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An account of Joseph Sowry�s voyage to Canterbury, New Zealand in the ship, Zealandia.
During the years 1859 to 1860 I was employed at Sir Peter Fairbairns at Leeds as Joiner and Carver. I was discharged on the 7th day of January 1861. After that I started to keep a shop in April of that year but trade had been a bad thing owing to the war. We did not get on well. And not seeing my course clear to get on well in England, so what course to take I could not tell. At first we thought we would go to Queensland but though we tried to get we could not. Strangely on the order of God�s Providence, a chance to get to Canterbury, New Zealand, opened to us.
After very thoughtful consideration and prayer, it seemed the only way for us to prosper and follow the leading of Divine Providence, so we set to go, and we at once commenced making arrangements. We broke up our home, sold the goods and fixtures (most of them to Mr T Atkinson of 71 Park Lane, Leeds of Yorkshire, England) He was our next door neighbour while we kept the shop.
In December 1861 we went to live with Father Strother who lived at No 27 until we left Leeds some weeks after. All went well on getting ready until Christmas Eve when it pleased the Lord to seriously afflict our daughter Annie. Poor love she suffered heavy for 20 hours when it pleased the Lord to release her from her suffering. He took her to himself at 27 minutes past 4 on Christmas Day 1861. Well, the Lord�s Will be done we must say and with Job say �The Lord gave, the Lord has taken away. Blessed the Name of the Lord�. Towards her interment we received 2 pound from an Assurance Company and I wrote to Government to see if they would let me off her fare, which I am thankful to say they kindly did and wrote me a very nice letter on death of our much loved one. Well know I was led to look back upon much that was said about our going. As for me I believe it to be the Will of God and was therefore determined to go. Some said that we were fools and that is to prove many a good a honest man has been called that before I was. Others with more charity thought that we might do as well if not better at home. But other said to �Go, you are sure to do well�. Some friends were afraid that we should be short of outfit but with the assistance of kind friends, we get a very good outfit. Some said that the voyage would kill my wife and the two children but God stopped their mouths by removing the tenderest plant and transplanted it in His garden, above so that that two stumbling blocks were removed. My wife and ?? Arthur, are as likely to stand as any other. And to many other stumbling blocks ??, but like the rest they fell and then the way was clear. Certainly there were many friends whom it was painful to leave but we hope to meet them all again, many in this world but the rest in heaven. May God grant it again � Amen.
I parted with my class mates on the 21st day of January 1862 � we had a tea meeting on that date. There were present all except one of my own class and many of Bro. Rogers class and part friends, in all 60 persons. My own class presented me with a large Family Bible at that meeting as a token of their love to their leader. That night I shall never forget as long as I live. I never thought that we loved each other as we did, but the best friends must part. It is no doubt for the best � may God grant it � Amen.
During that week we packed up we received much help and many presents from our friends for which we were glad and thankful and I took leave of many on Sunday night following I went to Chapel for the last time for the present and took leave of our friends there. It was a painful time but we parted not as those without hope but with the hope and belief that if we never meet again on earth we should meet in the land of the Blest never to part again.
Having sent three boxes of luggage on Saturday to London we had on Monday morning the 27th of January to pack up the rest and get ready as soon as we could. I brought a gun and sundry things and then went to the station after parting with my friends waiting at home. When we got to the station we found very many friends waiting to have a last word and look, though I felt that I did not deserve so much interest. Yet it was after all a pleasant thought when I remember that we left our place much beloved. We left Leeds by the 10 past 10 train in the morning. The appearance of that morning I shall often remember when 16,000 miles across dark blue sea. And now on leaving all my friends except two and those best and nearest, I would in my heart feel thankful for all the gifts and favours that I have received at their hands and hope that God will bless and I hope that in the course of events I shall be able to help some poor struggling sons of Adam up the hill of life.
Having left Leeds we had a very pleasant journey to London. We rode in company with Dr F.R. Lees who is good company and gave us some good advice on the road as we went. We arrived in London at a quarter past four in the afternoon, and was received by our friend Mr S. Calvert. We took a cab and drove to their house at South Kensington where we remained until Friday. After tea and wash on Monday night which we were ready for. We all went South Kensington museum, London. The rest of the week was spent going to many places and we went to see many sights that were so much talked about when people have been to see that great city called London. We were glad to find Mr and Mrs S. Calvert well and happy and I felt that I had had the honour to give to him a partner who has made him so comfortable. We saw the ship during the week and was very much pleased with her. On Friday at a little after 12 o�clock in the morning we bid our London friends good-bye and went on the ship there to stop. There were amongst some 2 or 300 passengers � strangers in a strange place. That afternoon and the following morning I went off board and bought many things that we wanted. After that we remained in the ship, for of London life I was tired and have no desire to live there. On Friday we tried to get as much settled as we could � to arrange our berths and to put up hooks and nails for to hang up our tins so after we had got tea which was that day of a very rough we were talking matters over with our strange friends when two friends, one belonging to the Blackwall Free Church and the other belonging to the Church came to see us. And we had service. It was a very good time. Everybody seemed pleased and glad. After that we retired to rest for the first night on board ship � we slept well.
Saturday February 1st 1862
This morning we were getting ready for sea. Captain said that we were to leave the docks at 12 o�clock at noon but all the cargo was not got on board until 4pm. I went on shore and bought Sunday things, such as apples, oranges, flour, small pot and mugs, baking powder, ham, etc. At night we had service on board again. Then I was called upon to pray. So that my colours had soon to be shown before the whole ship. We had a good time, praise God for that.
Sunday February 2nd 1982
Tis morning we let go and where taken down to Gravesend. We had Service on the poop of the ship at a � past 10 o�clock. We had no more Service this day but had to spend the day as we best could. I would very much have liked to pay a pop visit to park but no I must be content.
Monday February 3rd 1862
This morning the Government Inspectors came on board. We were all examined and passed. They told us that we were to have milk for Arthur or beer for Hannah so we have not forgot to look after it and have got milk.
Tuesday February 1862
Early this morning we let go the anchor and made off intending to get to Dover but no, the wind and the dark would not allow us, so we cast anchor in the downs of Margate. Nothing very striking to place � until Thursday February 6th 1862, when we again shipped anchor and let her go hoping to get round Dover but by 10 o�clock we had again to anchor off Deal � there we stopped for 3 hours and then we once more tried to get round Dover. This time we succeeded and go out into the channel.
Friday February 7th 1862
Today we were what is called fairly off � all anchor and cable chains have been put away. We have changed Pilot � he will go to land and so to our Native Land I must say Farewell.
Saturday February 8th 1862
From today until Saturday 15th there were many changes. The forepart of the week we had rather sou-wind with heavy sea. After that we had heavy wind. We were rolling about in the sea awfully, though it was rather a farce to see cans, pots, hook pots bread and men, women boxes, etc rolling about. I have stood it as well as any man on board. I have never been sick at all, yet it is no joke being a worker on board ship when so many are sick at a time. We are eight in a mess, that is four married couples. Out of that we have had four women and two men confined to bed, but that other man was little use, so that I have all to do. You would have laughed to see me sometimes making gruel, sometimes washing the child, dressing it, washing towels, pots, making cakes and pastries and all sorts of jobs you can conceive � amongs the rest being on watch, as we have that to do in turn � cleaning the floor, washing the tables. Arthur was not sick long but Hannah was very bad but is nearly better. They all tell me I am best cook on board. The Iriah seem much amused that I can do so many things for some of their women are very little use in that line, but we must be useful on board. It is considered that up to the present we have made a good passage. We lost part time at the fore part of the week owing to bad wind. We had to sail about a good bit but we are all aright now making headway. It was only in the past week that I thought I would write an account of our passage so that there are many things that I must have forgotten. And ship is large and well manned, in all about 30 including officers. They are all very civil and obliging. The Captain and mates are very nice men. We have more than 300 souls on board, including many first class passengers. My next neighbour is Mr Jepson of Huddersfield (and family). He used to preach at the Exchange Hall, Leeds. We have a minister belonging to the Church on board. We have had some ser5mons from him. They were far too dry and surplass like. He is not much for the rich and polite, instead of looking after us poor chaps. As soon as we get square we shall have Service of our own. Mr Jebson will preach for us. They say that opporition is good for the public so we intend to try in this case and see what it will do for us. We get our rations now all right and we that contrive are very comfortable. We might have more so. Had we known we would have brought many things that have not but before I close I will try to give a list of what I think a family ought to being so that it may help some of you or some other friend.
