 or 17 days, the longest run we shall have on the voyage with -out doing so. {{Image|file=Aah-673.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-674 1737]

May 31st/87 Slept well - seen neither Ship, Sail or Land this day. Spent the day reading, yarning, Etc & listening anxiously for “meal bell” to ring. It was very rough this morning, & not half the passengers turned up at breakfast. I am a surprise to myself. It is years since I eat such a one. I sincerely trust that I will continue to enjoy my {{Image|file=Aah-674.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-675 1738]

meals as I have done those I have already partaken of during the voyage. I walked the deck until 10pm when the wind & waves began to rise to such an extent that I was forced to go below half drenched. I am afraid we are going to have a rough night, as I left the sailors trying to make everything snug. Since leaving Adelaide To 12 to day we made 195 miles {{Image|file=Aah-675.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-676 1739]

June 1st 2d 1887 During the night a strong gale arose & the ship heaved & rolled terribly & we could hear the great seas going over us I was pitched out of my bunk & bruised my elbow. On arising in the morning I tried to get on deck it was no use, the seas were running over us - the decks were {{Image|file=Aah-676.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-677 1740]

flooded - our cabin & Saloon had a foot of water in them - my portmanteaux was swimming about & on opening it I found the water had got into it & some of my things very wet. I turned them out on the upper bunk & picked out what was dry. about 10am I crawled on deck & sat on the lee side {{Image|file=Aah-677.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-678 1741]

of the engine house where I was sheltered for an hour, the wind & waves rising stronger than Ever. For nearly an hour I tried to get to the Saloon hatch, but before succeeding I got wet to the skin through repeated waves which broke over me, holding on (during the hurricane which lasted 6 hours) {{Image|file=Aah-678.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-679 1742]

by a ring bolt, even the sailors had to take to the rigging on several occasions, the decks being swept from stern to stern by great waves, with the exception of another, I was the only passenger that was on deck during that awful time - on coming below I found nothing but misery existing, cabins swamped & {{Image|file=Aah-679.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-680 1743]

saloon flooded, many sitting on the tables yet all trying to be cheerful, yet after – when we heard the waves breaking over with a deafening noise, the voices of the merriest would be hushed, night came on at last & the vessel was hove to for a few hours - the wind being dead a head {{Image|file=Aah-680.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-681 1744]

After going to bed (which many did, (with their clothes on) I could not sleep for the rolling & terrific noise of the wind & crashing of crockery Etc the stewards spent hours bailing & trying to get the Saloon dry. Yet in spite of all this our meals were served up just as usual tho’ our feet were continually swamped {{Image|file=Aah-681.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-682 1745]

in water. @ 12 yesterday we had made 295 miles. On rising this morning we were about the same, no one could venture on deck. I managed to spend about an hour there, but I had to hold on all the time & for my pains I got a good drenching, very unfortunate for I dont know when I shall get my overcoat {{Image|file=Aah-682.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-683 1746]

dry again. I could not picture greater discomfort than what I see about me. Particularly are to be pitied those poor women who are travelling alone with children. We have one widow with 2 little ones, who has only been in the colonies 5 months. Her husband could not get work. he got typhoid fever & died in the hospital. She & her 2 children then {{Image|file=Aah-683.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-684 1747]

got attacked with it, but fortunately recovered & having friends, they subscribed & furnished her means to send her home to her friends in Yorkshire. Another lady with a poor little baby 2 months old had arranged with her husband to sail by the [“Orzaba”]orizaba steam ship 1886-wrecked WA 1905 When the day of departure came, her baby took ill with convulsions {{Image|file=Aah-684.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-685 1748]

& had to remain behind whilst it was imperative that her husband should leave her & so she is following. Poor woman is very sick & the child is very delicate with no milk. I am sadly afraid it will die before we reach home. During the gale a terrific sea caught our Bowsprit & nearly carried it away. had to lay to {{Image|file=Aah-685.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-686 1749]

for an hour just to secure it. most of our passengers are confined to their bunks. I think I have proved one of the best sailors on board never having missed a meal since I came aboard - so far. (Goodnight To 12, 125 miles. June 3rd 1887 Slept very well, rose at 7Am had a bath went on deck found the {{Image|file=Aah-686.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-687 1750]

wind & sea gone down in the night could sit on on deck all day without getting wet. at the same time one could not indulge in much walking Exercise as the ship rolls fearfully through the great swell of the ocean after the severe gale we have experienced. Another annoying thing is that since daylight until late in the day {{Image|file=Aah-687.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-688 1751]

we have only been going at half speed owing to the repairs going on forward at the Bowsprit. The German Steamer “Neckar” which we left *in Adelaide has caught up to us she is perhaps to our starboard about 10 miles. I don’t think I shall have anything of a sensational character to relate when once we get round Cape Lewin [Leeuwin] {{Image|file=Aah-688.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-689 1752]

The officers state that the gale we have just gone through is the heaviest they have ever Experienced on the coast. The “Lusitania” is a splendid sea boat one of the best afloat, but she is a fearfully wet one. I have been reading a book I borrowed one of Trollopes, there is a capital library on board, I have discovered. {{Image|file=Aah-689.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-690 1753]

This evening we had a little concert. Our widow turns out a very nice singer & has received considerable training - another Lady (the wife of a Customs Officer, who used to be stationed at our sheds) named Withers, has also a good voice & sings very well - a Mr. Russon (of Sydney) is the vocalist “par excellence”. He has a voice & style not unlike {{Image|file=Aah-690.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-691 1754]

