Were it in the power of eloquence to pourtray, or could fancy represent,

the horrors of that gloomy dungeon which is prepared for the punishment

of condemned souls, “where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not

quenched[18];” where a single ray of joy will never be permitted to

illumine the dark abode of the hopeless captive; where the wrath and

indignation of a justly offended God will burn for time everlasting,

without consuming the wretched sufferer; could any power of human

language bring these things fairly before the imagination, the picture

would be too shocking for the contemplation even of the most callous

depravity. Should any of you give this tremendous situation a moment’s

serious thought, you would surely be induced to renounce sin for ever.

In the foregoing observations I have endeavoured to address myself to

sinners in general; but I have a few remarks to offer, which apply

peculiarly to yourselves. Respecting the errors which have led to your

present misfortunes I shall be silent. There are few or none of us, on

taking a retrospective glance of life, but will perceive many wonderful

instances of God’s goodness, many unmerited mercies. This, perhaps, some

of you are unable to recognise, or unwilling to acknowledge, erroneously

imagining that, because sin and folly have subjected you to disgrace and

punishment, all the other favours of Heaven are withheld. But, my

friends, we ought not to forget the many innumerable blessings and

privileges we are still permitted to enjoy. We ought to be earnest in

thanksgiving to the Author of all mercies, for bearing with our

infirmities so long, and granting us time for repentance.

I cannot avoid reminding you of the great advantages you have enjoyed

since you came to this ship: the means of grace are of inexpressible

value, and I think you have had them in great abundance. The Scriptures

have been constantly read and expounded to you according to the best of

my ability; the utmost facility and encouragement have been held out to

every one of you to persevere in religious worship; and all the avenues

to vice and immorality have been guarded with vigilant care. Whenever we

are visited with the dispensations of Heaven, we may rest assured that

it is for wise purposes; and in the afflictions which you are now

enduring, the warning hand of Divine Providence has been obviously

stretched forth. Let me now ask you, What influence have all these had

upon your minds? Are you more enlightened? Are your affections more

raised from the world, and fixed on your Father in heaven? Have you

ever, at the close of a day, or the end of a week, examined your own

hearts to ascertain whether you had broken any of those cruel chains by

which you were so fatally bound to iniquity? Believe me, my friends,

frequent self-examination is of infinite value. It will stimulate you to

acts of virtue, and insensibly lead to repentance, without which you

cannot advance a single step towards a merciful Redeemer. Let it be

engraven upon your minds, that in proportion as your opportunities of

salvation have been numerous, so will your condemnation be grievous, if

you allow them to pass unimproved and unheeded. Remember that the doors

of mercy will not always be open. Oh! let me admonish you to draw near

to God while he has promised to be gracious. The parable of the Fig-tree

is wonderfully applicable in the present case[19]: “A certain man had a

fig-tree planted in his vineyard, and he came and sought fruit thereon,

and found none. Then said he to the dresser of his vineyard, Behold,

these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig-tree, and find none:

cut it down; why cumbreth it the ground?” In this you may observe that

God marks attentively how long we have been unprofitable and unfruitful.

The fig-tree evidently had reference to sinners, who for a certain time

disregarded the means of grace, and obstinately resisted his frequent

invitations; which induced him at length to direct that the tree should

be cut down, that is, that those sinners should be destroyed.

I said, in a former part of this discourse, that your situation was

peculiar; it does indeed differ widely from that of most persons to whom

divines have had opportunities of addressing the consoling doctrines of

Jesus Christ. You have now bid adieu to your native land, the pleasures

of which most of you must make up your minds to relinquish for ever. It

is indeed very natural that the land which gave us birth, the spot where

we first beheld the light of Heaven, should long be remembered with

tenderness the most endearing. That we should cherish the finest

feelings of affection for our native land, is directed by a great and

irresistible law of nature, which was first implanted in our breasts by

the hand of the Creator himself; and I can easily fancy the emotions

that must swell your hearts, when the fond recollection of youthful

joys, and innocent pleasures, returns upon your memory. To be thus cut

off from your country, relations, friends, and acquaintances, is indeed

a heavy affliction; and if your hope be placed on nothing above this

earth, I pity you from my soul: but, if you can repose on the promises

of God, and seek refuge in the merits of his blessed Son, our Redeemer,

the proudest individual in this world has cause to envy you.

I think enough is comprised in the foregoing observations, to deter all

rational beings from the commission of crime, and thereby exposing

themselves to the vengeance of that awful Majesty that can crush them in

an instant. Before I quit this subject, it may be expected that I

mention a few of the motives that ought to incite us to virtue. These

are so obvious, even to the most superficial observer, that it is hardly

possible for any one who thinks at all, to hesitate which is to be

chosen in preference, vice or virtue—happiness or misery. A good life is

the surest pledge of a happy death. The promises of God are not less

encouraging to the righteous, than disheartening to the wicked. In the

3d chapter and 33d verse of Proverbs, we read, “The curse of the Lord is

in the house of the wicked, but he blesseth the habitation of the just.”

Again, of the same 13th chapter, and 21st verse, “Evil pursueth sinners:

but to the righteous, good shall be repaid.” The faith of a righteous

man drawing towards the close of life, is beautifully expressed in the

23d Psalm, 4th and following verses. The Psalmist, reposing securely

under the shelter of divine protection, says, “Yea, though I walk

through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou

art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a

table before me in the presence of my enemies: thou anointest my head

with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me

all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for

ever.” By the Scripture term _faith_, I understand the inspired writers

to mean, that a sinner, after forsaking the corruptions of sin and the

flesh, and steadily persevering in the course of virtue and obedience,

which the Christian religion points out, shall place entire reliance in

the mediation of Christ, for pardon of his offences, and acceptance with

God.

It might here very properly be asked, whether you ever knew of any one

who, having led a virtuous life, had cause to repent of it at the hour

of death? But, on the contrary, have you not all seen many flying to God

in the hour of sickness and keen affliction, as the only certain source

whence the true penitent may always derive consolation? Even in this

life the righteous man has cause to believe that the blessing of Heaven

will be extended to him. This expectation is confirmed to him by the

assurance of the Psalmist, who says, in the 37th Psalm, 23d and

following verses, “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and

he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast

down; for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and

now am old; yet have I _not_ seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed

begging bread.” In the 16th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles, 22d and

succeeding verses, we have a wonderful instance of God’s providence, in

the protection and deliverance of two of his servants, which I consider

highly deserving of your notice: “And the multitude rose up against

them; and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat

them. And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into

prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely; who having received

such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet

fast in the stocks. And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang

praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a

great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and

immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were

loosed. And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and

seeing the prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have

killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled. But Paul

cried out with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm; for we are all

here. Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and

fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out, and said, Sirs,

what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus

Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”

Would my time admit of making further extracts from Scripture, I could

fill a multitude of pages with accounts of the loving-kindness and

patient forbearance continually exercised by God towards his creatures;

but the Bible is in the hands of you all, and I earnestly entreat you to

make yourselves acquainted with the salutary and cheering precepts which

you will find inculcated in every line of that sacred volume. It abounds

in consolations with which the thirsty soul of the weary traveller, who

is seeking salvation, may be feasted and refreshed. The careful perusal

of this most excellent book is not only granted to us as a privilege,

but God enjoins it as a duty: He says, in the Gospel according to St.

John[20], “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal

life: and they are they which testify of me.”

I fear I have already trespassed too long on your patience; but I feel a

resistless impulse to give you a brief account of the dying moments of

two persons with whom I was acquainted, and from which, beyond all

doubt, the most impressive moral lesson may be learned. I select these

from a great many similar cases which came under my observation in the

course of professional avocation in various parts of the world.