Saturday February 15th 1862
Today we can hardly stand. The ship is rolling terribly. The wind is blowing a gale and everything is on the move. Sick people keep their beds. Those that are well are continually falling on the deck and thus we spend the day. No getting ready for Sunday as people are glad to keep their seats which some can�t do for when the ship lurches the weats slip from under them and they are left on the floor to be laughed at for we laugh at each others downfall here. We got on pretty well until just after noon and then the ship took in what is called a sea or breaker. Well of the row on board at that time I cannot described. It was awful. There were many hundred tons of water come on board. Those on the main deck were swimming about. One poor lad (a second class passenger) had his leg broken in two places. The first and second class got it dreadful. They were right wet in stile themselves. � and much baggage. As for me I was talking to Hannah on the seat looking into our berth. It came down the hatchway like a flood. Hannah turned pale. All the women thought we were going to the bottom. The place was full of terror. Some shrieked, some fainted. Some of the sick jumped out of bed, others laughed at it, knowing the cause but God saved us from further harm. Thus passed the day without further harm though it was a coarse one.
Sunday February 16th 1862
We passed a reatless night. This morning was all well but it did not last long, for at breakfast a young child was scalded with the lurching of the ship and the falling of the ship on her side. There was a service on board at 10 o�clock in the morning. Hannah got up about 10am being rather better. All went well until about � past 2pm when a large coffee mill fell down upon Hannah�s head, cutting a large hole in her head, clean down to the bone. Of course it upset us and many in the ship. We thought it might prove fatal. The doctor said that if it had been in the middle of the head, that is about one inch from the present place it would have killed her on the spot, but thank God it was not so. So the day passed.
Monday February 17th 1862
This morning the child has gone to her rest and today at 5pm we have had the first burial on board. It was a very solemn time. No throwing them overboard as some people talk but a more serious service could not be. All the officers and crew and passengers that could attended.
Wednesday 19th February 1862
Yesterday and today the wind has been driving us out of our course. Today the Captain said that we were within 100 miles of Madeira. He said that everybody with small noses could smell the oranges with which it abounds. Yesterday we hailed the ship called Kensington. She had been out of London four days more than us. She was bound for Canterbury, New Zealand but we lost her in the stormy night which following. Today we hailed the ship Cornwall bound for Sydney. She had been out of London 30 days, that is, twice as long as us, and we left her and lost sight of her in the afternoon. We sailed faster than her but she had had much bad weather. We are driving with W.N.W. wind which still keeps us off our course.
Thursday 20th February 1862
Today we are making headway with a better wind. It is a splendid day, not like a February day but like June or July. Almost all are on deck now beginning to look better. Hannah is much better and all now begins to feel first rate. Time passes quickly. It is not heavy on our hands for we have plenty to do. I have had far too much, but I hope to have more time to look about. I have had something to do to get to write at all, notices to read at present. It is admitted by all on board that I am the kindest man on board because I�ve waited so well on my wife (and the sick) keeping her very much the lady. As night comes on the sea rolls heavily, the ship rolls very much so that it is like all the pleasures of this week it is gone just when we fancy we are beginning to enjoy them.
Friday 21st February 1862
During the night it was very rough. The ship rolled very much. Some could not sleep, my wife amongst the rest but, of course, I slept as though she had been quiet. The wind changed about 3 o�clock this morning. It was west though it is better yet we want a S.W. wind. That is the best thing for us. The ship still rolls heavily but still it is a splendid day. Just as I am writing Hannah is rather careless and has allowed Arthur to blotch my book. Because I spoke rather sharp she said I was to tell you that I was ill tempered. That�s what one gets for being kind and waiting well on folks.
Saturday February 22nd 1862
This is a splendid day. The wind has settled down and there is balm. The sun is very hot. Sick folks roll out their berths, and we are up on deck. It makes it much better and comfortable. And we begin to like the passage. We have got our boxes our today. We are very glad for we wanted the things. All was right except some preserves had run and dirtied some book backs but thought much worse. At night it was splendid. We had a good deal of dance on board. I never saw the star so bright in my life as they look here tonight. It was after 11 o�clock before we retired to rest.
Sunday February 23rd 1862
This morning it is splendid, all is well. I am through cleaning between the decks (that is where we live). We are getting ready for service. We have service at � past 10 o�clock, and at � past 2 this afternoon by the Minister. The morning discourse was on Noah. A very good one though it would have been better if it had been more pointed and delivered more as if he meant it. Just after 5 last night a Scotch man out of the first class cabin came and gave us an address on the Prodigal son. It was good and pointed though he talks a real Scotch tongue which is not well for us to understand, it suites many. So that we have spent a pleasant day. It is the first Sunday on board that has looked like a Sunday. The ship is on her right course though the wind is rather low yet it is grand.
Monday February 24th 1862
This morning all is well, wind very fair though not as we would like. We are getting up a company to learn the Calvary Drill. We have a good Drill Sergeant who has been in the Troops ten years. And we have got the muskets belonging the ship to drill with. We that have muskets use our own at drill. We are to have 2 and 3 drills a day. After we have learnt to use the gun we are to drill with the sword. It will be good pastime and teach us to handle the gun and the sword in our own defence or for other purposes, straightening our shoulders and keeping us erect and do us good in other ways. It has commenced at the right time as we are getting better and it gives me more time, part of which I can give to drill. We had proposed to have a sermon between decks from Mr Jedson tonight. For a time it seemed as though the Devil was going to have his own way for the Matron of the single women had promised the women a dance at night and all the other people seemed to have gone to have a look on. I pressed Mr Jedson to never mind the noise and the appearance of things for I was certain that God was above the devil. And so it proved. We commenced singing, the people came in at the same time, the doctor had ordered the single women to their berths � he said it was a shame for them to be on deck at that time of night, so we got rid of dancing and got a good company to Service. It was the largest and peacefullest company we have yet at the Service. He preached from �God is a Refuge in times of trouble. The righteous run into it and are safe�. It was a blessed time. We had first rates sermon and it took better with the people than all the other put together. Praise God for that. Thus the devil was defeayed and our way approved and God praised.
Tuesday February 25th 1862
This day is fine. Our beds and blankets have to go out on deck for the day to air. It is like midsummer. We have been drilled twice today. We have had a plate and loaf stolen from the cookhouse so that we have to look out though we would not grumble about living as we live so well if not better than we did at home. We make a good few dainties though of course we have salt meat. We never hardly eat buiscuits as we have part flour and we make leaven bread so that it is better to eat and more like home. The ship is out of her course 3 � points, still she makes headway.
Wednesday February 26th 1862
We had a rather course night and heavy sea and wind but we are in our right course. We are making headway very fast though it is rough and we can�t drill. We hailed the ship this morning. She proved to be Merchant Prince from Liverpool to Melbourne. She had been at sea 31 days so that we are better than her for time. She seemed to have many passengers on board and we gave each other a right good cheer though while we looked close and made each other hear well. I forgot to say that yesterday we were within sight of land. It was the Canary Islands. Tonight, that is after tea, we had drill. Ship much steadier. Wind good � going at the rate of 11 knots per hour.
Thursday February 27th 1862
This morning the wind has settled and the ship is now rocking like an old Pegge tub. We have had a very pleasant day, have been drilled twice, once before and once after tea as the ship is much steadier. Tonight we have all sails out, and a better wind going at rate of 9 � knots per hour. We have had service tonight. Mr ? preached. He was very much confused, there being so much noise on his own ground. May God help us to have the victory � Amen � the ship we hailed yesterday is yet at hand, not being able to out-sail us.
Friday 28th February 1862
Today it is a splendid midsummer�s day. We have fair wind though rather low. Yet its onward to our desired haven. All begin to be merry now things are getting on better and we are very much pleased with our trip � we have had plenty of dancing and singing tonight � you may think it strange that I should hate dancing but you will understand better when you have been at sea a month or two and have seen 3 to 400 persons trying to fill up their time and please themselves. Though I take no part in such work yet I have to make greater allowances than I should at land.