Staker he has scores of Songs & sings about 4 a day & all from memory, he has a friend who plays for him. I have not as yet made an attempt in the vocal line. (To 12 - 229 miles) June 4th 1887. Been a fine day for a change - sea still rough & the vessel will roll making it difficult to walk on the decks, however {{Image|file=Aah-691.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-692 1755]

I have spent most of my time on deck, saw two whales spouting away – about a mile from the ship. It rained heavily & was a little squally during the evening so had to remain below spent the time reading & playing an occasional game of cards with one & another Distance gone to 12 301 miles. We are now off Cape LeuinLeeuwin. {{Image|file=Aah-692.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-693 1756]

Sunday June 5th Fine weather, getting into the Indian Ocean. General muster & inspection of crew & stewards etc in their Sunday clothes by the Captain & Doctor after which at 11pm [am] service was read by the Captain in the Saloon – most of the passengers attending This afternoon we formed a Committee & made arrangements {{Image|file=Aah-693.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-694 1757]

to give a concert in the Saloon on Wednesday evening. The Captain has promised to preside & he has given all the necessary instructions for the decorations etc. Spent the evening reading & listening to a number of Sankey & Moodys hyms. 12 o/c, 305 miles. {{Image|file=Aah-694.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-696 1758]

[not scanned] {{Image|file=Aah-696.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-698 1759]

[not scanned] {{Image|file=Aah-698.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-699 1760]

June 8. Similar day to yesterday, sea calm & everybody pleasent, all signs of sea sickness vanished. We have a few miserable looking invalids aboard. I do pity them they are going home to die - after trying the colonies to cure them This evening the first ”Grand Concert” came off & it was a great success considering all the {{Image|file=Aah-699.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-700 1761]

disadvantages we had to contend with The captain took the chair & all the 1st class passgs were invited, it was a great success, being one of the most amusing performances I was ever connected [with.] I will reserve a description of it until I see you. I did wish you had been present to have enjoyed the fun 311 miles. {{Image|file=Aah-700.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-701 1762]

June 9th - Fine days & lovely nights the order now. Got up a dance to night – not a success owing to the wretched violinist engaged. 312 miles. June 10th. Morning broke fine & warm about 11am had a very heavy shower Our voyage at this stage is very monotonous [–] I shall be very glad {{Image|file=Aah-701.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-702 1763]

when we get into regions where we can see something besides water. I have been reading all day. Very few birds are to be seen in the tropics. It is a fortnight since I left you & it seems as many years. I am always thinking of you & the dear children I trust you will write by every mail if only a {{Image|file=Aah-702.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-703 1764]

few lines. I shall expect to get a letter a fortnight, if not less, after my arrival home 307 miles. June 11th Weather getting very oppressive, had a heavy shower this morning cleared the atmosphere for an hour or two. In the afternoon the fire bell rang out & practise{{Red|*}} indulged in for half an hour. Everything appears to be very perfect {{Image|file=Aah-703.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/36}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-704 1765]

on board in case of fire or shipwreck. This afternoon we had a rehearsal of a church service for Sunday. This evening we had a debate - a very tame affair, yet sometimes amusing - cards & books seem more attractive to the majority than close attention to anything of an intellectual nature In fact the victualling {{Image|file=Aah-704.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/37}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-705 1766]

department is ever uppermost in the minds of the passengers & I must say it surpasses anything I ever anticipated to enjoy on board ship. Our table every day is loaded with every luxury Roast Duck Fowl & Goose, Beef Mutton Curries Etc Etc, Peas, Beans Salads, Ices, fresh fruits, Custards Potatoes - Boiled & Baked Cabbage & Cauliflower Fresh & Tinned Fish, {{Image|file=Aah-705.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/38}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-706 1767]

Figs Almonds Raisins Dates Oranges & the best confectionary & pastry I ever sat down to, I really dont know how I ever can settle down to ordinary fare again. I am sure better fare is not supplied at any first rate club house in the Colonies. Hot rolls & porridge every morning & fresh baked bread every day, & every thing served up & cooked splendidly. {{Image|file=Aah-706.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/39}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-707 1768]

I am sure I have eaten more food the last fortnight than I had done for 3 months previous. I take a salt bath every morning & altogether I never felt better in my life. I only hope I shall continue so 12 o/c 303 miles- June 12th. Sunday [1887-06-12] Been a wet miserable day – literally raining {{Image|file=Aah-707.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/40}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-708 1769]

hot water - making everything disagreeable particularly on deck there being little or no shelter. I borrowed an umbrella under which I sat & read. We had the usual service read by the Captain this morning the ladies turning up in the most fashionable attire they had The rain cleared off toward evening & a nice cool breeze sprang up {{Image|file=Aah-708.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/41}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-709 1770]

267 Very close below. We had a lot of singing of a very uncertain quality, on deck during the evening, I notice several new (to me), constellations of stars to night which are not seen in Victoria Great Bear Etc Etc. To day 12 296 miles June 13th 1887 Been very hot all day. All hands seem {{Image|file=Aah-709.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/42}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-710 1771]

limp & nerveless, those who have light clothes are sporting them & many & motley are the garbs- Reading, Cardplaying & gossiping the order of the day. We have been slackening speed the last 2 days so as not to arrive at “Diego Garcia” before Tuesday morning (tomorrow) - the island is very low & difficult if approach at night {{Image|file=Aah-710.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/43}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-711 1772]

