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J.H. Watmuff Profile
Prologue
1 1856-05-01 (Bendigo, Dunolly, Sandy Creek (Tarnagulla), Loddon , (Mt. Hope Hoax), Ararat, Chinamans Flat, Moonlight Flat, Mt William (trek with Aboriginal guide), Pleasant Creek (Stawell), Melbourne).
2 Bendigo Melbourne 1862 Otago N.Z. (1859-07-17)
3 Otago (1862-09-11)
4 Otago (1863-07-26) to Melbourne 1865
5 Melbourne 1865-11-12
6 Melbourne 1866-03-04
7 Melbourne 1869-03-28
8 Melbourne 1870-06-12 to April 1876
9 Melbourne 1876-06 to 1880-09-07
10 Dribs & Drabs 1881-02-16 to 1882-06
11 Sydney & Misc. 1884
12 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-27
13 Lusitania Voyage 1887-05-30
14 Lusitania Voyage 1887-06-26
15 Lusitania Voyage 1887-07-01
16 and 17 England, letters and Journal 1887-07-14
18 Garonne return Voyage 1887-09-27
19 Resignations 1888-05-28 to 1892 Nov.
See Bert Watmuff's letters about the family
20 (Journal 19) Mildura 1893-05-06
21 Genealogies from 1738 to 1889
22 New Zealand Essays
J.H. & Bessie Watmuff's Photos
Olive Watmuff's Photos
JOURNAL
J.H.WATMUFF
JHW
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Melbourne
Journal Kept by
John Henry Watmuff
from March 1866 to March 21st.1869
to place 19 trees in 9 rows of 5 each
to put 32 men in such
an such a position as to
appear 48, or 12 on each
side –
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Melbourne. – X(127)X 28 Johnston St Fitzroy, 1866
March 4th.1866 Sunday, as usual make up my journal, for the week, become quite a necessary duty, having done so for such a length of time, nothing particularly interesting to recount, with the exception of my enjoyments, one nights pleasure in particular which I must relate. Last Tuesday night, my sister & I in company with about 20 others, Sanders, Law the Ballantynes & several others with about a dozen girls took a large gondola at Richmond we pulled up to the survey paddock where we landed & there spent about 3 hours dancing singing Etc, being a lovely moonlight night. We embarked about 11 & had not proceeded down the river more than a hundred yards or so when we struck on a snag poking a hole in the boat, with great difficulty we got it off when the boat began to fill with water - we just managed to put the bows on the shore & the stern sank. We got all out firstrate some got wet feet, one young lady went into hysterics, it was fortunate we were so near land, for if we had been in the middle of the river & sank some of us would have gone to the bottom, we left the boat to her fate & walked home in fine jolly spirits, but wet feet. I was very much annoyed for it all arose from sheer carelessness, we had to pay next day pretty dearly for our freak. Thursday night I went to Ballantynes Bazaar, at the Unity Hall Swanston St managed to get rid of more money than I could afford to spend in raffles & other swindles, my opinion of such
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places is that the Govt ought to suppress them, they are
nothing more than Gambling Houses - Friday evening I
met Miss B. took a pleasent walk together. Saturday
afternoon I had arranged to play Croquet but was disap
-pointed, owing to the rain, however it was badly wanted
so I oughtnt to complain. In the evening Fred & I went
to town & was induced by an attraction programme, to
pay the Polytechnic Hall a visit, to see Grace Egerton
in her numerous characters, what pleased me the
most was Mr G.Case's Concertina playing, which is
something out of the common, good. - This morning
I went to St Franciss Chapel to hear Mozart No. 2
Mass sang. I know several members of the Choir who
invited me into it, at the conclusion of the service
they rehearsed Mozarts 12th Mass, to me a treat -
In the afternoon Bessie & I took a walk round Fitzroy Gardens for an hour, read Shakespears Julius Ceasar – after tea went to Brunswick Street Chapel, heard Mr Richards preach an excellent sermon, afterwards took a walk with Marsden down town, had a long discussion with him about the intelligence of the present age in comparison to the ancients – he is an ancient theorist. Monday I wrote from an impulsive feeling, to my brother Ned addressing the letter to Hokitiki, N.Z. where I thought he was located, just as I was sending it to post H Dight called informed me that he had just received a letter from Tom Meston who is living in Dunedin, stating he had received a letter from my brother Ned, dated the 1/2/66 from Graymouth on the West coast of N.Z. where he is now staying he wished Tom to write to me & inform me where he was for he was laid up with dysentry & very ill, poor Ned. I suppose he was ashamed to write directly to me, having kept silent so long. I sent my letter to him imploring him to come
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home, if he had not the means, I would forward him
money as soon as I heard from him. I dare not tell
mother of his present position she grieves enough
about him. I so hope he may soon recover & return
home - & with the money he will receive by the death of
Aunt Lucy he will be enabled to do something for himself better
than what he appears to have been engaged in lately
[Sunday, 11 March 1866] March 12th [11th]1866. Very hot weather during the week. Been very busily engaged at the office, having several fine ships at the pier discharging - I forwarded an application to the Secretary (Mr Finlayson) for an increase of salary it is a shame the paltry salary I receive, considering the duties I perform, scarcely sufficient to keep me in food & clothes, assisting my mother is entirely out of the question. I trust he may be induced to do so, but from the general character the Co bears, I have little hopes of its being advanced to anything like a decent thing - Tuesday I went again to the Bazaar got fleeced for a considerable sum (to me), however I enjoyed myself very much, being the last night they finished with a Ball. I danced till near 2 Am (Wednesday) when Law & I left. Wednesday night Melbourne was visited with a frightful dust storm the wind howling & blowing in a frightful manner – several houses were blown down. Next morning everything had a most blasted appearance. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I joined a large Croquet Party at E.Melbourne play’d till dark about a dozen of us (all acquaintances) adjourned to Sanders house where we found tea provided for us, after which we spent a most agreeable evening together, singing & playing a variety of intellectual social games,
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nearly 12 pm when we reached home, one of the
party James Ballantyne is leaving Melb for
Dunedin N.Z. I gave him a letter of introduction to
Hamilton whose acquaintance I should like him to
cultivate. I have read a considerable amount of
miscellaneous literature to day, "Richelieu" "Phaedra & Hippolyte
some of Plinys & Ciceros letters. I took a short walk
this afternoon as far as the Cemetary, met J & A Ballantyne
walked home with them. They invited me to tea but I did not
remain. In the evening I went to hear Mr Handfield, St Peters
met Miss B. took a short walk with her, home early -
March 18th.1866 Weather been very changeable, great want of rain in the country districts By the mail, which arrived on the 15th inst. news came of a most disastrous event that occurred on the 10th January, the foundering of the S.S. London in the Bay of Biscay on her voyage to Melbourne, 19 persons alone saved, there being but one boat saved from the effects of the gale, it has caused quite a gloom over the colony, there being so many old colonists on board & friends & relatives of numbers here, G.V.Brooke the tragedian went down, his last words were to be remembered to his friends in Melbourne - Revd Mr Draper & his wife were lost. I used to go to his Sunday School in Adelaide, he is universally regretted & at the last moment was doing his masters work with all his heart - I
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have just returned from hearing Mr Maillard preach
a funeral sermon to his memory. I never listened to a more
impressive one, the Chapel was crowded & everybody
was affected by the recital of Drapers virtues & noble
& sad end. We received a long letter from my
father containing more particulars about Aunt Lucys
death & the settlement of her property, a settlement
that does not benefit any of our family, except
the part she had no control over, & even that
she curtailed as much as was in her power. My
father inherits the share in a farm situated in
Leicestershire (England) which I believe will bring
him in about £60.0.0 ayear. Uncle Joe possesses
the other half wishes to buy fathers share - but I
trust he will not sell it. The letter contained a
deal of news very interesting. I dont
feel inclined to note here. I am getting very anxious
about my brother Ned. I ought to have received an answer
to my letter ere now, I do hope he has recovered - Mother
makes herself very ill continually fretting about him -
Yesterday afternoon I played Croquet in E.Melbourne - In the evening Fred & I took a strool about town - Rained very heavily this morning, I did not go out, spent the time reading In the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetary. I have been there but once since Ellen Mortyn was buried 6 years ago (poor G V Brooke was chief mourner on that occasion) I was struck with the quantity of graves I could scarcely realize the idea there had been so many deaths in such a few years - I always have strange reflections, on visiting such a place - In the evening I went to St Peters Church.
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March 25th.1866. I have been in very low spirits
during the past week, in consequence of receiving two
letters from Graymouth N.Z. written by a Mr Player
a friend of my brother Ned - One is dated the 27th Feby
& stated that Ned was very ill & he had succeeded in getting
him into the hospital where he would be as well
attended as it was possible under the circumstances
The other letter was written three days afterwards
just as the mail was closing, which brought them both
to hand, its tenor was of a most melancholy character
he states that it would be very cruel to buoy us
with hopes of Neds recovery, that he was dying, &
given up by the doctors. I cannot get it out of my
head but that he's dead & the last one was dictated
simply to break the fact more easily in his next
God grant such is not the case. The S.S. Albion
arrived yesterday, but brought us no more news of him
& it sailed several days after the date of the last letter -
immediately on the receipt of them I wrote to
the person who so kindly sent to us, & also to the
surgeon of the hospital, desiring them to do the utmost
in their power, for him, & to assist him if possible in
getting him on board some vessel bound for Mel - poor
Ned it is hard he should be away from home, among
strangers, not one relative near him at such
a time. My mother is quite ill, she grieves very much
on his account - it has cast quite a gloom over our
house - - I have been out very little this week
spent a deal of my spare time reading. Yesterday
afternoon I passed in doing a lot of necessary jobs
about the house, such as chopping wood - & putting
in panes of glass – Etc - after tea I walked down
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town, met R.Law had a long chat with him –
took the 8.7.pm train for S.Yarra, found my sister Bessie
with Miss Cass waiting for me there, went to the latters
home where I found some more people, spent a couple
of hours very pleasently, singing & dancing, 12 pm when
my sister & I got home - Remained at home all this
morning, reading. Robin Law called after dinner, we
took a walk together - he is a nice young fellow, very
well informed, & possessing few of those vices, Mel young
men are so prone to, he staid tea with us. I went to
St Peters Church, met Miss B. walked home with her.
[Sunday, 1 April 1866] April 2nd[1st] 1866 Weather very unsettled, had a considerable amount of rain, long wanted. No more news from Ned, or concerning him, a mail arrived since I last wrote - I dont know what to think about it. I feel afraid to hope - & yet I must -
Tuesday night, Fred & I spent the evening with some acquaintances, named Smart, who live in Brunswick S. Mrs. S is a widow, I suppose, with 2 sons & as many daughters The eldest son is a very decent fellow, the girls are very nice & pleasent, one of them the youngest is an oddity, not very nice looking with I think has a most peculiar formed mind, at least I thought so on such a short acquaintance, I saw more of her on Thursday night, my brother Fred & young Smart & I with the Miss S.s & a young lady who lives with us, Miss Forrester, took a boat at Richmond pulled up the Yarra as far as the Survey Paddock got back about 11 Pm had a delightful evening altogether, being a lovely moonlight night & everything seemed so calm & still
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12 pm when we arrived home. Thursday night, Fred & I
went to the Theatre, to see the “Jewess” Miss Cleveland,
Coppin & Hoskins playing the principal characters. We
were in company with the Smarts, came home with
them, spent a pleasent hour with them discussing
coffee & rusks with other matter. I arose very early
this same morning, my sister Bessie, leaving by the 7 am
train for Echuca where she purposes spending a
few days with Mrs. Dewer. Good Friday morning
after a feast of hot cross buns, as per arrangement I
met the brothers Kidgell, G.Ramsden, Lennox & Saunders at
Falls on the Yarra, where we found Kidgells boat prepared
for us, after getting in a supply of eatables & drinkables
with cigars, we started about 11 Pm, pulled down the Yarra
to the junction, passing hundreds calmly engaged in fishing,
entering the Salt Water River, we set our sail & went up
to Camerons in glorious style, found the old bachelor
quite well, made us welcome, had a good lunch, which
we washed down with copious draughts of new milk
We spent the rest of the day very pleasently, on land
& water some of the party fished in the evening, we
were all in good spirits & very jolly. We left about
9.30 pm, walked to Moonie Ponds where we found
a cab, but we couldnt come to terms with its owner –
so we braced ourselves for a walk, rattled along at a
fine pace - got home about 11 pm very tired & weary
Saturday, I went down to the office, but only remained till 10 am, came home & read till 12. G.Ramsden called upon me & we went to see Taff Ballantyne, arranged to take a boat up the Yarra, called for the Miss Smarts spent a very pleasent afternoon on the waters, after tea I walked, into town met J.Kidgell & Lennox,
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walked about till the Theatre came out, met my brother Fred with
the Miss S's & their brother, accompanied them home, 12 when
I got home, very tired. This morning I went to hear Mozarts
12th Mass at St Francis Chapel, the place was crowded
to excess. I never witnessed such idoletry in my life, it is
really strange, in this enlightened 19th Century, people can
live in such perverted blindness. Lennox called for me
in the afternoon we took a strool round the Gardens
together. I forgot to mention I was paid a visit by my
old friend Mr. Brown (California Gully) he did not stay
long. I was very glad to see him. I have only met
him once since my return from N.Z. where we were
very intimate. In the evening I went to Brunswick Street
Chapel, heard Mr Milliard preach his farewell
sermon, prior to his departure for Adelaide. I afterwards
met Miss B. took a pleasent walk home with her
8th April 1866 Lovely weather. Spent another jolly week pleasuring. Monday was a holiday, but I spent the earliest part of the day reading. In the afternoon I I went to the Collingwood Sports, held at the foot of B.St. the day was windy & very dusty making it anything but pleasent for the pleasure seekers. I did not enjoy myself very much, such a rag tag lot about, gave it the appearance of a low fair in England, without its fun a novelty was introduced in the shape of an election of a Belle of Collingwood, a shilling was the qualification for a voter, ladies who competed for the prize sent in their likenesses, which were exhibited with ficticious names attached. I have heard since it was a complete "sell" the one bearing the name of the Rose of Denmark (Princess of Wales) won the honor - I remained on the ground till dark, had a bit of fun with a wild lot of girls & young men I know -
Tuesday morning I went to work again. In the evening I went to the Theatre, & witnessed
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"Twelfth Night" on leaving, I hastened to the Rly
Station, Spencer St. to catch the excursion train from
Echuca thinking my sister Bessie would come
down by it. I was disappointed, but meeting the
Miss Smarts I & Fred accompanied them
home. I was rather afraid of entering our house
without my sister, knowing how anxious my
mother would be at her absence, however on
going in I found she had received a Telegram from
her during our absence stating that she was not
coming home till to day. Wednesday night R.Law
& Taff Ballantyne spent the evening with me here - very
pleasently. I saw them both home afterwards
Robin lent me a Book that Ive read with great
interest since, “Pollocks Course of Time” (It is a grand
conception, being a succession of beautiful similitudes, it
opens with two angels in realms of bliss listening to an
an old sage formerly of this world who is relating to them
history of this world, from its creation to the final
resurrection of its dead, he discribes hell, equally as
horrible as Dante without that poets coarseness
Pleasure, Happiness, Hope, Fear, Etc he introduces by
garbed similes, pleasure, as a woman of the World –
is about the best. I never read anything that stated so
plainly the many stumbling blocks to the Christian - he
reconciles man to his lot by showing to him the world
as it really is, its nothingness & vanity & points out
to us the only true path to everlasting joy) Thursday & Friday
night I spent at home. Saturday afternoon, I walked
down town met the Kellys, on leaving I returned &
went to the Fitzroy Gardens, heard the Head Quarters
Band play some fine pieces of Music, met my
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sister Mary & her husband had a long chat with
them. After tea, Fred & I paid the Smarts a
visit, spent a pleasent evening together - I did not
leave home to day till 3 pm when I took a walk
round F. Gardens met several I knew, after tea
Fred & I went to St Peters Church, left before
the sermon commenced, having to walk to the Railway
Station, where we met Bessie, who came down by the
9 pm train from Echuca, after enjoying herself
very much – I think the trip will do her a deal
of good, she appears to be a great favourite with
her friends in Echuca. No news from Ned, I hope
to have tomorrow, as I hear the S. Australian @
Hokitika is in
[Sunday, 15 April 1866] 15th.April 1861 [1866] I never took up my pen with such reluctance in my life as I do on this occasion, having to narrate the painful fact of my poor brothers Edwards death, tho’ in a measure prepared for it, I could not realize the idea of such an event occurring. After waiting anxiously to hear from him, we at length received a letter from his friend Mr Player, written on the 11th Ult & thr'o some postal mismanagement it did not come to hand until the 13th. Inst, it contained an account of his death & burial – he died on the night of the 9th.March at 11.30. & owing to an unfortunate circumstance, not a friend was near him or with him during his last moments. It appears Player was with him at 9 pm when Ned requested him to go and bring Christian Foyne (my old friend) as he wished to say something to him, relative of family affairs
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Foyne lived 5 miles away, & during the time Player was away poor Ned
breathed his last, without his last wish being gratified
he died according to the Doctors certificate of relapsing fever
brought on from the effects of dysentry, Foyne wrote
to me giving me the same particulars as Player- they
were very good to my brother during his illness, provided
him with the best Medical attendance they at his
death thought so much of him, that they would not
allow him to be buried by the Hospital authorities
they gave him a decent funeral, about 20 of his friends
followed to his grave – where they purpose to erect a
gravestone to his memory. It is some consolation under
the painful circumstances to know he fell in with so
many good Samaritans. May God reward them for
their kindness, our thanks are most due to Mr Player
who througout his illness & to the last sad rites
humanity expects from this world, he was a good, kind
and sincere friend. I wrote to Foyne & Player the day I
received their letters, thanking them for their kindness
in language that I wished could do them justice, & also
desiring them to furnish me with account of the
expenses they have been to, for I should ever consider
it a reproach, to our family, to know that we allowed
others to be at the loss, where it is our duty that
it should be otherwise. The news was a great shock
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to us & none too easier to bear, to think no near friend
or relative was with him, & also the fact of his never
having written to us for upwards of two years –
so that we know nothing of his antecedents during
that period. My poor mother feels the loss the most
acutely that I fear it will considerably affect her
health, which was ever delicate Poor Ned, he was
a fine young fellow, possessing many fine traits
a favourite of everybody who knew him, frank free
& manly, exceedingly good natured, even to a fault –
the worst enemy he ever had was himself. Player
states he died quite calmly believes repentant, may the
Lord have mercy on his soul & forgive him whatever
sin he committed here below - My father will be
greatly cut up about him, for I feel he will reproach
himself for the cause of his acquiring wandering habits
owing to his neglect during his youth, for under
different circumstances he would have been a clever
man. We received a long letter from
my father by the English Mail & enclosed in it was a
letter of credit for £10.0.0 very acceptable at the
time for my mother really had not the means of procuring
decent mourning, I having put what little money I
possessed in the Bank for 6 months, father dwells
very much upon Edward wishing he was living at
home with us, he must have been uneasy about
him as we informed him we had not heard from him
for such a length of time. I hardly know how
to break the sad news to him, he was so fond
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of him, if he had a favourite I believe it was poor
Ned. He states Aunt Lucys affairs do not paint
such a favourable appearance as he had anticipated
& that it will be some time ere things are settled. I
did not go out to day, been raining hard all day –
spent it reading & writing.
April 22nd 1866 Sunday night. I like to retire in my room where all is quiet & think over the main events that have occurred during the week, places Ive visited people Ive met & such like, tho I find it very uninteresting to sit down & write such insignificant matter. Monday evening I took a walk about Fitzroy, met Miss B saw her [home] Tuesday night. I went to the Parliament Houses, witnessed the passing of the Tariff Bill - Wednesday night I went to *Gold street to see my old friend & mate Harry Dight spent the evening with him & his wife (who will soon be a mother) very pleasently tho we were melancholy pleasent, for Harry & my poor brother Ned were warm friends for years & very much attached to each other. Our conversation was chiefly concerning bygones on Bendigo & NZ, painful reminiscences, 11 Pm when I got home, found several sympathetic visitors at our house - we have had a great many condolers, very kind of people thus to respect one's sorrow Friday night Fred & I spent at Smarts, doing the agreeable to the
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two Miss S.s who are very nice girls in their way
Saturday afternoon, I went in company with Lennox
as pr. agreement to the Royal Park to play
Croquet. Found a pleasent set there, all friends,
comprised of both sexes, we played till dark –
on arriving home, after tea Fred & I took a walk about
town met many we knew. 11 pm when we got home
found Saunders & Kidgell here, felt sorry I had not
remained at home, being great favourites of mine -
This morning I went to hear Revd J.Dare preach, he is located at present in this neighbourhood, his preaching subject was on the importance of private prayer he was as earnest & eloquent as ever, I think without exception he is the most eloquent preacher Victoria can boast off, he possesses all the outward & I believe the inward qualities of a good preacher, fine commanding appearance, a rich toned clear voice, & is a pious Christian. I always feel a better man after hearing him - In the afternoon Bessie & I took a pleasent walk. Mr Kidgell spent the evening with us, only just left, he is a traveller for a Mel Mercantile House & is seldom in town, he is a very intelligent man & extremely good company, a great favourite with all who know him -
April 29th 1866. Nice weather during the week beginning to get rather cold in the morning & evenings sure approach of coming winter. Monday on leaving business I met my old friend Mr. Halley who is at present looking out for a situation as Manager of a G.Co I persuaded him to come home & take tea with me spent the evening very pleasently with him, walked into town with him. Tuesday, I was greatly surprised & pleased to see my very dear old friend
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Jim Hamilton come marching into the office, he had just arrived
from N.Z where he has left his family, he is out of a situation
at present but having considerable interest in Melb. he was
induced to come over & try how matters stood. It is he is
making our house his home - while in Victoria. I was
delighted to see him, we have spent some very pleasent hours
in each others company. I hope he will be fortunate enough
to meet in with something to suit him. I should like him to
remain here - Wednesday night I spent walking about (Jim
having gone to see some friends of his) met Miss B took a walk
with her for a little while. Thursday night Jim Fred &
I went to Cookes Lozara & Wilsons, Circus, at present
engaged in the Haymarket Theatre, it is the best company
Ive seen for a very long time, fine riders, & the best acrobats
that ever appeared in the colony, after it was over we went
into a cafe & had coffee Etc. came home & did not go to bed
till 1 am the following morning, singing & talking over past
times. The mail closed the same morning for England.