Saturday March 1st 1862
Today we have still a good wind, have had it all day. Towards night the wind has got brisker and we are making good headway. All is as still on board as on land, a quiet sea and nice stiff breeze are what we like, that is when the wind is aft (or behind). The ship we hailed on Wednesday has tried hard to get ahead of us. She is reported to be a fast sailing vessel. She let go before the wind and slipt before our bows and them seemed to make off to leave us in the rear. They had all sails out at the time, and now she has tried her best to cut us out but those on board Zealandia were not asleep. As the wind was not so strong we got all the light sails ready and today after dinner all was ready. Up went the first sails, and off we made, going at a fine rate leaving in rear the Merchant Prince. Two or three hours just turned tables and the first was as we were. So now we laugh in our sleeve. Now we are getting ready for Sunday which I hope will be a good day.
Sunday March 2nd 1862
Late last night there were a great many sea pigs or porpoise fish to be seen, they jumped out of the water a great height so that we saw them very plain. Today we have seen many sharks. They showed themselves very well. Some of them were very large ones. The weather still keeps as it was though it now gets better every day, and we being to feel it oppressive between decks, though on deck there is nice air. The wind has got right afore tonight so that we are not able to get as much wind as we were but we are getting on very well. Today it has been a good day. We commended (after cleaning between decks and getting washed and dressed) with Service on the poop. The minister preached about the Straight gate. It was a good discourse, he held service again at 2pm. After the morning service we had the Lord�s Supper. It was a very good time. I now felt that I had left home, I remembered the last time that I sat at the Lord�s Table at Park Chapel. It was the first Sunday in this year, I remember the hearty Amens that were breather out there, but here is all quiet, though we felt God to bless us. At the close of the afternoon Service we had a service of our own. Mr Jebson preached on the Main Deck. It was a good time. I could not help giving vent to the hearty Amens. After that at � past 5 o�clock Mr ? preached on the forecastle, so that we have had a full day. I have to Watch tonight.
Monday March 3rd 1862
Today we have a steady wind, we are going from 7 to 9 knots per hour. Towards night we were running up to 10 knots. When I was on Watch I commenced to write out this account on note paper. I was informed that very likely in a day or tow we may fall in with some home bound ships and I feel desirous to send what I can by first ship. We were today about 12 o�clock in the latitude 18 so that in a few days we shall be in the Line.
Tuesday March 4th 1862
This morning we have a good wind and rain at a fine rate. During the night we have run 11 and 12 knots per hour. This morning we are busy washing. We are washing such things as will not keep though some are already rotten with being so long unwashed but you can�t help it at the commencement of a voyage. It is still Midsummer and very pleasant weather. We have long since lost all sight of the Merchant Prince and the other ship that came aft. We don�t expect to see then again if the wind keeps steady as we can then keep ahead of them. Today after dinner those about us were showing likeness of friends left behind. As for us we had none to show except poor little Annie, as no one ever gave us one though there were some that we should have liked to have brought with us but our purse would not allow. Those around us seemed so much astounded that our friends had not given us some of theirs as they had got many given. It now begins to be very hot, the sun is nearly straight over our heads, the North start is all but level with the sea and is getting very large. Tonight the wind is good and all is well except Arthur. He is very poorly, the doctor says ill. We have no medicine and we hope he will be better in the morning.
Wednesday March 5th 1862
This morning Arthur is no better, if ought worse, is very hot about the head. He sweats dreadfully. Doctor says that he is better sweating like that. He says that he believes that it will be the whooping cough. We hope not in a place like this but there are at present 5 in the 1st class and 2 of 3 other with it on boat. The Irish say that if we had a donkey and had to put Arthur under it�s belly 9 times and put a piece of oatmeal cake in its mouth and make Arthur eat some of it, he would be cured. Look at that and judge of the people we have mixed in amogst us. Today the wind is good, we are getting well on our road. At 12 noon we were in latitude 14-30 N so we have made 6 degrees in 3 days. That�s good sailing, it is extremely hot today. A summer day at home is cool to it but it won�t last long that�s our consolation. At night it is very hot and oppressive between decks so that some sleep on boards, forms or any way to keep cool. Arthur being ill and it being so hot I got half bed on between the forms and there I slept first rate myself.
Thursday March 6th 1862
It is splendid and hot morning. We are all to come to the forecastle from 2 to 4pm which allows the place to cool though if we like we can be out all day except time for cooling etc. Tonight the wind is rather low but still in the right course. I am going to sleep on the forms tonight which I shall continue to do while it keeps so hot. Today we are 10:30 latitude. All is as well as can be expected.
Friday March 7th 1862
Today it is hotter than ever but Arthur seems much better. The Doctor seems to think by the turn he is taking that it is his eye teeth. The Captain said this morning that he expected to come in with the mail or homeward bounds ships so that I shall have to keep my book and this letter written and closed. You must give my respects to all my friends and receive the same yourself. I very likely shall not have much time to write when the ship comes up. The wind is still rather low but we are getting on very well. Today I wrote a list of things that I think people ought to bring to make them comfortable. Today we are in latitude 8-30 North. I forgot to mention that at night it goes dark and in the morning it cometh light all at once � in the morning between � past 5 and 6 and at night just after 7. Arthur seems rather worse.
Saturday March 8th 1862
This morning Arthur seems better. The wind is still low, and the weather awfully hot. We have got orders to keep open out port holes. There is one in our berth that will make it cooler for Hannah and Arthur. This morning we had a fine row amongst the Irish at the other side of the ship. The subject was �Who had most lice�. Grand that, is it not? Today we are at latitude 7.30. Tonight Arthur seems worse and very low. It is the great heat that oppresses him so much and wakes him so bad.
Sunday March 9th 1862
This morning Arthur seems better. The wind is very low. We had intended crossing the line today but the wind has been so low. We have had Service at � past 10am and this afternoon at 2pm. Last night and Friday night the sailors rode a dead horse � that is, at London they draw so much pay beforehand � the time is up this week. Two sailors get dressed � they bend downtogether, the first wearing the ears and the other the tail, they have a hairy sheet on, and then one man rides and another drives the horse (so called) with a beesum brush. It is a grand farce, you may depend on that. Again at 4 o�clock we had service on board the forecastle. Mr ? preached. During the Service one of the sailors and the cabin cook tried to disturb the Service by singing songs and shouting on the lower deck. Mr Jebson was at the Service, being grieved he came down to them but in all my life I have never heard men get dressed as he did them. Hannah and Arthur lived all day on the forecastle so that Arthur is a good bit better tonight. It is very hot today. The glass stood at 93 in the 2nd class berths � tonight in ours it is much hotter. Saturday night it stood at 86 and Friday 84 so you must judge of the heat when under the burning sun. About � past it rained awfully � it was short.
Tuesday March 11th 1862
Today the wind was rather low and keeps changing points, we are now very near to the ship we sighted yesterday morning. We dialed her and then sent a boat crew to see what she had for sale. After that the Captain went on board and brought 9 casks of wine and some brandy, some brooms etc. She is a Frence barque, 31 days out of on e of the west ports of France. Today upon the whole has been a day of life. At early morn we washed. During the day 2 sharks were caught. It was a spree to see them jumping about the deck. They were cut up and given to the company � it was very good. About 5pm it came on wet, it came down in style. We had some fine fun. Many of us were out in our drawers (for I have had some made on board) with nothing else on. We were catching water in our buckets them throwing on each other so that we got a very good washing nd plenty of fun. After 7 o�clock it was very fine. A nice low wind, the latitude is 4-11.
Wednesday March 12th 1862
This morning a nice steady wind which keeps it rather cooler. Arthur is much better though he coughed in the past night. Today there is a good deal of fish of all sorts to be seen. Today at 12 noon we were in latitude 3-40. In the afternoon a good wind sprang up so that we went 7.8.9 knots per hour. The wind was stronger and very cooling. It kept up all night though it kept us 2 points off our course. Just after 6 o�clock I saw the sun set in all it�s splendor. It was a grand sight that I have ever witnessed looking like two great worlds, one above the other one, lighter and hills dales with planes in the most beautiful grandeur. As I looked at that sight and thought that no man could paint it, I wondered how any man could say much less believe that all had come into by chance. Apart from the setting sun there were no clouds but a splendid sky in all kinds of colours such as no painter could put to canvass and as I had never witnessed. Arthur is still better though he coughs part it is the whooping cough and his teeth.