I have drank a lot of Ice water to day. The Ice is made on board & is very plentiful. I am told that snow is shovelled out below at the refrigerating room every day. We have fresh lettuce & radishes every day, & have also Watercress - occasionally The purser has just informed us that he will make up a mail for {{Image|file=Aah-711.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/44}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-712 1773]

the colonies to night as he thinks it possible one of the Co vessels will call there – D[iego] Garcia before we get to Suez, so I have scribbled a few lines but for my own part I think you will receive this which I intend sending you from Suez before the note I have written – perhaps not! To day 267 miles 12 o/c. {{Image|file=Aah-712.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/45}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-713 1774]

June 14th This [h]as been quite an Eventful day on going upon deck it was a treat to see land & green trees for we were in sight & sailing along the coast of ‘Diego Garcia’ an island in the Indian Ocean about 13 miles long by about 5 miles broad with a large bay in the centre - the island is a coaling station {{Image|file=Aah-713.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/46}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-714 1775]

for the Orient S.N. Co ships, tho on this occasion we did not require any coal, we lay off the land for about 2 hours during which time the Superdt visited us in a Steam Tender accompanied by a lot of Darkies who brought a lot of Cocoa Nuts & Coral on board for sale This Island is under the jurisdiction of the Mauritius Govt. & contains 3 Cocoa Nut plantations {{Image|file=Aah-714.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/47}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-715 1776]

worked by different companies After leaving the Island we passed a group of Islands called the Six Islands I should not think either of them more than 2 miles square - not inhabited but I believe are swarming with rats. We have had a lot of athletic sports on board this afternoon, most of the steerage passengers took part in them The prizes were given by {{Image|file=Aah-715.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/48}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-716 1777]

the 2nd class passengers Some of the sports were keenly contested & very amusing. The programme was so long that it was decided to finish them tomorrow. The weather is very hot & several are beginning to feel the effects of the heat I notice our appetites are not so ravenous as they were. distance 267 miles. {{Image|file=Aah-716.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/49}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-717 1778]

June 15/87 Very warm, Sports continued with more fun than yesterday. Saw a number of flying fish Distance 313 miles. June 16/87 Intensely hot I have been Suffering, with the majority of the passengers with a terrible headache. I cannot account for this prevalence on board unless it is from overfeeding {{Image|file=Aah-717.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/50}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-718 1779]

& want of exercise. We commenced a Card Tournament to day for Crib, Euchre & Whist, it will last the week & give us something to occupy our time for one cannot be always reading. Distance 294 miles. 17/87 Very warm in the morning, but in the afternoon we fell in with the S.W. monsoons – a wind like {{Image|file=Aah-718.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/51}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-719 1780]

the “Trades” which blows periodically from the same quarter. The change is very agreeable. I have Eaten no meat to day – had fish, every meal – headache gone. Distance 281. 18 June 3 weeks to day since we left Melbourne, it seems as many years Monsoons increasing water rough & high strong winds at the same time very hot {{Image|file=Aah-719.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/52}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-720 1781]

particularly below, dare not open the port holes. Distance 290 miles. Sunday 19th June/87 Wind & waves fearfully high not been possible to get any exercise a few ventured on deck as it was preferable being there than being below, for hours it was impossible to keep your feet, our vessel rolled so much {{Image|file=Aah-720.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/53}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-721 1782]

& the seas that broke over us were something to remember I got a nasty roll over which bangd me about before I could recover myself gave my thigh an ugly bruise. It was quite pitiful to see some of the passenger many were terribly sick, who had so far, Escaped from the malady. - No service to day Distance 269 miles {{Image|file=Aah-721.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/54}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-722 1783]

June 20th/87 Could not sleep last night for the pitching of the vessel – regular gale. I rolled out of my bunk more than once. On coming on deck this morning I found the seas were mountains high & the ship rolling terribly & taking in large quantities of water one wave that swept on board put out the galley fires, consequently breakfast was late & {{Image|file=Aah-722.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/55}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-723 1784]

not so nice as usual very few at table – the Saloon was swamped – & to make matters worse & increase the rolling our main fore topsail was blown into ribbons this weather lasted until we passed Cape Gaurdafui, the most easterly point of Africa [(]which we sighted about 8am,) when we lost the monsoons & got {{Image|file=Aah-723.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/56}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-724 1785]

into quiet water, but then we got a blazing sun instead which I suppose we shall have to Experience until we get through the Canal The Cape & the land, as far as the Eye can reach inland, is very high perhaps in some places 3000 ft above sea level is barren & rocky not the slightest sign of vegetation about as God forsaken a looking place as ever {{Image|file=Aah-724.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/57}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-725 1786]

my eyes dwelt upon. We skirted the coast for about 20 miles passed a steamer too far off to make anything out of. This is the first vessel that has been sighted since leaving Adelaide 21 days ago. The heat is intense – a stifling close damp heat 90º in our cabin @ 11am so you can imagine what we are suffering {{Image|file=Aah-725.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/58}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-726 1787]

This evening on deck, the Debating S[ocie]ty met. Subject Protection V Free Trade for the Colonies Arguments for & against very amusing but not very satisfactory. We have very few Victorian passengers on board mostly from Sydney & New Zealand, Consequently protection had a poor show. Distance 292 miles. {{Image|file=Aah-726.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/59}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-727 1788]