It was my painful duty to break the sad news of poor
Neds death to father, with all particulars, we sent him also
the letters we received relative to the event, & also several
portraits of Fred & myself - Friday night Fred & I
spent the evening at Smarts, the Miss Ss showed us
some beautiful pieces of fancy needlework, & embroidery
in which they display excellent taste & skill in executing
Saturday afternoon I spent in Fitzroy Gardens listening to the Head Quarters Band perform. They play’d some beautiful selections of the best composers. I met Miss Fannigan had a long chat with her on the subject of her flirtations. I never met one more candid in my life & who seemed so thoroughly disgusted with her antecedents in that respect. I thought it would have done many young lady acquaintances of mine a deal of good to have heard her. I afterwards joined my sister
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Mary & her husband, who living in the neighbourhood
are regular attendants to these open air concerts -
They are becoming quite fashionable rendezvous for Saturday
afternoon promenaders - In the evening I took a long
walk around the outskirts of Fitzroy, being a lovely
Moonlight night I enjoyed my walk far better than
about the town - Not feeling inclined for Chapel
this morning I spent it in reading, read "Gullivers Travels"
the first time through - Ciceros defence of "Milo for the death
of Clodius" with a trifle of other matter. Towards evening
the two Miss Roberts paid us a visit had tea & afterwards
I accompanied them with my sister Bessie to St Marks Church
heard Mr Barlow preach. I saw the Miss Rs home they
live a long way from here - rather late when I got home
May 5th.1866. Weather very changeable, had some heavy showers of rain during the week. Monday evening Fred & I took a walk together listening outside of folks houses wherever we heard music, got home early, & read for a while. Tuesday night Hamilton returned from Sandhurst spent a pleasent evening talking about the old acquaintances he met & scenes he visited he called upon my couzin Lizzie found her quite well (I wrote & sent her my portrait in exchange for one of poor Neds, she gave me - the only one we have of him.) Wednesday evening Fred was very ill. I went out alone, met Miss Rekowski & E.Atkinson, the former is a most charming & lively girl I walked into Melb with them on my way home alone, I met the two Miss Smarts being a lovely moonlight night we took a very long walk, didnt get home till 11 P.m. Thursday, Fred quite recovered from his sudden fit of indisposition. After tea I went to Smith Street for mother - on my way home met Louis walked home with her - (one would imagine to read these pages I was a regular ladies man). Hamilton stay'd with us, spent the evening singing
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& reading, 12 pm when we got to bed - This afternoon
Hamilton, the two Miss Smarts my brother
Fred & sister Bessie, Tom Rooke & I formed a party to go
up the River Yarra we rode down to Richmond, where we
took a boat pulled up to the tea gardens, remained there
about an hour very pleasently discussing tea & fruit with
other subjects - It was a lovely afternoon & all being
in good spirits we enjoyed ourselves I pulled up & down
& got very hot, on leaving the boat I began to get chilly & I fear
I have caught a cold - I feel very shaky & have a
most severe headache - I went out about 8 pm took
a short walk round Fitzroy & came home – early -
May 8th.1866. Been very unwell since I last continued my journal. I felt very ill on Sunday morning, but went with Hamilton to hear the Revd. James Taylor the popular baptist minister preach. It was the first time I ever heard him & I purpose God willing to hear him again, he preached a fine sermon from Luke - "Father! Glorify thy name - ". On arriving home I felt worse - my limbs would scarcely bear me. I was in a violent perspiration & yet my teeth chattered in my head I bore up as long as possible but had to go to bed & apply wet cloths to my head all night. I felt a little better about noon but very weak. I walked into town called at the office, found very little doing in consequence of yesterday being nearly kept as a holiday, our Governor Sir Charles Darling, having been called upon to resign owing to some unconstitutional acts of his left the Colony for Sydney enroute for England - he was very popular among the protectionists who got up a grand demonstration for the occasion - I did not feel well enough to go to Sandridge & see him off. I returned home early, spent a pleasent evening, my sister Mary being here -
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feeling better this morning I went to the office, was very
busy having four large ships at the Pier, just
coming to discharge, one of them a steamer
called the Kai Koura” that has just accomplished the
quickest passage on record (from England) 54 days
On leaving in the evening I met Hamilton & Robert
Williamson the latter invited us to his house to tea & spend
the evening, which we did very pleasently together
he is a very intelligent young fellow. I met him
several years ago on Bendigo, we have both very
much changed since then - arrived home about 10 pm
May 13th.1866 Sunday night, Weather been very fair, the want of rain is severely felt in all quarters - & Im happy to state we had a copious downfall of the element this evening. Wednesday night I took a strool with Hamilton visited an acquaintance of his. Thursday night ditto, spent my evening reading an extraordinary work entitled “Napolean the future or destined ruler of the world,” by the Revd Mr. Baxter – Prophecy is a subject Ive never gone into with any thing like interest, this work takes for its basis those prophecies from the Sacred Books of Daniel & the Revelations upon the future Antichrist & he endeavours to show or prove that Napolean is the only man on earth that has that degree of power, & possesses the characteristics of the coming Antichrist his potential supremacy & his unbounded ambition all mark him to be one that must exert a great in– fluence over the future destinies of European nations comprising as Baxter observes the Old Roman Empire according to his (Baxters) computation of prophetic time we are at present entering upon the final 7 years previous to Christs second advent. The work is very plausible, quotes scripture for everything &
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is full of remarks on the subject from other
prophetical writers. I feel incapable of rightly
estimating the work, but it has given rise to many
serious reflections in my mind & I observe the same
in others who have perused it, judging from the
signs of the times I see nothing very improbable
of such things taking place as he discribes, which
at some time, if the Scriptures are to be relied upon,
must occur, the most difficult part is in trying to
make Englishmen believe that there is a possibility
of a Frenchman ruling over them, being so long accus
-tomed to imagine there is no such power in existence
I firmly believe England has for some time past
arrived at the zenith of her glory her army is one
of the smallest in Europe for a 1st rate power her navy is no larger
than that of France & her inhabitants are so full
of democratic feelings that I consider their patriotism
is not to be relied upon as formerly, the days are
past of anthropothuism Kings & Queens, Lords & Dukes
etc are not looked upon with such reverence as formerly.
Friday night H & I took a short walk around Fitzroy came home had some singing & read a little
Saturday afternoon Williamson called & in company with H & I, we went to hear the "Band" play in Fitzroy Gardens enjoyed it very much. After tea having an invitation I went to Dickens (an acquaintance) wedding party. The company was a mixed lot I knew very few there, however, I made the most of my time & managed to spend a few hours in a very jolly manner singing, dancing, & playing the usual games of forfeits Etc all of which I entered into with considerable spirit - 12 when I got home
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Spent this morning reading (Baxter) after dinner
Fred & I went to Sandridge met Hamilton with
Williamson & we all took passage in a small
yacht plying between the pier & the "Curacoa" Man
of War of 21 guns & 1500 tons Burden commanded by
Sir Wiseman - It was blowing very fresh & we
went along in gallant style to the ship found her a
most magnificent sight, everything looked so clean
& in such perfect order, she has a flush deck
fore & aft with a number of light guns, mounted
at the Bows is a large Armstrong Gun, carrying
110 lbs shot, a fine piece of workmanship & I
should imagine a most distructive engine -
on going below we found ourselves in what is called the
Gun Deck, 22 guns (68 pounders) ranged around her
sides, with stands of arms consisting of Colts
Revolvers, Rifles & Cutlasses Etc. The sailors 350 in number
many of whom were very kind showed us over the
principal parts of their vessel & explained everything
to us we did not properly understand, on going
down another hatchway we found another deck where
the crew eat & sleep in. Things bore quite another
aspect here - men were to be seen in every direction, some
reading & yarning, some doing fancy needlework but the
majority appeared to be asleep. The ship was crowded
with spectators, but these sleepers were not in the
least disturbed by walking over them - I fancy it
must be horrible to be cooped up in such a limited
space from year end to year end with little change.
We visited the Engine Room, fitted up with speaking
trumpets to every part of the ship & I observed what
I suppose to be new or modern improvements
in communicative facilities. We left about 4 pm
very well satisfied with our visit feeling more confident in
Englands wooden walls than ever - in case of war
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1100
I think there are many on that noble ship
who would do their duty. We met H.Rooke & Miss
R. we came ashore in the same boat, on arriving
in town Fred & I parted from Hamilton & Williamson
& coming on to rain we took a cab home - after tea
we went to hear the Revd Henderson preach in the
Theatre Royal. We got wet through going & it was
anything but pleasent sitting in our wet clothes, however the
sermon we heard fully compensated for our troubles
he is the most popular minister in Melbourne & not
without reason if the sermon I heard is an average
sample of his discourses, he preaches extemporously
very earnest & never at a loss, a good clear expositor
must possess an extraordinary memory. It is the
first time I ever went to hear a sermon in a Theatre
he has been drawing crowded houses. I trust it is to
hear the word of God & not the place is the attraction
I received a letter from my Poor Brother Neds friend Mr. Player, it contained three accounts amounting to £15.0s.0d which I consider very moderate, he hints that my old friend Christy Foyne has not acted very well, but does not state particulars
May 20th.1866 Weather very unsettled, Hamilton still living with us. Visited the Smarts several times, spent one or two evenings very pleasently in their company. Im sorry to state my poor Mother has been very ill during the week confined to her bed, she appears to be getting worse, she objects seeing a medical man, but I shall call one in if she is no better to morrow I spent yesterday afternoon reading, in the evening I met La B. who informs me she is going to Port Fairy, it will do her a deal of good. I took a strool into town after seeing her home, met Swanson, who lent me his ticket, to go into the Skating Rink (being a member) where I enjoyed
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myself very much. Skating is becoming a popular institution
*the *rolaries perform in a large boarded room - the skates
merely consist of a sole with small castors under
neath, strapped onto the foot. I should imagine it very
healthy exercise, at least it is amusing to witness the
ineffectual efforts of some of the novices in trying to
keep their perpendicular - This morning I went to hear
Revd Jms Taylor - Remained at home reading, during the afternoon
In the evening I went to Mr. Greens (Bourke street) for medicine for
Mother, found him out, gone to church, so I went to hear
Taylor deliver a kind of a lecture or what he himself termed an
analysis of a Book, the title being Jesus Christ his life &
works, Ecce Homo[1] X(by a Frenchman (I could not catch the name) &)X
protestant, it appeared to me to be a refutation of Rehnans
“Life of Christ” only vastly superior in its composition
having a far higher tone, clothing Christ with his divinity
whilst the Jew robs him of it. Twas an excellent subject
& well handled. I was pleased to have heard it, removing
several unpleasent doubts I entertained of certain inconsistencies
(as I thought) in Christs life - My dear mother is very ill.
May 27th Weather very changeable, Im happy to state my mother is much better was able to get up for a small time yesterday & to day, she is very weak, our house has seemed so miserable since her illness, the 28th being Whit Monday we had a holiday. I spent it at home, Mother still ill I did not care about leaving home. In the afternoon we had several visitors, among the number, Miss Allen Mrs. White - & my sister Mary) so altogether I passed a pleasent holiday, in the evening called at Smarts took Miss S. out for a walk as far as town where I left her - Thursday, Queens Bth day was another holiday - we spent it pleasuring, left home about 1 Pm took a cab to Richmond there met Bob Williamson & a Mr Elliott, so with my sister Bessie & Miss Forrester & Jim Hamilton we formed a nice
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party pulled up to the gardens regaled ourselves with
fruit, coffee & other refreshments had some fun swinging
& playing about, after a nice pull of an hour or so we
returned to Richmond got home about 6 pm. after tea I
called at Smarts, took Miss Jessie out for a walk. We
crossed Studley Park Bridge & where I had never been before
& rambled about, everything looking so calm & beautiful
by moonlight. I think it one of the prettiest neighbourhoods
in the vicinity of Melb - 11 Pm when I reached home
Saturday being a wet day we were unable to play Croquet
as we intended, but some of the party called, a Miss Ditcham
a nice young lady from Launceston who plays the piano
beautifully with Miss Saunders & Mrs. Simpson. We spent a pleasent
afternoon together singing Etc. we parted promising to meet
next Saturday - This morning went to hear Jms Taylor
a funeral sermon on the death of Mrs. Shand a member
of his church, who died a happy Christian, it was a most
impressive sermon, spent the afternoon writing to Mr Player
concerning my poor brother Ned & also to Jim Hamiltons
brother (Alick) who is in the PO Greymouth. I enclosed
£15.0.0 in the letter requesting him to liquidate the
debt incurred by Neds friend. In the evening I went to hear
Mr. Henderson preach in the Theatre to a congregation of
upwards of 3000 people, his sermon was one calculated to
exercise a great influence upon the class that seemed to be
present, simple, earnest & eloquent I came away *more
deeply impressed with a sense of my sin than ever & an
increased desire to seek my Saviour in all sincerity of heart
June 3rd 1866. Weather very cold, wet, & windy – causing a deal of sickness in Melb. few have escaped the prevailing epidemic (influenza) every member of our family are more or less troubled with it, my dear old friend Hamilton left yesterday afternoon for his home in Dunedin. I had began to get so accustomed to his company I can hardly realize
6/28 |
1103
that he has gone, he has entered into partnership
with a person named Watson & they purpose commencing
business as general dealers & brokers in Dunedin
taking over with them a quantity of goods I
trust they may be fortunate. - I posted my
letters on Thursday for N.Z. to much relief of my
mind - I spent Thursday night at Williamsons -
Friday night at home with Jim. Wednesday I spent
at Smarts along with Fred - Yesterday afternoon
Tom Grimwood (who is living with us) & myself in
company with a lot of ladies playd Croquet, at
the bottom of Nicholson St. it was a fine day but
cold. Im afraid its our last game for the season
at its conclusion all adjourned to tea at our house
quite frightening Mother, with so much company
after it was over, all being bent upon enjoying
ourselves, we spent a most happy evening. Jms
Saunders called about 9Pm - at 10 we broke up
Tom & I accompanying Miss Hoskins & Smith to their
destination, we then adjourned into the Scotch Pie
Shop & had some refreshments got home about
12 Pm. This morning Tom & I went to hear Jms Taylor
preach. In the afternoon Lennox called & Miss Saunders
with Miss Ditcham, spent a pleasent afternoon discussing
a variety of subjects - they left after tea for Chapel - I
accompanied them to town, coming on to rain, I returned
been reading & writing since -
June 10th. 1866. Weather still cold & anything but agreeable - Time spent much as usual, with a little additional work at the office in consequence of the large number of ships having lately arrived - Monday night my sister Mary spent the evening with us, singing & playing with her usual grace & spirit. Tuesday night, I spent at our neighbours Mr. Hungerland, being the anniversary of
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1104
his daughter Alice 15th Birthday. They had an evening party
to which all our family were invited, rather a tame affair -
Wed, Thursday & Friday spent at home in reading writing singing Etc
Saturday afternoon I called for Jessie Smart took her to the
Museum, where we spent about two hours very pleasently
I noticed many improvements & additions to it since my last
visit to it - We had a pleasent walk round the University
grounds & through town home, spending a very pleasent day –
called for her again after tea & took her a walk down town
11 pm when I left her. This morning, Fred & I went
to hear Mr. Henderson, he preached from the psalms –
"The Lord is my Shepherd" Etc a most eloquent & impressive sermon
spent the afternoon reading. In the evening feeling indisposed I took
a long walk thinking to wear it off, called at Smarts about
9 pm remained about half anhour came home
June 17th 1866 Weather been very cold a deal of frost in the morning - reminding me somewhat of my sojourn in N.Z. My time spent much as usual, worked very hard at the office several more ships having arrived. our sheds are crowded with goods causing us a deal of inconvenience & trouble - Mail arrived yesterday no letters or papers from home. Spent my time very pleasently during the week at home, had several visitors. Last night, I went into the Princess Theatre to see a sensational Drama called Maseppa I hardly know what induced me to go for I really dont care if I never enter a Theatre again. The performance was of a most indelicate character, a beautiful? woman (Fanny Brown plays Maseppa who for presuming to love a high born *dame is lashed to a horse's back, naked. F.B. is dressed in nothing but a suit of skintights & served accordingly, exciting by her charms(?) the audience whose tastes are of a sensual nature I left the house at the end of the second act in disgust at the entire exhibition This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson finish his series of sermon on the 23rd psalm I liked him as well as ever & trust I may be profited by his preaching, spent the afternoon reading, about 3 Pm went out for a walk, round Fitzroy Gardens. In the
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1105
[evening] rambled about till 9.Pm met Miss Smart with Fred
walked home with her, stayd till 10 pm.
June 24th 1866 Weather very unsettled, plenty of rain, & a few fine days, nothing particular occurred Thursday night Mr Beere & Miss Ditcham called spent a very jolly evening. The Revd gentleman much to my amusement singing a great number of songs - went to the Gardens yesterday afternoon to hear the Head Quarters Band perform met a great many I knew - I received a long letter from my cousin Harry, who wishes me to seek him a situation in town, poor fellow. I dont know what he is fit for, being lame he is unable to take a situation of an active nature & not having any knowledge of business renders him unfit for town life - I wish I could hear of something likely to suit him. I went into town last night & met the Smarts, walked home with them. This morning I went with Bessie to St Marks Church & was rather surprised to hear the Bans called out for my little friend Louisa Burke union with a person named Hayward or Heard. I hope she will be happy with the object of her choice - Took a strool in the afternoon, home by 3.30 pm Will Smart called, he is a traveller & has just returned, he is a pleasent young fellow, nothing particular about him to make him anything but commonplace or or an ordinary mortal. My brother Fred & him are very intimate, correspond regularly & all that sort of thing - he stayd tea, & left with Fred I went out for a strool, walked as far as the Theatre, too late for the sermon, met the Smarts all coming out, accompanied them home -
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1106
July 1st 1866. Nice weather during the week
Kept very busy at the office - owing to the number of
vessels at the pier working. Went to the opera on
Monday night to hear the new “Prima Donna” Madam
Simonsen in “Lucia di Lammemoor” she has a fine voice
& is an excellent actress, she must prove a good auxilliary to
the Company. Thursday night Bessie & I paid the
Williamsons of Nt Melbourne a visit spent a very pleasent
evening there Miss W. is a nice girl - On arriving home we
heard that Marys servant had called with the painful
news of Marys illness & confinement to her bed. Friday morning
mother went to see her. I called for her about 9.Pm, found
my poor sister very ill in bed, with every probability of
soon being a mother, but unfortunately two months before
her proper time the doctors wish to put it back & from what
I can hear it can only be attended with a deal of risk
I called last night & also to night spent a few hours
with her, she appears to suffer great pain. God grant she
may be restored to health. Mr. Clark is exceedingly kind & attentive
to her - I went to hear the Band yesterday afternoon in
company with Miss Smart. In the evening I went to see
Mary, found her very ill. This morning I went to hear
Mr Richards preach in the Wesleyan Church B.St. This
afternoon Tom Grimwood & I went to Sandridge, being a
lovely day the pier was very attractive being crowded
with people, went on board several fine vessels
Spent the evening at home, left about 8 pm to bring
Bessie home who has been spending the evening at Clarks
I received a long letter from Hamilton yesterday
he arrived home safe & sound after a pleasent
trip of 14 days, found his family well, he has
taken premises in Princess St where I hope he
will do well. I answered & sent him some
catalogues & wholesale Prices Ive got from
Wholesale furniture houses here -
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1107
July 8th 1866. Fine weather, the 2nd was observed as a holiday
by most of the business firms. Our sheds were closed but Mr Adamson
& I had to go into the audit office & work, however we managed to
get away about 3.30. on my way home I met Mr Halley, he had
just returned from a tour round the country, speaks rather
despondingly of things in general - Wednesday night, Bessie
& I were invited to a grand party at Mr. Gotchs. We went
early, but arrived home late next morning (5 am) We enjoyed
ourselves very much, there being such a lot of pleasent people
there, if they were not, Mr. & Mrs. Gotch are so thoroughly kind
& hospitable that the most ascetic could not but be otherwise
We had dancing & singing with plenty of good things in the
way of eating & drinking. Tuesday night I was elected
a member of the Fitzroy Christian Improvement Society, there
are upwards of 200 members belonging to it. Mr J.C Simmons
delivered a fine Lecture on the Plurality of Worlds. The
subject was a good one & he made the most of it, he evidently
has studied the subject well & from the evidence he has
adduced from writers who have written on the subject, proved
to a moral certainty the existence of other worlds & sentient
beings. I came away much benifitted & delighted with my evenings
entertainment. Thursday night I spent at Smarts. Friday
Fred & I went to a concert at St Georges Hall. The singing
was very mediocre, some recitations by Samson, from
Hoods poems seemed to please the audience, left early, home by
10 pm. Saturday afternoon, Tom & I went to hear the
Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, not being a fine day, very
few were there, in the evening Miss Smart & I took a strool
down town, on seeing her home, I went to Marys, for my
sister Bessie. Mary is still very ill. This morning I went
to hear Mr Henderson preach in the Theatre, his text was
from the last verse of the 23rd psalm, finishing the series
In the afternoon took a strool. In the evening went to the Chapel
in Brunswick St.
July 15th.1866. Weather, cold & changeable. Mail arrived no letters from any relatives or friends. Spent a pleasent week, been two nights to the Theatre to hear Meyerbeers Grand Opera of L’Africaine, a double company are taking the leading parts, Squires & Escott one night Beaumont & Simonsen the next. I prefer the latter
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1108
Squires voice is too light to render the music affectively -
I think it a fine piece replete with some of the most
exquisite little bits of music I ever heard. I think it superior
to the “Hugenots” - Tuesday night went to my Society
heard a good Essay on the Parable of the Ten Virgins
Monday night I spent at Smarts, took Miss Jessie out
for a strool, Wednesday ditto - Saturday, afternoon I
took Bessie to hear the Band play in the Gardens
she introduced me to some very jolly people named Phillips
spent the afternoon very pleasently. In the evening I
rambled about town, called for Bessie about 9.20, found
Mary much better in spirit & I trust in health. Spent
this morning reading, afternoon & evening raining heavy
I remained at home, except for about 2 hours which I
spent at Smarts I received a letter from Mr. Hamilton
at Greymouth N.Z. (Jims Brother) in reply to the one I
sent with the money for Player in, there was something
very nice & friendly about it, not very long but pithy, he
sent me Mr. Players receipt for £15.0. & alluded to that
persons kindness towards my brother -
July 22nd.1866 Fine weather, but cold, nothing very particular occurring to break the monotony of my existence On looking over the foregoing pages, I[’m] inclined to become disgusted with keeping a journal. Ive very little time to keep it as I would wish. I formerly alluded to the character & peculiarities of people I came in contact with, discribe scenes & places I visited, discussed the merits of any work I read & such like, but since settling down into the routine of office work, I feel Ive neither time or inclination for such effusions but simply confine myself in relating how & where I pass my time, without entering into particulars, for instance Monday night, I spent at home reading & singing. Tuesday night went for Bessie at Roberts, (Hoddle St) passed a couple of hours rather slowly with that family, very tired when we arrived home. Wednesday night I went to a concert at St Georges Hall, the best Amateur concert I ever remember being at one lady Mrs Ellis (an old professional Im sure) sang "Mercy" from Robert de Diable, most beautiful, a song by
6/34 |
1109
Elsasser & sang by Donaldson merited some praise. Friday
night I spent at Smarts (Will had just arrived home from a
journey, quite well). Saturday afternoon, after doing my usual
domestic duties such as cutting wood Etc. I went to my
sister Marys was agreeably surprised to find her “up” in
the parlor, she is still very weak, & twill be some
weeks ere she is fit to leave the house. I spent a couple
of hours with her. Afterwards paid the Gardens a visit
heard the Band play, spoke to several acquaintances
met Will Smart, who came home & had tea with me
after which he & Fred went to town together. I called
at his sisters & took her out for a strool. This morning
I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the Theatre
his subject was on Temptation, his sermon was a
most eloquent & impressive one, I never listened to
such a man, he embodies my idea of what constitutes
a preacher. Spent the afternoon reading. In the evening
Miss Smart & I went to hear Mr. Fletcher who
formerly was located on Sandhurst when Ive often
heard him with great pleasure. I liked him very
well, but after hearing such a man as Henderson
in the morning, it fell very tame on my mind. We
had a pleasent walk home through the gardens
I forgot to allude to a painful circumstance that
shocked me very much when I heard it, the awful
death of Mr. J.Green (Chemist & Druggist Bourke Street)
who was killed on the Ballarat Railway
Line by the engine running over him & conveying part
of his body upwards of 30 miles without being observed
being dark when it happened, it appears Mr. G had
not been well lately & was subject to temporary fits
of insanity, he had been invited to spend a week
at his wifes fathers, Mr. Kidgell, Mt Pleasent,
& had left the train at Geelong & walked along the line
& he is supposed to have become exhausted & lain
down, & so was ran over by the following train
poor fellow many a pleasent Saturday afternoon
Ive spent with him during last summer playing
croquet he leaves a widow & six young children
This occurred last week.
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1110
August 5th.1866 A fortnight
since I continued my journal, nothing particular
occurring to note) & not feeling inclined for the
Lack of continually reciting the same round of or
my usual manner of passing time away, being the
cause of my negligence in this respect. All pretty
well in health, my sister Mary Im happy to state is
recovering, but very slowly I called upon her several
times - I went in company with Bessie & Fred on
the 2nd. to hear Lucy Escott & Squires in Lucrezia Borgia
being in good voice & their benefit they sang & acted remarkably
well, at its conclusion Simonsen & Beaumont appeared in
“Sonnambula” which if anything was superior to the
other production in point of execution. Tuesday
night in company with Mr. & Miss Sanders & my
sister Bessie we went & spent the evening in a most
agreeable manner at Mr. Casses South Yarra, enjoying
ourselves very well, very tired when we arrived home
the walk from Swan St being very long — last Saturday
night the 28th July, I went to a concert in the Haymarket
Theatre for the benefit of the shipwrecked passengers
by the "Netheby" lost on Kings Island about a week
previous no lives lost all brought to Melbourne, where
a deal of kindness & sympathy has been displayed
towards them. The concert was excellent, the performance
comprising the best Amateur & Professional talent
obtainable in Melbourne - Ive visited the Smarts
pretty often, Miss Jessie is living alone her mother & sister
having gone to Bendigo, on the 26th. we had a
fruit soiree at our association, & a display of Disolving
Views, rather a tame affair on the whole. I went to
hear Mr Henderson last sunday morning & evening –
& also this morning, he has commenced a series of
sermons on the 8th. of Romans, his appeals to his
congregation on the sinfulness of their ways is
most earnest & I trust & hope in my own
case they will have a salutary effect. Yesterday
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1111
afternoon I took Bessie to hear the Band play
in Fitzroy Gardens, the gardens this time of the year
look beautiful & what with its charms & the number of
people & pleasent acquaintances we
met we enjoyed ourselves very much I spent the
evening at Smarts. Miss Roberts called this afternoon
staid tea with us, after which I accompanied her
& Bessie to St Peters Church. I did not care for Mr.