Thursday March 13th 1862
This morning all is well. Arthur is much better than he was. We have lost sight of the ship we hailed. It made off for one of the South American ports after we had done with it. The wind kept up til after 9am hen it let down a little as we had a shower of rain that hour. The wind kept up all day; it kept us 2 points off our course. At 12 noon we were in latitude 3.11. I have been thinking and talking with Hannah about you. Or course we thought as we sat dinner and tea you would be eating the meal in advance, that is tea or supper as we are about 4 hours behind your time. And we could fancy that you would be saying Poor things. I wish they had this bit or that pie, this or the other. Then wondering if we pitched about in the sea if you heard it blow outside the door forgetting that your wind had no control of our ship, then wondering if we wished ourselves at home � saying that you had no doubt that we should be glad for many things that we turned up our noses at once. Of course there is part truth in the last remark. As for the first remark we don�t wish ourselves at home for we are going to a land of which we heard good things about to seek a home where the working man has the rights and prospects that God would that every man be rich or poor should have. And there is one other thing we had made up our mind to rough it. Doing so we have not found it so rough as we expected though in reading it you may think it very rough, but remember it did not all take place in one day. It may be that you may pity us but we live to return it.
Friday March 14th 1862
This morning we had a very heavy shower of rain between 5 and 6 o�clock. The wind settled down to a calm. It is very hot. Arthur is still mending. During the night the wind was never settled, first from one point then on to another it came. Today at 12 noon we were in latitude 2.58. Today we sighted a ship on the East side of us. We don�t know what or who she is. Tonight is one of the merriest nights that I ever knew on board, for shouting, singing, whistling and dancing. I never saw anything like it in all my life/ The wind is low and all is still as a calm.
Saturday March 15th 1862
Last night I slept on deck. It was so very hot between decks. I had a very good night�s rest. There is no dew here. During the night we had a better wind for a short time but this morning it is very low again. We are doing next to nothing, t is hotter than it has been before. We are in latitude 2 � tonight it is very oppressive.
Sunday March 16th 1862
About one or two this morning the wind got up and has blown well since. It is the South East Trades wind. It got better about 11 this morning. We are going at a good rate though we are not in our right course but only 2 points out. We are in latitude 1-24. We had Service at � past 10 and at 2pm in the poop and at 4pm on the Forecastle. Mr ? preached and at � past 4pm Mr Jebson gave us a first rate sermon on the Main Deck, to the largest of all sorts of passengers that we have yet had to a gathering. It was a good time. God blessed us and the word went home to the hearts of the people. Hannah, Arthur and I slept out last night under a tent which I had put up for us on top of the upper deck. We were very comfortable and we left the bedding out all day to air. Just after Evening Service we had a tropical shower. I got thoroughly ducked with fetching in the beds. It was soon over and it was still squally until midnight. The wind still keeps good.
Monday March 17th 1862
This morning the wind is still good and we are making good headway in the right course. At 12 o�clock today we were 5 miles from the Line. At one we crossed it so that we have got to side of it that we long wanted. This morning we sighted a homeward bound ship but we were so far from each other that we did not signal it, but we quickly passed each other at the distance. As the wind is to our side it serves to send them home and us to our new home. Of course we could not send letters with her but we are to send them the first chance. This afternoon an old woman got much hurt by the falling of a sail stick. The wind kept us going well until 5pm when we encountered a squall which set us going at a fine rate until it blew past when the wind settled for about 2 hours after that and it blew a fine breeze all the night. It is very oppressive tonight between decks.
Tuesday March 18th 1862
This morning the wind still blows well and we expect to soon get out of the hot weather to frost and snow which will make us put on some clothing instead of going half naked or nearly so. Of course we have been rather long in crossing the line but we have commenced well to make it up. One good thing we have not had real calm for weeks on the line like many have which is bad to bear under a burning sun with not a breath of air. Today at 12 noon we were in latitude 1-75 South. The wind has kept up all day. I forgot to name that we have been favoured with good moon light, almost as light as day which makes pleasant. Tonight it feels cooler on the deck � this morning we sighted another homeward bound ship but she passed us like the other yesterday.
Wednesday March 19th 1862
This morning we still have a good wind and we are still making headway towards the Cape of Good Hope. This morning the boxes all came out, that is those wanted. Now this morning we see the importance of good strong air tight boxes. Many of them have ? in and the sea air getting in has turned everything mill dewed. A great many things are spoiled, others being light are broken. The damp and the air spoils all the clothing. People going a sea voyage should get good strong boxes made air tight, well painted outside with good locks, cord and hinges, tightly packed to prevent them knocking about. Everything should be perfectly dry or else they mildew. All preserves, cakes, bottles, soaps, ham, cheese etc etc and everything of that sort that will spill. Melt or grease should be packed in a box be themselves, very fast and the boxes marked �This side up�, �With care�. Boxes for clothing should have partitions in them for the care of low hats and bonnets. I suppose that the high hat is not used in New Zealand. We have nothing spoiled having got good boxes for our clothing. Today we are in latitude 3-39 South.
Thursday March 20th 1862
Today the wind gets stronger so we have hopes of making a good passage after all. Early this morning we had a heavy squall with plenty of rain but it soon passed over. After that the wind continued to rise. Today we are in latitude 5-56 South so that we are gaining latitude fast when we remember that we get several degrees longitude as well which we lost on the other side the line with running so much South. We are lying as much to the wind as we can but we are still gaining longitude. We are making from 8 to 10 knots per hour. A homeward bound ship went past us today we are both running too fast for to sent letters.
Friday March 21st 1862
At 3am we had a shower of rain. It soon passed over. The wind is yet stronger. We are going from 10 to 11 knots per hour. Gone well all night. Today we are in latitude 8-43 south. Now the ship beings to learn her tricks for the sea is rather heavy today. I forgot to name onions in my list. Today we are sailing between South America and the Isle of Ascension. Of course we could see neither of them. Plenty of clothes new washed have blown overboard today with the strong wind.
Saturday March 22nd 1862
Today the wind still held good, plenty of rain fell and a heavy squall from 3 to 8 o�clock this morning. We had several sails torn with it. Today we are in latitude 11-57. It is very fine today, not hot being much cooler than it was a week ago, the longitude is 27-13. If you look at the map, you will see where we are. The glass stood at 82 in the shade at 12 noon.
Sunday March 23rd 1862
Today we have had the same service as before. At 6 o�clock this night Mr Jebson gave us a first rate discourse from �If I forget thee O Jerusalem� etc etc. He brought to mind the many vows we had made before we left our native land. It was a good time and many tender strings were touched. Today we are in latitude 14-43. During the night the wind settled down a good bit, we are sailing slowly today. The glass stood at 84 today in the shade.
Monday March 24th 1862
Today we are in latitude 15-27, wind still low. It gets better at night after the setting of the sun but settles at the rising.
Tuesday March 25th 1862
No change in the wind but the sea is almost like glass. It is a splendid sight, not a ripple to be seen on the wide ocean. Today we are in latitude 15-57. Of later we have seen some of the most splendid skies that ever were looked upon. Sometimes the wind settles down to a calm for a short time and then gets up a little.
Wednesday March 26th 1862
Today we are latitude 16-50, no change in the wind, it is very oppressive with having no wind.