These men through life professed sentiments very different from each

other; and at the awful hour of dissolution, their feelings were indeed

very opposite. They were both snatched away in the prime of life, one

being twenty-four, and the other twenty-seven years old. A long and

disinterested friendship with the former, induced him to request my

attendance professionally; but all human skill was vain: the cold hand

of death had seized him. Never, in my life, did I see the cheering

effects of a religious life more strongly exemplified than on this

occasion. His wife, his mother, and his five sisters, with myself, were

present. Observing his female relations in tears, he requested them to

come near, and, after a little pause, addressed them in nearly the

following words: “Beloved friends, I perceive with regret the anguish of

your souls; I say regret, because I had promised myself nothing but

tranquillity and happiness, while the partition is breaking down that

separates me from my God. I am entering on my last journey, which, so

far from being terrible, is inviting and delightful.” A paroxysm of pain

here interrupted the interesting account, and for a minute he lay

apparently insensible; but opening his eyes again, with a placid smile,

he said, “I feel the infirmity of nature, but my sense of pain is lost

in my ardent hope of salvation. I have heartily repented of all my sins,

and firmly believe, through the benignant mercies of my God, and the

redeeming merits of my _blessed Saviour_, I shall in a few minutes be

numbered with the chosen of God. O my wife! my mother! my beloved

sisters! I beseech you not to mourn my departure. I feel happiness

unspeakable opening on my soul, as it bursts from this wretched

tenement.” Then grasping my hand, he faintly exclaimed, “Ah, my friend!

virtue is its own reward. See the effect of a religious life, and the

blessed composure of a dying Christian:” he continued, “My lamp is

nearly out; but, blessed be God, I feel that it has not burned in vain,

O Lord God! excuse my impatience, I am ready to obey thy call, and

anxious to receive thy promised rest.” Here his voice failed,—his tongue

faltered,—and his spirit took its flight to the bosom of its Father in

heaven.

The picture of my other unhappy friend was just the reverse of the

above. He had indulged freely in all the fashionable gaieties of the

world; and if ever a serious or useful thought obtruded on his

disordered fancy, it was immediately stifled by some idle debauchery. In

this mad career he quaffed away life to the dregs, and, before he

arrived at the meridian of manhood, he was verging fast to the brink of

eternity. A bacchanalian surfeit in a distant country brought on a

fever, which threatened a speedy dissolution of life; and in this state

I saw him for the first time for several years, and I am certain I shall

never forget the painful feelings I endured throughout this melancholy

interview. It is absolutely impossible to give even a faint idea of the

horror, the agony, the heart-rending terror that harrowed up his soul,

whenever the thought of death flashed across his mind. He received me

with phrensied ardour, in which hope and fear were strongly depicted.

“Alas!” he exclaimed, “you have come too late, for I am lost—_every way

lost_.” I immediately perceived that life was ebbing fast; and being

convinced that nothing short of divine interposition could retard his

fate, I endeavoured to console him by drawing his attention to the

mercies of God, and the saving mediation of a gracious Redeemer: to

which he replied, with asperity and violence, “If you have any

friendship left for a degraded, self-polluted wretch, torture not his

last moments. My life has been spent in iniquity—foolishly spent,

because it never yielded one hour of solid happiness. I have lived

without thinking of God, and why should he _now_ think of me, unless it

be to judge me—to damn me?—Oh, God!—I shall go distracted!” A fainting

fit intervened, and fortunately broke this mournful chain of reflection;

but, alas! sensibility too soon returned, and with it fresh trains of

gloomy despondency. He stared wildly, and roared out, “I have broken

from him—but he is coming again—there—there—death!—Oh! save me—save me.”

After nearly an hour passed in this dreadful state, he again became

capable of reflecting; but every moment added to his dejection. “I have

been so bad,” he exclaimed, “that God can never forgive me. I have

blasphemed and dishonoured his holy name a hundred times, when my heart

inwardly smote me. I have ridiculed and denied his existence, that my

companions in error might think well of me; but I never was sincere in

my wickedness.” His mind became so agitated that all reasoning was

lost:—he was unable to repent; and the thought of death rent his very

soul. In this perturbed state he languished for about four hours, from

the time of my first seeing him; till at length, overwhelmed by despair,

a paroxysm of fever closed the tragic scene. The last words he uttered,

that I could distinctly hear, were, “God will not, cannot forgive!—” The

remainder was lost in a murmuring groan.

Oh! my friends, could I convey to you any idea of the awful feelings

which the wretched death of this wretched man produced upon my mind, it

would, I think, deter the most thoughtless of you from those practices

which ruin both soul and body. Would to God that you had been present!

My description may not penetrate beyond the ear: but had you witnessed

the dreadful original, it would have pierced your hearts.

Before concluding these observations, I cannot refrain from indulging

myself in a single remark on your conduct lately, which I have infinite

pleasure in saying merits the highest approbation of both Captain Brown

and myself. Believe me, I lost no opportunity of acquainting all my

benevolent friends of your good behaviour before we left England; and if

you persevere to the end of the voyage in this praiseworthy manner, I

promise you that all the well disposed inhabitants of the country to

which you are going shall be informed of it; and in my best offices with

the Governor you may most religiously confide.

* * * * *

5th.—At the earnest solicitation of several of the prisoners, I allowed

copies of the above address to be taken by them, having the greater

inclination to comply with this request, as I wished to see its effects

rendered permanent. Their general conduct continues exemplary.

8th.—The same unvarying scene now presents itself every day. The women

show no inclination whatever to hold conversation with the sailors. In

every part of the ship to which the prisoners are allowed access, I have

the gratifying opportunity of seeing some one of them reading a portion

of Scripture, or some religious tract, to a group of her companions

collected round to hear the consoling doctrines of the gospel. It now

requires little or no entreaty to induce them to the practice of

religious worship, in which I am persuaded many of them engage with

sincere piety.

At 11 A. M. being somewhat indisposed, the Rev. Mr. Reddall did me the

favour to read a sermon in the prison, during which I was summoned to a

child that had long lingered from water on the brain, and was then

dying. When the sermon was finished, I took occasion to address the

women on the subject of death, as mentioned in my last address. The

child’s dissolution, which had just taken place, gave an opportunity of

impressing the subject on their minds; and, if one may judge by the

burst of feeling it produced, it will not be speedily obliterated, the

circumstances of life and death being immediately present to the

imagination of each every moment of the voyage. Between 4 and 5 P. M.

the funeral service was read by the Rev. Mr. Reddall, and the body of

the child was committed to the deep.

10th.—About half past 10 last night, an infant belonging to one of the

prisoners died from the effects of a blood-vessel of the lungs ruptured

about five weeks previously. About half past 3 this evening the reverend

Mr. Reddall read the funeral service, and the body was committed to the

deep. The reverend gentleman afterwards addressed the women (who were

present as well on this as the former occasion) in an impressive moral

exhortation, to which they paid the most respectful attention. Their

conduct has been generally so good as to admit of no opportunity of

using one word of animadversion as heretofore.

11th.—At 11 A. M. the Rev. Mr. Reddall read to the women in the prison a

sermon which he had written for the particular occasion, admirably

adapted to their situation. It was intended as an appeal to their

feelings, and realized the expectations formed of its effects: there was

not in fact a dry eye present. When he had concluded, I made a few

observations expressive of my approbation of their general behaviour,

and how much it gratified me to observe their gradual reformation. I now

entertain scarcely a shadow of doubt that the great design of the

_Ladies’ Committee_ will be crowned with complete success.

14th.—Nothing remarkable has occurred since last date, the conduct of

the prisoners being uniformly correct. The increasing heat of the

weather,—the ship having advanced considerably within the

tropics,—together with the full diet, have produced inflammatory

symptoms among the prisoners, which it was necessary to treat with

copious depletion, and other advisable means. I have satisfaction in

observing them relieved by the above treatment.

15th.—This day, according to the usual rule, the prisoners were

assembled to hear religious instruction; but as the weather was very

hot, it appeared most proper that I should read the discourse to them on

deck, where the Reverend Mr. Reddall, Captain Brown, and his officers,

attended. The behaviour of the women was discreet and orderly: their

manners have assumed a certain sedateness which recommends them to

particular notice. Several have been employed in plaiting straw, and

doing needle-work; many are quite devoted to reading and conversing on

the Scriptures, thus filling up their time very usefully.

16th.—This day, about 11 A. M., there came on a heavy squall from the

S.E., which blew with tremendous fury for nearly an hour, accompanied

with very heavy and incessant rain. Being aware of its approach, I had

ordered the beds to be carefully covered in the netting. As this was the

first appearance of any thing like a storm, many of the women from a

motive of curiosity remained upon deck until the hurrying exertions of

the sailors, and the loud voices of the Captain and officers giving the

necessary commands for the management of the ship, excited their terror

and drove them all below drenched with rain.

I had been occupied in the hospital with the sick patients when the

confusion on deck was in its height, and on coming into the prison was

presented with a sight which, I must confess, gave me inexpressible

gratification. Most of the women were on their knees devoutly engaged in

prayer;—they did not appear to notice me, so great was their

abstraction;—all was silence, and religious awe. The apprehended danger

seemed to have brought forth the feelings of fervent devotion, and their

appearance, as they were then to be viewed, was similar to that of a

well ordered assembly at church.

The matter, altogether, made an impression on my mind which will not

soon be removed; because at that instant I had the most satisfactory

proof of the results I had always anticipated from the system adopted.