Handfield, something so dry & monotonous about him
after listening to such a man as Henderson. Ive
ceased to find pleasure in attending the Church of England
service, the prayers are very beautiful, but soon
lose their spirit by constant repetition After the
service I saw Miss R home, staid about ½ an hour
at her fathers, who lives in Hoddle St. a long walk
home alone. I wrote to my father by the last Mail
giving him a long account of our affairs & position
Etc
August 12th.1866. Weather very unsettled, making everything outside very unpleasent. Monday night knowing my sister Mary would be alone, I spent it in her company, she was so glad I came & appeared so happy, singing & playing but not to be expected in her usual vivacious style, being still very weak & feeble – but Im happy to state is able to walk, a feat she could not accomplish without aid on my last visit I left about 10 pm. Tuesday raining heavy, went to my Association found very poor attendance, the subject for the evening was Christs narrative of the the Rich Man & Lazarus, one person giving an exposition which I must say was a good one, another giving us its application, after which a discussion took place as to the nature of hell & an hereafter, which very few who took any part in it knew much about judging from the very ridiculous ideas uttered respecting the subject. Wednesday night I spent with Miss Smart she is a most morbid kind of creature, full of strange whims & ideas, a perfect novelty to me - Thursday
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1112
evening I took a strool into town, met a Miss White &
a Mrs McLay, two of the jolliest & most witty women I ever
knew. They were taking a strool & I joined them spent about
two hours most delightfully together when I saw them
to their respective homes. Friday night I spent at home
reading a little, a thing Im incapacited for, tho passionately
fond of reading my eyes are still very weak & I fear
Ill never recover my original sight. It makes me feel very
wretched to have to pass my time (leisure) in such an
insipid, useless manner as I have done since my stay
in Melbourne, with what pleasure I used to look forward to
the time when I could pursue the natural bent of my
mind towards study when I should be in a position
or live in towns where advantages are held out for those
who have a desire for mental enjoyment. Im compelled
to use glasses to do my duty at my employment &
sometimes when Ive been very busy & had much writing
to do my head aches to that extent, I can scarcely sleep
the following night. Providence may have ordained it for
the best but as far as human judgement can see in
these matters, Im singularly afflicted, however on the
whole I ought not to murmur, Ive much to be thankful
for, on viewing my past life, with its trials, hardships
& the various vicissitudes attending it. I pray God to make
me thankful for his many mercies. Saturday afternoon being
very gloomy, I did not leave home as usual, but chopped
up a lot of old hard logs for firewood, the exercise doing
me far more good perhaps than lounging about. In the
evening I went to Smarts, the other sister had just
returned from Sandhurst passed a pleasent hour or two
with them. This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson
deliver another sermon on the 8th. Romans, being a continuation
of his last two Sunday morning discourses - he
surpasses in logic, eloquence & erudition every
man it has fell to my lot to hear, science, social
& physical — literature of every variety both ancient &
modern he has at his command, possessing a most
extraordinary memory which never seems to fail
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1113
him he is prominently the first preacher we have in this colony –
spent the afternoon reading & writing. In the evening, I called at
Smarts found Will had just returned from his journey, he accompanied
me to the Theatre, heard Mr H discourse on Christs
Miracles - got wet coming home rained heavy -
August 19th 1866. How time flies when passed pleasently what a contrast to some portions of my past life, when time dragged so heavily that sometimes Ive actually got into such a morbid state that Ive wished life with all its cares, & troubles at an end. I feel thankful Im alive to the wickedness of such unnatural ideas. English Mail arrived, bringing us a long letter from father, he had just heard of poor Edwards death. & was greatly cut up. It must have been a severe blow to him & none the easier bourne, knowing or feeling he did not exactly do his duty towards him when younger, however it is not right of me alluding to such a thing. he alludes to family matters more especially to Aunt Lucy's property getting settled, which he thinks it will be some months ere it is realised. There is continually something turning up to keep it back, that Im afraid the Lawyers will get the Lions share Monday night I was invited to attend the Victoria Manufacturing Association, held in Bourke Street, my friend Mr Williamson is Secretary, it has for its object the improvement of the mind, & to meet for discussion on whatever subjects may be of interest - a Mr. Elliott read an excellent Essay on the Authenticity of the Scriptures, compiled by himself, altogether I spent the evening in a very agreeable manner - Tuesday Bessie & I went per invitation to a party at Gotchs where we indulged in plenty of dancing, singing & other good things of a more substantial character the party comprised all friends, & pleasent people got home the following morning at 2 Am. Wednesday was a half holiday, in honour of the inaugeration of the New Governor, Sir J.Manners Sutton who arrived per the Mail the day before - it was 12.30 Pm when I got away from the office, & on reaching the Treasury where the ceremony was held, found it over & the Governor just leaving - I
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saw him in his carriage, he appears to be a very intelligent
old gentleman its to be hoped he will be more fortunate
than Sir Chas Darling was, feeling very tired, I soon got
home & had a snooze. In the evening I spent a couple
of hours at Smarts. Thursday & Friday night I spent
chiefly at home, singing Etc. (Mother has been very unwell
the past few days, she has too much work to do - I wish
I could get a rise in my salary, so as to be able to get
a servant to assist her in her household duties)
Saturday afternoon I took a strool around town. In the
evening I visited the Smarts Jessie & I took a long
walk together, late when we got home. This morning
I went to hear Mr Henderson, in the afternoon went
for a walk in Fitzroy Gardens, met T Grimwood
in company with a Miss Jameson to whom he
introduced me to, a very nice lady like girl. I left
them at 5 Pm, came home after tea. I went to Dr
Cairns Church, to hear the Revd Oswald Dykes. I
was there before the Bell rang, but found the place
so crowded I could not get admittance, managed
at last to stow myself in the Belfry & heard him
his sermon was a/d to young men, considering the
reputation he has & the high terms Ive heard him
spoken of I must say I was somewhat disappointed
There can be no doubt he is very clever, but his style
of eloquence, is what I dont admire, he seems as if
he was determined to force something upon you whether
you would or no, in such a forcible manner
there is no resisting. I admire Mr Hendersons gentle
persuasive style far better, in my opinion there is
no comparison between them. I think the latter
far superior in every respect - if estimating a
man by the amount of good he is capable of doing
is any criterion. After leaving I called at
Smarts for a short time -
August 26th.1866 Been lovely weather during
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the week, presenting a contrast to the past weather of
the last few months - Time passed with me as
usual in a very indifferent manner, nothing very
interesting occurring to vary the monotony of my
existence, leave home in a morning at a regular
time, my duties from day to day are the same with
little variety, leave at 5 pm, home by ½ past & so
on, till Saturday when I leave at 12 O.C. My sight
being still weak I cannot indulge much in reading
in the evenings, half an hour is as much as
I can stand, so unless we have company, I seldom
spend the whole of an evening at home, take a walk
about town, meet acquaintances, & make call –
& other things of a similar trivial character -
I feel I spend my time in anything but a rational
manner on the whole - on thinking over it, I
treat the matter very philosophically by thinking
we are creatures of impulse & circumstance, that
its greatly a matter of chance what we do & how
we act - Monday night Bessie & I spent at
Mrs Florauns (Hanover St) singing & dancing, she
is a most agreeable widow, & full of life & fun, 12 pm
when we got home - Tuesday night, I spent
about an hour there - bade adieu to the Davis's
(whom I met at Gotchs party) who left for Hobart
Town the following day - on leaving them I went
to my Society, found no one there, so I went to Marys
she was alone. I spent about two hours with her
she is still very weak. Im afraid her constitution
is for ever affected through her late afflictions of mind
& body - Wednesday night I spent at Smarts
alone with Jessie, very pleasently - Thursday night
Mr Adamson & I were invited to tea & to spend the
evening with Mr B.D.Smith at his house on
Emerald Hill, which we did, we found a nice tea
provided & everything & everybody seemed so pleasent
that one couldnt help enjoying oneself. Mr Scott
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1116
a friend of Mr. S was there & had brought with
him a very powerful microscope, he possesses
he showed us minute particles from natures store
house imperceptible to the naked eye, but assuming
immense proportions under its magnifying power
I felt greatly eddefied with the exhibition & have
had a far higher regard for minute matter than
formerly - Friday night, I spent at a neighbours
house (Phillips) singing, they are a very nice family
& all musicians - 10 pm when I left – Saturday
afternoon spent reading, in the evening took a walk
with the Miss Smarts 11Pm when I got home. This
morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach –
took a walk in the afternoon, met some friends
& walked to Richmond with them. In the evening
not feeling well I did not go to church, but went
out for a strool, met my brother Fred & the Miss
S. I joined them being a lovely moonlight night
we took a long walk round Fitzroy Gardens
Sept 2nd 1866 Been lovely weather, Summer breaking out in all its loveliness, every thing looks bright & beautiful after the late heavy rains. Time passed pretty much as usual, working hard at the office by day, & amusing myself lightly at night doing very little good for myself or others Im sorry to say, tho’ I must say I spend my time pleasently & if it was not the consciousness that to idle ones time away in such a manner is not right, I should feel comparatively happy Monday I spent at home reading, & singing Etc. Tuesday went to the “Society” Meeting, subject being “Revivals” an essay delivered by Mr. Marsden, a long discussion followed, but not carried on in that spirit the subject demanded. I observed a deal of acrimony among the members who took part in it the majority of the members are Wesleyans & believe in the manner these Revivals meetings are carried on - others maintained there is too much cant & outward
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1117
demonstration displayed to be the effects of genuine
conversion from sin. Wednesday at Smarts Thursday
night I went to a Batchelors party at Mr Adamsons (my
fellow clerk) passed a jolly evening or night I should
say, for it was 2 am next morning when I got home
the company were principally members of the Carlton
FootBall Club - I enjoyed myself very much
Friday night Miss Roberts spent the evening at our
house so I remained at home, tho I had a long
walk home with her to Hoddle St. Saturday afternoon
a large party met in the Royal Park to play
Croquet, being the first game this season it was
rather interesting all the old hands there
except Mr Green, poor fellow he playd with us
the last time we met there - In the evening I
called at Smarts took Jessie out for a walk 11 pm
when I got home - Went to hear Mr Henderson
this morning, still in the 8th of Romans 7th & 8th verses
In the afternoon, Grimwood & I visited the Skinners
Est Melbourne had tea there left about 8.Pm
they are friends of Toms, tho Ive met them before
they are jolly people but I think have very little
respect for the Sabbath. I dont feel altogether
at home in such company on such a day as Sunday
on leaving them I called at Smarts for Fred
stayd about an hour there - home early –
mother read a little to us. I wrote to Hamilton
on Monday
Sept 9th.1866 (Sunday). Weather very unsettled some days very hot, & the next cold & so on - I was annoyed yesterday by receiving a letter from Lizzie written in rather a selfish spirit having heard, we had come into a fortune she hoped I would pay her on a/c of her father £10.0.0 Im supposed to be in his debt, contracted 6 years ago, but Im positive it was settled a long time back in the disposal of the hut in Long Gully. I shall answer it tomorrow. I was quite astonished, considering how we are situated
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The evening of the 3rd. Mary spent with us, we were
very glad to see her, being the first evening she
has spent at home since her illness, we spent it
very pleasently. Tuesday night went to the
Christian Association. The subject for the evening was
an exposition of the parable of the good Samaritan
Wednesday night spent at Smarts - Thursday night I
went to St Georges Hall, to witness a meeting of Deaf &
Dumb people, it was rendered more interesting, by the
fact of the New Governor being in the Chair, this being
the first occasion he has appeared at in Melb. I was
very much pleased by the entertainment & considering
the manner they can make themselves intelligible by
signs is something extraordinary, the Governor is a
very poor speaker, his remarks at the conclusion being
very commonplace & stiff. Friday night I spent at
Jamesons (the pawnbrokers) Russell St) Miss J. is a very
pleasent girl & made us quite at home - Yesterday
afternoon, Bessie & I went to Fitzroy Gardens to hear
the Band play, met Mary & Clark - & also Mrs. Gotch
walked about in company, talking & passing remarks
& scandalising Etc - in the evening I called at Smarts
didnt get home till near 12 pm. Went to hear
Mr Henderson this morning. In the afternoon
G.Ramsden called stayd tea
after which we dispersed. I called at Smarts spent
a couple of hours very nicely there -
16th.Sept 1866 - Weather beautiful, Time passed much as usual, spent one or two evenings at Jamesons (the pawnbrokers) ditto at Smarts, Tuesday night the Revd Mr. Richards gave us a Lecture in the Kg Wil S. Room the subject being a most interesting & instructive one Fernandez Cortez or the Conquest of Mexico. Wednesday night I went to the Trades Hall (Carlton) where I had been invited or requested to sing, at the "Penny Readings" as they are called, its a new idea out here - & are likely to become useful
6/44 |
1119
institutions, by keeping Mechanics & their family from other
places they may be in the habit of frequenting, having more
injurous effects. They are well attended & the “talent"
met with is far beyond mediocrity. I was in good voice &
sang well, obtained the most rapturous applause & more
Saturday afternoon I invited Mr. & Miss Williamson & Miss Jameson & others to play Croquet, they came to the house, but in consequence of it raining, we could not play - so we spent the afternoon very pleasently at our house playing & singing, took a short walk together as far as the Fitzroy Gardens, to hear the Band, but the rain coming on again made us retreat home again after tea, we all went to St Georges Hall Penny Readings, several M.Ps, (Edwards, Whiteman, & Embling) gave some good readings from popular authors - my brother Fred sang a song, Tom Grimwood presided at the piano, 11.Pm when Bessie & I got home This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson. In the afternoon Tom & I went to Jamesons had tea there after which I visited the Smarts, spent the evening with them -
23th.Sept 1866. Weather rather changeable – but pleasent on the whole - Monday night, Grimwood & I were invited to an evening party at Skinners East Melb - strange people, possessing money but unaccustomed to society & receiving company everything was rather soso - very jolly & all that sort of thing - but no style - 2 am next morning when we broke up - Tuesday night I spent at Smarts left early found Miss Roberts at our house, had a long walk, but a pleasent one) home with her. Wednesday night I went to Marys found her sound asleep Clark away - on rousing her up we spent a couple of hours singing Etc Thursday Bessie & I went to see Clark & Mary start for the Mayors Grand Fancy Dress Ball, held in the Exhibition Building. Mary was dressed as a Spanish Lady, & looked most beautiful, Clark as a Canadian Rifle man, very plain but neat, on seeing them
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1120
off Bessie & I having a Dress Circle Ticket for the
Royal Theatre, we used it - Saw “East Lynne”
Lady Isabel, [played] by Miss Cleveland, it is the most
affecting drama ever I witnessed, the whole house
was in tears - on leaving we went into Nissens
& had some refreshments home by 11 P.m. Friday
night I spent at Smarts - Saturday afternoon they
called at our house & remained till tea time but would
not stay with us, so I accompanied them home - they
live about 5 minutes walk from our house - after tea
Fred, Tom & I went to town, & was surprised to meet an
old friend Dave Hazlitt, he has been the last 2½
years knocking about the Gipps Land diggins, & I
believe with very little success, he has been in a situation
the last 12 months & so saved enough to make a shift
he is uncertain which way to turn, thinks of going
to Hokitika, (N.Z) we had a deal to talk about,
he was very sorry to hear of poor Neds death. Under
what strange circumstances have we not met in N.Z & Victoria
life is full of ups & downs. We parted about 10 Pm
promising to meet again & talk over old bygones
I went to hear Mr. Henderson this morning, he is still
continuing his exposition of the 8th.Romans - This afternoon
Tom & I went to Sandridge met Mary & Clarke, it was a
lovely day & the Pier presented a very lively aspect many
hundreds of people being on it. We visited several of the Ships
the “Lightning” is the finest vessel I ever remember seeing
there are several very fine vessels discharging - I enjoyed
myself very much, home by 6 P.m after tea being too
late for Church I took a walk called at Smarts
Miss Jessie being unwell & confined to her bed I did not
stay long but came home early -
[1866-09-30-Sunday] Oct 1st1866 Weather very unsettled, bitter cold one day the next scorching hot - I received a long letter from Hamilton on Monday, written in a depressed state of mind judging from its tone his business is not paying - complains of too much opposition & competition. Things are
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1121
very bad when he complains, his wife & family are
quite well. The new creation, is getting on very well Etc
Im very sorry for Jim I wish it was in my power to
assist him more substantially but by my sympathy
& good wishes - I answered his letter yesterday - & I also
wrote to Mr. Player (Greymouth, N.Z) concerning poor
Edwards things its very strange we have heard
nothing more about them - Monday night I
went to the Fitzroy Penny Readings heard some
excellent recitations & readings from the best authors
I was ill pleased with the unruly behaviour of a
low lot of blaguards who make a practice of distroying
the harmony of the entertainment, by their loose
remarks, with this exception all the other meetings
of this character are most orderly & successful
Tuesday evening I went to my own Society in Kg Wm St Fitzroy, heard an excellent Essay delivered by one of the members on “Conscience” it was listened to with great attention & at its conclusion, some good observations were made on the subject by other members
Wednesday evening Fred sang at the Trades Hall Carlton (Penny Readings) Grimwood acting as pianist I was present. I was highly amused at the impudence possessed by some people, who with the greatest confidence imaginable got up & recited & read & sang, without possessing claims either to style, voice or declamation - Thursday night I spent at Smarts - Friday went down town met some friends & walked home with them
Saturday afternoon I spent, cutting wood - & reading took a short strool about town - after tea Miss Smart & I took a walk, went round the Fitzroy Gardens together, 11 Pm when I left her - she leaves Melbourne next week for Sandhurst. I shant be sorry in one sense - for we have got far too intimate with each other she is a nice girl & I like her very well, but as for anything serious is entirely out of the question. I must be earning a trifle more
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1122
than I do at present before I think of matrimony -
I went to hear Mr Henderson this morning, he preached
as usual, a beautiful sermon, sound, practical & logical -
In the afternoon I went to the cemetary, found a great *consensus
of people assembled to witness the last rites paid to a
departed public man Jardine Don an ex MP, a
regular Democrat & peoples man, one who I believe has
done a deal of good - he was very much respected by
all who knew him & his principles excited even the
regard of his political opponents for his thorough
consistency, he died, I hear, in the most abject poverty
& was buried by a few friends who rallied round him
at the last - & so goes another instance of public form,
a man who was idolised by a certain class, but when
out of power was neglected & left to perish - I
gained a lesson by being present - I met Mr. Williamson
there & also an old NZ friend Mr English - walked
home with Mr Neil White After tea I called at Smarts
stayd there till 10 P.m
Oct 7th 1866 Been a wet miserable week hardly a fine day ocurring - making everything very disagreeable
Monday night I went to the Opera with Miss Smart heard “Maritana” a favourite opera of mine & one which the company produce very creditably. Lucy Escott was charming as “Fair Gitana”, G Hodson as Lazarillo, singing “Alas those Chimes” most effectively. Squires voice is scarcely robust enough for Don Ceasar - Labertouche made a sorry Don Jose, he is nothing but an Amateur, with a very poor voice - but make up the loss with plenty of impudence - the Chorus was excellent - & altogether we spent a most pleasent night - Tuesday night I went to the Trades Hall & rehearsed my songs for the ensuing evening, on leaving I met Miss Lawrence - walked home to Northcote with her, got wet through coming home
6/48 |
1123
Wednesday night I sang the “Anchors Weighed” at
the Trades Hall, Carlton - the place was crammed
with a very respectable & well conducted audience
(for Penny Readings) several influential men
read & recited from popular authors, rendering
the whole performance very attractive & entertaining
Thursday the two Miss Cases called stayd
tea coming on to rain very heavy & they having a long
way to go home we persuaded them to remain the
night which they did, they are nice girls, very jolly & all
that sort of thing, the rain did not cease until yesterday
morning having rained incessantly for forty hours –
the Yarra rose higher than ever I saw it before
the approaches from Princes Bridge were rendered im-
-passable. Emerald Hill was made into an Island - boats
plying between Melb & there - the floods have been very
distructive to property, for many miles along the Banks
Friday night I went to Smarts stayd till 10Pm Yesterday afternoon Bessie & I went to Fitzroy Gardens to hear the band play - met Mary & Clark there & several friends - the gardens are becoming very popular as a fashionable promenade - after tea I & Fred went to Smarts - he took Annie out for a strool I remained with Jessie - she not being very well spent the time very agreably - I left there early, home by 9. Pm - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson continue his subject of last Sunday morning from the 8th Romans - In the afternoon Grimwood & I went to the Gardens, we met Miss Roberts & Miss Brown, being very hot we sat on the grass till 5 Pm when we parted On arriving home I did not feel well, slept for a couple of hours - then took a ramble round Fitzroy, for an hour, home early & read a little
6/49 |
1124
Oct 14th.1866. Weather clearing up, very hot. Spent
my leisure hours much as usual. Monday, Wednesday
& Friday evenings I spent with the Miss Smarts - Jessie
left for Bendigo yesterday. I was not sorry for the longer
she staid here the deeper we got into the mud, perhaps
absence & change of scene may produce on reflection a
different view of each other, tho I must state
candidly, Ive never been seriously affected toward her
x
x
x
x
x
Thursday night I went to hear the Opera of
“Semiramide” one of grandest operas I ever watched, & some
of the best music I ever heard - Yesterday afternoon I left
home early & took a long walk round the suburbs, returned
through town, where I met Mary & Clark, they insisted
upon going home with them which I did & staid tea
& afterwards spent an hour or two pleasently singing
Etc - I then returned to town, met several friends
& rambled about till 10 Pm - when I came home
This morning my old friend Mr Brown (California Gully) called in company with Evans, so instead of going to Church we took a long walk around the Cemetary, enjoyed ourselves very much. I accompanied them to Evans house where Mr B is staying during his sojourn in Melbourne & had dinner with them - Mr B. came to town to pass an examination for the Inspector of Mines he is a very clever man & what I admire in him is his quiet unassuming manner, free from everything like pedantry - there were forty three applicants, so I fear he will not be successful - these situations are generally gained by interest, & not by ability however the thing is not settled yet so there is still a
6/50 |
1125
chance for him - I hope he will get the appointment for he is
one of the cleverest & most consistent minded men I ever
met with, many a pleasent intellectual hour Ive passed in
his company not only on Bendigo, but in New Zealand
On parting from him I took a walk in the Gardens
met H.Mortley, rambled about an hour with him, after
tea, In company with Grimwood I went to Jamesons
accompanied Miss J. to the Wesley Church (Lonsdale St)
where we heard Mr Eggleston preach an excellent sermon
on the importance of being prepared for a future state
his text from these very expressive words “Remember
Lots Wife -" I came home early. We received a long letter from
Father by the last mail - he is well - Aunt
Lucys affairs still in an unsettled
state - he sent mother a Cheque for £15.0.0 - very acceptable.