Jubilee Day June 21/87. Wind rose in the night, making the atmosphere a little cooler this morning, lost sight of land about 12 wind fell & again dreadfully hot We passed Aden about 6pm 20 miles distant could just see the land like a cloud, we passed into the Red Sea about 12pm. This evening a concert was given by the Saloon passengers on the Deck. Everything went {{Image|file=Aah-727.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/60}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-728 1789]

off very well, but unfortunately there is very little musical talent amongst them. ‘God save the Queen’ with 2 addit[ional] verses composed by a lady on board. suitable for this occasion were sang Refreshments Etc were servd out & altogether a very pleasent Evening was spent. I was thinking of you all & wondering how you passed this holiday I suppose {{Image|file=Aah-728.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/61}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-729 1790]

you have had a grand day. We hoped to have called at Aden where there was expected to be a great demonstration I feel disappointed at not visiting the place Distance 290 miles 22 June /87 Dreadfully hot I am getting tired to note the fact. On going on Deck found the sea very smooth - but covered with slime {{Image|file=Aah-729.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/62}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-730 1791]

which I am told is fish spawn - during the morning we passed a number of islands, upon one we noticed the hulls of two wrecked vessels after losing sight of them we lost sight of land until 4pm when we came in sight & passed the “Apostles”, a group of small Islands. Distance 262 {{Image|file=Aah-730.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/63}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-731 1792]

June 23/87 Agreeably surprised a breeze sprang up last night which has continued since, if it only lasts through the Sea & Canal we shall be fortunate. The officers state that such a breeze is very Exceptional at this time of the year, in fact this has been the pleasentest day we have had since I have been on {{Image|file=Aah-731.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/64}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-732 1793]

board. We are in the broadest part of the Sea at present not having seen any signs of land all day & what has been a matter of surprise not a sail has been seen. Spent the day reading & gossiping – details Etc for future relation. Nearly everybody busy writing as we expect reaching Suez where letters {{Image|file=Aah-732.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/65}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-733 1794]

can be posted, on Saturday evening the 25th inst 293 miles. June 24 Another wonderful day saw the coast of Africa like a cloud at a distance - passed a large steamer during the morning. We have had a pleasent breeze blowing all night & day, much to everybodys {{Image|file=Aah-733.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/66}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-734 1795]

Surprise - as we were dreading this frightful Red Sea. It is certainly very hot, in fact it must be terribly so when no wind is blowing. I observe the sea has quite changed its colour since yesterday - instead of it appearing a pale green mixed with soap suds it has been a lovely blue. Heat below in the Saloon 87ºo. I do pity the poor unfortunate firemen {{Image|file=Aah-734.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/67}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-735 1796]

below working at the furnaces - they inform me that it often registers 150º – 130º is the usual thing. One man was brought up from below yesterday - insensible suffering from what is termed heat apoplexy – he is confined to the hospital Distance 287 miles. June 25th Been a lovely Day, a nice cool wind {{Image|file=Aah-735.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/68}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-736 1797]

blowing. No land in sight until toward evening. We passed the “Ormutz” bound for Australia, this morning she only left Suezlast night. Great pity we are two days behind time or else we could have posted our letters & they would have reached the colonies nearly a fortnight [sooner] than they are likely to do now. We expect to reach Suez to night where it is not {{Image|file=Aah-736.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/69}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-737 1798]

likely we shall remain only to land a mail. The purser has requested that passengers who purpose sending letters, must have them ready this afternoon when he will make up a mail. He supplies stamps @ 1/- for the colonies & 3D for England. I am forwarding this journal I dont think it will interest you very much as I have given you {{Image|file=Aah-737.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/70}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-738 1799]

such a very bald description of our trip so far. To tell you the truth it was very hard to elaborate on such bare materials as I have had to work upon, unless I gave you particulars of the lives & characters of my fellow passengers which I am sure would not interest you much although a lot of amusement could be made out of their {{Image|file=Aah-738.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/71}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-739 1800]

various peculiarities. You see, on board ships, you become so closely connected with each other that you get to know more of each other than if you had been acquainted for as many years as we have weeks. I am sure you will be glad to know that on the whole so far I have enjoyed myself & more that I feel so well & have a good appetite - in fact I feel a {{Image|file=Aah-739.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/72}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-740 1801]

10 times better man than I have done for years. My only regret is that my enjoyment is not shared by you, who art ever in my thoughts with that of the dear children. I do hope this will find you all well & happy & that nothing has occurred to give you trouble & annoyance. I trust Joe {{Image|file=Aah-740.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/73}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-741 1802]

has proved a comfort & a companion to you & done her best to assist you in every way that lies in her power also Charley, tell him I hope he does his best for you & attends more to his lessons than formerly & as for the other little ones I dont suppose they have quite forgotten me, dear little fellows! I wish I could see them now. It {{Image|file=Aah-741.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/74}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-742 1803]

is only when you are away or absent that you realise how truly dear your family is to one God bless you my dear wife & little ones all. Kisses to them. Give my love to all relations & kindly remember me to all enquiring friends not forgetting my office chums who I look upon more as brothers than otherwise considering the length of time {{Image|file=Aah-742.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/75}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-743 1804]

we have passed together. I cannot write more so Good bye Dear Bessie & babies now to be. Your Ever Affect Husband, JH Watmuff. PS I hope you can read what I am sending it is not easy sometimes to write, as the “Lusitania” rolls very much. I will write you from Naples which is the only place we are likely to land at as the voyage is long. {{Image|file=Aah-743.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=13/76}} == Sources ==

The Pilcher family home in the early 20th Century, owned by [[Pilcher-98|Thomas Burch Pilcher's]] employer, Lady Sturt, who lived across the street. What were formerly stables, below the living quarters, and the stable yard, are now private garages and off-street parking