Here, for instance, was a moment to try their faith. All the feelings

seemed now absorbed in religious thought, and they appeared firm in

reliance on the protection of Divine Providence;—an idea to which many

of them had been hitherto strangers, and the majority of them did not

dare to indulge. The shallow sceptic, who would despair of producing

religious impression on the minds of convicts, might, in this happy and

unexpected occurrence, find enough to convince him of his error, and to

make him change his opinion, were his ignorance formed even of the most

stubborn materials.

A subsequent circumstance also persuaded me that the alarm created by

the squall was the means of calling up in their minds more lasting

reflections of a religious nature; for, about 4 in the evening, Sidney

Williams, whose conduct in Newgate was so extravagantly wicked as to

induce the Surgeon of that establishment to propose her removal to

Bethlehem Hospital, came to me with a hymn, which I had given her some

time before to learn, with a promise of some mark of approbation in case

of attention, and recited the whole with feeling and correctness. I

engaged her immediately to commit to memory my first address, and have

very little doubt of her performing the task.

The example of Sidney Williams was followed by many others, to the

number of twenty nearly, who have also undertaken to commit the same

address to memory, in expectation of gaining the proposed reward. I must

not omit to mention here another trait of improvement noticed and

reported to me by Captain Brown:—Within the last few days some of the

younger convicts, who appeared more volatile than others, were in the

habit of using sacred words in ordinary conversation, not as oaths, but

as harmless expletives: but now, however, all such expressions have been

laid aside.

18th.—Sunday.—The weather being fine, the convicts were assembled on

deck, and a sermon read to them by the Reverend Mr. Reddall, to which

they gave undivided attention, and appeared to acknowledge the force of

the arguments by correspondent feeling. After sermon I addressed them in

a concise exhortation on the necessity of frequent self-examination,

urging its important advantages in the guidance of every part of their

conduct, and have reason to hope the admonition was not lost upon them.

Having long considered that some mode of keeping their minds in constant

action could not fail of producing good moral effects, and as a state of

idleness had been generally attended with injurious consequences when

they were imprisoned in England, it appeared to me manifest that nothing

could be more desirable than to devise some means of producing that

activity with as little delay as possible. As every day now seemed to

bring forth in their conduct the dawning of some good quality which had

been obscured in the darkness of their former lives, and as their minds

appeared strongly attached to religious reflection, I thought it most

expedient to employ them in committing to memory some short moral or

religious composition, proposing, as an inducement, a copy of the Bible

with the name of the successful candidate for the first place of merit,

in my own hand-writing; and to the two next, a copy of some religious

book, one to each, marked in the same manner; also to the next seven,

another small favour, with a similar mark of approbation.

I further informed them, that an account of their success should be

entered in the journal with their respective names, which would be

submitted to the Governor at Sydney, backed with particular commendation

from myself, as they deserved; and that a copy of those names should

also be transmitted to London. They unanimously and cheerfully presented

themselves in competition for the proposed reward; and I had the

pleasure of understanding that many would undertake the task purely from

a sense of duty, and gratitude for the care which they experienced

during the voyage. This latter feeling was evinced by many of the

Newgate prisoners, among whom I was particularly gratified in seeing

Sidney Williams. The change in this girl is astonishing, not only as it

regards herself individually, but as her altered conduct serves as an

useful lesson and example to others.

I cannot refrain from repeating my firm conviction, that the very best

consequences would be found to result, during the voyage to New South

Wales, were the convicts provided with means of constant employment in

some useful and light way befitting their sex; as I find uniformly their

minds much more tractable and obedient when they are so employed. One

obvious benefit would attend such a provision,—they would thereby,

having their attention profitably engaged, avoid allurements to improper

or useless conversation, and would rather turn their thoughts, as these

do at present, to religious or moral subjects. This latter intention

might be promoted by grouping the workers into certain classes,

according to their employment, and appointing one of their number best

qualified to read from some edifying book, instructive discourses, or

such passages of moral entertainment as might be selected for that

purpose; in time, use would render this custom familiar and pleasing.

Some time after the women had been sent below this evening,—which is a

proceeding always observed at a certain hour, and attended to by them

with the utmost decorum,—Mrs. Brown and Mrs. Reddall walking on deck to

enjoy the delightful cool, which was made more pleasing by moonlight and

a gentle breeze,—their ears were struck with agreeable sounds coming

from the prison. On approaching cautiously, not to disturb any person

below, they found the sounds were produced by several of the women

singing hymns in symphony in a very low key. The stillness of the hour,

and the contrast of a religious exercise of that pleasing character

among women heretofore the objects of pity, punishment, or contempt,

were calculated to produce a combined effect of the most satisfactory

kind.

20th.—At 9 this morning a complaint was made against Mary James for

abusing a fellow prisoner without provocation. On investigating the

case, the statement was found to be correct, and also that she had

wantonly used the most foul and disgusting language. I represented to

her the impropriety of such behaviour, and rebuked her for it,

threatening her with punishment if it were repeated. So far from

expressing any regret for her irregularity, she declared her intention

to do so as often as any one gave her cause, nor would she listen to the

consequences of such insubordination. She was proceeding with some

indecent and offensive language in my presence, and would not desist in

spite of every remonstrance. I therefore tied her hands and gagged her,

declaring she should not be loosed until she returned to a proper sense

of her duty. In about an hour afterwards, she signified deep sorrow for

her error; on which she was immediately released, and pardoned formally

on promise of more regular behaviour in future. At noon the prison,

having been cleaned out as usual, was sprinkled with vinegar.

21st.—This day was given to cleaning and fumigating the prison. Being

desirous to let the women have the benefit of bathing, the _tub_ was

sent below for that purpose, but was found rather large for admission by

the doors; which being of slight materials, and hastily put together,

were unable to withstand the most trifling shock, and were,

consequently, much shaken and injured by forcing in the bathing-tub.

This is not the only instance in which the carpentry work of the prison

was found deficient;—the locks are usually of the commonest kind, and

insecure, as well as liable to be put out of order by the most simple

accident,—even by the pressure of the adjacent woodwork, when the vessel

happens to roll heavily.

22nd.—At 11 this day, according to custom, I read a sermon to the

convicts, whose whole behaviour on the occasion merited praise. In their

general conduct they are decent and orderly, while their constant

cheerfulness makes them appear not to feel their separation from former

acquaintance very heavily. Many of the prisoners are every day employed

in working straw plait, and in various other light occupations, such as

sewing and knitting,—the materials of which were supplied by the Ladies’

Committee.

23rd. Many of the women are attacked with inflammatory fever.

25th.—Sunday. This day severe illness prevented me from reading to the

prisoners according to custom; and, as I was confined to bed, the

Reverend Mr. Reddall kindly officiated on the occasion, and read to them

one of his own sermons, their attention to which afforded much

satisfaction. Mr. Reddall alluding to my illness, excited strong marks

of feeling and concern amongst them on that account. In the afternoon I

made an effort to see the sick persons, and administered the necessary

remedies.

26th.—The inflammatory fever has been subdued in the cases mentioned,

and the other patients in the hospital are doing well. The women are

constantly engaged upon deck in the usual industrious employments.

27th.—This day passed as heretofore in the most orderly and decent

manner on the part of the prisoners, although my illness interrupted

that watchfulness which I wished invariably to observe. Their conduct,

indeed, has been so uniformly correct as to present a sameness of record

too tiresome, were it not for the pleasure afforded by witnessing their

regular advancement in those principles of religion and virtue which I

was anxious to see established in full influence amongst them.

This evening, after the beds had been sent below, a scene of rather a

novel nature presented itself, and served to convince me that perfection

had not as yet been attained by the convicts. The circumstance is

inserted, as presenting an alteration of feature in this journal, rather

than from its appearing seriously worthy of notice. Ann Williams being

in familiar conversation with the elder Farrell, had contrived to pick

her pocket, but was instantly detected; when all the bitter upbraiding

of Farrell’s merciless tongue was levelled at the delinquent. This was

resented in a way rather rude, as soon as they were all sent below to

bed; and the clamour brought Captain Brown and the Reverend Mr. Reddall

to the spot, when the assailant was secured, and tied up during the

night, and every thing became tranquil.

28th.—On opening the prison this morning at daylight, according to

custom, I released Williams without speaking much to her, reserving my

observations until my health might allow of the exertion. The women have

been all this day grave, silent, and evidently concerned for the

occurrences of last evening.

29th.—This day Samuel Brown, a convict’s child, died in the hospital;

and the funeral service having been read as usual by the Reverend Mr.