Oct 21st 1866. Weather very warm but pleasent on the whole. Been very busy at the office - plenty of work & very little pay for it - I wish I could get into something more profitable, my salary is so small that I have very hard work to make things meet - Ive all kinds of shifts & inconveniences to put up with in consequence keeping up appearances I dont like speaking ill of the firm that employs me, but I really must admit that they are thoroughly mean in not paying their servants more liberally or in proportion to their services - Poor encouragement for a young man entering life after making himself thoroughly proficient in all that makes an efficient clerk. There is no such thing as a mans exertions being appreciated, no notice is taken of them, the idle careless clerk gets as good a salary as the most industrious I feel this more & more every day seeing my mother getting older & less capable of working & striving to make ends meet, & I her son not able to assist her, whereas if I had but a salary in proportion to my services, how comfortable we might be - I am not ambitious if I had enough to keep home decent & mother comfortable I should be satisfied
I spent my leisure hours very pleasently. Monday night at Smarts, (the old lady returned home) Tuesday night went
6/51 |
1126
to the Wesley Association Kg W St. the subject for the evening “The
Bible as a work of Literature”. It was ably handled by one of the
members & the discussion afterwards was very animated, bringing
out a great many good ideas & information in connection with
the Holy writings - Wednesday night I went to a Rehearsal
at the Trades Hall. I shaped very badly with my song the pianist
making me repeat several times - until I got quite nervous –
after it was over I remained, for the Penny Readings, several
friends of mine singing & reciting - Thursday night I called at
Smarts from there I went to the German Gymnasium, to hear the
rehearsal of the pieces to be performed at the Exhibition
(I was struck with the peculiarity of one chorus representing
an Aborigonal Corrobaree the music by Horsley & words by
Horne - to those who have never heard the thing originally
done this will convey some idea of what it would be done
by a *panel of Blackfellows - many a Corraberee I have
seen in various parts of the Australian Bush, few more will
ever be witnesssed for its a melancholy fact that among
tribes Ive seen mustering between 2 & 300 scarcely a vestige
remains. The Aborigine is dying out fast, another generation
will see the races expired at least in Victoria proper -)
some of the choruses are very beautiful & were sang well -
Friday night a Concert & Ball was given by Carlton Cricket Club to raise funds for the Erection of a pavillion on their ground. Im not a member, but am acquainted with most of them. Fred & I were requested to sing at it Fred in fact got up & managed the whole affair in a most creditable manner. Miss Liddell sang very well & also our old friend W.L. Ambler. Fred was well received & sang well I sang “Thou art so near” better than ever I remember singing it before, in fact I was the only male singer who received an encore, but out of a feeling of delicacy to the other performers I did not respond to it - Fred took mother & I took a very pretty girl Miss Swanwell Fred & mother left at the close of the concert, but Miss S. & I remained for [a]
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1127
dance, which lasted till 2 am next morning, 3 am
before I got into bed. Saturday
afternoon I spent in bed feeling very tired after my previous
nights exertions - In the evening I went down town, met
Mr English & Mr Adamson - rambled about talking about
N.Z reminisences - went into the "Temple of Pomona" indulged
in some excellent coffee & confections - This morning I
went to St Francis Chapel - heard Haydns No 3 Mass
with performed with an organ Brass & String Band
accompaniment - The instrumental was very good - but
I cannot say so much for the vocal, at the
conclusion I left & just got to the Theatre in time to
hear Mr Henderson preach - I was struck with the
simplicity & purity of our congregational service to that
of the gorgeous ceremonies of the Roman Catholic
Church - I took a long walk, alone, about the Cemetary
in the afternoon - After tea I accompanied mother to Mr Fieldings
chapel Fitzroy -
Oct 28th.1866 Weather beginning to get very hot sure approach of summer - I dread the hot winds dust Etc & the various inconveniences one has to put up with in this colony - I like the cold weather best it agrees with me better - This has been a remarkable week in the annals of Australian history - no less an event having occured than the opening of the Exhibition in which is gathered together from the neighbouring colonies & even from the French settlements in New Caledonia & Batavia - contributions in art & science - that they more particularly excel in - prior to sending them to the Paris Exhibition in 67 - The opening took place on the 24th inst the Governor & the most influential persons in the country being present - most of the places of business were closed & every one made it a holiday (excepting the M & HBURl) - I did not pay it a visit until
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1128
yesterday when I spent the afternoon there - I was
astonished at the vast collection of things, representing an
immense value, every step I took presented some new & fresh
object for admiration & when I left I found my mind in a
complete chaos to define & reflect upon what Id really witnessed
the first visit is usually to such a place simply to
take a cursory glans so as to enable one to be more
particular in looking over the things in detail after-
-wards - The main building is very handsomely finished
& is one of the largest stationary halls in the world, its length
being [left blank] feet & its breadth [left blank] ft attached are three large
annexes crowded with exhibits of colonial manufacture
I could scarcely realise such things could be, considering
that it is not quite 30 years ago since J.Fawkner
(who was present & is now in his 74th year) first landed on the
banks of the Yarra & commenced the settlement of Victoria
& founded Melbourne - Talk about the advance of colony
not in the world history is there to be found such an
example of unparalleled prosperity Victoria has
enjoyed since its settlement - Tuesday night I went
to the Wesly Association - heard a very tolerable discussion on
a subject called “Noah” of course the argument very
naturally turned upon the deluge & its universality - I
maintained it was but partial & until I can hear
more substantial evidence to the contrary than I did
I shall stick to my own opinion - Wednesday night
a concert & Ball was given by the St Patrick Association
in St Georges Hall - my Brother Fred sang there &
having a ticket presented him he gave it to me - not
caring to dance himself (objects to it on principle) I
availed myself of it & meeting many I knew of
both sexes - I really enjoyed myself the dancing
commenced at 9 pm & lasted till 5 am the
6/54 |
1129
the following morning. I felt downright tired & knocked
up on reaching home (6 Pm) fell asleep & did not awake
till 11 m - 12 when I got down to the office - the
first time I ever neglected business through pleasure
I drank some coffee & I noticed it had an unpleasent
bitter taste on drinking & Im under the impression
some narcotic had got into it - for I did not feel well
for a day or two afterwards - I trust I may never
experience the same sort of thing again - Friday
night Miss Roberts spent the evening with us - I saw
her home - Yesterday evening I called at Smarts - took
Annie out for a walk round the Gardens saw her
home about 9 am. She seemed very anxious to
know the state of my feelings towards her sister
Jessie - I told her - I dont think she was altogether pleased
for from what she stated Jessie believes Im desperately
in love with her & looks upon it as quite a settled
thing between us - I undermined her, Im sure nothing
in my manner could justify her in thinking so - I was
very intimate & familiar & all that sort of thing - but
if there was any advances made of an amatory nature
it was not done by me - to that extent to warrant
them entertaining such an idea - on leaving Annie
I went to town met several I knew - walked home
with Miss Forrester who is living with us & was
returning from business - This morning I called at
Smarts for Will (who has just returned from a
journey) we went to hear Mr Henderson - In
the afternoon Will came to our house & stayd tea
after which, in company with Joe Stilphen (a
Young American who is living with us for a short time
prior to his sailing to Callao with his father who is
captain of a large ship called the “Baden”) &
6/55 |
1130
Smart & Grimwood, I went to the catholic chapel
(Eliz St) listened to a sermon by Father Barry on the
existence of a purgatory & endeavouring to prove
his assertions. I never listened to such trash in
my life - however, intelligent men of refined & cultivated tastes
can tolerate such a rotten doctrine puzzles my intellectuals
my object in going was to hear an old Melbourne favorite
Miss Julia Mathews sing, (she has been the last 3 years
living in Dunedin where she got married to a man named
Mumford - rather an unfortunate match I hear in a
pecuniary point of view - she has had to return to her original
profession, & is at present engaged by G.Coppin at the Hay Market
her voice is a contralto the best I ever heard with the exception
of Sara Flowers” powerful sweet & very musical, & highly cultivated, Ive
heard nothing to equal her for many years - I lost my
companions in the crowd coming out, except Stilphen, we
came straight home - I received a short note from poor
Neds friend Mr Player in answer to one I wrote some
weeks back, in reference to his things, he states he put them
on board all right, at least he placed them in the agents
hands & they hold a receipt for them - I trust on further
inquiry to obtain them -
Novr. 4th 1866 Weather has been very hot & sultry
hot weather dont agree with me as formerly - since my return
from N.Z. My mother feels it the most it the most it completely prostrates
her - still jogging along at the office - nothing fresh to
break the monotony the same routine day after day invoicing
B/Ls & making out a/cs calculating weights & mests at so
much per ton (5/-) I see very little prospect of a change
taking place in my circumstances, my salary is low & is
likely to remain so - all my employers care for is
the work being done - how & by whom they care not, so
long as it is done. Im naturally careful & cautious
6/56 |
1131
so take care to make few errors - there are times when
I am rushed & very busy that its a matter of surprise
I dont do something that will get us into a mess - Ive fell in
with my usual share of pleasure the last few days - Monday
night I spent with Miss Jameson - she is a nice quiet
sociable girl, one of those dreamy spiritual beings
the kind of subject my old friend Proctor (a Manuherikia
acquaintance would like to have come across - to exert
his influence upon as mesmerist - I never met a
person I fancy would make such a good subject, possessing
a love for the Ideal - not without mind - but yet very
susceptible - Tuesday night - I went to Marys –
found Miss Roberts & Bessie there - spent a pleasent
evening together Clark treated us to some music
on the English Concertina - had a game or two at cards, same
old game with a new name - had some singing & playing
about 11 pm when we got home - Wednesday night, I
sang at the Penny Readings (Carlton) I was the first
to sing on the programme - soon as I had finished I joined
Adamson (my fellow clerk) who had a pass for two into the
Theatre Royal - we availed ourselves of it - & witnessed the
Opera of “Roberto de Diavole” without exception the finest
opera that has been put upon a Melbourne stage - the full
force of the company is employed in it It is full of
splendid thrilling singing & music - rather too spectacular
for my taste (like all of Meyerbeers productions) a
great want is felt by the company in not having a decent
Bass Singer. De Hoga has a good voice, but is not
to be depended upon - he is not the man for the
Mephistophiles business - the Cantana "Mercy" sang
by Madame Simonsen was the gem of the evening –
Beaumont & Squires sang well Md Escott appeared
to be suffering from a cold - at the end of the 3 Act
I left the Stalls & went into the Boxes & was
6/57 |
1132
surprised to meet Mrs & Miss & W Smart after a
chat with them I saw in the next box Clark &
Mary, joined them for the rest of the evening - 12
Pm when I reached home - Thursday night, Smart
invited me to spend the evening at his house - found several
friends there was introduced to a Dr.Mousa & a Mr.
Emmett very intelligent men - passed a pleasent evening - the
only thing objectionable, being their partiality to Cardplaying
a thing I detest. I think when a lot of people meet
they can pass their time far more agreeably & rationally by
other means than these - Friday night I spent at home
Saturday afternoon in company with the two Miss Roberts I went to the Exhibition - found plenty to interest me there things that on my previous visit, I had not noticed - left at 5 Pm saw my friends part of the way home – after tea Joe Stilphen & I walked to the station & went to Sandridge spent the evening with his father & mother & other friends of theirs at the Cohn Hotel where they are living (the Baden lying out in the stream) Bessie had been spending the afternoon with Mrs S. Fred joined us about 9.30 - a cab was provided to bring us home. 1 Am this morning when we arrived home we enjoyed ourselves very well - but I must say not in such a manner congenial to my tastes - I dont like public houses nor do I much care for the company of those sons & daughters of Neptune they are too boisterous - too jolly, tho when Im in company it matters not what sort - I always enter into the spirit of my companions & endeavour & generally succeed in making myself agreeable - I spent this morning & part of the afternoon reading an extraordinary work by Bulwer Lytton - called A Strange Story - it is the strangest I ever read - it is a work only adapted & at all comprehensible to an intelligent thoughtful mind - I read it with interest & profited somewhat by
6/58 |
1133
the matter, especially by an argument between two of the
characters Fenwick & Faber - on the Existance of a
soul in man - I would recommend it [to] sceptics on this point
I went for a short walk after finishing - to the Cemetary &
after tea I went to the Catholic chapel - heard J.Mathews sing
a splendid solo from one of Mozarts Masses - at the conclusion
of the service I met my friend English - rambled about the
town for about an hour with - home by 9.00.-
11th Novr. 1866 Weather very beautiful not so hot as usual for this time of the year. I remember when it used to be frightful, unbearable - the winters appear warmer & the summers cooler than formerly - I suppose its owing to the ground being brought under cultivation & other natural causes arising from the advance of civilization - My time spent much as usual - my leasure hours in pursuit of pleasure - not always of the most rational description however when unattendeed with pain or regret I think little harm is attached to it - judging from effects - Monday night I spent at Smarts - Tuesday night Bessie & I were invited to Kidgells - Miss K. was married in the morning & had left town with her husband before we arrived so we hadnt an opportunity of congratulating them - but we spent a most jolly night of it dancing singing, & playing forfeits Etc. we knew all the company so it was our own fault if we didnt enjoy ourselves - I saw Miss Roberts home - that made us a little late getting home than we should have been Wednesday night - Mr & Mrs Stilphen Capt Rowe & his lady called & spent the evening at our
6/59 |
1134
house nearly one oclock when they left spent the evening
as usual in such company - X(Thursday night feeling
tired, I did not go any where except)X I took a walk down to Miss
Roberts & invited her to come to a picnic on the following day
stayd about an hour with her had a few games of "Busby"
on leaving her I went to town dropped into the Theatre
to hear Julia Mathews - being late I only saw the
Burlesque of “Paris” one of the most miserable pieces
I ever saw put on the stage - giving the good actors
playing but a poor chance of displaying their powers.
Friday was observed as a holiday being the Prince of Wales Birthday - I got away from the office at 10 am - left our house at 12 in company with Fred & Bessie & Tom Grimwood. Called at Clarks for Mary & her husband & Miss Roberts & little Georgie Clark making our party 8 we were all loaded with eatibles & drinkables & a set of Croquet - we took a boat at Richmond & pulled up some few miles & landed & after an excellent repast of B.B. & cold fowls & tongue & sundry other good things, we playd a game of croquet left the ground about 6 Pm & had a pleasent sail down the river - on landing Fred in paying the hire of the boat, let a half sovereign fall into the water & could not recover it this was the only thing that occurred to mar the pleasure of our sport - we found a nice tea provided at Marys & spent the evening at her house very socially & pleasently - on leaving I saw Miss Roberts home while Fred took Bessie & Georgie home - this is the first little reunion we have had for a long time
6/60 |
1135
in which all members of our family were present
I shall endeavour to encourage them - they will produce
a better feeling between us all than hitherto exis
-ted - Saturday afternoon I went to the Athletic
Sports on the M Cricket Ground - a good programme
was provided - some excellent sport was witnessed - a
great many people were there - among the number the
new Governor & his family - In the evening - I went
to town met Mr. English & his friend
Capper - walked about with them for an hour or so
on leaving them I went into St Georges Hall
& heard or saw the Revd Mr Carr give one of
his extraordinary performances in Electro Biology &
Mesmerism - he was very fortunate in getting some
excellent subjects from his audience & he turned them
to good a/c- not only for our amusement but intruction
This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson - In
the afternoon I took a strool around the Gardens
In the evening I called at Smarts & spent about two
hours with them -
18th.Novr.1866 Weather very changable - some days being bitterly cold, resembling the winter nights than the summer - these sudden changes affect me considerably - Through changing my occupation I perceive a great change in my physique - Im nothing like the being I was some years since when I could roam about & sleep out in the open air & live upon the simplest food, & some- -times not too much of that, & all that sort
6/61 |
1136
[of] thing - what a magnificient constitution
I must have had, to endure the privations & trials
, physically, [as] I have done - my past seemed like a
dream - I can hardly associate myself with the
being of former days - my manner & ideas seem
so altered - whether for the best or not - Im hardly
justified in stating without becoming perhaps
egotistical - I believe I should be very happy or
could be if I had a better salary the only thing
annoys me is seeing my mother in her old age
having to work hard by keeping boarders & having
to submit to all their whims & caprices - so very
mortifying in one possessing such a haughty proud
spirit as she has - ah well - time produces changes
& may be one will take place in her favour -
Tuesday night I spent with Mother at Smarts -
Wednesday, night, being the last of the Carlton
Readings - that Ive identified myself so with lately –
they were concluded with a Ball & Concert invitations
being forwarded to those who have taken any part
in them - I went in company with Miss Jamieson
left about 2.30. the following morning - on the
whole I did not enjoy myself - a funny lot of people
being present not altogether the sorts I cared about
mixing with - Thursday night Mrs. Stilphen & Miss
Roberts called & had tea & spent the evening at our house
Fred saw Mrs S home while I did to Miss Roberts
she is a nice amiable girl & I like her very much
she is a great friend of my sisters, Bessie.
Friday night I went to another of Cuthri Carrs
6/62 |
1137
Mesmeric Electro Biologic & phrenologic entertainments
The place was better attended than when I last was
there & a greater amount of interest felt by the audience
he was very successful & attracted many from the
audience by the force of his mesmeric – power - a
number of sceptics were present & annoyd or
distroyed the harmony of the evening by continually
making remarks of a deprecating character
Carr himself is of an irritable temperament & ill
brooks disturbances of this sort & so there arose a
spirit of acrimony not very pleasent
to those who were impressed with the sincerety
of his performance or experiments. At length
those who had been operated upon - on coming to
their natural senses - got very indignant at
the insinuation of their being collusion
between operator & subject - however most of
the most reasonable inclined, came away impressed
with satisfaction at what was witnessed
& I must say I was greatly astonished at the
marvellous power - possessed by Carr - & felt
sensible that there are many laws in nature unknown
& science will have still plenty to do to unravel many of
her mysteries - Saturday afternoon I went to town
shopping with Mother & sister. They left me outside a
shop for upwards of an hour - I got tired of doing
such duty so marched home - they didnt follow for
two hours afterwards - In the evening Fred & I went
to town rambled about till 10 pm met several we
knew - This morning I went to hear Henderson
In the afternoon I rambled about Fitzoy Gardens
alone - In the evening I called at Smarts
stayd there about 2 hours - from there went to
6/63 |
1138
the Catholic Chapel - it was just coming out, however I met
Mr English who I wanted to see - walked about with
him for some time - got home early - I forgot to
allude last week, to my receiving a long letter from Miss S
she accuses me for a want of affection & regrets I should
so soon have forgotten her etc - I was pained at her
letter - I did not think after what had passed at our last
interview she would have written. I can easily understand
her feeling wretched living alone in a strange place &
wanting sympathy - She has *written in all sincerity
I answered her letter, but gave her to understand that I had
no idea of entertaining any other feeling but that of friendship
towards her - that I consider it dishonourable in my
present position to hold out any hopes of any other feeling
actuating me in the future & as for thinking of marrying her, never -
25th.Novr.1866 Weather very unsettled lately I received, on Monday, from Jessie Smart, a very long letter in reply to mine - She approves of my ideas on the subject of our further acquaintance, gives me most uninvited praise for the very honourable manner I have acted towards her - that she loves me she cannot but admit from the tone of her letter - & I feel a pang, when I think it is my own doing in one sense that has given occasion to the expression of her feeling in such an *unfortunate manner Im sure I must appear very cold & heartless in her eyes but what am I [to] do. I was simply on terms of very familiar intercourse with her. The two sisters were living alone together & Fred & I were so very pressingly invited. I can safely say I never went to their house 3 times without they extracting a promise from us to see them again & appoint the time & so one gets drawn into sometimes against their inciination in promising to do that which is not always a pleasure however in future I purpose being more guarded &
6/64 |
1139
exercising some more moral courage – tho’ I must do Jessie
justice - that I dont believe she was guilty of doing anything
with a view or design - she is warm hearted & impulsive - & full
of passion & one who I think would have hard work to
control her passions & yet she is very selfwilled but not
destitute of strong moral principles - a strange character -
Monday night I went to hear "Archibald Michie" lecture on the Retrospects & Prospects of Victoria - he spoke for two hours & a half well & ably, I thought - but not being well up in politics - I was not able to discriminate with any degree of *surety all these little points of policies he wished to impress upon his audience he had evidently studied his subject & seemed to be well posted up in statistics - I noticed in his allusions or *definition of Free Trade & Protection very few new features than those commonly understood - The meeting was held in the Exhibition (Old) Building & was well attended the price of admission being 1/-. –
Tuesday night I remained at home. Wednesday evening I went as per invitation to a party at a persons house in Carlton, named Hughes - a nice old lady - it was her grandson T.Power who gave the party I met several acquaintances there and managed to spend a jolly night - together - Thursday night - I spent at Roberts, Hoddle Street, spent a nice sociable evening there 12 when I got home Friday night I went to see Julia Mathews in the "Irish Heiress" - at the HayMarket Theatre - Saturday afternoon I took Bessie to the Exhibition - she with myself were highly delighted at all we saw - the Band of the 14th Regiment playd some fine pieces - we met Mary & Clark there - left at 5 Pm - In the evening I took a walk about town with
6/65 |
1140
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy November 1866.
Adamson went into the Temple of Pomona & after
indulging in some exquisite coffee - came home
10 pm - This morning I went to hear
Mr Clark from Geelong preach
in the Theatre - his subject was the introduction
of Christianity in Europe - In the afternoon I
went to Sandridge & enjoyed a pleasent strool about
the Pier doing me a great deal of good - In the
evening I called at Smarts - found them out so I
went to St Peters Church heard some good singing
at its conclusion I left & walked down to St Francis
in Elizth St met Greenwood & walked home together. I heard
something in connection with my little protege Louis
Burke yesterday that made me very low spirited
I believe a short time after her marriage, her husband
left her & since then it is reported committed some
robbery or was connected with some murder or
something else discreditable & is at present doing
a penal servitude. Poor Louis I am sorry for her
*her again Am I to blame god knows who may
hereafter read these pages - I dont purpose to state
how by a train of circumstances arising fromX
myself her misery has been caused - I heard
after a great deal of trouble that she is living at
present with her Grandfather at St Kilda - I
will try & see her & if possible do all in my
power to assist her - I believe she is is just on
the point of becoming a mother.
XI heard after a day or two before her wedding that her husband- was a bad character & I ought to have endeavoured to prevent- her wedding taking placeX-
2 Decr 1866. Weather very changeable, more so for this time of the year than ever I remember experiencing before since my sojourn in Australia
6/66 |
1141
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.
some days quite cold & chilly at others hot & sultry -
I alluded last week to Louisa Bourke (that was) having
heard she was in Melbourne I endeavoured to see her &
ascertain if the reports I had hard concerning her were
correct - I met her last night, purely accidently in
Bourke Street closely veiled - & from her I heard such a
tale of unmitigated cruelty & heartlessness & depravity
that I never could conceive possible to take place in this
age - When I saw her last, 7 months ago, she was a young
lovely girl of 16, one of the sweetest faces I have ever looked upon –
& possessed a nice amiable disposition poor girl! what
sorrows will produce in a short time - she is looking so
thin & delicate now - I met her about 8 pm & did not part
till near 11 pm - & then her tale was hardly told -
It appears the man (S.Heywood) whom she married had
been living near them some time previous - & had occasionally
met her & become enamoured with her - & to possess her he
took lodgings at her fathers house - where he made him-
self very agreeable & became a great favourite with the
family - he represented himself to be a watchmaker & jeweller
& had a large stock with him & was on the lookout for a
suitable place to commence business in - some three
months passed on, he managing to ingratiate himself into
her good graces - he proposed for her & was accepted, they went
out after together & he made more than one attempt to
seduce her but without effect - they were married &
even on his wedding day treated her slightingly - & acted in
a most disgusting manner towards one of her bridesmaids
They went out (some Half dozen) for a drive & he attached himself
to the Bridesmaid, & got her away & try to seduce her - she
did not like to hurt Louisa feelings by alluding to it afterwards
but coming home, where a little party was held - he took
more notice of Miss L. than of his wife - this passed on
& three days afterwards, they went to Gipps Land &
6/67 |
1142
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.
at Pt Albert, he left her to pursue his journey to Sale alone - he
was several days before he joined her, he took her to Sale
where they lived in lodgings - he spending his time idly
gambling, & living a very suspicious kind of existence –
sometimes leaving her quite in the dark as to his pursuits
this went on for several months when she lived in some
bush public house - he one day borrowed from the
landlord a Buggy & Pair of horses & stated he was
going to Sale, (some 10 miles) he never returned, soon
after his departure, a detective came after him & it
came out this Heywood had committed an extensive
robbery of jewellery some 12 months ago - & although
his description was given out at all the police & detention
offices in the colony, he had somehow managed to allude the
vigilance of all who sought to capture him - at
the time he married Louisa he was in the "hue & cry"
she poor girl was very ill for some time & was in
confine to her bed when this was made known to
her - & to make things worse he had gone away leaving
several months Board & Lodging unpaid for at
different places they had lived at, before leaving her
he took every article of value she had - & the person
who had been robbed identified even her wedding ring
& keeper as his property - & endless are the petty &
miserable actions he was guilty of towards her &
others she told me about – he has been far from
constant towards her - having seduced & left a girl
in the family way at the hotel they had been staying at
she discribes him as a man having extraordinary
power & influence over those he comes in contact with
he can wheedle & fawn & deceive the very devil himself
it appears he came to Melbourne & was knocking about
6/68 |
1143
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.
here for some time - the police not being able to drop across him
she wrote home & her father, who is an old man with a
large family & ill prepared to send for her & afterwards to
keep her, who sent money to bring her home she has
been here in town some 6 weeks being at her Grand-
-mothers in St Kilda part of the time - she is about
6 months gone in her pregnancy - since her return
she has heard from his father, some old vagabond –
that Heywood is not his proper name - she thinks
his name is Symons & that he has several such
wives as her about the colony - poor girl, just 17
years of age & to have began life under such
terrible auspices - her whole future rendered a
miserable blank - she admitted to me she has
been several times induced by the force of feelings to
commit suicide - she appears very undecided how
to act - if he is caught, it is supposed he will get
12 years penal servitude - & would not be a difficult
matter to get a divorce from him I advised the step –
but she seems to treat the idea of such a thing with
abhorance. This seems a mystery to me, inpenerateble
a woman so wronged & so cruelly deceived one would
think would be actuated by a sense of her wrongs to
revenge - she seems as if under some magnetic influence
says she does not know what she would do even should
she meet him - whether to give him up to justice or
screen him - their seems a fixed determination about
her something really inexplicable to me - she feels &
is convinced in her own mind she will be the first
to discover him - a something within her - a feeling
not understood by any scientific laws –
found only in those suffering & having
very highly wrought & sensitive natures - tells her
6/69 |
1144
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.
he is still in Melbourne - & that at different times
he has been quite close to her - The police cannot
trace or get any clue to his whereabouts - & yet by one
of those singular coincidences, she is the only one
that has seen him since her return - her brother &
her were walking up Flinders St some few days ago
& she looked into the open door of a house
& stretched upon a sofa at his ease was Heywood!