[https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Space:Gostwick_Name_Study&public=1 Gostwick Name Study] A survey of very great import, well translated from latin and notated with care...please have a look at this source, it has not been available on the web that long, and hard to get. "Two Bedfordshire subsidy lists. 1309 and 1332", Great Britain. Exchequer., S. H. A. H. (Sydenham Henry Augustus Hervey), 1. (1925)... Bury St. Edmunds: Paul & Mathew., pg. 47-48 [https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015036846411&view=1up&seq=75&skin=2021 Hathitrust.org] == 1309 Subsidy List for Willington == '''''1309''''', Wylitone (aka Willington), England {| class="wikitable" |+ style="caption-side:bottom; color:#e76700;" cellpadding="50"|''Beds., Subsidy Lists (2) of 1309'' |- ! | Original Name ! style="color:blue" | Surname Vars ! | Subsidy tax paid ! | Incremental tax paid ! | % of land taxed |- |style="width: 30%" | Rogero Extraneo |style="width: 30%" | [[Strange-120|'''''Roger Strange''''']] |style="width: 10%" | 16s 8d |style="width: 10%" | + 14s 3 1/4d |style="width: 20%" | '''''35.67%''''' (0.8328/2.33485) |- |Waltero James |Walter James | n/a | 7s 2 1/2d | |- |Rogero de Gestwyke / Gostwyk |[https://www.wikitree.com/index.php?title=Space:Roger_de_Goswyk%2C_of_Cople&public=1 '''''Roger de Gostwyk'''''] | 2s 0 3/4d | + 6s 10d |'''''4.41%''''' (0.103075/2.33485) |- |Johanne Davy |John Davy | ''missing'' | + 0s 12d |- |Jacobo le Clerke |Jacob le Clark | 0s 12 1/2d | ''missing'' | % |- |Johanne David |John David | 0s 6 1/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Nicholao le Cartere / Carectare |Nicholas le Carter | 0s 6 1/4d | + 0s 6 1/2d | % |- |Willmo le Cartere |William le Carter | 0s 7 1/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Rogero le Ryder |Roger le Rider | 0s 6 1/4d | + 0s 15 3/4d | % |- |Roberto Tele / Teele |Robert Teal | 0s 7 1/4d | + 0s 6 1/4d | % |- |Willo Gotobedde |William Gotobed | 0s 6 1/4d | 0s 3 3/4d | % |- |Galfrido le Ryder |Walfred / Wilfred le Rider | 0s 6 1/4d | 0s 18 1/4d | % |- |David Avenant |David Avenant | 0s 6 1/4d | + 0s 22 1/4d | % |- |Johanne Avenant |John Avenant | 0s 7 1/4d | 0s 5d | % |- |Roberto Markant |Robert Markant / Mordaunt? | 0s 8 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Rogero le Cartere |Roger le Carter | 0s 6 1/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |David Avenant |David Avenant | 0s 6 1/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Roberto fabro |Robert 'Ironmonger' | 0s 8 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Johanne filio Simonis |John son of Simon | 0s 12d | ''missing'' | % |- |Thoma Frankleyn |Thomas Franklin | 0s 12 1/2d | ''missing'' | % |- |Willo Carectario |William Carter | 0s 6 1/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Henrico Bercare |Henry Bercare | 0s 6 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Rogero Sabyn |Roger Sabin | 0s 6 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Ricardo Oliver / Olyver |Richard Oliver | 0s 12 1/2d | 0s 8d | % |- |Richardo Partrych |Richard Partridge | 0s 12d | ''missing'' | % |- |Johanne Mile |John Mile | 0s 6 1/4d | + 0s 5 1/4d | % |- |Laurentio Clerico |Lawrence Clerk / Clark | 0s 12d | 0s 22 1/2d | % |- |Rogero Davyd / Davy |'''''Roger David / Davy''''' | 0s 12d | 3s 8 1/4d | % |- |Nicholao Gorwys |Nicholas Gorwis? | 0s 12d | ''missing'' | % |- |Wilmo Bercare |William Bercare | 0s 6 1/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Johanne Bruton |John Bruton | 0s 7d | ''missing'' | % |- |Johanne Sterlinge |John Sterling | 0s 12d | ''missing'' | % |- |Roberto Bole |Robert Bole | 0s 8 3/4d | 0s 9 1/2d | % |- |Nicholao Kaunt |Nicholas Kaunt | 0s 12d | ''missing'' | % |- |Willo David / Davy |William David / Davy | 0s 12 1/4d | 0s 22 3/4d | % |- |Johanne Avenaunt |John Sterling | 0s 8 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Johanne Coco / Clerico |John Clerk / Clark | 0s 6 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Roberto Avenaunt |Robert Avenaunt | 0s 6 3/4d | ''missing'' | % |- |Henrico le Ryder |Henry le Rider | 0s 6 1/4d | 0s 18 3/4d | % |- |Is' Coco / Clerico |Isabelle? Clerk / Clark | 0s 12d | ''missing'' | % |- |Henrico Aylbryth / Aylbryht |Henry Aelbeorht / Alebreath / Allbright | 0s 6 1/4d | 0s 8 3/4d | % |- |Waltero Pokke |'''''Walter Pook / Poke / Pooke / Poake / Peake''''' | 2s 0d | ''missing'' | % |- |Roberto Chapman |'''''Robert Chapman''''' | ''missing'' | 2s 0 1/2d | % |- |Johanne le Keu |'''''John le Kew''''' | ''missing'' | 2s 0 1/2d | % |- |Waltero fabro |Walter 'Ironmonger' | ''missing'' | 0s 12d | % |- |Matilda Davy |Matilda David / Davy | ''missing'' | 0s 9d | % |- |Galfredo preposito |Walfred / Wilfred the Provost | ''missing'' | 0s 11d | % |- |Jacobo Sabyn |Jacob Sabin / Sabine | ''missing'' | 0s 11 3/4d | % |- |Henrico Solat |Henry Solat? | ''missing'' | 0s 6 1/4d | % |- |Johanne clerico |John Clark / Clerk | ''missing'' | 0s 10 3/4d | % |} : Primary landholders in '''''BOLD''''' :''8d = 8 pence = 0.0041 pound sterling'' :''12s = 12 shillings = 0.05 pound sterling'' :''20s = 1 pound; 12p = 1s, 240p = 1 pound'' ''Other Gostwicks and related entries from the 1309, Bedfordshire Tax Roll'' ----- '''''Roberto de Gostwyke''''', taxed 0s 15d, Wottone, Incipit Hundred of Redburn, Bedfordshire (pg56 with Roger le Strange and the Botetourt families, in fact, most of Wottone names overlap with those in Wylitone) Mulnho (aka Millowbury) There are two curious entries that could be Gostwicks?: * Rogero filio Gewette, taxed 0s 5 3/4d * '''''Rogero de Wylitone''''', taxed 0s, 12d * Robert pater noster, taxed 2s could easily mean 'Father Robert', priest of Mulnho Dunton (aka Dunston) More curious entries possibly Gostwicks... * Walter Osegodisdich, taxed 2s 6 1/2d Tempsford * Willo de Wylliton, aka William of Willington, taxed 0s 10d (p73) Sondeye (aka Sandy) Of note: Sibilla de Bella Campo, taxed 11s 9 1/4d Etone (aka Eton) Of note: Rogero de Bella Campo, taxed 9s 1d Ronhale (aha Renhold) Of note: Rogero le Estraunge, taxed 9s 2d.; Matilda le Estraunge, taxed 8s 6d. Bikelswade (aka Biggleswade) pg 100 * Hugone de Hostwyke 0s 18 1/2d; a very suspicious entry, especially as 'hostwick' is an unknown surname at this time. '''''Villa de Bedford''''' * Richero de Wyke, taxed 12s, 10d; next to 'Galfredo le Whyte' so unlikely its also White == 1332 Subsidy Lists of Bedfordshire == : ''starting pg 106'' '''''Villata de Colmorde''''' (aka Colmworth?), pg 119 : '''''Roberto Gostwyk''''', taxed 2s 5d '''''Villata de Goldington''''' (aka Goldington Manor) : Richero de Wiltton subtax 12d ----- ''Hundred of Wythstonstre'', pg 133 '''''Villata de Wyliton''''' : Johanne de Moubrai, taxed 13s, 2 1/4d : '''''Richaro Gostwyk''''', taxed 22 1/2 : '''''Rogero Gostwyk''''', taxed 0s 12 3/4d :There are no Gostwyks listed for Couple (Cople) in 1332. :A John Burgoyne is found in Toternho, pg. 141 === To Do === * go back and double check the boundaries between the 1309 and 1332 lists. Few dates inline and they are taken almost a generation apart * '''''Mistakes found''''' from using incomplete access to these rolls. Call out the 1309 entries, and reconcile them with anyone using the citations. They may trigger ripples in Roger de Gostwyk's placement & logic.