Reddall, the body was committed to the deep. At 11 A. M. the same

gentleman read a moral discourse to the women, at which, though

extremely ill, I endeavoured to be present, and, after it was ended,

addressed them briefly on the very disgraceful conduct of some of them

on Tuesday evening. My observations were tempered with mildness, and

were chiefly directed to the warm concern which I was informed they had

expressed for my illness, which I assured them had made a strong

impression on my mind. I exhorted them to persevere in good and virtuous

conduct; as, to see them moral, and happy from that cause, was my

greatest comfort; that the only reward I sought was that very sense of

gratitude which they had shown for my attentions, and that, so long as

health would permit, I should exert myself for their welfare. They all

appeared orderly, attentive, and respectful, and seemed generally to

censure the conduct of the late offenders.

30th.—Frequent squalls, with rain, occurring this day, kept the

prisoners for the greater part below, where they were all usefully

employed, and such as had no work to do, filled up the vacant hours by

religious reading.

_July_ 2nd.—Sunday. This day the Reverend Mr. Reddall read a sermon on

deck to the women, at which I endeavoured to be present, although my

state of health was very indifferent. The orderly behaviour of the

women, and their decent, and even neat appearance, afforded me much

pleasure.

6th.—The preceding four days have passed in uninterrupted

tranquillity;—not a single circumstance having occurred to excite

disapprobation. It is extremely gratifying to observe little groups of

the prisoners, both in the prison and upon deck, reading the Scriptures,

and devoutly worshiping their Maker. At first many of them showed

considerable reluctance and shyness to be seen in acts of devotion; but

that false shame has happily disappeared. This day, at the usual hour, I

read to them a sermon, which was followed by an exhortation by the

Reverend Mr. Reddall of a serious, impressive, and appropriate nature.

8th.—The occurrences of these two days correspond with those of the

preceding, except that hence a manifest argument for the necessity of

employment among the convicts may be drawn, as to the advantages

obtainable by daily occupation, in the singular alteration for the

better in the conduct of Ann Newton, who, since she commenced working

articles of straw manufacture, seems entirely to have lost her

disposition to licentious romping and careless expressions, for which

she, more than any of her companions, used to be remarked. Her demeanour

now is much more steady, and that activity of mind which would have

vented itself in mischief, is now in a very particular manner directed

to industry; her appearance also, which used to be that of a slattern,

and exhibited almost a studied want of cleanliness, is become, even in

her plainest dress, neat and decent;—every thing about her, in fact,

bespeaks a marked amendment. Another circumstance in the conduct of this

young woman is particularly deserving of notice; she every day chooses a

retired seat apart from her companions, where she assiduously pursues

her work in silence and remarkable reserve, yet appearing cheerful and

contented.

9th.—This day, Sunday, being wet and uncomfortable, the prisoners were

unable to enjoy the advantages of the air on deck, as usual; and this

disappointment seemed to be felt considerably, as they had all dressed

themselves very neatly, many wearing new dresses which they had made up

during the week. At the accustomed hour the Reverend Mr. Reddall

accompanied me to the prison, where he read to them an excellent

discourse written for the occasion, on the advantages arising from

perseverance in “well-doing,” which contained some affecting allusions

to their situation, of which they testified the most lively feeling,

particularly of gratitude towards their good friends of the Committee,

and all those whose kind attentions were exerted for their welfare. I

offered a few observations approving of their general conduct, and

holding out inducements for further improvement: the burst of strong

feeling universally expressed throughout this penitent community was

overwhelming; their sobs and tears were to me the best reward I could

possibly be presented with, nor could I proceed without a painful

emotion mingled with pleasure. Were the benevolent ladies, who have done

so much for these poor contrite sufferers, then present, they would

doubtless have been much gratified. These women are no longer the wild

and abandoned creatures known throughout the prisons of England;—they

are now an orderly company, more like sisters in one family than persons

thrown together by accident or misfortune.

13th.—Throughout the last few days the weather has continued boisterous,

cold, and wet, proving extremely uncomfortable to the prisoners; for

which reason they mostly remain below, exercising themselves in such

work as they can,—cleaning the prison and making every thing dry and

snug about them. The greater number were engaged at times to-day in

learning hymns, or reciting, and afterwards singing them with grave

attention. It having blown a violent gale during the night, they were

all greatly harassed, and many of them are still seriously alarmed by

the extraordinary rolling of the ship.

At the accustomed hour I read to them a short discourse, and followed it

up with some observations applicable to the state of their fears on the

preceding night, with which they were much affected. As a mark of

approbation for their care in studying the hymns, and so laudably

singing them, one copy of Watts’s Collection of Hymns was given to each

mess, accompanied with such remarks as were likely to confirm their

pious purposes. This little favour was gladly and gratefully received:

hence the full assurance that they will derive much benefit from having

those small books, as they have ever since been collected in groups to

hear them read.

As further marks of encouragement, I distributed among the most

deserving some more straw, and such other materials for industry as had

been supplied by the Committee: from their great diligence in working

these, I feel the more strongly impressed with a conviction of the

propriety and necessity of putting on board for the voyage a sufficient

quantity of materials to provide constant employment for the convicts on

the passage to the colony. The best proof of this is the superior

correctness of conduct manifested by such as are so employed, even on

the present very limited scale.

14th.—This day the prisoners were confined below by the severity of the

weather, the wind still continuing to blow a heavy gale. Their situation

was rendered the more uncomfortable, from the wet occasioned by the sea

sometimes breaking over the netting, and making its way into the prison:

besides, the wind having carried away the cover of the boiler, it became

very difficult, almost impossible, to get any thing cooked: to those

little hardships, however, they submitted without a murmur. An extra

allowance of wine was issued, to relieve as much as possible these

inconveniences.

15th.—Nothing of importance has occurred this day. The weather having

become more favourable, the convicts were employed in cleaning the decks

of the prison, and making themselves as comfortable as possible.

16th. Sunday.—The Rev. Mr. Reddall and Captain Brown accompanied me this

day to the prison, where Mr. Reddall read to the convicts a discourse on

the conversion of St. Paul. Some thoughts having suggested themselves as

appropriately applying to their immediate condition, I offered a few

brief observations to that effect, which I have reason to hope were

heard by them with serious interest.

A recent circumstance may here be introduced, to show the happy

influence already extending over the minds of these forlorn females.

Mary Hough, one of those sent from Stockport, was married to a man of

dissolute character, who not only, as she asserted, induced her to

commit the offence for which she was sentenced to her present

punishment, but had taken up with another female, whose misfortune in

knowing him was similar to her own; for the same woman is also a convict

in this ship, with a young child by the same man, of which she was

pregnant at the time of her commitment to prison. Mary Hough was at

first, she acknowledges, full of resentment and rage against this

unfortunate woman; but she has latterly become so altered in her mind,

from the effects of religious exercises, that she has made the most

sincere declarations of forgiveness to the object of her jealous enmity,

and even sends a part of her own ration of wine to assist the poor

mother in supporting the infant in health. This Hough is exemplary in

her behaviour, and frequently expresses anxious wishes for her wicked

husband’s reformation.

17th.—The sameness which has hung over the reports in the preceding

weeks, has at length met some variation from an occurrence which has

just taken place. In consequence of a regulation which had been long

organized and established, I had, at the earliest moment possible after

opening the prison this morning, intelligence of a transaction which

happened shortly after last midnight. During yesterday a secret

arrangement, it appears, had been made by three of the sailors, in

pursuance of which they watched a convenient opportunity of going down

to the prison-door at the fore hatchway, which is always secured with

two locks, and there endeavoured to open a passage for three of the

convicts, Ann Farrell, Ann Newton, and Ann Harwood, who had consented to

accompany them below. After some feeble endeavours, the sailors, fearing

detection, desisted, and retired in savage disappointment.

Having received this information, on the truth of which I could rely, I

lost not an instant to confer with Captain Brown, who offered the most

prompt assistance. I sent for the three offending prisoners, who, with

the utmost plausibility and perseverance, insisted that they had no

participation in the design. Being, however, convinced of their criminal

intention in the affair, I placed them in strict confinement, positively

forbidding any one of them to appear again on deck during the remainder

of the voyage; which must operate upon them as a heavy punishment.

The greatest precautions were used at the same time, by Captain Brown,

to place a grating, and more secure fastenings, over the hatchway, where

the attempt had been made; and more strict regulations were issued for

the conduct of the sailors. It may be recollected that Newton, one of

the offenders in the present instance, had lately shown strong

inclination to amendment, having applied herself assiduously to working

straw-plait; but, unfortunately, the materials being all worked up, the

mischief of idleness returned upon her volatile disposition, and the

effects are, her being involved in the above improper conspiracy. Let

this suffice, without further comment, to prove the unhappy consequences

that result from the convicts not having means of permanent employment

during the voyage.