her brother also recognised him & dragged her away
ere she had time to betray any emotion, he put
her into a cab & sent her home, while he in the
meantime, visited the Detective office & gave the
information - through some bungling on the part
of the officer engaged in making his inquiries
the fiend got suspicious & went off - no one knows
where - endless would be my tact were I to
refer to all the petty details of low & vicious depravity
she poured out to me concerning him - sufficient that my
very heart seemed weary by the recital - may God in
his mercy be kind towards her - & soothe her sorrows -
Im afraid the intense excitement she is suffering from
will affect her as Im sure it has already, her reason –
so young, so fair, & to have her young life blacked &
partly traceble to me - I cannot bear to think about it –
she says she never received the note I sent her two days before
she was married in which I informed her of his character as I had
accidently discovered it to be -
Tuesday evening I went down town met English had a long chat with him on parting I went to Mrs Florauns where Bessie was spending the evening I remained until 1 am next morning singing & dancing. I was introduced to a spendid Girl there named Miss Ellis -
6/70 |
1145
28 Johnston Street, Fitzroy December 1866.
Wednesday night my old friend J Stewart (of the Christy
Minstrels) called with Finley & J.Evans - we spent a
pleasent evening together - Stewart singing better than I
ever heard him before - he staid all night with me &
left next morning for Sandhurst - Thursday night I
staid at home – Friday night I took a ramble about town
till 9 Pm. called at Marys for Mother, spent a
couple of hours very pleasently - singing Etc - Yesterday
afternoon I called at Smarts staid about 2 hours there -
I went to the Catholic Chapel (St Francis) this morning heard some excellent singing - In the afternoon - I read a great deal took a short walk before tea - round the Cemetery - In the evening I went down town had a look in at the C Chapel in time to hear Julia Mathews sing a splendid solo - came home early - I received a long letter from J.Hamilton on Monday purely theological not a particle of news or reference to his family or his business
Decr.9th 1866. Fine weather - Spent rather an every day sort of week very little variety to break the usual monotony - Im thinking, I spend my time in a very foolish & useless manner - I often think I possess abilities or at least some talent that if rightly used would be of service to somebody or do some good in some way or another - very few there are who have not & yet never make use of the same - this is wrong & I feel it - & feel if it was not for my affliction - I could be do[ing] some good - there are plenty of opportunities in such a town as Melbourne - here follows my recital of how my time has been spent this past week - I feel ashamed to note it down so frivolous - Monday night being the first monday in the month Mr Clark attends his Lodge (being a Freemason) Mary always makes a point of spending the evening at home, that is at our house - Mr English & Kapper called & also Tom Kelly the
6/71 |
1146
Cricketer - so we had a good full house with our own
family - English is desperately in love with a certain
young lady & owing to some remarks made concerning
her, quite jokingly, I think he was offended for he left
very early, & did not appear to be well pleased -
Tuesday & Wednesday night I staid at home assisting Mother in turning, what I call, the house inside out lifting & laying down carpets Etc. pulling down & putting up beds Etc - Thursday night after tea I called at Smarts to see Will who had just returned from his journey - he leaves again in the morning. I only staid about half an hour, from there I went to Roberts - where I remained till nearly 12 pm - several acquaintances being there we passed quite a jolly evening - a picnic for Boxing Day was prepared to which we all assented & remained to supper - They are nice homely sociable folks & always make me very welcome whenever I call - Friday night I went out for a short time, home early - Saturday afternoon spent helping mother about the house - assisting her improvements & alterations In the evening I went down town met Adamson - & had a long chat & strool with him till 10 Pm when we parted on my way home I overtook old Mr Burke & his daughter Louis - walked home with them, heard some more particulars respecting her husband not to his credit - the police have heard nothing more about him he has eluded them again - I fancy he must have left the colony by some means - I went to hear Mr Henderson this morning - got wet though coming home – did not go out in the afternoon - spent my time reading & writing - after tea I took a strool for about an hour and a half - came
6/72 |
1147
& spent the balance of the evening with Mother - I
always enjoy her society on a Sunday evening, she is so
well informed & has read & seen so much in her life - few
women I have met are possessed of such a fine
mind - & I can safely say few souls have had such
a good mother as mine - I pray God her life may
be spared for many years to come - she had her 56th Birthday
last Tuesday week - & is still an active energetic woman -
Decr 16th.1866. Another week over - without being benefitted morally or physically, at least if so, not perceptible - I have been very busy at the office several large ships having been discharging during the week - among the number the S.S.Royal Standard Plenty of work & little pay ) Is now the order of the day ) a couplet very applicable in my case - Ive been downright "hard up" this month or two back - my salary is so small that it is only with the greatest care, economy & frugality - making shifts & putting up with many inconveniences that Im able to keep up anything like a decent appearance, home & abroad - I dont think there is a firm in the colony that pay such poor salaries as our(s) does, it should not be so considering the profits or returns are so good - such a thing as risk & loss is nearly unknown - being a *needpenny concern - patience is a virtue - & I suppose if I wait I may get a slight increase in course of time - Monday night I spent very pleasently at Roberts - with the two Miss Rs roaming about their beautiful garden Georgina, the eldest is a nice amiable girl - very loving
6/73 |
1148
& affectionate in her disposition - I like her exceedingly
her sister is younger - & very pert & coquettish -
Tuesday night I went to a Social meeting of the Members of the Wesleyan Association held in Kg Wlm St a very nice lecture was delivered illustrated with experiments in Chemistry & Electricity - Wednesday I spent very happily at home - Thursday evening - the two Miss Roberts came to tea & spent the evening - Grimwood brought Capt Forster of the ship "Lucibell" & his own sister Liz up - I never remember spending such a dull kind of an evening where there were so many people - Tom G~ is not liked by the Miss Rs & the consequence was a cooling between all parties - which ended by us breaking up at 10 Pm - when another unpleasent scene took place Tom put his little sister in a cab with this Capt & packed them off, & returned thinking to acompany the Miss Rs, with me, home - however they objected to the arrangement & from their manner let him know his company wasnt agreeable to them - I had to call his attention to the fact & even then he thrust himself on us for some distance, what poor, paltry spirited begger he must be - we had a nice walk together after getting rid of him - found some more friends at their house just leaving & coming my way so I had company both ways - Friday evening I met “Louisa” & took a long strool with her – she has heard nothing more of her husband - poor child - for child she is, in age & manner - she is very low spirited & must indeed be very wretched - with little prospect of things looking brighter in her favor - I sincerely pity & sympathise with her -
Saturday afternoon after finishing my
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1149
domestic duties about the house - chopping wood –
mending & carpentering Etc - I dressed & took a walk
down town. On my way home I looked into Smarts
saw Annie who informed me her sister Jessie had
returned from Sandhurst that morning - but being very
fatigued had gone to rest for a while - she gave me a
pressing invitation to pass the evening with them –
which after some hesitation I accepted - after tea I
called again & saw them - Jessie is looking exceedingly
well after her visit - we spent a very jolly pleasent evening
together - talking over a variety of subjects - It was 11 Pm
when I left them - This morning I spent reading a very
interesting work by “Ida Pleffer” “Travels round the
World” she is an extraordinary woman - her descriptions
are excellent, being plain & very matter of fact that
impresses me with the idea of them being truthful a/cs
I was led to form different ideas of many things & places
she visits than I had previously formed - I went out
for a walk in the afternoon - round Fitzroy Gardens
met Miss Roberts there, walked with her round about
& saw her a short distance home - In the evening I
went up to Smarts, Jessie was suffering from a
severe headache & was confined to her bed - Annie &
Barman (her intended) & I spent an hour or two
chatting under their verandah - it was frightfully hot
& sultry - on my return home I found Mary &
Clarke here - stayd to supper - they are very well –
in health -
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1150
[1866-12-23-Sunday]
Decr 23rd 1865 [1866] Weather has been very
changeable for this time of the year on Monday it
rained very heavily & was very cold, reminding one
forcibly of winter - Ive spent my time as usual very
idly & to little profit. Monday night R.Law
called at our house, passed some two hours very pleasently
chatting - singing Etc. Tuesday, I met Louisa &
took a long walk with her, she has heard nothing
more about her husband - Wednesday evening, I called at
Smarts & remained there until 9Pm when I left &
went for Bessie who had been spending the afternoon & evening
with Miss Roberts - spent a couple of hours very pleasently
nearly 12 Pm when we arrived home - Thursday night
I went to Bakers (Hoddle St) where I met several of the
parties engaged getting up a picnic for Boxing Day -
I think the arrangements made are first rate - & if the
day is fine & all goes well there is no doubt we shall
enjoy ourselves very well - Friday night I left home
with the intention of going to hear Dr Carrs Lecture –
but calling at Smarts I was induced to spend the
evening with them - Jessie with her sister & I going out for a walk
we visited Fitzroy Gardens which looked beautiful by
moonlight - what with the statuary & the moons rays
playing upon the water issuing from the fountains
great numbers like ourselves were enjoying the scene
it was nearly 10 pm when I left their home
Yesterday afternoon in company with a large party I went to play Croquet in the Royal Park, some of the party afterwards came to our house & stayd tea after which they all adjourned to the “Exhibitions” I left them there & sauntered about Bourke St looking for some parties who wished me to join a picnic for X mas day, not seeing them & not having
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1151
heard from them caused me give up the idea of joining it
This morning I remained at home reading. In the afternoon
I went for a walk about the Gardens - spent the evening at
Smarts - Mr Gotch & Geo Ramsden called after dinner
& invited me to go to a picnic, they are getting up for X mas
day - Im uncertain whether Ill accept it or not, my sister
having promised to go with Saunders & Lowe & other friends
to the Werribee that day – & I had partly promised to go with
them when they first proposed it -
Decr 30th 1866. The weather has been very hot & oppressive, far from being pleasent this time of the year when everybody is on the look out for pleasure - Monday night I went to Gotchs, (having decided upon going with them if I could get my sister to break her engagement with the other party-) from there to Saunders, he was out but I explained to Mrs S. & apologized for Bessie, & then went with G Ramsden to town - found the streets crowded, met a great many I knew, nearly 12 when I arrived home - (my couzin Liz & her baby came in having just arrived from Bendigo – she intends returning to morrow the 31st she is just the same as ever - she informs me Harry is keeping a school near Kyneton & is in a fair way of getting on. I sincerely hope he may - he has had a hard lot of it the last few years - Lizzies husband Holm came down yesterday he didnt stay long - having no convenience at our house for them both they had to seek some other quarters - I was grieved to hear from him of the death of poor Ned Rowett he died Christmas Eve - leaving poor Mary King (that was) a widow - Tuesday X mas day - we left home about 9 am & went up to Gotchs where we found all the company assembled & conveyances - after some delay in arranging the loading of the ladies - we got away about 10 am - bound for
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1152
Heidelberg - a pretty village some 7 miles from Melbourne. I enjoyed
the drive very well, the country looking beautiful, fine rich crops
just ripening either side of our road - the scenery, occasional
glimpses which we got of the course of the Yarra, is lovely –
we camped near the Cemetery same spot we held
the picnic given by the same parties two years ago - We found
everything well provided, a fine “Marquee” with a band of
music - & plenty of provisions & wines & ales & other liquids to
refresh the inner man in profusion - The company *consisted of
none but very agreeable people - each actuated with
the desire to be pleasing & conduce all in their power *thus
towards the enjoyment of their neighbour. We passed the
day delightfully - dancing, singing & romping about quite
childlike & innocently, tis very pleasent to see people enjoy
themselves in this manner - it shows that the cares & troubles
that usually torment life are not sufficient to entirely distroy
the hilarious spirit which is innate in human nature -
We broke up very reluctantly about 8.pm, all jolly & merry
but tired from our exertion - the day having been frightfully
hot - I got out at Johnson St & came home - Bessie went on
& spent the evening at Gotchs - during the evening Clark &
Mary called & stayd a short time - Wednesday
morning we were up again, & pleasure seeking, went down
to Roberts where we met some of our company for the picnic
we had arranged with Baker & Mortley - found Miss Roberts too
ill to accompany us. I was extremely sorry - we walked
down to the punt at Richmond where we found the balance
of our party waiting for us in the boats - We embarked at
10 pm when a few minutes afterwards it came on a heavy
thunder storm. I, and others who were pulling got nearly wet
through ere we could get under the friendly shelter of the overhanging
willows the ladies fortunately had brought their umbrellas & parasols
to guard their faces from the sun - they occasioned to keep the
rain off - the storm passed over the sun came out bright
& beautiful, the birds sang & the beasts came out with
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1153
great glee making the woods one confused din of croaking –
nature put on her holiday look & smiled more lovely than ever
after shedding her tears - We pulled up the river, all jolly –
the ladies cheering the rowers with merry chat & songs & glees
We landed oppossite Pearsons Tea Gardens at a very pretty spot
found a few of our party had arrived before us with the substantials
in a cab – every thing was well provided, we did all in our power
to make the time pass on in an enjoyable manner & we
succeeded - Miss Mortley did nothing but attend to the vitualling
department & was exceedingly kind & attentive to the wants of
others - I was much struck with her kindness in this respect, so very
seldom, young ladies are to be found at picnics who give themselves
any trouble in this way - we passed our time as usual at
picnics - playing Romps - Croquet, Singing & Dancing - we left
about 7.pm & had a fine pull down the river to Princes
Bridge where we landed, got home about 10 pm - very tired –
next evening after tea I went down to see how Miss Roberts
was - found her a little better - met several of our party there
who were all going to a party at Bakers - I left early - not
feeling inclined for another nights exertion came home early
Thursday night I was going to a party at Gotchs but Mrs. G being very unwell it was postponed till next week - I spent the evening at Smarts - Friday night ditto - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I left home - called at Smarts, for Will & his sisters & we all went to the M. Cricket Ground to witness the Athletic sports, they were very interesting & attractive in consequence of an Aboriginal team of Cricketers being present to compete for the prizes with the best Athletes the Colony can produce - They had been playing cricket the three previous days but had been beaten easily, but yet had displayed considerable skill & judgement in their performance - being very active - It was thought they would prove formidable adversaries yesterday afternoon at the sports - & the public was not disappointed - they won nearly all the prizes
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1154
I think 8 out of 11 - three of their numbers are worthy
of note Tarpot - Mullagh, Couzens - the former
being the best jumper on the ground - he jumped the
length of 19 ft. running, & 5 ft 4ins running high leap -
After tea I went to Marys - spent a couple of hours with them - from there went to town - met Adamson & Fred, came home about 11.pm - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the “Royal”, on arriving home found Mary & Clark & my old acquaintance D.Cameron at our house, who stayd dinner & tea & spent the afternoon very pleasently with us.
Jany 6th 1867 Entering upon another year, the past one *can *be compared to a pleasent dream, full of pleasure but little profit - Tho my pleasure was not always complete, sad remberances must ever arise when thinking of it- ./66. my poor brother Edward, whom I loved so dearly, died in it - with the exception of that event, it has been the pleasentest year of my existence, lived at home in the bosom of my family - surrounded by every comfort, possessed of many friends & acquaintances whom I esteem - have enjoyed good health & tolerable spirits - all of which I thank God for - may the next or present year be as full of pleasent reminiscenses as the last - unattended with any more family grievances - Monday night I spent at Kidgells very pleasently, preparing for a picnic for News Years Day late when I left with Kidgell - we called at Mrs. Florauns found her gone to St Marks Church so we followed I received the benifit of an impressive sermon - our conduct at the conclusion of the service was not altogether orthodox for on leaving the church we adjourned to our house where we sang & kicked up a fine row till 2 next morning. I saw Kidgell part of the part home - pretty jolly
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1155
We rose early - I not feeling very well having a severe
attack of diarrhea - Fred & I went to Princes Bridge &
there met Saunders & others of our party, hired a few boats
& pulled up to Richmond, where we took in the balance of
our party - the day was exceedingly hot rendering things
far from being so pleasent as we anticipated, we landed
at the Survey Park, found some of our party there with
the substantials to which we did ample justice to in
spite of the suns rays that heated the atmosphere to the extent
of 95º in the shade - impossible to dance so we spent
the day playing croquet & wandering about the park watching
other parties endeavouring to enjoy themselves in such a heat
The German picnic appeared to be well attended, I saw many
people I knew at it. We left the ground about 7.30 in
the cool of the evening, & had a delightful pull down to the
Sir Henry Barkly Hotel, where a cab was waiting for us to carry
us to Kidgells house where we stayd tea, after which we all
adjourned to Gotchs & passed a pleasent evening singing &
chatting - 1 am when I got home - Wednesday I went
to Smarts for a short time. Thursday night as per invitation
went to Mr Gotchs party at his house, where I spent
the night in the most jolly manner possible *da[nc]ing
did not break up till 5 next morning - broad day light -
I felt anything but fresh the next day & it was not long
after tea I tumbled into bed. Saturday evening I called at
Mrs. Florauns she & I took a walk through Paddys Mkt
& round about shopping Etc. in regular Bob & Joan
style - This morning I called for a Miss Norris
who is staying with Mrs. F - a beautiful girl who has
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1156
lately arrived from Hobart town that Ive met several
times lately at picnics & parties - & took her to the Theatre
to hear Revd. A.M.Henderson, remained at home
all the afternoon reading - In the evening I went to see the
Smarts took Jessie out for a walk down
town when we met her mother & sister came home together -
Jany 13th.1867. Another week over. Weather frightfully hot. Yesterday the thermometer stood as high as 105º F in the shade up to a late hour - The Mail arrived on the 11th inst bringing us a long letter from my Father containing anything but cheering news - from its tone I should infer that Aunt Lucys affairs are next to settled & in such a manner that with Law expenses, claims, Etc we shall have nothing to receive. This if true, & there is every probability of it being so, renders it a great disappointment to our family - who had considered it as a certainty the ultimately receiving a considerable sum - alas for human calculations! – even the money I had spent I advanced out of what I received - I see no prospect of having it returned - from father - he sent me a Cheque for £8.0.0 towards its liquidation - too small a sum to be of much service to me - he states he has not been very well lately having had an attack of cholera in Manchester - Wednesday night I went to see the pantomime at the Princes Theatre the only one Ive been to see this season - Thursday night I spent the evening at Mrs Florauns singing & dancing - Friday night I went down to the Roberts no one at home but the old folks - who insisted upon me coming to spend Monday evening with them as they were giving a party - Saturday aternoon I had intended with some other friends to get up a picnic - but the day being so hot one could not think of going - however I
6/82 |
1157
went to Ramsdens where we had promised to start from
& spent the afternoon with them, most delightfully cool
in their house in E.Melbourne passed the time, playing
Billiards Etc - In the evening I went to Smarts, passed
a pleasent evening with them - This morning I went to hear
Mr Henderson - In the afternoon took a strool about the
Gardens, in the evening, called for Jessie Smart took a short
walk for an hour or so with her - to visit some
friends she has in Richmond. I dont like being made a convenience
of
[Sunday, 20 Janury 1867] Jany 21st.1867 - Weather rather variable during the week, spent my time idly & to no purpose except in the pursuit of pleasure, a weekend of Melbourne folks - Monday evening Bessie & I went to Roberts party, stayd there nearly all night as usual enjoying ourselves amply in spite of a terrific thunder storm raging outside - 3.am next morning when we broke up very loath to seperate the company being so sociable & happy - Tuesday night I went to Smarts. Wednesday night, rained heavily stayd at home - Thursday night Bessie & I went to Nt Melbourne to a Mr. Rutherfords, to see a piano he has on hire from a Miss Dixon who wants to dispose of it - we found it a beautiful Instrument - she wanted £53.0.0 for it - I have agreed to buy it, paying her part in Cash the balance in two Bills falling due in four & Eight months from the 21st.inst - easy terms - The one we bought from Paling - I could not meet the Bill, & I have arranged with him to take it off my hands. Im very glad for it was too old & had seen too much service to be of much use – whereas this is a spendid toned one made by Collard & Collins Friday night Bessie Fred & I joined G.Ramsden, J.Brown & the Miss Roberts & others in a boating party on the Yarra by moonlight We enjoyed ourselves very much. Took the boat at Richmond pulled up to the Tea Gardens where
6/83 |
1158
where we regaled ourselves with fruit Etc, danced & sang
& exercised ourselves on the swings Etc there -
11.30 when we landed on our return 12 when we got
home. This afternoon Bessie & I went to Royal
Park, as agreed, met a large party assembled for
the purpose of playing Croquet - spent a pleasent
afternoon - very sociably, knowing all the people
on my way home I called at Rutherfords to see
why he would not let the man I sent in the
morning have the piano, he refused to deliver it up
until Miss Dixon came with me & took delivery of it
herself - I was very much annoyed for she stated there
would be no bother – having her a/d. I lost no time in
paying her a visit. I took the train for S.Yarra & found
her house, but not her. I left a message for her
to come over to our house, which she did this afternoon
I being out, however she has promised to be at the place
tomorrow night at 6.pm. when I am to get it
it was 9 pm when I got back feeling very tired I
went into a New Concert Hall in Bourke St called
the Varieties, Kept by Nish & Coker connected
with the Christy Minstrels - I found it a fine large Hall
& the best assemblage of talent in the colonies
many old public favourites being engaged *making
it very attractive – tho’ I dont admire the style
it is conducted in, too much like a Free & Easy –
smoking & drinking being allowed in all parts
of the house - I left about 10.30. & was
sauntering home, when I met a party of
friends consisting of Mrs Florauns, Miss Norris
& my sister with a gentleman each. They were going
to the P Market & pursuaded me to return with
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1159
them which I did - We indulged in sweeties, fruit Etc
until we were nearly sick - got home to Mrs. F's about
11.30 pm - then commenced singing & broke up about 12 pm -
I forgot to mention that on Thursday night I paid my sister [&] Clark a visit found them busy making their preperations for taking their departure to Frankston - some 20 miles from Melbourne - where Mary intends staying for a month or two, Clark visiting her occasionally - I think the change will do her a deal of good - This morning I went to hear Mr Henderson deliver his last sermon on the 8th. of Romans, which Chapter has taken him 6 months to give its exposition. I regret that I missed some of his sermons for I feel greatly profited by what Ive already have heard from him, he leaves in the morning for Sydney where he intends staying for a month or so - he will be greatly missed by his admirers in Melb -
I took a walk in the afternoon with Smart, & Grimwood around Fitzroy Gardens, got home in time for tea, after which I accompanied Will home & spent the evening at his house
Jany 27th. Weather frightfully hot & sultry towards the latter end of the week, the thermometer standing on Thursday & Friday 90 & 95º F heit in the shady side of Bourke St under a deep Verandah - Been very busy at the office - making out a/cts endorsing B/L Etc - Etc. with no change in my prospects or any chance of any just rise - Ive spent my time very pleasently on the whole - Monday night on leaving my office, I went to the Rutherfords had to wait about an hour for, Miss Dixon when she came, I had a difficulty in persuading her to accept my Bills as some security in consideration of my indebtedness I had to give her a Bill of Sale upon the instrument, in case I can not meet my liabilitys
6/85 |
1160
I hope I shall be able to do so - I got the piano at length
& brought it home - after tea Mrs. Floraun & Miss Norris
called & spent the evening with us, singing & dancing &
other agreeable pastimes. Tom & I saw them home about
12.pm The following morning I went to see the Roberts
stayd about an hour with them, they were very kind, picked
fruit from the garden for my use - most delicious plums
& Mulberries, Georgina has quite recovered from her attack
of indisposition, on leaving them I called at Smarts on
my way home remained there until 10 pm. I thought
they were very cool toward me. Im rather plainspoken
& dont altogether agree with their ideas on many things
they delight in - Im sure its a matter of indifference to me
whether they are cool or not. Jessie is the only one of the
family whose company I care for - Wednesday evening
after doing some jobs for mother in the garden, Etc I
went to the Theatre to see a celebrated Actress who has
lately arrived in Melbourne, Madam Celeste, a name
well known all over Europe as a celebrated dancer –
she is now an old woman, but a most charming actress in
her own peculiar line the piece she is at present playing is called
the “Woman in Red” a sensational kind of Drama tho
with only one character in it - which is the one she sustains -
Thursday evening Clark called to take Bessie to the Exhibition Miss Roberts calling also at the same time I persuaded her to accompany us there, where we spent a pleasent evening - heard Miss Carandini & Walter Sherwin sing - I saw Georgie home - Clark seeing Bessie to our house - At the Exhibition I saw some fine paintings of Lakes Wanaka & Wakatipu, places I visited years ago in N.Z the heads of the Rivers Kawarau & Molynuex bringing forcibly to my mind by gone, reminiscences of the past when I mixed in different scenes & in different company
6/86 |
1161
than at present - who would have thought if they had met
me knocking about these desolations & grand mountainous plains
up the Molyneaux dressed in dirty Rags & living on the very
commonest food which my soul would revolt at now - that I
was one & the same person - mixing in such different society
& amidst civilized society makes a great alteration in
a mans manner & habits - happy is he who can
conform & is able to be at home anywhere - Im really a
surprise to myself - not that I state this from any
sense of vanity - but I now mix in a good society, can sing
& dance & possess accomplishments which render me, if not a favourite
at least a welcome guest wherever I go - few young men
are more fortunate than I in this respect in Melbourne
Friday evening I spent at home - Yesterday afternoon I spent at home being very hot, heat in the shade being as high at 110º in the shade Fhnt. In the evening I went to Smarts did not stay above an hour there, not feeling well. I called at Mrs. Florauns on my way home - found my sister & Grimwood there & several others - enjoying themselves amazingly, dancing & singing I was not long in entering into the spirit of the company & soon was enjoying myself as much as any of them 12 pm when we left for home - Remained at home all to day writing, or copying into a new Book many parts of my journal that I wrote many years ago, if not done so would have soon be[en] in a dilapidated state as to have been unintelligible, being written on scraps of paper & old sheets Etc - not that preserving them would be of any benefit, but after having had them so long I dont care about my past life which I have kept such a faithful record of, should be lost - After tea it commenced to rain very heavily, making the weather more endurable than it has been lately, however I went up to Smarts & staid with them until after 10pm -
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1162
Feby 5th 1867
[1867-02-03 Sunday?]