Thursday March 27th 1862
Today we are in latitude 18-15, longitude 29-27. The wind has got right aft, it is rather stronger today. All has gone as it generally does until we sighted some ships. The first was a good size ship. She crossed aft. We hoisted signals but we could make nothing of her as to who she was or anything else. She sailed about a good bit but we did not like her. Had she tried anything we would have given her a warm reception. We have two guns and plenty of carbines and cutlasses on board with plenty of ball cartridge and shot. Toward noon we sighted another large one but she crossed aft but never came near us so we don�t know anything about her. About 3pm we sighted an American barque. We hailed her. She made to us though she was not fond of our looks. As they had been on a long voyage and expected that we were at war with them, so at first sight they thought we were cruisers, but they were pleasingly disappointed for they found at we were men and brothers, not friends or war. Out Captain gave us notice that in one hour we should be up with her and send a letter bag with her. Of course all was commotion, all writing to home loved one left behind. And now the ship is close by our side, the bag made up, the boat lowered and off she went to the barque. She is a tidy little ship though not half the size of ours. She s Winslow from Portland though her cargo is for Boston, that is between 20 and 30 days sail from here, then 10 to 12 more home so that we hope you will get then early in May. By that time we hope to be at home. That is New Zealand. She is well received by the barque who treat our boatmen with plenty of grog and that for the short time they are on board. The wind seems now to get better and our signals go up (Don�t delay). All eyes are upon them as our men leave the ship and come back and now the barque is before the wind. Thrice doth her flag come down and dip bidding us good bye, good bye, good bye. Away she goes with loud cheers and well wishing from all on board the Zealandia. But the appearance of that time I cannot describe, the very strange feeling which seemed to steal over all hearts as we watched the homeward bound ship glide away, the sweet remembrance of home seemed to glide up before us while the half choked tear stole to the eye, or the silent sigh was heaved from the breast. In a moment we all seemed to be at home to watch the receipt of our letter. Some no doubt could see his wife and children, other father, mother sisters or brother receiving them and the joy which followed, but I must STOP, I cannot describe the feelings of the throng.
Friday March 28th 1862
Between 5 and 6 this morning we sighted a homeward bound ship but we quickly passed each other in the distance. The wind is strong and favourable, we are sailing at a good speed though it is squally with plenty of rain. We have lost sight of sulky ship we tried to talk to yesterday. Today we are in latitude 19-20. Towards night it settled down to nearly a calm. Longitude 29-30, 40 miles from land.
Saturday March 29th 1862
The weather today is unsettled although it is very low we are in what is called changeables, that is the wind is not to depend on. We are in latitude 20-3.
Sunday March 30th 1862
This morning is very hot. We are in latitude 20-15. We sighted as outward bound ship. We don�t know yet what she is. We sighted two Rock Islands called Martinique and Trinidale � we were from 15 to 20 miles off them. There is very little wind though favourable. We had service at � past 10 and 2pm. At 6 o�clock Mr Jebson gave us a very good sermon from �In my Father�s house are ?� . It was the best arranged Service and best singing I have heard since we left Leeds. It was a very good time. Mr Jebson has begun to be liked best of all on board where we have no trouble in getting a company.
Monday March 31st 1862
This morning we have a better wind. It is stronger and in the right course. We are in latitude 20-45. We hailed the ship sighted yesterday. She proved to be The Pride of England from Liverpool to Calcutta � left on the same date as ourselves.
Tuesday April 1st 1862
The wind is improving. We are getting on well. We have left behind us The Pride of England � far away. Towards night it is very squally with plenty of rain. In one of the squalls we lost our top sail and had the bottom one split from top to bottom. We are in latitude 22-24. This being the first of April it is my wife�s birthday. Of course we have honoured it as well as we could. We have no doubt that it will be remembered many 1000 miles from here. My wife honoured it by getting a bottle ale. She does not like the wine so well so we have got ale instead. It seems to support her better.
Wednesday April 2nd 1862
During the last night it was very squally. It drove us sometimes at a fine rate through the water. This morning the wind came ahead. Of course that is nothing in our favour. It soon changed a little more favourably. We are in latitude 23-33 � later in the day the wind again got ahead. We had very strong wind all day.
Thursday April 3rd 1862
We are getting in latitude 23-1 so that in spite of head wind we have made nearly 1 � degrees. When we have them we have to tack about just like an horse going up hill from one side to the other, gaining about one fourth of the ground that it travels. The wind has changed a few points so that we are able to keep on course.
Friday April 4th 1862
We are in latitude something over 29 but we don�t know rightly as there was a very heavy shower of rain at noon. The wind has been very strong all day except at noon when it settled for a few minutes. We are going from 10 to 14 knots per hour. It begins to be very cool at nights. Hannah is not very well at present, the quick sailing and pitching of the ship makes many of the sickly sort pull long faces. As for myself I would not care if she went as fast for I want to see New Zealand.
Saturday April 5th 1862
Latitude 30-27, yet we have strong winds. In latitude we are the same as Cape of Good Hope though in longitude we are several degrees or 304 miles off. This afternoon the wind has settled down so we have little wind and a very heavy swell in the sea. It is rolling us about like a ball in the waters. There are plenty of large and pretty looking sea birds to be seen. Last night we saw the lights of a ship alongside. They tried to get up with us but we have lost them today.
Sunday April 6th 1862
No change in the wind though the swell in the sea has settled little. We have had the regular services. Mr Jebson peached on Wisdom, riches, and strength. It was a good time � praise God. Latitude 30-56.
Monday Paril 7th 1862
During last night a favourable wind got up and today it is very strong. We are sailing quickly. Today we have overtaken a large German ship outward bound. We quickly passed her. Latitude 32-25.
Tuesday April 8th 1862
No change in the wind. Latitude 34-43. Longitude 10-10, so that we are now 13 miles in latitude past the Cape Town. We are running longitude very fast so that we shall soon round Cape in a straight course for New Zealand.
Wednesday April 9th 1862
Longitude 7-40 W. Longitude 36-14. Yesterday night had some rain with wind and after that the wind fell. Today we are sailing very slowly.
Thursday April 10th April 1862
Latitude 36-57. Longitude 6-22 W. During last night a head wind got up. Today it is very strong.
Friday April 12th 1862
Latitude not known. Longitude not known. This morning it is dark and gloomy. The ship heaving and pitching awfully, the sea rolling high, the wind raging with fury, rain falling so that we are tempest tossed. That seems bad but worse than that we are without sailors almost. Last night some way that I can�t yet explain the sailors got plenty of grog and when the storm came they were drunk and asleep. During the night the officers had to reef the sails to save the ship. In the morning one of the sailors came out and insulted the Captain. After he had taken a good bit from him he was put in irons. The rest refused to come to work. One such sailor did all he could to help the officers. The sailors threw his box and clothes overboard and all he had except bedding. Had he had his will he would have gone and cut their throats but the boat swain got him to go to the Captain and he got promises of some kind from the Captain. The men now came aft and Captain told them he would not give them their mate up and if they need not work any more but he gave orders for all their rations to be stopped, but we were determined that the Captain should not be ruled by a lot of drunken fellows. So we drew up a list of 36 young men offered themselves to help all we could. Amongst us we are ten able seamen. The Captain thanked us and we went to work. You would have been astonished to have seen us running up and down the ship obeying orders. We have the midshipmen and apprentices, sail-maker, butcher, Dutch sailor, all carpenters and all officers to help us. We have a first rate crew, all free men. Towards night we arranged a strong watch for deck and below to be relieved every four hours. The Captain gave us all cutlasses for guard and reserve lest they should attempt to release their mate or take it so the sailors seeing they were beat and being ashamed of it in their sober senses, got Mr Jebson to take a note to the Captain � offer to work on any terms, hoping that he would forgive them. He said that he was to let them know in the morning and they were to go to bed in the meantime and get right rested. So they went. Several of the young men in the steerage were as bad as the sailors for being drunk. Now the wind has settled a little, the rain settling the sea so we must work and look out through this dreary night.
Saturday April 13th 1862
The night had passed well. There has been plenty of rain. The wind has abated down to a nice breeze. We have out most sail this morning. Things altogether look better. About 10 o�clock this morning the Captain sent for the sailors aft. Poor fellows they hung their heads down and looked ashamed of their job. He told them that they were all ready for three months imprisonment but he would forgive them if they were well behaved in future except 2 or 3 which he will punish when we get to Canterbury, for the loss of the box, etc. So we have got relieved of our duty. Latitude 37 � longitude 3 W. You will think these strange and undesirable circumstanced, so they are but life is precious and it won�t do to give in to a little matter. This afternoon the Captain has out a paper. Like this. Ten pounds reward � some person having broken into and taken from the fore hatch some spirits on or about Thursday 11th April. The above reward will be given to any person or persons who will give such information as will be lead to the conviction of the offenders. Letter here or at Lyttelton. Signed Captain Foster�.Mate � so that it seems that the grog was stolen which makes the case worse. There is a good favourable wind today.