19th.—This morning a woman, who conducted herself throughout the voyage

with exemplary propriety, solicited my protection against the insulting

abuse and infamous threats of two of the sailors, which she declared had

been quite unprovoked. Having investigated the case, I found her

statement correct. These fellows, who had attempted to break into the

prison on the night of the 16th, believing it was this woman who

communicated to me the facts of that infamous transaction, took this

opportunity of venting their low malice against her, using the most

dreadful oaths and imprecations, that they would throw her overboard

before the voyage was over; or that they would most certainly kill her

in the colony; one of them at the same time seizing her as if he was

about to put the threat into execution.

I soothed the poor woman’s alarms, as well I could, with promises of

protection to the utmost of my ability, and represented the affair to

Captain Brown, declaring to him, that any injury done to the prisoners

should be followed with punishment, to the utmost extent and rigour of

the law, on our arrival in the colony:—from him I experienced the most

ready and friendly co-operation, in no degree marked by the lukewarm

impulse of mere duty, but by the elevated principle of moral rectitude.

He represented to the men what I had said, and assured them, that such

disgraceful and unmanly behaviour should not only be discountenanced,

but be visited with all the punishment he had the power to inflict.

Unfortunately, however, in vessels of this description, the law has

provided no remedy against the most unbridled licentiousness; and

sailors may, in fact, commit any crime short of mutiny, or injury to the

ship’s concerns, without the least apprehension of penal consequences,

while they almost always act up fully to the extent of this unreasonable

immunity.

The rest of the prisoners expressed their feelings respecting the

misconduct of the three thoughtless females in terms of bitter

indignation;—they declared such behaviour unworthy and disgraceful to

beings on whom such care had been lavished. Scoffs and insults from

every part of the prison were poured on the now mournful offenders, who

complained piteously of their sufferings, and declared they were so

wretched that life was not worth preserving. I had to entreat and

command the others to desist from persecuting them; but on this occasion

my authority had weight no longer than I was present to enforce it,

although on every other occasion my orders met with the most prompt

obedience. To screen them from personal violence, and preserve peace

among them, I found it necessary to remove the offenders into the

hospital. This circumstance proved the strong feeling that habit, if not

a better state of mind, had given birth to.

20th.—An effort was made last night, by two of the sailors, to break

into the prison, to communicate with the three girls in confinement; but

it does not appear that any effort on their side was made to encourage

such proceeding: one of the fellows threw down a letter through an

opening in the deck made for the admission of air to the hospital, but

it was torn without having been read. I have strong expectations that

these weak creatures are becoming again sincerely steady, having

conversed with them almost every hour since their separation from the

others, and found them constantly in tears, without expressing a wish to

have their confinement relaxed.

At noon, Captain Brown and the Rev. Mr. Reddall accompanied me to the

prison, where I read a sermon, and made a few remarks, approving of

their prudent behaviour in avoiding such solicitations as had involved

the others in the disgrace of the late transaction, and commending them

for the reserve shown generally towards those who sought only to lead

them again astray from virtuous obedience. I advised them also to

cultivate that peaceful and friendly disposition towards one another,

which heretofore formed so praiseworthy a feature in the character of

their little community. This appeared to allay all acrimonious feeling,

and appease every discontent: a spirit of harmony is again restored, to

experience, it is hoped, no further interruption: still, however, it

seems prudent, under every consideration of the circumstances, to keep

the three offenders in duresse.

23rd.—These last three days proceeded without any further annoyance from

the sailors, who appear to conduct themselves with a greater regard to

decency, acting more under controul, seemingly, than might be expected

from persons ignorant in the extreme of moral virtue, slaves to their

passions, and amenable in scarcely any degree to discipline of any form,

evidently aware of their power to act in every manner as suits their

inclination. The exertions of Captain Brown, in finding the sailors

constant employment, which their selfishness forbids them to refuse, and

the vigilance constantly exercised over both them and the women, have

changed the scene very much for the better.

The conduct of the three secluded females is, generally speaking, marked

with sincere repentance, their manner being sorrowful and extremely

submissive. Their confinement is still continued, in order to keep them

in this state of mind, and to render the amendment already manifested

secure and permanent. They were admitted to-day into the prison, and had

the benefit of a religious discourse and exhortation from the Rev. Mr.

Reddall, at which Captain Brown attended. The little assembly was

remarkable for an appearance of cleanliness, and their demeanour showed

evident signs of advancement in religious and moral feeling. It is

barely justice to them to say, that in no part of the voyage had I

greater reason to approve of their conduct, than since the affair of

their three companions took place.

After sermon I spoke a few words, recommending to their strict attention

the subject of the sermon they had just heard, adding a very brief

admonition on their religious duties generally, to which they gave a

marked and silent hearing: that they carry these things constantly in

mind, is evident from the tenour of all their actions, almost every one

of them being seen occupied with some of the religious books given them;

nor is levity of manner in the slightest degree observable amongst them.

This day I had the pleasure of conferring the promised mark of

approbation, proposed some time since, as a reward to the one who should

first commit to memory the address with which the voyage was commenced.

It is peculiarly gratifying to say, that the successful candidate is

Sidney Williams, who, it may be recollected, was characterized in most

alarming colours for her conduct in Newgate. Now, however, let the

change in her behaviour be considered, and surely every one who loves to

see the erring sinner reclaimed, advancing first in the path to virtue

and excellence, must feel a sympathy in her misfortunes, and rejoice in

her extraordinary recovery from wickedness.

On Friday last this girl applied to me with modest confidence to repeat

the Address, requesting me to hear her in the attempt; which being

complied with, she recited it with ease and accuracy. I deferred to give

the promised reward till the present day; and after sermon I called

Sidney Williams forward by name (a circumstance quite unusual), and

having read aloud the inscription, which, according to promise, was in

my own hand-writing, I presented her with a large copy of the Bible,

accompanying it with expressions of warm approbation, and of

encouragement to further virtuous endeavours. The effect of this little

affair upon the other prisoners was, as it were, electric: they hastened

to give assurances of their desire for the like distinction, but at the

same time expressed no envy of Sidney Williams’s success.

27th.—This day, Thursday, at the usual hour, I read a sermon to the

prisoners: the behaviour of all was as usual sedate and attentive. Their

minds seem now, as far as it can be discerned, completely abstracted

from all those pernicious subjects of a vicious nature which formerly

occupied their thoughts, and a fixed and settled manner, according to

their various tempers, characterizes every one of them. The three

offenders were admitted to the sermon, and their appearance is quite

lowly, and strongly bespeaks repentance. Every means that can be

resorted to is employed to prevail on me to alter their sentence, and

withdraw the prohibition of their appearing upon deck, promising the

most rigid observance of decorum and prudent conduct, if once more

tried:—but, every circumstance being duly considered, it appears most

advisable to continue them still longer in their present place of

security.

28th.—The behaviour of the prisoners continues orderly, sedate, and

tranquil; all seeming anxious to arrive at their destination, rather

from a desire to commence industrious and honest occupations than from a

weariness of the voyage. Their whole conduct is such as to call forth

approbation in every instance; and I find their attention and

watchfulness particularly exerted to avoid any blameable action, since

the late misfortune of their three companions. These latter are still

continued in confinement, avoiding the frequent attempts of the sailors

to induce them to a conversation.

Another gross instance of impropriety on the part of these men has this

day been discovered, which is as strongly marked for its unmanly

meanness as it is for its barbarity. Having no longer the opportunities

of conversing with the women, as formerly they used to do in spite of

every restraint, and in violation of their commander’s positive

orders,—not content with annoying the confined females with their gross

assiduities, they now direct their cowardly malice against the other

women, watching the opportunities of the night-time,—stamping over the

prison about the fore-hatchway,—making hideous noises, and crying out

“The ship is sinking,”—and in every possible way disturbing the

prisoners’ sleep, in alarming their fears. Sometimes their vulgar

ingenuity tries the idea of a ghost stalking about the prison, and this

they endeavour to communicate to them through the prison-grating, to the

great distress of such as are weak enough to believe them; but the

majority of the women have too much good sense to notice such rude and

idle attacks.

As these malignant ruffians in this manner insult and torment the poor

prisoners, who have no means of resisting or avoiding the abuse, is it

not to be deemed unfortunate that no power exists to punish, or at least

control, such base conduct? When spoken to concerning such proceedings,

they make light of the matter, saying they merely jump about for nothing

but amusement,—not offering to deny that they have done so. Were no

other proof existing, the fact of such things having occurred, ought to

make the establishment of some appropriate and efficient regulations in

these circumstances as sure of adoption as they are imperiously

requisite.