Weather very beautiful at the beginning of the week, raining
heavily Monday & part of Tuesday purifying the atmosphere & making
the weather more healthy than it had been previously. I have
not felt well the past few days, suffering from a most unusual
cause “Billiousness” in my case not having felt the slightest
attack since I was 16 years of age - my time has been
spent much as usual - in the office during the day, in the evening
in search of pleasure - Monday night I went to Emerald
Hill in company with Fred Rooke (who has lately got married
to Miss Kelly) to dine with him found him possessed of a nice
comfortable furnished home & a pleasent agreeable & from [the] start
should state an affectionate wife - I met Law - Smart &
Kelly there passed a very pleasent evening together, walked to town
a distance of [a] good 4 miles, very jolly - Tuesday night I
spent at Smarts - Wednesday night Bessie & [I] went to a
party at Williams Young St, an American family we are
acquainted with - most of the company were Americans
& things were done in a different style to what Id seen
at most places - I enjoyed myself very well the
Host & Hostess with their daughter doing every thing to make
everything agreable - a fine room attached to the house
being a factory) was cleared for the occasion making a
fine Ball Room - it was 3 am the following morning
before we broke up - before going there Miss Roberts called
at our house & I walked home with her - on my way back I met
my friend Saunders had a long chat with him - so it was
9 OC when I went to the party - Thursday evening on
my way home from the office I called at the Gymnasium
Russell St & joined it I think some exercise of the description
to be had there will do me good always been accustomed
to plenty of robust exercise - I feel my system requires
a continuation of the same to preserve my health &
stamina
6/88 |
1163
Friday night Bessie, Mother, Clark & his sister & I went to
Tom Grimwoods party held at his fathers house Eliz St
we enjoyed ourselves very well – danced & sang till daybreak
between 4 & 5 when we got home - I managed to catch a nice
cold, through having to wait for mother who had to stay
at Clarks fathers on our way home - not feeling well - Saturday
afternoon I played at croquet, calling for Miss Roberts 7 pm
when we concluded, I accompanied her home, found my sister at
their house - stayd tea & in the evening the Miss Rs. with Bessie
& I went to town for a strool - got back about 9.30 then came home
leaving Bessie there, as she purposes remaining on a visit for a day or
two - Sunday morning I stayd at home reading. In the afternoon I
went again to Roberts, found Bessie & Georgie ready to go to St Yarra
to see Miss Cass who intends leaving Melb’ for a few months - I
accompanied them there, found the young ladies out, so after
staying there about half an hour we returned to Roberts after a
most delightful walk - giving us an excellent appetite for our tea
after which I took a walk with Haskell along the Yarra Banks
until Church came out - when I called for the girls who had been
there, after staying about an hour, I came home - after spending a
very pleasent day. Thursday, the 2nd inst, was my 28th Bthdy
Feby 10th 1867
Pleasent weather during the week. Owing to some rather quick
changes in the weather producing anything but healthy results
scarcely a family in Melb that is not affected in some way
or another in consequence - I was very ill Tuesday & Wednesday.
I had to leave the office during business hours with a frightful
pain in my stomach, accompanied with a severe cold -
I have scarcely recovered from the effects yet - I have been
several times to the Gymnasium, doing a little light exercise
which I find my system much benefitted by - Im sorry
I did not join long ago - I make a practice of
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1164
going immediately on leaving my office @ 5 pm & remain
there till 6 pm so I lose no time in the evening by this
arrangement - Monday evening I spent at Smarts -
Tuesday & Wednesday at home - Clark calling each night
bringing with him his English Concertina which he plays
remarkably well - Bessie & he play Duets together His
instrument & my piano according well together -(Mrs. Smart
& Will spent Tuesday with us) Thursday night I went to
their house for a short time, on my way home I met my
little friend Louisa Burke (that was) she expects to be confined
in about a month - she tells me she has heard her husband
found his way to N.S.Wales & has been committing several
petty robberies there, but was caught & after paying the penalty
for them there will be forwarded on to Melbourne, to meet other
charges awaiting him in this colony. Friday night, in company
with Miss Robers & Bessie I went to Clarks house & spent
a very pleasent evening there - Saturday afternoon I went to play
Croquet at East Melb’, but the day being so hot, the party
adjourned to Mrs. Greens, where we spent the afternoon
some of the party remaining to Tea - I left early & in the
evening I called at Smarts, no one at home but the old lady,
had a long talk with her. Poor woman she has many troubles
& I was pretty well bored with them - on leaving her I
took a ramble down town met Ballantyne & Kyte
walked about the streets in the usual Saturday night
Bourke St fashion, got home by 10 pm - My mother
has been very ill confined to her bed since Thursday with
a severe cold - I staid at home this morning reading
In the afternoon I took a short strool around Fitzroy
Gardens - In the evening I went to Smarts, took out
Annie for a walk, much to the disgust of her
affianced who called at the house during our absence
6/90 |
1165
Feby 17th 1867
Weather very hot & sultry - Im happy to state
I have quite recovered from my attack of illness, & also
my mother - rendering our household more pleasent than
last week. I have been every evening at the Gymnasium
which I find strengthens & does me a great deal of good - Monday
evening I went down to Roberts spent a pleasent evening there –
on my return home I found Mr & Mrs. with Miss Williams
spending the evening, they remained till near 12 pm when
I accompanied them home - Clark was also here & with his
concertina assisted in making the evening pass pleasently -
Tuesday night, Bessie & I spent at Smarts, rather quietly - Wednesday
night I went to Roberts for a short time. Thursday night
I met Louisa & took a long walk with her. Friday night I
spent at Smarts playing cards, not much to my taste, but I
didnt care about being disagreeable, so I joined them, left early -
Saturday afternoon I spent at home reading. In the evening I
went to town knocked about till 10 pm - This morning I went
to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon read till 4 then
took a strool about Fitzroy Gardens, met Mr Peak & arranged
for a boating party for Tuesday night - after tea I called
at Smarts left about 8.30. & went down to St Philips Church
met the Roberts coming out of church walked home with
them - my object in going there was to invite them to come
up the river boating on Tuesday night - I fancied Miss R.
was very cool. I sent her a Valentine consisting of a few
impromptu verses of my own - breathing (of course) of love
& tenderness as usual in such productions - I got a
a fellow clerk of mine to write them - so that she
would not discover by the writing who it came from -
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1166
I was suspected of having sent them - but on being accused
I denied writing them - I fancy she thinks they were
from a person I belive she has been at some time
or another had a passion for -
Feby 24th, 1867
Another week passed away, something after the usual style, with litle variety or profit - Im getting heartily sick of keeping a record of such trashy stuff as Im in the habit of continually writing week after week. What a contrast to the varied chequered life Ive led formerly - Tuesday night Mrs. Floraun called & begged Bessie & I go to spend the evening at her house, found several friends there & together managed to spend an agreeable evening together - Miss Norris left Melb the following morning & we went to wish her farewell - Wednesday night Kidgell entertained a number of friends at his house [in] Victoria Parade, Bessie & I being there, the evening spent in the usual manner, Singing & dancing combined with a Conversazione, Thursday night I spent at Robert’s found them all in the dumps & low spirited, owing to the dangerous illness of Mrs Roberts son (N.Leech) by a former husband) who they had just heard was not expected to live. I was exceedingly sorry - for they seem such a happy united family, anything *occuring of this nature cast a gloom over their social joy. X(I like Georgie *she *is *realyy a nice modest girl & is Good & *kind%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$*would I think %$%$%$%$%$%$# *about %$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$f %$%$%$%$# *in %$%$%$%$%$%$%$# & %$%$%$%$%$%$ but I feel if she has *doubts %$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$#in the *former %$%$p%$# %$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$%$)X fortunate in the second.- there is a very perservering widower who is after her - judging from appearances there is not much love displayed toward him on her part - but Ive heard from authentic sources
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she is to be married to him - she displays a strange
taste, to think seriously of commiting herself to a man with
a family - a young woman like her, an universal favourite
with any quantity of admirers. Friday night I had purposed
going to see Madame Celeste but Miss Cass called & spent
the evening with us - I saw her down to the train at
10.pm - Yesterday afternoon Bessie & I went to Mrs
Greens where we met Kidgell, Saunders & Lennox & their sisters
we intended playing croquet but the weather being so hot
it was proposed to go on the River to which we all
agreed, we left Richmond punt at 4 pm in a fine Gondola
had a spendid pull up to Hawthorn Bridge (taking (us -
(with four oars) about 2 hours - we noticed a great many
on the river enjoying themselves singing & eating fruit Etc
I left our party at the Bridge & taking a cab, arrived home
in time for tea - afterwards went to town on a little business
which on executing I met Peak who was on his way to
the Robert's I accompanied him as far as the house, but
didnt go in, he was not long there but came and accompanied
me to Wellington Parade, where we parted I sauntered
leasurely down to the Richmond punt & just got there
as our party were landing, 10pm. after enjoying them-
selves amazingly & regretting my absence. We all
adjourned to Saunders’ where we spent another hour very
pleasently - 12 when we arrived home - I spent this
morning reading Tennyson's Maud & other pieces by
him - Ive read several of his poems I like better, tho’ this
is very beautiful & replete with a *successful grandeur -
In the afternoon Scoty MCaffray (an old Bendigo friend)
called, (he is at present in partnership with Bob Hooper
in a store at Taradale) & is in a fair way of doing
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1168
well, he remained till 4 pm when he left. In the evening
I took out Jessie Smart for a walk - I think I must
lessen my visits or not go so often to see her - or I shall
get into a mess - she is too loving & the love being on one
side makes it irksome. March 2nd 1867
[Sunday, 3 March 1867] Lovely weather, spent the week very jollily, as usual visiting & pleasure seeking. Been very busy at the office, got several large ships at the pier discharging, some of the finest vessels now afloat, with immense cargos of general merchandise - Im afraid unless we have better legislation, & the fiscal policy of Victoria improved our trade will soon fall off merchants & dealers are getting very chary about visiting *with large importations. They are still debating, in Parliament, the relative merits of Free Trade & Protection principles & the numbers unfortunately seem to be about equally divided in their opinions upon the subject, making business & every thing else anything but satisfactory, for my part I believe in Free Trade, & think protection will do more to put back the colony than any other thing, cramp its resources & cripple its trade, producing a deal of annoyance & confuson to every branch of industry - Monday night my sister & Clark spent the evening with us & also Mr Floraun Mr. Green & Miss Kidgell, spent the evening very pleasently. Tuesday night I spent at Roberts & became confirmed in my opinion with respect to her engagement with Minify.
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Wednesday I spent at home - Thursday night I went to Clarks
to make arrangements with him about us hiring some conveyance
to take us to Ramsdans Ball, left there about 10 pm after spending
a couple of hours very pleasently trying over some music -
Friday night, in company with Clark, Mary & Bessie
I went to the Ramsdans Ball at the Carlton Flour Mills
given in honour of his son George coming of age we arrived there
a little after 9 Pm found upwards of 400 people present -
comprising for the most part the most influential or
the elite of Melbourne - more would have been there but
for a similar entertainment held the same night at Toorak
& given by Sir H Manners Sutton - however a great number
left the Governors early for Ramsdans which most who came
found more to their taste than the one they had left, the
officers of H M Ship Challenger - & other officers in the Govt employ
were present - We found the Ball Room, which was an
impropmtu one, down by the yard at the Mills being floored & covd
with an iron roof brilliantly illuminated with Gas, laid on
for the occasion - very large & beautifully decorated -
also a fine band of some 20 performers engaged for the
occasion - but I cannot speak in too high praise in reference to the
provision made for the company, every comfort, every luxury
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in the shape of confectionery & *relish drinks & beverages
all just for the occasion, surpasses my powers of description
Ice Claret, Ice Champagne Etc was drank in abundance like
water. Waiters knocked about in every direction, this was only
the refreshments partaken of during the dancing - at supper which
was laid out in one of the Granaries, was a magnificient
affair, a Bottle of Champagne at every plate with wine
Ale & paster in profusion to be had if required, while the
Tables were loaded with Ducks, fowls, Turkeys Salads, Pastry,
Etc. & fruit in abundance every variety in season & of the
finest quality, every body I think enjoyed themselves (if not
it was not the fault of the hospitable host & hostess with their
son, who did every thing in their power to make time pass
agreeably-) & all, pronounced the affair to have been the
grandest & best get up of anything of the sort in the
Colonies & Im afraid it will be a long time ere there
is anything given of the sort again in Melbourne -
I hear it will cost about £2,000. they are very wealthy people
& above doing these things from a motive. I met many people
I knew there, Georgie Roberts & her sister Charlotte. I danced
a great deal with the former, & during the evening inquired
if she was engaged to Minify she did not deny it, but declined
answering my question which was tantamount to an
admission that such was the case - & to confirm even
more Mr. M. came for her with a conveyance about 3 am
our party stayd till near 5Pm although the programme
at that time was far from completed, but we found
a great many were beginning to get rather too merry
& boisterous to be pleasent. & so passed one of the
most jolly nights I ever spent in my life - I was
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1171
forcibly struck with the contrast some portions of my life
presented to the one Im living in at present. Who could have
thought I was the same person dressed in a fashionable dress
coat Etc as the same Jack Watmuff who used to knock about
the diggins of Victoria & N.Z. in an old tattered shirt & trousers
sometimes not knowing where his next meal would come
from - or owing to the dangers I was subjected to whether I
would have an existence or not the following day - such
thoughts were of short duration, for I had to go to business
the following morning at 8 am. never did time pass so
slowly with me as yesterday morning, it was a happy
release when at 12 Am I left business & made home -
tho my afternoon was not spent as I should wish, in bed.
We are unfortunately, without a servant, & I was compelled to
spend my afternoon or part of it assisting in our domestic
duties. In the evening I took a ramble about town, called at
Smarts on my way home, stayd there till 10 Pm - came home
& went to bed, never slept sounder in my life, awoke about
9 am this morning after breakfast read for about an hour
then dressed & went to hear the Revd Mr Henderson preach
at the Theatre - In the afternoon I went to Fitzroy Gardens
as per agreement I met I.Peak rambled about with him
about an hour or so, gave him a letter of introduction
to Jim Hamilton, as he is going to Dunedin tomorrow
by the S.S. "Otago" he is a decent young fellow - & one Ive
got a great regard for, although our acquaintance has been
rather short. We parted about 5 pm. After tea I went
to Smarts for a short time, left early & came home
found Clark & Mary here, who stayd for supper -
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1172
March 6th 1867
Weather very warm, dusty & dirty, to day especially when the
thermometer stood as high as 100º in the shade. Monday evening after
tea staid at home till 9 Pm singing Etc. took a strool around town
for an hour, met Swanston, came home together - Tuesday I missed
going to the Gymnasium, as I was going to Mrs Green to assist
her in packing up her things as she is leaving town for Balaclava
where Kidgell (her brother) has bought a house & garden - I
remained with her till 12 hard at work pulling down beds
& packing up her furniture Etc - Poor woman hers is not an
enviable lot, left a widow with six children & entirely
dependant upon her brothers for support - they are a most
unfortunate family, no less than 6 deaths if I mistake not
having occurred in the family within the last year - & all
closely connected - This evening Wednesday, after leaving the
office I went for an hour to the Gymnasium, did me a deal
of good, after tea Bessie & I left home with the intention
of paying the Williams a visit, found them out gone to
the Theatre - so we continued our walk to the Roberts
Found Georgie & her intended had gone to the Theatre
however we staid talking to the old folks & Charlotte
till nearly 10 Pm - when we left, but not before being
regaled with fruit from their garden & some good
colonial wine of their own making, which the
old gentleman rather prides himself upon - he is
one of the oldest residents in Victoria arrived here
about 29 years ago & has seen some ups & downs
& many changes in it since, he loves to allude to the
old times, & I really find it very interesting to listen
March 7th.1867
Change in the weather wind S.E. rather dusty
went out for about two hours after tea, met Adamson
went to the Gymnasium together, took a strool afterwards
home early, spent an hour with Bessie, trying some duets
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1173
March 9th.1867
Weather much cooler & more pleasent - Went to the Gymnasium after leaving
the office last night remained there till 6.10.Pm, came on to rain got nicely wet
before I reached home - I found Bessie had gone to see Miss Saunders
as she had purposed going to see the Casses at St Yarra but owing to
the rain they had remained with Miss S. I went for her at 8pm staid
there till 10 pm - passing the time very pleasently but rather quietly-
[Sunday, 10 March 1867]
March 11th.1866
Weather fine - Yesterday, (Saturday) afternoon spent playing Croquet
with a very nice set of people - Tom Rooke accompanied me home
& had tea & spent a couple of hours with us playing & singing -
I went to town with him to see no harm came of him -
This morning (Sunday) I went to hear Mr Henderson preach his
3rd Sermon of a series, from the 4th Corinthians, like all he preaches
upon & makes a study – it was an excellent discourse. I took a
long walk in the afternoon around Fitzroy Gardens alone –
being a lovely day I enjoyed the walk, every thing looked so fresh
& green, the trees & scrubs, loaded with their choicest foliage - After
tea I went to see the Smarts found *them *where, they have
*removed into a house in Kg Wlm St. not far from us, they
made me very welcome, as usual, remained there chatting on
a variety of subjects till after nine, when I came home, found
Mary & Clark here just sitting down to supper. They are
both well & appear to be very happy - God grant they
may be ever so - I met Charlotte Roberts coming home from
the gardens & I walked part of the way home with her.
March 17th 1867
Weather fine, but rather variable during the past few days. Monday
evening I spent at my sister Marys, with mother. Tuesday evening
Bessie & I called at Williams’ (Americans) spent the evening very
sociably. Wednesday Bessie & I were invited there to a dinner
which was a purely national one, consisting of Pork & Beans,
several Americans were there - at its conclusion we enjoyed
ourselves in singing & dancing Etc. I rather like these people
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1174
there is a homely plain sincerety about their manners which if not
that grace about them which characterises Europeans - I believe there is
more true heartedness, they have a daughter (Alice) a very nice unaffected
girl, modest & retiring without being destitute of a certain coquetry &
simplicity of style which is rather attractive. Her parents at least Mr
W. is very strict with her Mrs. W. is her mothers sister, a strange relationship
similar to the Roberts - & not a legal connection in this colony -
Thursday night I called at Smarts found them out
except Jessie & she had gone to bed with her usual chronic
head ache – on leaving I went to the Mechanics Institute
Collins St to attend a rehearsal of Richardsons who is getting
up a Concert & requested me to assist at it, I agreed, we
sang several fine choruses & after a few rehearsals I fancy we
can produce them in a credible manner - Saturday afternoon I
joined a party bound for Balaclava for the purpose of playing
a game, or match, of Croquet. We, that is to say the Melbourne
people proved the victors much to the disgust of the Balacava
folks. At the conclusion of the match we adjourned to Mrs.
Greens where we found a nice tea provided for & being all
old acquaintances the time was spent pleasently & agreeably –
Bessie & I, with Saunders & Casey Browning came to town by
7.20. train walked to Ss house where we remained for about
an hour. On leaving there we called on our way home at
Mrs. Flourans, staid there till 11 Pm - This morning I
went to hear Mr. Henderson preach. In the afternoon, took
a strool round Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening, called at Smarts
did not stay long, home by 9 pm found Mary & Clark here
who have but just gone - We had a long letter from
Father by the last mail from England – plenty of matter
in it concerning family affairs, the principal items being the
confirmation of the non existance of a chance of receiving any
of the money left by the death of my Uncle Henry & his
wife - what with Lawyers & incidental expenses I can
gather from the tone of the communication it is useless hoping
to be benefitted by that *event in a pecuniary manner
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24 March 1867
Weather changeable, rather cooler during the nights than form as been
the past few months - Time passed much as usual with me
not particularly busy at the office & Im sadly afraid
unless some reform is affected by our legislators in the
advancement of the colonies interests that we shall soon
be at a stand still, Victoria is one of the finest colonies in
the world, capable of producing most every natural production
with advantages of position, wealth & enterprising inhabitants
& all it wants to make it go ahead is a liberal wise &
enlightened Govt. as present we are ruled & have been for
years past by a lot of purse proud landed sheep farming aristocracy
who use their power for their own interests, but now & then
put on a plausible suit of clothing to hoodwink & blind the
reason of the people, by pretending to do everything in their
power towards the advancement of the colony & its welfare –
our population has not increased for years past. What is
wanted in my opinion is more immigration, the want of which this
colony is now & has long been languishing for to develop its resources
Monday evening I went to Smarts for a walk - Tuesday night I attended the Wesleyan Chapel in Brunswick St. to hear a Lecture delivered by the Revd I. New, on Savanarolo the Italian Reformer. The subject was a good one & well handled, by the lecturer (who is admitted to be one of the best in the colonies) he commenced with his life & followed him in his career from childhood to his martyrdom, detailing all his struggles & mighty efforts to reform the Church - & also gave a fine account
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in a brief but lucid manner of the state of Europe but more
particularly of Italy during that period, between the years
1450 & 1500 AD, when this great man lived. The lecturer drew
very favorable comparisons between him & Luther, the difference
Savonarolo tried to lop the “Tree” the Romish Church with all
its hideous licentiousness of its rotten branches, while Luther endeavd
to extract it Root & branches – the lecture lasted some 2
hours & was attentively listened to throughout - Wednesday
night I went down to see the Roberts’ had a long talk to
Georgie, she was the only one at home – I left there about 9 pm from
there I went for Bessie who was spending the evening at Marys
staid there till 10.30. – home at 11 pm - Thursday night I
spent at Richardsons class, bellowing away in the chorus
Friday night I was introduced, by a friend, to the Musical
Union, (who gave a Grand Concert last night, Saturday, the
music selected was Bennets “May Queen” an exquisite
piece, which I liked exceedingly) The rehearsal was a good one
& gave me a good idea of it - Yesterday afternoon Bessie
& I playd a return match of Croquet with a large
party on the E.H.C. Ground resulting in a tie, at its
conclusion I had to hurry home & dress, went to the
Concert, which came off with great eclat, tho’ the house
was but moderately filled, The principal vocalists were
Fanny Carandini (daughter of old Mdm Carandini) who is
really a fine singer possessing a spendid mezzo sohpano voice
Sherwin did the tenore & Emery, the Basso - I must
not forget to state the chorus was most effective, in my
estimation, after it was over I met Tom Grimwood &
Mrs. Florauns & Miss Norriss with *W. H. Williams & we all
went into Nissens & had supper nearly 12 Pm when
we got to our respective homes. This morning I went
to hear Mr Henderson preach his sermon being more
than usually good, being apon the life & sufferings
6/102 |
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of the Apostle Paul & citing him as an example for what he
endured for Christs sake. I read for about 2 hours in the afternoon
& took a strool for another 2 hours, to digest my dinner & assist
me in gaining an appetite for my tea – after the latter was
discussed I went to Smarts found all out except Mrs. S. staid
about an hour with her & then went down town, met the
Miss S coming from Church, joined them, & saw them home
remained till 10Pm so now for bed – my brother Fred is very
ill with Neauralgia (I think I havnt spelt the word right)
March 27th.1867
Weather rather changeable, one day hot & the next cold - &
so on. The English Mail left here to day I wrote a long letter
to father yesterday which I sent by it, giving him a long a/c
of our position, Etc. with all current news respecting the
state of the colony & its prospects - Monday night on
arriving home I found my sister Mary here, she spent the
evening with us. Clark came about 9 P.m. bringing with
him his concertina Mary & him played, some beautiful
selections from various Operas, together quite a treat
to listen to them, nearly 12Pm when the left, after
spending a pleasent evening in each others society -
Tuesday evening after leaving business I went to the
Gymnasium as usual, left it at 6 pm, a sharp walk
of 20 minutes brought me home with a fine appetite
for my tea, after which I read for an hour, Ruskin
M.A. Lectures or two of them Called Cesame & Lillies
Kings Thoughts some of the finest reading & ideas
respecting the manner of reading works & being able
to understand them & read them in the proper spirit
I ever met with. Ive not finished them yet
they are highly interesting & useful and I would recommend
6/103 |
1178
their reading & study to all who are in the habit of just
superficially glansing over works which fall into their hands
I left home about 8Pm went up to the Smarts,
took Jessie out for a short walk, on our arrival
back found Mrs. Smart had some company, a very pleasent
couple of the name of Evans. Mrs. E. being a singer & fond
of music, we soon got singing & passed the time away till
12Pm very hilariously. I wish these people (Smarts) would not
be so pressing in their invitations to me, Im sure
they think “Im on” with Jessie. I never ask her to come
out for a walk, it is at her own suggestion. Im pretty
plain & let them know Ive no serious intentions of our
acquaintance having any closer connection than it at present
exists they are a nice family & very pleasent acquaintances –
& I like occasionally to go & visit them. To
day after leaving the Gymnasium I had to hurry home hasty
arrived home & safely housed when a most terrific thunder
thunder storm burst over Melbourne deluging the
streets with water & filling the air with the most deafening
roars of thunder, & lighting up the streets with vivid lightning
it passed over by 8Pm & now the air is beautiful & clear
the Clouds cleared away leaving bare the heavens with its
numerous glittering constellations -
Sunday March 31th 1867
Weather beautiful the last few days. I wish
human nature were as fair a form (or animated nature
as was the inanimate) then indeed would the world
be a lovely one to dwell in, but such as it is, we
put up with it & all the trials, sorrows, griefs &
afflictions, its dissapointments & thwarted hopes we
are subjected to in it, life seems a continual
6/104 |
1179
struggle, to many for a bare existance with little prospect
of improvement. Im sure in our family its been nothing
else since I remember, anything of our history
but a series of struggles & disappointments to make
ends meet, if my mother, heaven bless her, hadnt been
a genius & possessed of most indomitable courage &
perseverence & exercised a great amount of
self denial towards, her children would not now
be what they are, respectable members of society, ever
working, ever scheming night & day for her childrens sake
she is a woman with a fine cultivated mind very quick
& keen in her perceptions a thorough knowledge of whatever
theme she speaks upon – reads & thinks a great deal -
Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing
Class, had a good practice, singing some fine choruses -
Friday evening, Kidgell called & stayed tea with us, spent
a couple of hours or so with us afterwards. I accompanied
him a part of the way home - Yesterday afternoon
I spent on coming home for some two hours in chopping
up a lot of firewood, after which I dressed & went to
hear the Head Quarters Band play in Fitzroy Gardens
on my arrival there I fell in with Mr Bond, who
I had heard, during the week was a fellow passenger
of ours from England in the good ship “Brothers”
he came out with his parents & landed in Melbourne
whilst we landed at Adelaide, & so lost sight of
each other until last Saturday night when Bessie
went to tea to Saunders & was introduced to old
Mrs. Bond, who at once remembered our name
(being a peculiar one) we wandered about together
all the afternoon talking over the varied fortunes
of our separate houses – or families. Met Mary
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1180
[&] Clark chatted with them a short time, met many others
I knew, at the conclusion of the playing I invited Bond
home with me to tea after which we left together, I
going to the Railway Station where I met my
sister Bessie & Mrs. Gotch, who had been spending
the afternoon at Greens at Balaclava. 10 Pm when we
got home - This morning I went to hear Mr
Henderson preach (Theatre Royal) his subject being
Mans Nature & its Capabilities, at the conclusion of
the service I met Taggatt, Poor fellow, his matrimonial
existence is none of the pleasentest his wife being deranged
in her intellect & subject to the most extraordinary fits –
Im very sorry for him, for his is a nice fellow & one
who has seen a deal of suffering & now to be tried with
such an incumberance renders him an object of compassion.