Sunday April 14th 1862
Latitude 38-22. Longitude 14. A good wind making from 10 to 20 knots per hour. This morning the minister had service as before but he changed the afternoon service to night but we don�t like insulting so we have our services as before, only we had it between main decks. It is so cold. We had a very large company, much larger than the minister. Mr Jebson gave us a first rate sermon from Christ the Power of God and the Wisdom of God. All were very quiet and attentive.
Monday April 14th 1862
Latitude 39-38. Longitude 4-22. The wind remains south west. Any wind is a good thing for us from N. to S. Westward. Round about 10 o�clock this morning the Captain sent for one sailor, called Charlie. When he came he was put in irons for stealing. It was he that threw the box overboard on Friday last. His things have been examined and several stolen things have been found. Today a little stranger was added to our company so that we are as many souls in number as when we left London.
Tuesday April 15th 1862
Latitude 41-17. Longitude 8-10. Strong N.W. wind, going from 10 to 13 knots per hour. Showers of rain from 8am all day. Often very cold. N.wind tonight, it is going round to Aft and North.
Wednesday April 16th 1862
Latitude 42 � Longitude 11-41. The wind is N.W. and that is right aft as we are sailing S.E. Very fine and pleasant today. Tonight it is going around to West.
Thursday April 17th 1862
Latitude 42-12. Longitude 11-23 E. The wind is S.W. We are sailing S.E. wards. Toward night it got more S. and very strong so that all the top royal sails and aft royal and square along with jobs and stay sails had to be reefed. To the list of person�s outfit I would add clothes cords, pegs, rolling pin, baking spitel, waterproof hat, a coat, leggings boots and nutmeg grater, pepper box. We make yeast this way. � pint of water, a tablespoon full of sugar, flour, 24 hours up in bottle that will rise � stone overnight.
Good Friday April 18th 1862
Latitude 4-30. Longitude 18-46. Nearly S. wind, very strong, sailing as we were yesterday. This morning we well remember home and the lads with their merry bells and tongues all calling �Hot Cross Buns� � we should have to have heard them upon our decks. I am sure they would have had plenty of costumers but we must do without until we get ashore. The weather gets very cold indeed. Since we left London we have had plenty dancing and all sorts of games every day the weather would allow but now it gets too cold and rough. I forgot to name that a few days ago we caught some albertrosses (or cape sea birds). They got them for stuffing. They were 10 feet from one wing point to the other. Since we left London some have drunk and smoked and gambled very much so that they are getting hard up. For some they have been raffling and selling all kinds of their things, such as concentinas, guns boots, clothing. This almost all applies to the first and second cabin, the conduct of many of the professing Christians on board I can�t understand nor yet concurring, and the subjects I have named in this day date for I feel it is all my business here below to cry �Behold the Lamb� � at least by example. This morning one other little stranger boy was added to our company. It is the son of the Minister Mr Gifferd. Towards night the wind got much stronger, nearly all sail had to be reefed, every appearance of storm.
Saturday April 19th 1862
Latitude 40-36. Longitude 23-36 E. Very strong south west wind and heavy seas rolling mountains high. Plenty of rain in squalls. Upon the whole it has been a very rough day. You will see by the longitude that we crossed the longitudinal line on Saturday last. When we crossed we had the same time as Greenwich time. Since then we have gained from 15 to 25 minutes in 24 hours.
Sunday April 20th 1862
Latitude 39-57. Longitude 25-45 E. Wind and sea have settled down to a nasty wet day. The wind had gone round from S.W. to N.E. last night. It is getting round now to W. after dinner a nice west wind got up � the wind has settled down. We are rocking very much. Today we have had the same Services as before, except that the Minister has changed the night Service to � past 7 instead of 7 � so that persons could go both in order. Mr Jebson gave us a first rate sermon from �To know Christ and the Power of His Resurrection�. It was a good time � we had a very large company.
Monday April 21st 1862
Latitude 41-0. Longitude 28-12. During the night we have rocked much. This morning there is a little wind and plenty of wet. It changes several points in a few hours, backwards and forwards. About noon a nice N.W. breeze got up.
Tuesday April 22nd 1862
Latitude 41-49. Longitude 33-17. A very strong wind and heavy sea. Rolled very much last night. It was fine today. Tonight the wind has increased to a gate. It is from the right quarter for is though the sea rolls mountains high and run us about very much. We are carrying very little sail � plenty of hail and showers of rain.
Wednesday April 23rd 1862
Latitude 42-48. Longitude 38-33 E. Very strong wind and stormy. The gale seems to be at its height. It is very cold and we have showers of very large hail stones. Last night we shifted 2 very heavy seas.
Thursday April 24th 1862
Latitude 43-35. Longitude 43-35 E. Settled down a little so we have more sail on. Tonight the wind is very strong.
Friday April 25th 1862
Latitude 44-11. Longitude 48-20 E. During last night I was on watch. It was very squally. Some of them were very heavy though of short duration. This morning we had a heavy snow storm but it soon passed over. The wind continues good.
Saurday April 26th 1862
Latitude 45-20. Longitude 53-12 E. This morning the wind has settles down with the sea so that we have a strong wind and nice sea. Though the wind is on our side we are getting on well. It is asked daily how far we have gone last day and how far we to go. All are looking to their journey�s end, full of wonder as to what or when we shall get very fine cold and bracing.
Sunday April 27th 1862
Latitude 43_24. Longitude 56-55 E. This morning very strong wind almost ahead though we can sail with it, and rather heavy sea. Most of the sail had to be reefed tonight. Today we have had the Services as before. Mr Jebson gave us a good sermon from those 3 in heaven and 3 in earth. If we receive the witness of men the Word of God is greater. It was a very goodtime but we can�t retire to a good prayer meeting at home to think over there what we have heard, but we have to sit down to any sort of conversation which any ungodly man may introduce.
Monday April 28th 1862
Latitude 42-43. Longitude 67-7 E. The wind continues strong from the same quarter. We expect that we shall just get to New Zealand in time to catch the mail. If so you will not get any description of the place or how we like it until next mail when I shall write direct to Father Strother. After that I intend to write alternatively to you and them so you must pass your letters to them and they must send them to you as soon as you both can. I want you to keep this log (both parts) but give them a copy of it at once. By reading it you may form some idea of a sea voyage. I have sent you the whole TRUTH. I have not attempted to make it look a bit better or a bit worse but accordingly my judgment. I have sent you the account as it is. Of course I have not named all little squabbles or petty matters but I have carefully given you, as well as I was able, a true account of latitude and longitude, the state of wind and weather and all the principal things on board up to the present. So far as the voyage is concerned I don�t rue coming but I am astounded at people making so much ado about a voyage and the like for most of ? are in the hands of people who never saw the sea or else they were never on it except a cook boat, so they fancy from that what a long sea voyage must be. Of course I believe that a good bit depends upon the choice of ships as many of the cheap Liverpool ones are not fit to carry pigs much less men and women from what I can learn and see. I believe that Willis gamn etc is a very good firm and can be depended on. As for our state of health I was never better for 3 months in my life. Hannah has been changeable as you will have seen in reading this. Arthur (poor lad) has been very prostrated. In fact we thought once that we should have lost him, but they have both got over it and seem all the better for their sickness. Arthur begins to get very fat and wilder than ever. He is very free with many passengers on board. I believe that he would have walked before now but for the rolling of the ship. He has begun to say many words already. So far as real comfort is concerned, we don�t come on board ship to find that there are many things to put up with. You can�t keep as clean as you would like and there is part lice, etc, and we can�t help getting some. But upon the whole our ship and company are considered very clean and ?. A family going out should write to the shipping agents at London to see what they can get. An enclosed berth for themselves, state the number of family and the beds required. Then they will tell you the amount of room and the price. The family being together that way can be much cleaner and safer for their things. They have privilege for boxes if wanted in these berths and are all together more comfortable. I forgot to name that the Minister yesterday morning baptized the first little stranger boy, calling him Stephen Zealandia � I think that I have not named that there are several aged couples on board going to their sons or going out with their children to commence. Some appear to be alive 60 years old and infirm, so we expect our parents to cheer up.