== 1380 ROCKLAND AVENUE, VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA == This home was purchased in 1949 by [[Fraser-2587 |"Margie" Margaret Chisholm (Fraser)]] & [[Churchill-1627 | Geoffrey Aylward Churchill]] after their return from India where Geoffrey served in the Indian Army during WW2, with their four children, and a 5th, a son, born in 1952. [[English-1791 | Laura Martin (English) Fraser]] joined her daughter Margie's family to live in this house from 1952 until she became bedridden and needed to be in a nursing home. She had made a very determined recovery from her first of two strokes (1954). She was always interested in everything, including the lives of her grandchildren. She died at Mount St. Mary Hospital on June 30 1958, and was greatly missed by her family. She is buried with her husband in Ross Bay Cemetery in Victoria. Laura's youngest, and Margie's sister, [[Fraser-2787 | "Fantan" Frances Laura Chisholm Fraser]], also moved in to join her sister's family in 1954 when she returned to Victoria after serving abroad for the British Foreign Service for many years. == Sources == * [https://www.google.ca/maps/place/1380+Rockland+Avenue,+Victoria+BC/@48.4196142,-123.3433033,3a,75y,330.98h,90t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m4!1s_-u-MelCijW8-hALs9muzA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xacdb907f1c864cd5!6m1!1e1 1380 Rockland] from GoogleMaps

'''Journals Index'''
[[Watmuff-5|J.H. Watmuff Profile]]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Watmuffprologue Prologue]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:01 1 1856-05-01] (''Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne'').
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:02 2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:03 3 Otago (1862-09-11)]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:04 4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:05 5 Melbourne 1865-11-12]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:06 6 Melbourne 1866-03-04]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:07 7 Melbourne 1869-03-28]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:08 8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:09 9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:10 10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:11 11 Sydney & Misc. 1884]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:12 12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27 ]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:13 13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:14 14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:15 15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:16 16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:18 18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:19 19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.]
See [https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Watmuff-29 Bert Watmuff's] letters about the family
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:20 20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:21 21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:22 22 New Zealand Essays]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:WatmuffTrunk J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos]
[https://www.wikitree.com/wiki/Space:Aow Olive Watmuff's Photos] ===JOURNAL 14=== [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-744 1805]