After dinner I read for a while. Afterwards took a
strool around the Gardens, in company with Miss
Skinner who I had met there - After tea went to
Smarts staid till 9.30.
April 3rd 1867
Another recital of uninteresting matter concerning
nobody & to no purpose or aim, Im beginning to think
keeping a journal when there is no object in view is down-
right egotism & were I to see such effusion as these Im
in the habit of, weekly producing, I would set the
writer down for a conceited, egotistical, vain &
presumptions fool - It has become simply a
matter of habit for me now & I cant very well
break it off, so I got careless with regard to
6/106 |
1181
the writing dictation & everything else connected with it
I make it nothing more than an epitome of what actually
occurs to myself, without any allusion to the characters
of those Im thrown in contact with & any observations,
thoughts, feelings, Etc I may have on subjects continually
placed under my notice whether social, political, or
*learned, nothing more than the bare outline of my
very every day life - Monday, after office hours, spent
an hour at the Gymnasium, much to my benefit –
giving me an excellent appetite for my tea, after which
discussion I was agreeably surprised by the arrival of
my sister Mary, unexpectedly, to spend the evening with
us, which she did, tending to make it pass most
agreeable, by the vivacity & flow of spirits she is the
happy possessor of, making our house ring again
with mirth & music - I saw her home about
11.Pm, 12 when I got home - Tuesday evening
I spent at Smarts playing cribbage &
till 11.Pm. Wednesday I attended a Rehearsal at
the Trades Hall after which on coming home I
accompanied Bessie to Roberts spent an hour or two
very jolly singing dancing & eating fruit just plucked
from the trees out of their fine garden - got home
by 10Pm - April 7th 1867
Weather fine, getting rather cool in the mornings
until the sun gets up - dreadfully slack at the Railway
stn, havent a ship discharging at the Pier. I hardly
know how Ive passed my office hours away. I generally
avail myself of these slack days (they dont often occur)
in brushing up on my Arithmetic Etc - Thursday
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1182
went to Smarts for a short time. Friday evening in company
with Mother & Jessie Smart I went to the Trades Hall
after seeing them comfortably seated, I left them & went for
the remainder of the evening or while the concert was
taking place in the Green Room, the singers consisted
of some very good amateurs Beaumont Johnson &
Marshall & self with Mrs. Fox, Reed & Moir, all doing
the allotted work well. I was not well pleased at my
own performance - I never sang so badly in public, in my
life, the songs I chose were not altogether for my share,
however I came in for a fair share of applause –
A Ball was held after the Concert. Fred took Mother
home while I remained with Jessie until its termination
which took place about 3 am yesterday (Saturday) morning
I felt very tired yesterday, but raining heavy all day,
I did not go out Will Smart called in the afternoon
& stayd at our house till 9 Pm - Spent to day
reading & writing a variety of matters. In the evening
I went to hear Mr Dare preach, in Brunswick St
met Jessie Smart after the service saw her home
& left immediately afterwards -
April 11th.1867
Lovely weather during the past few days
no dust, no hot winds & mosquitoes to annoy us
such a happy release from the nuisances experienced
during the last 6 months from the oppressive
heat. Much busier at the office than when I last
wrote, three ships came alongside the pier on Monday
& commenced discharging giving us a little to do
I feel downright wretched while idle. Im sure
if I was rich I couldnt rest satisfied without I was
engaged in some pursuit or another - Close
application to study Im debarred from - owing to
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sight being so impared, this is the only reason I have
for desiring money, so has to be enabled to put myself in
under a good oculist & be able to adhere to his direction
which I know would not be to exercise my sight for a long
time & in my present position that would be impossible
this affection, Im afraid makes me a sad murmurer & a
most dissatisfied wretch whereas I have much to be
thankful for - a good home, good mother, good brother &
sisters good health & inumerable other blessings –
Monday evening, Bessie & I went to spend the evening
at Williams (Young St) & was greatly shocked to find
one of their children had died during the afternoon -
we found them buried in the deepest sorrow, & little we
could do to alleviate it, we left soon afterwards – I
went down to town as far as the Gymnasium, didnt
stay long - home early - Tuesday evening I had to go
to town after tea, on my way home I called at
Smarts for my mother who had been spending the
evening there - had a game or two of whist, got
home by 11 Pm.- Wednesday evening on arriving home
found Miss Saunders at our house, who stayd tea &
spent the evening with us, her brother James called
at 10Pm for her & I accompanied them nearly home - after 11 pm
when I got home my self - This evening after tea, I went to my
sisters Marys, found her out so went to town - met a friend & was
induced to go to see Julia Mathews, in a part peculiarly
adapted for her. The Rustic Prima Donna - in which she has
a deal of singing to do. I like her voice being a fine
rich contralto, she was in good voice & I came
away very well satisfied with my shillings worth -
Walked home with Alison Clark, my sisters husband[s]
brother.
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1184
April 14th.1867 (Sunday evening)
Fine weather - enjoying good health - & good spirits -
Go to business now & for the ensuing 6 months at 9Am instead
of 8 am as formerly, the difference gives me time in the
morning to devote to reading, a precious hour to me for
I never read at nights in consequence of the weakness of
my sight Friday evening I spent at Mrs Florauns very
agreeably, there being a young lady (Miss Dove from Hobart
Town) staying there who sings & plays well - Yesterday
afternoon I spent reading, until 4 pm when I called at Smarts
for with a book my mother had borrowed did not stay long, after tea
I attended a Rehearsal of the Oratorio Elijah held
in the Exhibition building. I never heard the music
before, I think it very grand. Mendelssohn immortalised himself
by giving the world such a production, about 300 choristers
were in attendance, the principals being the best
vocalists we have at present in Victoria. Walter
Bass, the Caridinis, sophrano & contralto, Sherwin
Tenor - I was a dummy or next thing to it, for tis
impossible to sing such music at sight - At its
conclusion I met Saunders rambled home with him as far
as the Gardens. On my arrival home found Mary &
Clark here just leaving, quite well - Spent this
morning & part of the afternoon reading - took a strool
in company with Adamson about Fitzroy Gardens –
After tea I went to Smarts. Jessie & I took a ramble for an
hour or so in a sociable way - shopping in Smith Street -
Tuesday night 16th.April 1867. Weather very cold & showery
somewhat resembling the English climate at this time of the year if
the usual proverbial expression of April showers is to be relied upon –
A little busier at the office than last week, there being three
or four large ships discharging at our pier - English Mail
arrived yesterday no news from home for us - Public affairs
in rather an unsettled state, owing to the great reform
agitation, & the still unsuppressed Fenian movement Etc
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1185
Monday evening, Bessie & I went to hear the Oratoria of
Elijah at the Exhibition Building, it came off very well
considering, the choruses were very so so, owing to the few
rehearsals they had previous to its production, the principals
were very good, Walter sustaining the opinions concerning his
vocal powers so much expressed, the Caradini’s sang well
especially the Trio Lift thine eyes, so very rare to hear
three members of one family sing together, nothing can
be more harmonious. We met Clark & Mary at its conclusion
accompanied each other part of the way home - This evening
I spent at Mrs Florauns very sociably. Miss Dove sang
& playd for us till near 10pm when I took my departure.
April 18th.1867
Weather still unsettled, making it unpleasent, if it continues
for the holidays - for those at least, who are bent upon
pleasure - for my own part Ive no money to spend & feel
selfish or anyway careless about the time - my mind is
somewhat harrassed concerning the Bill Ive to meet at the end
of next month. I had thought of receiving some money from
Father ere now, there is only one more Mail due before my
Bill will be presented. I must trust to chance & the chapter of
accidents I suppose, rather a rotten stick to depend upon –
Last night, on leaving the Gymnasium I got drenched
to the skin with with one of the heaviest showers I ever
felt, arrived home changed my clothes & felt all right in no
time - the rain went off & the moon shone forth & all
nature was once more fair to look upon, overhead,
found on arriving home my mother had gone to spend the day
at Marys - Bessie & Fred going out I was left alone
till 9 Pm when they returned. I at once started for my
mother, staid supper at Clarks 11.30.Pm when I got
her home - she is getting very weak & cannot
submit to any degree of exertion, she was quite
knocked up on arriving home God grant her health &
strength for many years to come - I wish it was in
my power to make her life more easy &
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1186
comfortable than it has been for many many years –
This evening, Fred took Mother & Bessie to the last of the
Exhibition Musical Festival Concerts. I went also
but into a different part of the building, the Messiah
was produced, some parts of it went very well, but taken
altogether the music was anything but well rendered
*T Meloyn the Tenor sang “Comfort Ye” as if it was an
operatic air. Walter was the only genuine singer of the
lot - Met Clark & Mary after it was over - I should
not have enjoyed myself - but for the fun I had in
meeting several acquaintances during the Interval –
Criticing the various singers & commenting upon Horsleys
conduct (A Baton was presented to him by the ladies)
it was 11 Pm when we arrived home -
21 April 1867 (Sunday evening)
Weather lovely. Good Friday was observed
was as a holiday. I staid at home all day with the exception
of a little walk I took in the afternoon. In the evening
in company with Fred I got into the Stalls of the
Theatre, from the back, which little arrangement saved me
3/. An excellent programme was produced. Selections
from the "Messiah" & "Creation". Angus the Bass, Donaldson
Tenor Mrs. Fox – Sophrano - the music was well rendered - The
Why do the Nations” by Angus was sung better than ever I remember
to have heard it - & I may say the same of "Softly Pealing" - Comfort Ye
by Donaldson - altogether I was well pleased at the performance
& came away highly delighted - Saturday, a holiday morning I took
a walk about town & called at Saunders’s & found James
had gone on a Pedestrian Tour - In the afternoon went
to town with Bessie & Alice Hungerland – spent the evening
rambling about Bourke St - Spent my time when not abroad
in reading Bulwers “What will he do with it” a strange
Title for a Book, but like all of his works - worth
reading, I have spent many pleasent hours over the work -
This morning I finished it. In the afternoon I took a
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1187
ramble about the Gardens met several acquaintances & chatted
with them - In the evening I went to Smarts for a short time
home early -
28th.April 1867, Sunday
Weather changeable & unsettled, cloudy, foggy, showery Etc
with very little sunshine. Time slipping by producing
very little change in our domestic circle, except
to my sister Bessie, who has been very ill from an attack
of Cholera. I am happy to state she is getting better and
able to knock about - Mother having had all the household
duties or more than her usual share to do, is pretty well
knocked up in consequence - & our income is so very
small as to render us unable to employ a servant – I
feel it a reproach to my manhood not to be in a position to render
her life more easy & lighten her duties & responsibilities
Freds salary like my own is too small to keep her as we would
wish, what with heavy rent & the various other expenses we have to
submit to a great deal of annoyance - & put up with makeshifts
& makebelieves, genteel poverty is a most sickening malady
& makes those suffering from it swallow many a bitter pill -
For my own part I feel I have changed my course of life
or occupation, too late in life ever to be successful or rise to
any degree of excellence as a clerk - too many younger men with
unimpared faculties, possessed of interest, with good education
in Melbourne to have any chance of success
& being afflicted with partial loss of sight - renders me more
hopeless & not without cause when many others differently
circumstanced Easter Monday being a holiday & having no
other place to go, I took Mother out for a walk, found our
way to the Melb Cricket Ground, where we found a great
many people assembled to witness the Athletic Sports
we rambled about the Ground meeting a great many
we know - confined ourselves to the Society of Mrs Dalrymple
& her sister Adalia Rekowski - mother got very tired &
it was with great difficulty I could get her home –
in the evening I took a strool for about an hour, came
home & read a little & so passed my Easter holidays
I think the quietest I ever spent in my life, not
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1188
having any money to spend I was unable to go about &
enter into the various amusements provided by the
Caterers of such things, during holiday season - Tuesday
morning, went to business found some large ships had
arrived during the holidays so I had to set to & copy their
Manifests making us quite busy for the rest of the week
in the evening on leaving office I met Robt Hooper he
had come to town on business & was to return home
that day by the night train - I got him to have tea
with me & afterwards accompanied him to the station
where such a scene of bustle & confusion presented
itself that I can never forget. The excursion tickets
were only available for certain trains & the last ones
were just on the point of starting & most every one
had delayed leaving town until the last train, husbands
& wives with children seperated, Brother losing the *sum
of their sisters, friends parted in such a sudden manner by
the crowd jostling as to spare the execution of an usual
leave taking - people getting into wrong carriages –
struggling - jostling, pushing, cursing & *screaming - *running
crying Etc Etc made up such a scene of Babel
confusion that no pen can describe. I was glad when
I shook hands with Bob & saw him safe into a night
train & was not long within sight or leaving of the stn
in a few minutes afterwards. I called at Smarts on
my way home staid there until 11 Pm, in company
with Dr Mousse & several other friends of the Smarts, smoking
playing cards, Singing & drinking Colonial Wine & Beer – very
convivially the whole thing company & concomitants not
altogether to my taste. Wednesday evening I spent
very pleasently, at Clarks, with him & Mary – Thursday
night went to a Rehearsal, at the Mechanics Institute, of
Richardsons Concert - at its conclusion I walked home
with Miss Richardson, a very nice young lady, stayd a
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1189
a few minutes at their house - Friday night there
was to have been another rehearsal, but after going
to the place found it occupied by another Vocal Society
so we had to disperse! I again accompanied Miss R
home - Saturday afternoon I went to Fitzroy Gardens
to hear the Band play & indulge in a promenade
met Mary there & after the performance was over -
went to her house & had tea there Mrs. Green
also called & remained tea, after which I went again
to Richardsons, sang till nearly 10Pm when I left
in company with Miss Norris & Miss Dover & Grimwood who
are living at Mrs Florauns in George Street (Boarders) Tom
having taken up his quarters there, left us because Fred &
him could not agree - staid about half an hour at
Mrs. F. 11 Pm when I got home - This morning I went to
hear Mr. Henderson preach in the Theatre, met Mrs Dalrymple
In the afternoon I took a walk around the Gardens
met John Marsden walked home with him. After tea
went to the Smarts staid about a couple of hours there
two German gentlemen were there & I had a long
discussion with about the way the Sabbath day should
be spent they believing it to be a day for recreation
& or next to it I have often noticed how lax Germans
are in their ideas with respect to Religious forms & observances
& yet they are fond of alluding to Luther - & his doctrines &
hold with pride their countryman who first effected the
Reformation. My leisure hours to day, Ive spent reading that
most humourous of works by Dickens “Martin Chuzzlewit”
scarcely a character introduced in the work, but what isnt a
type of a class to be met with in everyday life – my
mother has been reading it, some parts aloud & it does me good
to hear her roar with laughter when she comes
across some of the many humorous passages
the story is interlaced with -
6/115 |
1190
May 5th 1867
Weather been bad all the week, not one really
fine day continually raining & cloudy Monday
night Bessie & I went to Richmond & paid our old
acquaintances the Richardsons a visit, they made us very
welcome & we spent a very pleasent sociable evening
there with them - Tuesday evening, very wet I went
to the “Mechanics” at Prahran to attend a Rehearsal of the
“May Queen” a portion of which was to be sung the following
night in the Exhibition Concert at Beaumonts Benefits
*I had no intention of going but got pressed to do so -
& being for a charitable purpose, I could not well refuse -
Wednesday night I went to the New Exhibition Building found the whole of the immense building crowded I believe there were upwards of 3000 people present the people comprised all the best available musical talents in the Colony, both as vocalists Instrumentalists Madrigal & Glees Society & Musical Union, Etc all vieing to do something towards making it a thorough good concert, it must have been exceedingly gratifying to Beaumont to be made aware of the widespread sympathy displayed toward him in consequence of his misfortunes (viz. he went out shooting with the Lyster Bros & through some mistake received a charge of shot in the face, some entering his eyes, one of which had to be taken out altogether the other is so much affected that it is feared he will not be able to see again a most frightful calamity & happening to one so young & gifted, he was the best tenor singer in the Colony - & had appeared in the Lysters Opera Troupe as first tenor in several Operas & was well liked throughout the colony - the Concert yielded between 500 & 600 pounds Stg. I never not scanned-checked using reversed print-through of previous page
6/116 |
1191
saw such an assemblage before under one Roof, every
thing went off first rate - I met many I knew - walked
home with Clark & Mary - Thursday night being wet
I went to Smarts, (who live little more than a stones throw
from our house). Friday night, I left home with the
idea of going to Richardsons Class, on reaching the place
found Id made a mistake the Rehl having taken place
the night before. I did not care knowing what we were
practicing pretty well - I spent the balance of the evening
at Florauns as usual very jollily, there being no less
than 5 ladies living with her, young & handsome, & more
than usually accomplished, we had singing & dancing
with other amusements tending to while away time very
agreeably - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to hear
the Band play, coming on to Rain rather heavily
while in the garden, we had to disperse, we made for
Marys, staid there till we thought it was over & then
hurried home, but we were doomed to having many
stoppages ere we reached our goal, owing to the showers
& having to dodge our way from one verandah
to another - after tea I went into town to St Georges
Hall - where Richardsons Concert was to be held, being a
a wet night the house was not well filled but much
better than could be expected - the singing was very
good the soloists were all good & received unanimous
encores - I only sang with choruses, not being a pupil
or member of his class, at the conclusion of the
concert we got up an impromptu dance - after the
audience had left, danced till the Gas was turned
off when we were obliged to leave - went into Nissens
Cafe & Tom Grimwood insisted upon treating some
7 or 8 which comprised our party, being Mrs. Florauns
6/117 |
1192
boarders, to Oysters & *Paster Coffee Cakes, Etc - Tom left us
last week owing to Fred & him continually disagreeing
I never liked him, he such an infernal liar. I dont
know how he manages to live so extravagantly as he does
he goes everywhere & generally takes Mrs. F. with him
has money for everything & yet his salary cannot & is
not sufficient to warrant such a display as he makes,
I trust he is acting honestly but Im afraid its otherwise -
It was 12 Pm when I got home - This morning
I went to hear Mr Henderson - In the afternoon
took a strool around Fitzroy Gardens met all Mrs F
Florauns “party” walked home with them - was invited
to tea but declined. In the evening I went to Smarts
Jessie & I went out for a short walk - her mother
suggesting she required it as she gets so little exercise
I got home about 9.30 pm - now for bed -
8th.May 1867
Lovely weather during the past 3 days, rather cold
first thing in the morning but not uncomfortably so - I enjoy
my walk to the office in the morning, fine, from the fact of having
plenty of time, so I go the longest way round for the sake of
the benefit to be derived from the fine bracing air & what with
my walk & an hour spent at the Gymnasium every evening
on leaving the office I enjoy excellent health - On arriving
home on Monday evening I found Mrs. & Miss Saunders here
who staid tea & spent the evening with us, James Saunders
calling for them about 9 pm - My sister Mary also spent
the evening with us. I saw her home about 11 pm -
Tuesday evening we also had a number of visitors, Miss Rekowskis
Miss Flower, & a Mr. & Mrs. Watts friends of Bessies. We spent the
evening very pleasently, all being talkative folks. Miss R.
especially is very lively & witty, possesses a good deal of quiet
humour & sarcasm, many would say to too a great an
extent for one so young, there is something very vivacious
6/118 |
1193
and attractive but must be & is *not a favorite with dull folks
I had a long walk seeing her & Miss F. home to Richmond. I did
not notice the distance going, but going back I did anything but
bless young ladies in general who had no brother or relatives
to call for them & see them home - I was tired when I got home
nearly 1 Am this morning ere I reached it. This evening I
went to Smarts for an hour or two, took Jessie out for a
strool at the suggestion of her mother - I fancy they think
Im paying court to her daughter, & gave Jessie to understand
that if such was the case our acquaintance must end for I
have no idea or see any prospect in my present position
of entertaining such a project. I mean to make my visits less
frequent for the future -
[11 May 1867 (Saturday)]
11 April 1867 (Saturday)
Weather beautiful, Jogging along as usual, passing my time as
pleasently as possible considering the circumstances, as follows -
Thursday night as per invitation, Bessie & I went to pass the
evening at Mrs. Flowers, Wellington Parade, on arriving there found
upwards of a dozen young [ladies] & only another young gentleman
besides myself - the Flowers mustered pretty strong there being
several of the Miss F's, say half a dozen, we passed the evening
dancing, singing, & indulging in a quantity of small talk.