Captain Brown has severely reprimanded the sailors for their misconduct;

but to this they showed the most careless indifference, still

persevering in their shameful practices in defiance of his strict

injunctions, and in open opposition to the officer of the watch; so that

the disposition of those men, so obstinately evinced, may be productive

of consequences still more serious, as no means of compelling them to

alter their behaviour can be resorted to at present. Having consulted

with the commander on this state of things, we have determined to avoid

openly censuring them as much as possible, and allow the affair to pass

without further notice, as the least mischievous proceeding they may put

in practice.

30th.—This day a discourse was read in the prison. The decent appearance

of the prisoners, who were as clean and neat as their circumstances

would permit, was highly praiseworthy. After sermon I remarked on the

necessity there was for an active co-operation on their part, by

reflection and meditation, to give effect to the discourses they heard

from time to time, as otherwise it would be a useless application of

those valuable compositions barely to hear them read, unless they turned

them to good account;—that the reading of sermons would, in fact, become

an idle ceremony, should they not with earnestness and attention

endeavour to benefit by the excellent advice they contained;—that in

this way their time would be most profitably exercised, and every hour

thus devoted would be found of increased value. I was gratified in

observing, by their manner, that these hints were not thrown away, as

they gave evident signs of being impressed with their truth.

Their general behaviour is in every respect unexceptionable, and I more

certainly than ever, nay I may venture to say decidedly, calculate on

final success in landing them, with the help of a kind providence,

perfectly in health, and furnished with some sound and lasting

principles of moral rectitude, and religious knowledge, in future to

guide them in all their actions. The three confined females continue

extremely submissive in their behaviour, and the reserve they show every

day gives me greater cause to be satisfied of the propriety of keeping

them still confined, the good effects of the mild yet cautious treatment

they receive being so very evident. As little intercourse as possible

now occurs between the other women and the sailors, although the latter

seem but little ashamed of their disgraceful conduct, and behave with

insolent freedom towards the prisoners whenever they can, though they

meet with silent disregard. The insolence, however, of some of these men

carries them frequently beyond the bounds of toleration, threatening the

women and making use of infamous language without any just cause or

pretence whatever.

_August_ 1st.—This day the competition for the other prizes was

decided,—Mary Broom, about ten years old, daughter of a convict, having

gained the second; whilst the third was won by Mary St. John, a

respectable-looking elderly prisoner, both of whom recited the address

without making a mistake. The success of this trial, which was made as a

substitute for employment, is the more remarkable from the previous

history of the competitors;—Sidney Williams having been notorious for

her profligacy,—the second worthy of notice from her youth, and

unfortunate situation,—and the third, a grave matronly woman, whose

example has some influence: yet, far from producing envy among the rest,

these examples have served to stimulate them to similar exertions, and

forty others, at least, are now busily engaged in committing the address

to memory. Their endeavour to succeed affords a good deal of employment,

which is the most difficult matter to invent, as all the materials

furnished from the Ladies’ Committee have been long since worked up:

this exercise, besides filling up some of their time, helps of course to

keep in their minds a lively remembrance of the principles inculcated

from the beginning.

Were it not for this lamentable want of employment, I would encourage

myself to hope that the great work of their reformation might be fully

effected. They are now as much under the regulation of religious precept

and moral propriety, almost, as they are capable of being brought; it

only remaining to be shown, as I apprehend, by their actions when again

introduced into the world, that they are seriously determined on

continuing this new life, heartily renouncing all their former

unfortunate habits and inclinations. Of this I have satisfactory and

gratifying assurances in many communications conveyed to me from several

of these poor penitents, hitherto considered intractable, and who are

indeed still looked upon by their less reflective companions as if they

were the same giddy thoughtless beings as formerly. In these

communications I am requested to continue my care of them as usual, and

explain to them, at a convenient leisure, portions and texts of

Scripture which they could not of themselves comprehend. It is needless

almost to add, that I lose no opportunity of cultivating this

disposition, and encouraging them by every means in my power to

persevere in their good purposes.

Ann Newton and her companions continue to prove the sincerity of their

amendment by the most correct behaviour: yet still my determination

remains unchanged, not to have them exposed to the same risk again, and

therefore they are constantly secluded in the hospital. Some of the

sailors continue the nocturnal annoyance over the prison, as before, in

defiance of remonstrance. Were it not for the misfortune of having to

guard against the wicked daring of these men, I should now have nothing

to concern myself about, relative to the moral conduct of the prisoners,

as I may, without presumption, consider that I have, with the assistance

of a gracious Providence, redeemed my engagement with regard to this

truly important object. It would be a task of some difficulty to depict

in true and just colours the detail of their state as it at present

stands. They seem all of one family,—perfectly coalescing, and

harmonized to a simplicity and reciprocal gentleness of manner, that,

considering their former lives, would seem almost foreign to their

nature.

2nd.—In the record of the preceding day I congratulated myself on the

state of improvement for which the prisoners were remarkable, and

described their demeanour as being more gentle than seemed indicated by

their natural disposition. Whilst I would iterate the same opinion with

confidence respecting the behaviour of the generality of them, it must

not be denied that there are some few among them, whose characters I

have studied to know, but whose stubborn temper there is reason to fear

has not been as yet subdued, or scarcely can be so, although their minds

are undoubtedly much under the influence of moral discipline.

Shortly after opening the prison this morning, I had painful evidence of

this uncontrollable disposition, finding Mary Linch, a woman of

ferocious character, mauling and abusing a fellow prisoner, of timid

disposition and peaceful conduct, for some trifling matter of dispute;

but so enraged had the latter become by the attack, as almost to equal

the other in fury; and both proved so ungovernable, that I was compelled

to resort to the only effectual means of coercion within my reach, that

of tying the combatants together. This process in a short time brought

them to reflection; they acknowledged their offence in the most humble

terms, and prayed forgiveness; which, after some delay, was allowed,

with an admonition in the public hearing of the other prisoners. This

trifling irregularity, by disturbing the sameness of the scene, may be

productive of some good, as it will make the whole more strictly

observant of decent and orderly behaviour.

3rd.—This day, as usual, I read an appropriate discourse in the prison,

all appearing attentive to the subject, as also to the remarks which it

occurred to me to make on Linch’s late conduct. The same opportunity

served to contrast her behaviour with that of the child and woman to

whom I presented the prizes they had so meritoriously obtained. This

affair has increased an emulative spirit among the others, who are

exerting themselves to gain similar distinction.

The manner in which the three hospital prisoners are going on affords me

much satisfaction; but I still consider them most securely placed out of

the way of temptation where they are; and there they shall remain, as I

am anxious to land them at their place of destination in a state of mind

as pure as it is in my power to effect. Little doubt is on my mind that

they might be safely set at large again: but for example’s sake it is

best their confinement should continue; the situation of the hospital

renders them healthy and comfortable. Linch also, for her savage

conduct, is forbidden to appear on deck.

6th.—At the usual hour, this day, I read a sermon in the prison; and as

the subject was chosen with reference to the recent misconduct of Mary

Linch, and was calculated to enforce peaceable and quiet disposition

generally, it was heard with remarkable attention. I alluded to the

circumstances of the late affray, but avoided making it appear

extravagantly wicked; my design being rather to make them love good

order and meekness of mind, and to excite a dislike of discord and

quarrelling. The observations were therefore of a mild and conciliatory

nature;—That, as they were all driven by an irresistible necessity to

continue together for a certain time, and as they must less or more feel

themselves the children of misfortune and misery, it would better become

them as Christians to love one another, than by indecent and useless

discontents add to each others distress;—that nothing was so likely to

create unhappiness as dissentions and disputes among themselves; and

that the continuance of such silly squabbling would infallibly sour

their minds, and deprive them of that tranquillity and decent steadiness

which would secure them credit and comfort, and particularly dispose

them for those different situations which awaited them among strangers,

who would receive them with friendly and paternal care if they showed

themselves well conducted and good, but who would naturally look upon

them with abhorrence or distrust if their character appeared otherwise.

These remarks had a tendency which did not disappoint expectation, and

the desired effect could be easily perceived. On turning to go away, in

a direction not usual, I was surprised and pleased to find an

individual, who was looked upon as one of the least careful, sitting as

retired as possible behind her companions and bathed in tears of

repentance for her errors; I have since received from her a letter

expressive of such being the state of her mind, and soliciting

forgiveness for her faults. It is in this manner the effects of the

system, incessantly pursued from the beginning, may be perceivable in

consequences such as these.