“Lusitania S.S June 25/87 [1887-06-26 (repeated date)] When I closed the journal I posted yesterday, we were 200 miles from Suez which we did not reach until this morning C[irca] 9am. I may state that we had a splendid run up {{Image|file=Aah-744.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/1}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-745 1806]

through the Gulf of Suez, land on both sides of us nearly all the way but such a country! it seems “cursed” as far as the eye can reach not a vestige of vegetation, nought but rocks & sand & total barrenness. We saw three wrecks on the shores, one of which occurred with loss {{Image|file=Aah-745.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/2}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-746 1807]

of over 200 lives. Suez lies at the head of the Gulf, backed on the south by a high range of mountains – in all other directions nothing but level plains of sand with no vegetation. The town is a mile from the mouth of the canal & looks a dull, dismal place the port contains a {{Image|file=Aah-746.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/3}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-747 1808]

dock parallel to the canal in which I noticed three Turkish steam yachts, & several Colliers unloading coals at the depot. On arriving in the port we were immediately surrounded by a number of boats containing Egyptians all eager to sell their wares such {{Image|file=Aah-747.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/4}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-748 1809]

as dubious looking sweetmeats, cigarettes beads & coral necklaces photographs of Egyptian scenery & canal stations Etc. Many of the passengers purchased largely – particularly those who purpose remaining at home. What amused me most was the clever tricks of a {{Image|file=Aah-748.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/5}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-749 1810]

Conjuror who did some of the most extraordinary feats I ever witnessed & by means so very simple We remained at anchor about 2 hours and after landing the mails (which are conveyed by rail to Alexandria & thence to Brindisi) We started up the canal & after going about a mile we came {{Image|file=Aah-749.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/6}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-750 1811]

upon some wretched looking huts around which were a lot of dirty Arabs & camels the men & children rushed down to the waters edge yelling out “Backshesh” two more pertinacious than others followed the vessel over 4 miles running the whole time & picking up & carrying everything {{Image|file=Aah-750.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/7}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-751 1812]

that was thrown to them, pennies & potatoes oranges etc etc at about 8 miles from Suez we had to lay to along side of the bank with two other vessels, (One of them a large French Troop ship, from Tonquin [Tonkin] with Invalids on board - the other vessel was the {{Image|file=Aah-751.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/8}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-752 1813]

P&O Co. ship the “Rosetta” from India she formerly used to be employed in the Australian trade.) We were detained two hours, during which time no less than 5 steamers passed us, 3 of them Coal Colliers, bound for different Depots such as Suez, Aden Bombay, Diego Garcia {{Image|file=Aah-752.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/9}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-753 1814]

etc. On resuming our voyage, we passed several stations. These stations are nice comfortable looking houses with large verandahs & tiled roofs surrounded by a few trees, & some by a few huts inhabited by the natives. These places are to be seen every five miles & are like {{Image|file=Aah-753.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/10}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-754 1815]

“oases” in the desert, which surround[s] them. We also passed many places where they are deepening & widening the canal where many natives & camels are employd. The camels have two large panniers on their hump which when filled must nearly weigh 10cwt. We pulled up & {{Image|file=Aah-754.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/11}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-755 1816]

our ship was secured to the side of the canal at 7.30pm, for the night, between two high banks - about 4 miles from the town of Ismaillia [Ismailia] much to the dis- -gust of us all, for we made quite sure of staying there for the night & perhaps going {{Image|file=Aah-755.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/12}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-756 1817]

ashore. Our passengers & crew after supper went into the water & I really envied them, they seemed to enjoy the swim so much. Two other ships are moored just a little ahead of us June 26/87 [1887-06-27-Monday] Weather warm, but have felt it very {{Image|file=Aah-756.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/13}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-757 1818]

much hotter for days together in Victoria last summer. We left our berth in the canal at 4.30Am a& passed “Ismaillia” about 6am, a dismal looking place with a desert all around, with the exception of a strip of green where the fresh water canal flows - which supplies the town. Said {{Image|file=Aah-757.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/14}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-758 1819]

canal is 40 miles long & comes from the Nile. We took in some passengers here who are proceeding to Naples. They came in a steam launch on board last night. from this point to Port Said a great many natives & French are at work facing the side of the canal & widening {{Image|file=Aah-758.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/15}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-759 1820]

it. We passed several stations & several large Dredges, a great number of camels & donkeys, & Arabs at work scores of children running after the ship crying out “Backshesh” I think it must be the first word they are taught in infancy to utter. The mirage is always to be seen on the desert at this {{Image|file=Aah-759.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/16}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-760 1821]

place. On reaching Port Said, & before we were moored, hundreds of Arabs came on board in boats & with them 3 barges of Coal containing 556 tons of coal which were all taken on board in less than 3 hours & all by hand labour. The howling, shrieking & yelling, these feinds [fiends] made baffles all {{Image|file=Aah-760.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/17}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-761 1822]

description. Hell let loose could not be worse. The passengers were all glad to escape on shore to get out of the bustle & coal dust. On landing we were rushed by Arabs, Turks & Greeks all wishing to be our Guide, our party consisted of 4, & I am sure we had 20 boys {{Image|file=Aah-761.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/18}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-762 1823]