Tuesday April 29th 1862
Latitude 42-4. Longitude 64 OE. During last night the wind settled a good bit and got more west so it is very pleasant today though we are sailing very slowly.
Wednesday April 30th 1862
Latitude 42-54. Longitude 68-21 East. Last night the wind got good and we went at a fine rate. Today it has changed to S.W. but we are sailing well. It is very squally. We have had heavy showers of hail and snow.
Thursday May 1st 1862
Latitude 42-39. Longatude 71-36 East. During last night the wind blew up into a gale, a heavy rolling sea and strong head winds keeping us off course 7 points. This afternoon it changed round towards S.W. so we are nearer our course, though the gale continues we have all sail reefed except top sail, that is, the second sails from the deck, and they are part reefed. This is the order of the sails, the first from the deck or largest is called Square or main sail, the second, top sail, 3rd Royal, 4th top Royal, 5th Sky sail. All the three different sets of sail are known this way. The first in the ship are called fore sails, the 2nd or middle lot are called Mail Sail, the last or Aft are called Aft sails, the quare sail that is put on from behind the Aft Mast long ways is called Spanker. Those that are from mast to mast are called Stay sails, those along the bows of the ship are called Jibs. They are for side winds. There are some which they extend out square from the sails over the sea when there is little wind, called Sternsails. Tonight we have got out fore and main square sail, part reefed.
Friday May 2nd 1862
Latitude 41-44. Longitude 74-40. Last night was the roughest night that we have had on board. There was no sleep for us, rocked, heaved and pitch with a head wind, wave after wave went over us all the night. We are laying nearer our course today, the sea is very heavy.
Saturday May 3rd 1862
Latitude 40-49. Longitude 76-20. We are braced up to the wind though the sea is heavy, yet the gale has settled a good bit. We are out of our course some points tonight, we are 2 points off our course.
Sunday May 4th 1862
Latitude 40-29. Longitude 78-20. The wind is still a strong head wind. We keep braced up to it with no more sail on so we are making little headway. We are 2 points off our course. We have had the Services as before. Mr Jebson gave us a good sermon to a large and attentive congregation from �For God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind�. The last few days of head wind has disheartened many as we being to want to see land once more. On Sunday night Mr Jebson prayed very earnestly that if it pleased the Lord he would give us favourable wind. Everyone, godly or ungodly sighed ot said Amen. And so it was. While we were yet praying we heard the order given �Square the yard or sails�. We knew that the wind had suddenly chopped round in our favour. Praise God.
Monday May 5th 1862
Latitude 40-20. Longitude 82-35 E. The wind has got yet more in our favour and the sea has settled a good bit. We have put out more sail. We are sailing well all day.
Tuesday May 6th 1862
Latitude 41-17. Longitude 86-35 E. This morning the wind has got more Aft. We have all square sail set out and are going well and steady. It is a very fine and comfortable day.
Wednesday May 7th 1862
Latitude 42-52. Longitude 91-10 E. Last night the wind kept aft though it changed a point or two backwards and forwards. Today we have a nice light steady wind still aft. It is a very fine day. About this time we are wondering if you have got our letter or LOG that we sent by the Winslow. Of course we hope you have. You will no doubt have wondered many a time if we have got landed but ours is rather a long passage. We have had enough headwinds and light aft winds so we are able to get along as we could like.
Thursday May 8th 1862
Latitude 43-35. Longitude 95-26 E. Night the wind was light until 12pm. After that it got strong. It still continues today a nice breeze. We are sailing well today. Arthur and Hannah are rather poorly today. We wish we had brought some brandy. People going out ought to bring some and a few strong bottles of Ale or Stout as things of that sort are bad to get on board and we need some sometimes. They are very dear on board. The New Zealand handbook states that you are not bound to bring any but our Captain says they are.
Friday May 9th 1862
Latitude 44-45. Longitude 100-15 E. During the past few days we have had an Irish woman in the hospital. She is about 47 years old though she looked a broken down old woman. Has a husband and four children on board, and left one at home. She died rather suddenly last night about � 10. I had just got to sleep but was awoken by the screaming, howling and groaning of the family and husband, all stranger to me, not real weeping but a kind of a got up yelling. They had lighted candles all night with her. At sunset today we solemnly buried her in the largest expanse of water that there is in the whole world. The wind continues good all day.
Saturday May 10th 1862
Latitude 46-29. Longitude 105-41 E. Last night the wind got very strong and on the beams. Most sail had to be reefed. It lasted until today. It changed with a shower of rain.
Sunday May 11th 1862
Latitude 47-35. Longitude 110-40. All day we have sailed with a strong N.W. wind, part sail stowed. We have had the Services as before. Mr Jebson gave us a good sermon from �And I saw great multitude�, etc to a large and attentive congregation.
Monday May 12th 1862
Latitude 48-16. Longitude 117-21 E. During last night we had most sail stowed as the wind was very strong. This morning the wind has changes to W. We are sailing well. Got little more sail on. Towards night the wind has settles a good bit. Today a little strange girl joined our company.
Tuesday May 13th 1862
Latitude 47-56. Longitude 111-36. The wind is as last night, all in our favour, on the quarter, part rain, today we have an auction and a show of all the young women�s work.
Wednesday May 14th 1862
Latitude 48-17. Longitude 128-48. The wind is very good all day. Tonight it is very fine and strong. Things being to look as though we were getting near land. The anchors and chains, ladders etc things that will be wanted at landing are being examined and got ready. We are beginning to be VERY WILLING to be LANDED as SOON as the like, though time looks short and we have part friends that we shall feel parting with each other. AFTER ALL Hannah and Arthur are nearly better now. I have bought stout for her. She finds it to do her good more than anything that she can take. Of course it runs away with plenty of money but what is that compared with health and strength. This morning a little stranger boy was joined to our company, belonging to one of the first class passengers.
Thursday May 15th 1862
Latitude 48-35. Longitude 135-12 E. No change in the wind. We are sailing well gaining about � hour per day. On Sunday night last the Rev. Mr Gifferd, Church of England Minister, preached from 18th verse of 8 Chapter of Romans. Of course the sermon was much like its predecessors, a deadly dry tale but still there is a remark or two which has got much opposition and made character clear before us. In the very face of the preceding verse he told us that we could not know our sins forgiven, neither did the Apostle Paul. On Monday morning one of the first class passengers began a debate with him. Me Jebson was drawn into it at night. Night after night he has maintained the truth as it is written until it has assumed some size amongst the rest. He has proved that the disciples were not in a state of grace prior to the descent of the Holy Ghost. Rev. Mr Grifferd was KINDLY assured that HE KNEW NOTHING about SAVING GRACE, but that he preached as a matter of trade or profit. Some of the Church ladies in the cabin have come out rather warm for this subject, so ends the matter - for the present Mr Jebson having knocked all the legs from under them. I have heard very little of his preaching as I got little profit under him.
Friday May 16th 1862
Latitude 48-56. Longitude 141-28 E. Strong aft wind with very heavy sea though it is with us so it helps us on and we don�t feel it heavy. Tonight it is one of the heaviest seas we have yet. About 10pm the wind got on to the quarter.
Saturday May 17th 1862
Latitude 48-48. Longitude 147-40 E. Good Strong all day. During last night a little stranger girl joined our company belonging to the first class. Very cold today.
Sunday May 18th 1862
Latitude 49-20. Longitude 153-57 E. Strong wind fore on the quarter, sailing well today. During the forenoon the wind changed to aft. We have had the services as before. Mr Jebson gave us a good sermon from �And He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?� A first rate sermon bearing direct on the week�s debate proved clearly that no one cold be adopted into God�s family nor yet have his sins forgiven and not know.
Monday May 19th 1862
Latitude 49-12. Longitude 160-42. Strong wind on the quarter all day. Sailing N.E. We are getting very near our journey�s end so that all are very glad. A cheerful tone has come over all.