7th.—With indignation and painful concern I must acknowledge a

conviction possesses my mind, that the barriers of propriety which now

so long protected the prisoners from the evil designs of the sailors are

broken down, as, in spite of every precaution, and ever wakeful

exertion, some of those men have succeeded in seducing four of the

prisoners from their duty. The mischief having taken place, I owe it to

truth and justice to state the facts as they have this day been detailed

to me.

The sailors had contrived to effect a passage secretly from their own

_birth_ into the store-room beneath, through which, by opening a way in

a manner completely eluding suspicion, they got forward into the ship’s

hold, and ascended to the entrance of the prison at the fore-hatchway,

where, by means of a duplicate key, (which to locks of this description

was easily procured,) or by picking the locks, they met the females, who

had previously consented to accompany them if they succeeded in getting

them out. It may be recollected that the former attempt of this kind,

which failed, was made at this very place; but all endeavours to get

into the prison from the deck that way had been frustrated by the

caution used in fastening it down every evening.

The state of the locks at this door of the prison, and indeed at the

other also,—for in this respect they are alike,—made this precaution of

fastening down the hatchways necessary; for the padlocks, which alone

had been put on by the Government carpenters,—one only to each

door,—were soon rendered useless by the action of the weather: besides,

they were fitted up in such a wretched, slovenly manner, that the force

of a man’s finger applied to the staple could draw it from the wood.

When the women first began to come on board, there was not any lock for

the doors of the prison, and I was under the necessity of fitting on two

which had been sent with the medicine chests. Captain Young with great

kindness supplied two stock-locks of plain construction, although the

matter did not belong to his department: besides these, there were other

padlocks put on, furnished by Captain Brown, as those in use became

spoiled with wet and rust, to which they were constantly exposed. By the

former attempt at the fore hatchway, the locks there were rendered

useless; and as others furnished by Captain Brown were set on in their

stead, I considered every thing secure.

In that opinion, however, I have been unfortunately mistaken, deceived

by the ingenuity and perseverance of the persons against whom I was

endeavouring to guard. I cannot sufficiently express my sense of

satisfaction at the spirited and prompt activity of Captain Brown on

this, as well as on the former occasion. Every search which I suggested,

as necessary to be made in the interior of the ship in reference to the

information I had received, was instantly and personally made by him

with prudence and vigilance; when with much difficulty he discovered the

secret passage, and the confirmation of the transaction was made

manifest. With readiness and earnestness, which marked the benevolence

of his character and his kind disposition, he offered to accompany me

when I signified my determination to remain in the prison every night

till the termination of the voyage, to defend the prisoners from every

further violence, even at the peril of my life;—and in this

determination I am immoveably resolved.

_Thus_ are we placed completely at the mercy of these vile men, who now,

incited by their worst passions and this success, may further extend

their daring to acts of mutiny, and gratify themselves by open violence,

considering us, as they may, unable to oppose any effectual resistance

to any such villainous design. Moreover, the whole of the sailors, with

a doubtful exception of four, seem to be all of one mind; they having,

as I understand, refused yesterday their Sunday’s allowance of grog

ordered by the Captain.

It would be unjust to withhold the fact, that four of the women only

were concerned in this affair, not one of the others being in any way

whatever implicated. In order to come at the full evidence of this

transaction, I was obliged to make promise of some concession to one of

the females who went below from the prison on that occasion, and by that

means discovered the whole, and was the better prepared to defeat

further attempts. The most secure means were used to shut up the secret

passage, and the door of the prison was made fast with a thorough iron

bolt, and closed up for the remainder of the voyage. The carpenter of

the ship, who had been concerned, was of necessity employed in securing

these fastenings,—a duty which he performed with evident reluctance. The

offending females are in confinement.

11th.—The weather yesterday being exceedingly rough, and the state of

the ship highly inconvenient and uncomfortable to the prisoners, a

violent gale blowing, I was constrained to merely read a religious

discourse as usual, deferring my remarks on the occurrences of the

passing time until another opportunity, as during the reading of the

sermon the vessel shipped some heavy seas, much of which made its way

into the prison.

The conduct of the sailors, since the late affair, having assumed a more

cautious appearance, and information having been given that another

attempt upon the prison was intended, I found it necessary, therefore,

to redouble my vigilance, in order to unmask any design they might have

formed. They had been heard to use the most violent language regarding

myself, accompanied with threats, all which I despised; but seeing the

safety of the prisoners about to be assailed, a sense of duty, and a

determination to protect them at any hazard, made me form the resolution

of keeping watch in the prison during the night, armed with a brace of

pistols to repel intrusion. This appeared the more imperiously

necessary, as no security could be placed in their commander’s authority

over them, further than as concerned their immediate duty in the

management of the ship: accordingly I took my station below.

I remained there with a light during the night, but no attempt was made

to enter: the fellows, however, amused themselves the whole night with

making hideous noises through the grating at the fore hatchway, and

endeavouring to provoke my angry feelings by their rude abuse. It was

shocking to decency to hear their beastly language, which was much too

gross for expression even in writing. It was evident they felt sore with

disappointment, which makes me more than ever determined on keeping

watch.

Notwithstanding the rancour with which these headstrong men persecute

the prisoners by alarming their minds as much as they can, the assurance

of protection they receive from my presence tranquillizes their minds

considerably. Many of them of delicate constitution, whose minds were

under the strong influence of religious feeling, no longer hardened by

sinful habits long and sincerely renounced, felt undoubtedly all the

natural concern of returning virtue, and consequently dreaded the

threatened visits of the sailors, who must in such case enter the prison

with open violence, and might therefore seriously abuse them;—even, as

they expressed it, murder every one, and throw me overboard. I must, in

justice, acknowledge that this evil is in some measure partial, one

division of the men showing less active disposition to annoy, than is

observable in the other. To the steady, correct and unceasing endeavours

of Mr. John Moncrief, chief officer, in repressing licentiousness and

maintaining good order, in support of my views, it gives me sincere

pleasure to bear testimony; and to his unwearied vigilance and

gentlemanly conduct throughout the voyage, not a little of the

beneficial results are owing.

12th.—The sailors last night continued the noise, with additional

circumstances of malicious intent, which argue a determination to

persevere:—for instance, forcing a cat down to the door of the fore

hatchway, fastened by a cord, they contrived to torture the animal,

causing it to make the most piteous cries so as to disturb the women’s

rest. Their daring disposition went much further; for, by means of a

boat-hook staff, they broke down two of the bars which inclose the

prison at the fore hatchway, making a considerable opening, which might

be taken advantage of at that moment, perhaps, but that they were

apprized of my being on the watch below, determined to fire on any one

who should have the temerity to venture in.

In this almost defenceless state are the prisoners still obliged to

remain, because no other means of security can be devised besides what

have been employed, and no resource appears at hand to oppose the

outrage, if the sailors _choose_ to be so criminally adventurous.

Captain Brown, being much concerned for the existence of abuses which he

has not power either to restrain or punish, shows every desire to aid my

intentions, even proposing to watch with me in turn, to share the

fatigue, and let me have repose occasionally; but his attention to the

navigation and management of the ship is so constantly required, that I

cannot with propriety avail myself of his obliging offer.

This morning the Captain mustered the second mate’s watch upon deck, and

in an animated manner reproved them very severely for their cowardly and

shameful attacks on poor female prisoners, which they would not dare to

do if the objects of their annoyance had the power of resistance. The

behaviour of some of these men, on this occasion, was singularly

insolent, audaciously denying the whole charge, the proofs of which it

was not then thought fit or necessary to open to them. I candidly warned

them of the danger they incurred if any of them were found attempting

the injury of the prisoners, or breaking into the prison; so that if any

of them met with misfortune in such circumstances, he would have himself

alone to blame. Captain Brown advised them in the most impressive manner

to desist for the future, and dismissed them. It remains to be seen how

they mean to act after this caution; but my resolution is as fixed as

ever to persevere in keeping watch and protecting the prisoners at any

risk, according to my sense of duty.

13th.—Last night was spent as before; but the warning they had received

operating on their fears kept them from repeating the annoyance, and the

night passed without disturbance. This day, in consequence of fatigue, I

felt unable to read in the usual manner to the prisoners, and the

Reverend Mr. Reddall kindly officiated. I seized the moment after its

conclusion, and addressed them, charging them with laxity of manners, as

unfortunately witnessed in some of them on a recent occasion;—pointed

out to them the unhappy state of mind which must attend a relapse from

virtue, and the misery which those women must now feel for having

forsaken their duty;—showed, that vice and virtue, as they must well

know, are irreconcileable, and that the hearts of those unhappy frail

ones must now make them painfully sensible how degraded and wretched

their misconduct must have rendered them. A burst of sorrowful feeling

announced their conviction of this truth, and one would gladly at least

suppose, that with this impression on their minds, nothing could induce

them to transgress again.