& men following us, at length, one fixed on to us - & do what we could we could not get rid of him, he was very good natured & took our abuse very serenely, offered us cigarettes & described everything to us also kept off the swarm of beggars that surrounded us & prevented those who {{Image|file=Aah-762.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/19}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-763 1824]

were inclined to buy from paying too much for their purchases, at the end of our 3 hours strool, we gave him 2/6 between us Port Said lies at the entrance to the canal on a plain of sand only about 5 or 6 ft above sea level, it contains some very imposing-looking buildings, but on a {{Image|file=Aah-763.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/20}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-764 1825]

close inspection they turn out very flimsy affairs. An Arab mosque (in course of erection) & a palace built by the prince of the Netherlands which has been purchased by the English Govt. & now used as a hospital are the only substantial buildings I could see. But how to {{Image|file=Aah-764.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/21}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-765 1826]

describe the town & its inhabitants puzzles me. It has all the characteristics of an Oriental city - dirty, badly paved, filthy shops & all thats in them the same. The people seem to live in the streets. I saw many asleep lying about in the streets or on the footways. Even the Europeans, mostly {{Image|file=Aah-765.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/22}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-766 1827]

French) bring out their chairs & tables & drink, play cards etc - no privacy at all you cannot pass a shop without being pestered to buy & the boys are a nuisance scores followed us to black our boots or to pick up our cigar ends. We went into a large “Casino” {{Image|file=Aah-766.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/23}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-767 1828]

where we found a number of people having refreshments scores of small tables & waiters flying about A large string Band plays all the afternoon & evening, consisting of about 25 young bowmen who play remarkably well (they are Austrian Girls, one of them goes round the room {{Image|file=Aah-767.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/24}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-768 1829]

after a piece has been played with a plate & collects what she can. It is amusing to stop & witness the disputes that occur in the markets & other places. The water carriers interested me, they have simply a goats skin, sewn up in which they {{Image|file=Aah-768.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/25}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-769 1830]

carry the water in. I visited an Arab school for boys & girls, & also a school for the European children. I do not think much of them the scholars were very dirty & certainly does not cost their parents much for dress. On returning on board we found everything filthy dirty & black with coal dust, & the decks like a very Babel. We left {{Image|file=Aah-769.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/26}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-770 1831]

at 6pm & are now sailing on the Mediterranean Sea & I feel in a different atmosphere to what I have been breathing the past 10 days. [1887-06-28-Tuesday; correct date again] June 28.Lovely day - no land seen to day Two vessels passed us. June 29 Beautiful day On coming on deck this morn the Isle of Crete was in view. We sailed along its coast for hours. The land {{Image|file=Aah-770.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/27}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-771 1832]

is very high in some points I should think fully 5000 ft above sea level, but it looks very sterile & barren being of volcanic origin – not a vestige of vegetation perceptible, tho I am told the Island is very fertile in some parts. In the evening, Mr. Riley (Engineer a great friend of the Johnsons St Kilda) took a party of us down the Engine Room & {{Image|file=Aah-771.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/28}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-772 1833]

into the Refrigerating Room, we were down about an hour when he explained to us the working of & the uses of various parts of the Machinery Etc It was a very interesting visit & I was considerably enlightened by what I saw & had described. [1887-06-30-Thursday] June 30th Lovely day sea like glass {{Image|file=Aah-772.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/29}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-773 1834]

Nothing in sight until about 1pm when very high & mountainous land appeared, the southern end of Italy. On getting nearer to it found it rocky & sterile looking After skirting this coast heading west Mount Etna (Sicily) burst on our sight like a huge great cloud about 8pm we {{Image|file=Aah-773.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/30}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-774 1835]

were abreast of a lighthouse to which we exchanged signals being dark, it was done by rockets of various colours. We entered the Straits of Messina at 9pm, fortunately it was a beautiful moonlight night, & it was perfectly enchanting to gaze upon the charming scenes we passed, particularly {{Image|file=Aah-774.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/31}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-775 1836]

the town of Messina on the Sicilian side & Reggio on the Italian [side] the lighthouses & lighted buoys & the number of small boats sailing about. I regret very much that it was not daylight when we came through the Straits for the scenery must be lovely. We left the Straits about 11pm {{Image|file=Aah-775.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/32}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-776 1837]

& soon lost sight of land until we came to “Stamboli” [Stromboli] a large volcano, it being an island, much to my disappointment, at present it is inactive occasionally I noticed flashes of light, that rose from the bowels of the crater. We expect to reach Naples about 12 to- Morrow, where I {{Image|file=Aah-776.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/33}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-777 1838]

purpose going on shore our stay there will be very short, about 3 hours so I will not have time to see Pompeii. I must now close these disjointed remarks of mine of the trip from Port Said – hoping you got those I sent you from Suez this is the last chance I have of writing to {{Image|file=Aah-777.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/34}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-778 1839]

you again before reaching England so I must once more say farewell Trusting this finds you all well & hearty & with kind love to the youngsters & all relations & remembrance to all enquiring friends believe me to be Dear Bessie Your Affec[tionate] Husband JH Watmuff. P.S. I trust you are writing regularly to me {{Image|file=Aah-778.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/35}} [https://www.wikitree.com/photo/jpg/Aah-779 1840]

by every mail giving me all the news Etc. JHW God bless you all {{Image|file=Aah-779.jpg|align=r|size=1000|caption=14/36}} == Sources ==