Tuesday May 20th 1862
Latitude 48-18. Longitude 165-50 E. Sailed well all last night. Today the wind has fallen a little. Plenty of lookers out for land. About 3pm it was announced that there were rocks called the trap and snares south of Stewart Island to be seen from the rigger. Joy filled all hearts at such news. Many went on to deck to get the first glance of any sights of land. They are 400 feet high.
Wednesday May 21st 1862
Latitude 47-5. Longitude 170-78 E. Wind still good though low. Everyone looking out for land as we are sailing off between Stewart Island in the distance, though we can see it very wet and cold.
Thursday May 22nd 1862
At 12 today we were 25 miles off Lyttelton with wind right against us entering the port. At 8am land was seen and all the rest of the day we sailed close to it until we reached the entrance of the Bay. The wind has been ahead of us, we could not go up. We tacked about until dark when we dropped anchor close to the entrance of the bay, 10 miles off Lyttelton. Tonight there is no wind hardly. About 7pm we saw lights on the sea which soon proved to be a pilot boat with pilot. We were very glad. After asking the question about health, etc. they came on board for the night. The appearance of Banks Peninsula we very much loved. It is a wild looking mountainous country, the top covered with snow, looking altogether splendid especially to us who have not seen land for 15 weeks, all the rest of the land covered with grass and wood. We saw 3 grand little cats on the peninsula and plenty of pigs and goats. You have no idea of the pleasant countenances and laughing faces there are when we see land � for we are not sea sick but sick of the sea for the present. There are now plenty of ducks and other birds to be seen on the sea.
Friday May 23rd 1862
This morning again we let go anchor. The wind is still as it was so we tacked about a long while getting nearer though we could not get in. After dinner a small tug steamer came to our help and by dark we dropped anchor 2 miles off the wharf. We could not see Lyttelton as yet. During the day the Company Dr. came on board. We all passed and the report went press. All is excitement, everybody so pleased that they can�t tell what to do with themselves, many going on shore to have supper. Past friends of the passengers came on board to spend the night but in the midst of the rejoicing some have to mourn. Death is doing his work, one little fellow 9 years old passed away about 11 o�clock. The doctor was beastly drunk when he came to see him, but he was dead. It throws a little sadness upon the company. I got to bed about 1 o�clock in the morning.
Saturday May 24th 1862
During last night very few slept with thoughts of landing or getting ready. Early this morning all were on the stir early, everybody packing up and getting ready. About 8am a steamer came alongside. Very many boxes were put on her, then we went on board. About 10 we steamed off for the wharf. As we steamed along we saw some of the grandest little cottages and square of land that ever I saw in my life. Very soon we turned the point and were in full sight of Lyttelton. The sun was shining splendidly and it was very warm. We were very much disappointed at the sight for instead of finding mud and old wooden houses and bad roads we saw one of the PRETTIEST little towns that ever and eye fell on. We cheered loudly as we left the Zealandia, and when we saw this grand little place, we cheeredvery loudly. People at home turn up their noses at the words �Wooden� houses but they don�t know what a wood house is. If they saw the houses and shops they would change their ideas about them. There are a few built of rough red stone out of the mountain. Lyttelton is built on a slope of the same mountain � no way as yet from it except going over them or by sea. I cannot give any description of it to please myself so you must come to see it, then you will know all about it. After getting something to eat we got our boxes up to the barracks. This afternoon we drew rations from the barracks though we have to fetch it from the shops. They allow per day to each person 1 lb bread, meat, potatoes, one ounce tea, no sugar, and all are very good, and fish � � pint milk and arrowroot extra for Arthur. I buy rations for him like the rest. Many of our people drink at night but we have got a nice little company and a room to ourselves so that we are quiet to ourselves.
Sunday May 25th 1862
This morning we are getting ready for Chapel though I shall have to go in my cord trousers as we have not got all off board � at � past 10 I sat in the Wesleyan Chapel at Lyttelton. It is the prettiest place that ever I saw. I never saw one like it at home for the neat beams. It is Gothic built like a Church with a low light spire. They have united Service in the morning. While I was listening to a first rate discourse from �He that believeth in God hath the witness in himself�. I thought that you would be selling out potatoes or things or the like as it would be about � past 11 Saturday night with you, as we are 11 hours and 40 M. before your time. In the afternoon we went to the mountain to have a look at Canterbury plains. From the top of Lyttelton looks grand on one side and the plains on the other. We can see for over 30 miles. It is quite level. My wife likes the country first rate. Arthur laughs at every thing he sees. Tonight we had a first rate sermon from Rev. Mr Shaw. He is a Yorkshire man from Sowerby Bridge. I was very much pleased with some things here. For instance, the shops are without shutters, only blinds cover the windows to keep the good from showing. There is no fear of life or property. Everybody has plenty here, therefore there is no need to beg or steal. Then there is no drink of any kind sold on a Sunday. If they sell a glass they are fined no less than 50 pounds so that Sundays are very quiet here and the palces of worship well attended.
Monday May 26th 1862
Today we have got our boxes on board the steamer ready for tomorrow to go to Christchurch. We have got licence to import our guns. They cost 1s. each.
Tuesday May 27th 1862
This morning we are off to Christchurch. It is rather cold and dull. It is a long ride down to the Barracks. Our boxes came up after with the drays and oxen.
Wednesday May 28th 1862
Today it is a cold and wet winter�s day, rather dark looking.
Thursday May 29th 1862
This morning it is snowing though it does not stop. It cleared up in the afternoon so I set off to see the country. It is a splendid country. I went as far as Kaipoi, 12 miles � it is a nice rising port � part of the land between Christchurch and it is wild though cold. I slept all night at Kaipoi.
Friday May 30th 1862
This morning it is hard English frost. The old Colonists tell us it is the strongest they have had since they came, though it was a wild week before we came. Today I returned to Christchurch and found that a Master Carpenter had been to see me/ His name is Bailey, he is from Yorkshire. He had the management of St George�s parsonage at Leeds. Tell Alfred that Mr Stainer that works with Mr Critons is Mr Master�s wife�s uncle. All the trades have 10s. per day of 8 hours. We commence at 8am and leave off at 5pm. They don�s break their necks over it but smoke and work gently.
Tuesday June 3rd 1862
We are yet at the Barracks as we cannot get an house for love or money. My tools have not yet landed but master wants me to commence so I shall in the morning. They have allowed us rations for nine days so that is a saving � rent here is very dear, coal dear and scarce. Most things seem to be about double the price they are at home except flour. It is 14s. for 100 � potatoes 3s.6d. to 4s. do � Meat from 6d. to 8d. lb but everything ought to be bought in large quantities, then they are very cheap, but very dear if they are bought in retail prices. All things here are sold by auction, that is the time for saving money � tea, coffee, sugar, etc. about home prices. Eggs 3d. dozen fresh butter 1s.8d. per lb. I forgot to name that I received a letter and papers from Alfred last Wednesday. I was very glad to learn that all was well at home. First you say that William has money to lend on hand. I hope it will last. 2nd. You say hat you and Benjamin are fond of home. I hope you show it like sons ought. 3rd. You want a diary of the voyage. I think you will have got your belly full when you have read this. 4th. Poor lad went away in debt. I hope that he will soon be out and if the parties who told the tale would pay their own it would be better for the shopkeepers. 5th. Poor fancy Ellis God bless her. 6th. Very glad that I was remembered at Chapel. 7th. I pity Mr Sheard and very glad that you squared things. Aunt�s rabbit won�t do here foe people live here better than I ever saw. Food of all sorts is abundant. Ask William if Rick keeps his tail up as well as his head. 9th. Mother expected that I should land with a smile. Tell her it was a laugh and not a smile. You say that you sent papers. I never received anything, either letters or papers since I left Leeds except one from Sister Mary Strothers to London until last Wednesday when I got yours.
Sunday June 8th 1862
I must now make an end of log writing and what I add to this must be in letter. We have left our native land and traveled some 16000 miles across the dark blue sea. As you will see many have been the changes in that time. We have had 3 deaths and 5 berth, being out from the Downs 106 days it was a long passage but the Ringeston which left London the same day has not come in yet.
Yours Joseph Sowrys
Barwick, Christchurch
Canterbury, New Zealand
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