They appeared to reproach themselves for the sacrifice of rest and

comfort they made me endure. Taking advantage of this state of mind, I

entreated them to reflect seriously on their duty, keeping constantly in

mind the absolute necessity there was, now more than ever, to avoid,

under every pretence whatsoever, the company and conversation of the

sailors. I assured them that any found unmindful of this line of

conduct, should be instantly confined, and not allowed a moment from the

prison until they were handed over to their sentence, which should visit

them in all its heaviness, as no effort would be made to lighten the

burden of their misfortunes,—and that they must go forth to their lot

tainted with characters more black and odious than what their former

crimes had brought upon them. I was afterwards under the necessity of

using harsh measures with one of the late offenders, Mary Linch, who,

disregarding the injunction imposed on her for beating one of her

fellow-prisoners, had the temerity to break through her confinement and

go upon deck.

15th.—The personal inconvenience to which I have subjected myself by

keeping watch in the prison, and which I mean to continue in order to

defeat every machination which the licentiousness of the sailors may

attempt, however distressing in its effects upon myself it may prove,

has been attended with much advantage; as, by breaking up any plans they

may have formed, their insolence has been repressed, and their

forwardness to mischief overawed. Besides, the conduct of the women,

such I mean as may have had a leaning towards a dereliction of duty, and

of those sentiments of returning virtue acquired on the voyage, were

checked in their relapse, and brought by a sense of shame to a proper

recollection and recovery of themselves; so that nothing at present

exists to disturb a harmony as perfect seemingly as what I had recently

congratulated myself upon, previously to the late occurrence. On account

of the severe weather, a heavy gale blowing with constant rain, the

women could not get their cooking done, and to show them a little

indulgence I issued an additional ration of wine.

16th.—The restoration of order and proper conduct among the prisoners,

the sailors also having discontinued their nocturnal annoyance, had led

me to think my watching in the prison any longer was unnecessary; but

accident has put in my way a paper which has considerably altered my

mind on that point. This paper, which I found last night in the prison,

appears to have been written to one of the prisoners by a sailor

concerned in the late attempted breach into the prison: the hand-writing

is evidently disguised, but the contents betray a determination to break

down the bars of the prison as soon as they should perceive that I was

become weary of watching. “_There are plenty of us to do it_,” says this

curious document, and its intimations in general are so direct, that I

think myself imperatively bound to persevere in the arduous duty I have

proposed to myself.

The contents of this paper should have been inserted here at length, but

that many expressions in it are too indecent for publicity: however, if

any person have a wish to inspect it, I have preserved it for that

purpose, as the best evidence of the fact, that violence may be

threatened with impunity on such an occasion. It contains also a threat

against myself, which of course I despise;—in this respect, however,

they appear to have an eye towards my pistols, as the same important

paper plainly shows.

17th.—At the usual hour this day I read a sermon to the prisoners, to

which they were all exceedingly attentive. The remarks which it appeared

necessary to make on passing occurrences, produced a strong impression

on their minds, and many shed tears of painful remembrance over those

crimes which brought them to their present wretched state, and found in

their sorrow relief from their reflections.

The weather being excessively cold and inclement from the nature of the

season, and the high latitudes through which the ship’s course lay, the

cooks found it difficult to dress the victuals: I therefore signified my

intention to allow them wine four times a week, should their conduct

merit such indulgence.

Many of the prisoners had worked up the straw and the other materials

for industrious employment;—some into decent bonnets for

themselves,—others the like for sale, out of which they hoped to make as

much as would help to equip them respectably on landing, and for that

purpose solicited my interference to procure them purchasers.

20th.—The constant system of keeping watch at night in the prison, has

completely disconcerted the designs of the sailors, who, having

committed themselves in a wilful breach of propriety which they cannot

now turn to the base purposes they had proposed, are evidently filled

with disappointment and vexation, and they appear the more annoyed as

there is no possible way for venting their dastardly malice. Besides,

they are ashamed of their late behaviour in worrying the women during

the night, from the contempt cast upon such unmanly tricks. At all

events, they seem to have given up that part of their plan, as no

disturbance now takes place during the night: yet I have sufficient

cause to believe they will renew their attempts on the prison, should

any opportunity offer.

This day a discourse on the mischiefs of idleness was delivered in the

prison, and the remarks with which it was followed appeared to act

forcibly upon their minds, if a judgement may be formed from the tears

of contrition which some of the late delinquents copiously shed, when I

desired them to ask themselves—whether it was not in a moment of

idleness they had unfortunately given way to that temptation which led

them into their late transgression against religion, virtue, and order.

To the others I addressed some advice on the value of time, and the

necessity of not letting a moment pass without doing something useful;

and to avoid every thing which could tend to disunite them, or sour

their minds against one another, as by cultivating good-will and

friendly feeling among themselves, now, they would be the better fitted

for those employments which they will have to resort to during the term

of their sentence. The transition to the idea of their unfortunate

circumstances drew reflection to their situation, and gave a favourable

moment to impress upon them a thorough sense of those duties by which

they must be regulated in that country in which they were now nearly on

the point of being landed. The behaviour of the sequestered females is

satisfactorily humble and correct.

21st.—The tranquillity of the prison continues undisturbed by the

sailors at night, although circumstances occurring during the day betray

their intention of further mischief, should an opportunity be open to

encourage the attempt. The conduct of the penitent offenders continues

to exhibit unequivocal marks of sincere return to virtuous reflection;

and in proportion as the voyage draws near to its termination, the

interest excited by their compunction increases.

Their companions from Newgate, who have remained unblemished, and

progressively improving, use the most earnest intercession for the

offenders, praying to have them united with them once more. In this

instance, the recollection of the danger they had incurred made me

unwilling to listen to this charitable advocacy; but they, with a kind

perseverance which does them credit, applied to the Reverend Mr.

Reddall, and this amiable man lent his assistance to their wishes,

putting into writing the prisoners’ sentiments, which he this day

presented to me in the form of a letter, in the name of all the females

from Newgate, signed also by the penitents.

With this entreaty my compliance was easy, both in compliment to the

intercessor, and from a wish to cultivate the disposition shown by the

petitioners. I accompanied the reverend gentleman to the hospital,

where, having called them together, I remarked with much earnestness on

their general state, gave them my hearty forgiveness, and promised to

befriend them in every possible way. It would be difficult to express

the feelings of gratitude they displayed;—it was signified in sobs and

tears;—it was eloquent in the interruption of their emotions. One, the

most distinguished for habitual levity, was the most fervent in her

expressions of mingled joy, shame, and sorrow; she fell on her knees,

and repeatedly asked for that pardon which had already been pronounced.

The scene was affecting to those present. I encouraged them to persevere

in their present resolutions, and told them that they were now at

perfect liberty to mix with their companions, but forbade them

positively to go on deck, which I assured them was purely for their own

welfare. They with one voice requested to be continued in their present

sequestered situation, as best suiting their state of mind; to which

request they had my ready consent. The following is a copy of their

letter:

“Morley, at Sea, Aug. 21, 1820.

“HONOURED SIR,

“It is in the deepest sorrow of soul we presume to pray your

regard to our wretched situation. We never till now knew what it

was to be completely unfortunate, because we have drawn it all

upon ourselves by listening to the false persuasions of the wicked

sailors, who have led us astray from our duty to God and you. We

scarcely dare ask your forgiveness, our crime has been so bad, and

our ingratitude so great; and yet we cannot bear the distress we

are in at the thought of having acted as we have done.

“If our repentance can at all wipe away our offence, we beg most

earnestly that you will bear witness to its sincerity; and at

least be assured that we will not any more give you cause to be

offended with us. But if your goodness will pardon our weakness,

and overlook this transgression, our whole lives shall be given to

make amends for what we have unfortunately done. We do not desire

to go upon deck any more, but we humbly hope you will not send us

away in anger; and although we merit a poor character from you, we

hope you will pity us, and be as lenient as you can.

“We venture to offer our most grateful thanks for the goodness and

care you have always shown to,

“Honoured Sir,

“Your penitent and unhappy servants.”

(Signed by seven.)

“Thomas Reid, Esq.

Surgeon, &c. Ship Morley.”