Mrs F. is one of the finest pianists Ive heard, they are a very
nice family & altogether I spent a very jolly night about
12 Pm when we broke up - Friday night, found Mrs. Smart
at our house, on arriving home - who staid tea after which
I went to see my sister Mary, found her & Clark
well, did not stay long, called at Florauns on my way
back found all hands preparing to go to a Dance – so
I did not remain, spent the balance of the evening at home
endeavouring to amuse Mrs. S- her daughter Annie came for
her about 10Pm she staid but a short time - I cant
say I enjoyed myself, my sister Bessie & they having rather a
violent antipathy towards each other - for what reason
I know not. Saturday afternoon I spent at home reading
Victor Hugo: Le Miserables, & I must say Im somewhat
6/119 |
1194
disappointed, its the first of his works Ive read. I see little difference
between it & other French novels, a little improbable, but containing to
English readers a great deal of undue sentiment, not of the purest
moral order. In the evening I walked into town met Adamson,
who having an entree into the Theatre Royal for two, I accompanied
him, saw Madam Celeste, in a stupid drama called The
Flying Dutchman, the greatest piece of rubbish I ever sat
out. I was heartily glad when it concluded. Dave walked
home with me, passed the Princes Theatre, just as the Governors
daughters were leaving it rather amused at the manner they
were treated, a carpet being laid down for their dainty feet to
walk upon from the door of the Dress Circle to that of their carriage
something unusual for Australians to see -
May 19th 1867
Lovely weather, very slack at the office, ships arriving
for some cause or another going to the other Piers, generally
supposed to be from bad management, think it arises from a
spirit of dissatisfaction existing amongst the Agents. Sunday afternoon
I took an idea of going to Sandridge, on my arrival there seeing
a vast number of people leaving the pier in boats to go &
visit the Italian War Steamer "Magenta" I felt a desire
no sooner experienced then put into force, taking my passage
in a yacht, on payment of l/. enjoyed a pleasent sail to the
vessel found great difficulty in getting on board owing to the
number of boats surrounding the vessel - with a deal of
trouble I at length succeeded, found her a fine vessel of
some 2500 Tons Burden fitted up in every respect as
an English Man of War with the exception of the officers
Cabins & Saloon which are the plainest I ever was in. Ive
seen many a "coaster" with a far more luxurious cabin
I went all over her, from stern to stern, every[where] very neat & clean
the men very happy & jolly looking, who spend their time
singing dancing & smoking cigars. One thing I noticed
as being very different from the conduct in our ships
was the familiarity existing between the officers & men
6/120 |
1195
they stand & talk to each other & appear to be quite on a level
It appears they are upon a scientific cruise, having left Italy
two years ago, visiting Japan & China & thru East & W coasts of S America
About 4 P.m. I began to think of leaving the ship, but how, or
when was the question, the vessel was crowded with people &
there being only one gangway such a scene of confusion
rushing & pushing, scrambling Etc. as Ive seldom ever seen
before ensued that defies discription, a steam tug about
5 Pm came & took about 700 off, which cleared it a little & with
a great effort I at length got into a small boat & was
landed safely. I pitied the poor women & children, many
of whom were dragged through the port holes - It has
served me as a lesson never to go sightseeing again on
a Sunday. On landing I just was in time to catch a train
& then took a cab & was home by 6.30. Pm - after tea I
took a walk into town on coming home I was attracted
by the sound of some strange instrument, & on going to see
what it was found about 50 Italian sailors congregated in
the Carlton Gardens, dancing, thoroughly enjoying themselves,
without the consciousness of they being in holy English eyes
Sabbath breakers, & wretched wicked sinners, after they had
indulged for upwards of an hour a posse of policemen
came & ordered them off - they complied but not with
a very good grace - for their musician struck up some
marching air & they all accompanied him with ensuing
vocal effects to the shock of the people of the neighbourhood
who were just returning from Church - Monday evening
Bessie & I went to Rekowskis at Richmond & spent the evening
there very pleasently, several other young people were there -
afer 12 Pm when we arived home, desperately tired. Tuesday
night my sister & I went to a party at Mrs Jembeis
George St. found a nice lot of people there many of whom
we knew & all bent upon enjoyment, there being some
excellent singers & musicians the time passed very
agreeably, we had plenty of dancing, & plenty to eat &
drink, & I must admit at 2 Am this morning we were very
6/121 |
1196
loath to break up & go to our respective houses, which we did
for my own part feeling very tired. I mean to take it easy the
rest of the week. Ive been terribly disappointed by the arrival of
the English Mail, deliverd on Monday, I had expected money
from my father he having promised to send me some by this
months mail. I have to meet a Bill for £21.10.0 next week & Ive
not half the money for the purpose I dread trying to borrow & I
fear I shall not be able to obtain a renewal. Im very
low spirited in consequence - Wednesday I feel very seedy
owing to my two nights previous dissipation, but went to my
sister Mary’s for mother, who had been spending the
day there, found they had company, so was compelled to
stay till nearly 12 Pm. & tired enough I was when I
got home - Thursday evening I went to see an
acquaintance named *Pittman who lives in Nicholson St
he introduced me to his sister & mother & several other
people there & was induced to stay the evening with
them passing away the time as usual light & frivolous
but very agreeable. Friday evening went to Smarts
for some books they had of ours, went out with Jess
to look at a house they are thinking of taking
got away about 9 pm & came home & had a little
chin with mother & Bessie concerning the Smarts. It appears
mother remembers Mrs. S in Adelaide when she bore a
another name - & the old lady does not think they are
A.1. Im confident there is a mystery connected with
them, but they are exceedingly cautious, & wont remember
mother, when she reminded them of having seen them
before & under different circumstances, though Mrs S
admits having lived in the house, mother met them at
at that time neighbours of ours in Adelaide. I have
an indistinct remembrance of Mrs. S. having seen her on
two or three occasions there - when a boy - Saturday
afternoon Bessie & I went to the Richmond Paddock
to play Croquet with Mr Bond & a party of
Richmond people - we had a most delightful
game - after which we went to Mr Bonds house
6/122 |
1197
found a nice tea provided. Mrs. B. was a shipmate of
ours from England & was very kind to my mother
when she was confined of my late Brother Charlie -
I found her a very strange, peculiar person a kind of
religious enthusiast, believing in the personal reign of
Christ & anxiously looking forward & believing his advent
is at hand - after tea the company playd a few little
simple games of cards called quartette - & sang a few
songs - I asked Mrs. B. if she cared for singing & she
replied she did not sing herself but hoped every one would learn
so that they could be able to sing Hosannahs & praises when
Christ should appear & got into a most raptuous state, her son
George is a very nice young man rather a fine handsome
fellow - and what is better a good Christian, without his
mothers ecstatic manner - We left early, arrived home
by 10.Pm. I spent my leasure time to day writing up
old scraps of journal I kept years ago. I hardly
know how Ive managed to keep it complete for such a length of
time & under such circumstances as Ive experienced – the
portion I was engaged at was when I formed the resolution
of abandoning a gold diggers life, when clothed in rags
broken in health & spirits without a pd to bless myself
with, & a broken arm in the bargain I started in my
journey from the Manuherikia (NZ) to Dunedin
a distance of 120 miles in the depth of winter, Etc
heavens what a contrast to my present life - I
went to hear Mr Henderson preach upon the duties of
ministers, a most eloquent sermon earnest & impressive
In the evening I went out, took a long strool around
town & Fitzroy, got home by 9.Pm -
Thursday. May 23rd 1867
Weather very unsettled the last few days, cold & sleety
winds, altogether far from being agreeable or comfortable -
Monday night I remained at home, Mr. Tallerman
called & amused us considerably with an account of his
voyage home to England & out again by the Panama
Route - describing his fellow passengers, & places he visited, Etc
6/123 |
1198
Tuesday night I took a strool about Fitzroy, with one or two
acquaintances, home early. Wednesday evening I spent very
agreeably, as usual, at Mrs. Florauns, Cameron was there & a
Miss Dover who sang very well I did my share, left about 11 Pm
Miss D sang a fine song called the “Bridge” by Longfellow, in such a
manner that I never remember being so affected with any
thing of the sort. Ive heard it before, but never so well or
heard a singer enter into the spirit of her subject as she did
Thursday, evening not feeling well, I neglected to go to the
Gymnasium Spent the evening at home reading & singing Etc -
Miss Smart called & stayd for a short time. This was the day
I had to meet my Bill for £21.10.0. found myself £8.10.0
short of the amount & had to borrow it, paying £1.0.0 interest
for it for 4 months. I am terribly afraid I shall [be] too deeply
involved at this rate to be able to meet the other Bill for
£21.10.0 which falls due four months from this date –
I must be very saving, heaven knows in saving what I did
towards the last, I had to debar myself from
many common necessities - I had hoped my father
would have sent me money by the last mail, at least, the
amount I had to send to N.Z. on poor Neds funeral a/c
which he had promised me -
Sunday 26th.May 1867
Friday was observed as a holiday being the Queens 49th
Birthday. Victorians being very loyal subjects keep it
rather strictly. A Review was held on Emerald Hill
in the morning Bessie & I being specators, found a great
crowd there, met many we knew. The volunteers mustered
about 1725 men & in addition to these were 300 men
regular troops belonging to the 14th Regiment, now billeted
in Melbourne. The whole presented a fine appearance &
a most enlivening scene, what with the gay uniforms,
the finery & “Fea de joires” the Bands Etc - it was over
shortly after 1.Pm but owing to the crush at the trains
& other delays it was 2 before we reached home –
after a good dinner to which I did ample justice
to I went, alone, to the Zoological Reserve in the
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Richmond Paddock, to the Odd Fellows Annual Fete, or
kind of Fair. I found large numbers of people congregated
comprising all grades & classes of society, amusing them-
-selves in various ways, Kiss in the Rings, running &
jumping & vaulting, varied by some performances on
the Flying Trapeze by members of the Lenton Troupe
the chief attraction for most there was the Dancing
Booth, where could be seen scenes of girls & young
fellows trying to do the "light fantastic" on a kind of
ground resembling nice soft putty, among the spectators
I noticed Mr. & Mrs. Dalyrymple & Idalia Rekowski, I
joined them, for the afternoon, was rather annoyed
by Idalia declaring, with all a pretty girls pettiness
that I must dance. I knew she would not think of
such a thing herself, but dared me to do so with one
of the greasy looking beauties standing anxiously around
longing for a partner - I, seeing a pretty girl near by I
requested the honor of her hand for a waltz, she smirked
& smiled & complied with such a winning grace that I
didnt regret the task, tho it was frightfully hard
work on such spongy ground. I got severely quizzed
at, by several who knew me standing by - It was 7.30
when I left the grounds on arriving home I found two
ladies, Mrs. & Miss Davies from Hobart Town, very
comfortably settled in our house - they had only that day
arrived & Mrs. Gotch sent them to us knowing we had
a spare room to let, which they have taken. Im
afraid our house is not grand enough for them
accustomed as they are to their own luxurious
home. Ive met them before in company when
they were over last year - they are very nice people
Miss D. is a charming little creature, very pretty &
coquettish but a desperate little flirt, I think; a
spoilt child being petted & made a deal of in a
family where there are no girls but herself -
They have made themselves quite at home & are as
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intimate with us as if we had known each
other for years. Mr. D. is one of the leading men in
Hobart Town & has a deal of influence in the colonys affairs
- Yesterday afternoon I called at Smarts for a
few minutes from there went to the Gymnasium
stayd there till 5 Pm came home & after tea Fred & I
& Bessie took Mrs. & Miss Davis to Paddys Market
They were delighted with the crowd & bustle admired
everything & would make purchases of fruit & vegetables
which of course fell to my lot to carry home, to my
disgust I did not leave the house to day, spent my
time reading & writing - after tea I went to the Smarts
stayd for about 2 hours there. On coming home I found
Mary & Clark & the Davies’s sitting down to supper
spent a very sociable hour together before parting which
we did at 10.30 Pm - Im suffering severely at present
from a severe cold, sore throat & bad headache -
[Sunday, 2 June 1867]
1st.June 1867 Sunday.
Weather fine, but rather cold. Very slack at the office
no ships at the Pier, nothing to do. Monday evening
spent at home very pleasently with the “Daviss”
Tuesday evening left home about 8Pm. called to see
Will Smart stayd with him about an hour – then
came home - Wednesday evening the Davies
wanted to go to the Opera but having no gentleman
friend to take them they prevailed upon me to go
with them - I told them I could ill afford to do so
but they wanted, & were very much hurt at my not
allowing them to pay for me, a providing very
much against my inclinations to allow, more
especially as they took my sister with them – it
cost me 11/6 far more than I can afford in my
present circumstances. The Opera performed was
“Norma” & I must say I never heard it to
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better advantage. The acoustic properties of the Princess
Theatre being far superior to either of the other places
in Melbourne - The celebrated duett was sung by Escott &
Hodson in a style unsurpassed in the colonies. Squires
was very happy in the part of Pollie & sang the music
allotted him, well. The Ballet afterwards by the Leopold
was trash & not worth looking at, so we left long
before its termination. Thursday night after tea
seeing a glare of fire as I thought about quarter of a
mile distant from our house I was induced to go to it
found I had been wrong in my calculation of distance
the fire was in Elizt St (Collingwood) some wooden houses
getting burnt, a great crowd assembled & with the
the help of Fire Brigades in attendance it was soon
extinguished, after which not being not far from my sisters
I thought Id go & see her found they had gone to St Kilda
(that is Clark & her) so I came home calling at Smarts
on my way home, found them busy packing up as
they are leaving the house they are living in at present
shifting to Napier St Fitzroy - did not stay long – spent
the rest of the evening very jollily at home, flirting with
Miss D & singing Etc - Im sorry to state my dear
mother is far from being well suffering from a
severe cold, made worse by the extra amount of
work entailed upon her in consequence of the boarders
at present living with us - I wish to heaven my
salary was enough to keep her comfortable
without her having to slave & worry herself with
the cares attending the keeping of a home
together for her childrens sake - nothing tends
to make me feel my poverty more
than from this source, I trust a change may take
place for the better in our circumstances shortly -
[Tuesday, 4 June 1867]
June 4th.1867
Weather beautiful - Nothing very particular occured
to vary the monotony of my existance since last
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writing up this apology for a journal - my mothers
health has improved thank God – tho’ she is still
suffering from influenza. Friday evening I spent
at the Penny Readings (Carlton) where I heard some
good songs sang & some excellent recitations given the place
being marred considerably, by several asperants
ranting & roaring in a most frightful manner
It is to be regretted that at most of these meetings
promulgated for the improvement of the poorer &
uneducated classes a better class of matter is
not brought before them - nothing seems to please
better than the comic readings & songs, anything that
is really good as readings from the best authors
& music from the best composers, is seldom
appreciated by the audiences gathered together on
these occasions. The object of them should be the
elevation of tone by giving them a taste for the
higher branches of literature, but the whole idea
of the Committees who get these performances up, is
to amuse & not to instruct. The Penny Readings are
becoming institutions & may be the means, if rightly
conducted, of doing an immense amount of good if
well managed & conducted - Saturday afternoon
I went to the Fitzroy Gardens to hear the Band play
met a number of people I knew there, the Rekowskis,
Dalyrymples, the Doves & many more - this place is
quite a rendezvous & fashionable promenade, had
a chat with Mary & Clark - got home in time for
tea - after which I accompanied Mrs. & Miss Davis
& Bessie to the Theatre where I left them & then went
to Smarts, went out for a short time with Jessie
on seeing her home I went to the Theatre found
the performances not half over so had to walk
about till it was until the last act when I
walked into the Stalls in time to see the last
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Act of Le Africain, heard the beautiful Duett -
between *Jms & Vasco da Gama Escott & Simonsen & the power
in the celebrated aria Under the Upas Tree - my friends
were in the Dress Circle so I got a Cab for them &
brought them home at the conclusion - Sunday morning,
I went to hear Mr Henderson, spent the afternoon reading
a work upon the Albigensians or the early Christians who
endeavoured to keep the worship of God as pure as possible
during the dark ages - very interesting. In the evening I
took Mrs. & Miss Davis to the Theatre. The place
being so crowded we couldnt get inside so we all went
to hear the Revd J.Taylor, Baptist Chaplain, Collins St
He preached an excellent sermon - many prefer his
preaching to Hendersons. I cant say I do, he is rather
too probing.
[Thursday, 6 June 1867]
May 6th.1867 (Thursday)
Weather still keeping fine. Monday the 3st being the first
Monday in the month, Clark has to attend his Lodge (Masonic)
so my sister Mary makes it a rule to always spend
the evening with us at home, so she came - & also Miss
Flower & J.Penby, so we had quite an impromptu
party, & spent the evening very pleasently. I saw
them home, nearly 1 am when I found myself at home -
Tuesday evening I spent at Florauns, dancing &
singing Etc - 11 Pm when I got home – Wednesday
night the Davis's, & Bessie & self - went as per
invitation to Mr Gotchs
party, found a large number of people there
all friends who I have met on similar
occasions before - so every body & every thing
seemed agreeable & pleasent, the Host & Hostess
being extremely kind & entertaining & doing their
utmost to amuse their visitors, plenty of eatables
drinkables, dancing - singing Etc Etc - games of
forfeit & other games to pass time pleasently
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nearly 4 Pm next morning when we broke up –
I felt desperately tired & seedy to day in consequence
of my nights work - often found my head nodding
at my desk & experienced an inclination to sleep, but
business had to be attended to & I was obliged to keep
up - towards evening the feeling wore off & I felt I
could have gone to another affair of the sort this
evening - however I did not, but after tea I
accompanied the Davies to Florauns, did not
go inside with them - but returned home calling
at Smarts on my way where I remained for
about an hour, chatting with an old fellow
who is living with them on a variety of subjects
he got rather deep into metaphysics & not feeling
in a reflective or argumentative mood I beat a
retreat & came home - so I wont be long before Im
in bed - & I hope sound asleep
8th June 1867 Saturday night
7th. Busy at the office, two large ships commencing to discharge
making things at the Railway more lively than they
have been for some days - After tea, I left *home
home in company with the Davies, left them at the
Theatre door - hurried on to the Rly Station to catch
the train for St Yarra found it just gone when I arrived
had to wait for three quarters of an hour for another
arrived at my destination Mr. Allens, Victoria St S.Yarra
by 8.50 found my sister Bessie there. Miss A. & her
are old friends & I are very much attached to each other she is
one of the most ladylike & pleasent girls I ever met
with. We left by the 11.10 Pm train, & I got out at
Richmond had a long walk home - This afternoon
I went to the Gardens, to hear the Band, came on
to rain went for shelter at Marys & was
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induced to stay tea & spend the evening with her & Clark
some other friends of theirs named Simms dropped in
& what with singing & music we spent a pleasent
evening nearly 11 when I got home –
June 13th.1867 Thursday
Weather very unsettled - nothing to recite but
pleasure – any one reading these pages would
imagine I lived for nothing else - the bare
recital when looking over them seem to reproach
me for my misspent time - Monday evening
I went to Skinners (Bourke St) to an evening party
I went early about 9 Pm, found no one there
but the family, had Miss S. a fine girl, all to
myself - the company arrived about 11 Pm, some of them
actors, & such like - our old friend Morriss was there –
after supper, rather a rough affair, I left - about 2.am,
next morning - Tuesday evening - spent at home. Wednesday
evening Mrs Davies invited a lot of people to spend the evening
at our house. Mrs. & Miss Dove, Misses Brown, Laby & Grimwood
passed a jolly evening - although we dont care to see the latter
at our place - he has caused a deal of mischief & dissension
amongst many of our friends. He would not dare to come but
as Mrs. D. visitor, he is without exception the greatest liar I
ever came across & possesses more impudence, which he hides
under an Uriah Heep kind of mantle, than any dozen men
I ever met with - Thursday night, staid at home - The Davies
& Tom Grimwood being as thick as possible. Alf & Jim Ballantyne
were here - & also an old friend of our family from Echuca
Henry Edelman (a Pole) & son of that Edelman who married
my old flame, of old langsyne, Jane Summers - he is a
fine clever intelligent young fellow & will be a leading man
some time, being a very different character from his
father - who is at present in Europe. They all left about
11 Pm.- The mail arrived from England on Tuesday, bringing
us a letter from father, he has not been very well lately
sent me money - the law suit in reference to Aunt Lucy affair not settled
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[1867-06-14-Friday]
June 16th.[14th] 1867
14th. fine day. Busy at the office, spent an hour at the
Gymnasium on leaving business, giving me a fine appetite
for tea, after which I went to Smarts found Jessie
at home alone spooney as ever, accused me of being
distant Etc in not coming to see her oftener - very
foolish of her encouraging a passion which can
never end in any thing serious, came home about 10 pm
spent a couple of hours very quietly at home - Edelman
had been & just left as I entered, he has been long soft
on my sister Bessie & she informed me, he proposed
for her - but there is no sentiment in her nature
& she laughed at the idea, they knew each other when
they were very young, but Bessie never thought of
him but as a friend, she might do worse than accept
him but womens hearts are strange mysteries -
15th. Saturday fine day. Went to the Gardens this afternoon met a number I knew, spent a couple of hours very pleasently, listening to the Band - on arriving home found my couzin H.Vickerman there, having just arrived from Lancefield or that neighbourhood where he has a school & is doing well. Poor fellow he must have studied hard to have got his certificate, & it reflects very much to his credit having done so, he always was an intelligent fellow & given to studious habits - I went to town this evening met Adamson & others, “did the usual promenade about Bourke Street) home by 9.10. Pm.
16th. Sunday, I staid at home morning & afternoon reading & writing, taking advantage of the absence of the Davies who have gone to Ballarat for a few days - Harry left us in the afternoon, to return to his duties - After tea Mother & I went to hear Mr Henderson preach in the Theatre - Poor old soul she is terriby knocked up with the walk I wish I had a nice little trap to take her out in occasionally -
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June 20th.1867
Weather changeable & very unsettled, felt very
unwell all the week suffering from an attack of dysentry
Im happy to state Im recovering not from any particular
care Ive taken of myself but from the result of a good
constitution, for Ive been out nearly every evening this
week till late. Monday evening I called at Smarts
took a walk with Jessie till 9 Pm on leaving her I
went to an evening Party at Mrs Florauns, all friends
present spent a most jolly evening - Tuesday night
I went to the Penny Readings held in the Fitzroy Police
Court, heard a lecture on Hydrostatics, (do for youngsters)
some comic songs sang by a Jewess, some readings
with a recitation from some juvenile precocity - completed
the entertainment provided for a penny. Wednesday
evening I spent till 10Pm at Smarts taking Miss S & a
friend of hers Mr*F.Scarlet out for a walk around
the Gardens on leaving there I went to Mr Gotches
party, I would have gone earlier, but feeling unwell I
didnt feel up the mark for much gaiety, such as
is indulged in at his house - found all friends
their enjoying themselves in various parlour games
en-acted several charades, danced sang & played
forfeits & came home with the girls in the
morning, that is this morning nearly 2.am –
felt very seedy & uncomfortable to day - doing
penance for late hours, ? does the pain† compensate
for the pleasure† - I think so, taking all things
into consideration Mr G is one of the nicest
& most agreeable unassuming & quiet gentleman
I know, & with his wife form a most hospitable
couple - they are well known & respected
by all who know them. Mr G. has risen to his
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present enviable position by the most persevering
industry & attention to business, as a news agent
the most extensive in the colonies, he has a
fine house fine furniture & is rich.
[Friday, 21 June 1867]
27th June 1867
Friday evening, on arriving home, found the Davies had
returned from Ballarat. After tea I went to the
Gymnasium, staid there about 1½ hours, on leaving
met Adamson going to receive a dancing lesson at
Dennings & he induced me to go with him, found
about 50 people present going through their "facings", to
my intense amusement, met several there I know,
left about 10 pm got home early found my couzin
H.Vickerman at our house. he had just arrived not
to the great delight of my mother who has little
conveniance for visitors now the Davies are staying
with us - I sat up late waiting for their coming
home which they did in company with Grimwood at
near 12 Pm - couldnt get to bed until they retired to
rest having to sleep on the parlour sofa -
Saturday 22nd Staid home reading all the afternoon, in the evening in company with my couzin Henry (who again was in town & living with us for a couple of days) I went to the Princess Theatre, being the last night of the Lyster Opera Troupe appearing in Melbourne the place was crowded, we got into the Stalls, found every seat has been reserved for Dress Circle & not finding room, to our disgust, but not before having a squabble with W.B.Lyster, we were compelled to go out & settle ourselves in the Pit, very annoying to be thus served. 6 acts of 6 different operas were produced, we left at the conclusion of the fourth home by 11 Pm - Sunday, didnt leave home till evening, when I went to Smarts, had a long argument with an old man named Wilson who is living
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with them - he is clever & very intelligent, & I spent a couple of
hours very profitably (I trust) Monday night spent at home –
Tuesday I sang at the Fitzroy Penning Readings (two songs) at the
conclusion of the performance I met Mrs. Flower & two of
her daughters. *Jenvy & I accompanied them home - 12 Pm
when I got home - Wednesday evening I spent at home -
Thursday night, after tea I went to my sister Marys
house found Clark & her at home, spent a very pleasent
social comfortable evening with chatting & singing
Glees 11 Pm when I arrived home - on my arrival home found
my mother & sister in a jolly excited state having had a row with the
Davies & who have had notice given them they must find fresh quarters tomorrow
July 2nd 1867
Weather has been very unsettled last few days - making the
streets & roads very dirty, through the rain, bitter cold night &
day. Friday morning the Davies left us. Mother ordered
them out of the house & Tom Grimwood with them, fortunate for
him I was not at home at the time, ever since they have
lived with us we have had nothing but dissension & un-
-pleasentness with them - Tom professes to love Julia Davis
& is her accepted lover, & they did not like the cool manner
we always treated him. They are a stuck up, purse
proud lot, had always their own way, they dont bear
the best of characters, their object in coming over from
Tasmania is for Julia to get a husband, no sensible man
would have anything to do with her. I hope to heaven
nothing will occur to break off the match, it will serve
both out alike, he states he received £5 per week which is a
lie if he gets the half of it its more than he does, she would make
out her father is going to give her a lot of money. I know for
a fact her fathers affairs are in a most unsettled state &
that several "Bills" of his have been dishonoured lately - so it
will be a mutual "take in" In the evening Miss Flower
my sister Mary & Clark with young Jenvy called &
spent the evening with us. 12 Pm when we broke up, I
seeing them home, a long walk from our house to Et Melbourne
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Miss Flower is a magnificient player on the Piano & a very nice
person. Saturday noon on arriving home I found Mrs Lane
at our house her husband is a Capt. of an American ship
called the "Levanter" on their last visit to this port, we made
their acquaintance some two years ago, she had
no sooner landed but she came at once to see us she
is a beautiful woman & one of [the] nicest mannered persons I
know - In the afternoon I went to see the New Post office,
corner of Eliz & Bourke St. being just completed it was open for public
Inspection. Tis the finest building in Australia, without exception
& cost the most money, far too much for such a colony as this,
& a much less pretending looking building would have served all
the requirements of such a community as this for a century
to come - I also went during the afternoon to the Fitzroy
Gardens to hear the Band play, met, as usual, a great number
I knew, enjoyed the promenade, home by 5.30. spent the evening
at Smarts. Sunday morning to the Theatre, owing to some
indisposition on Mr Hendersons part who was unable to preach
one of the Students from the Congregational College a very
promising young man, & considering it was his first sermon a
very creditable discourse his name is Schoefield. I did not leave
the house the rest of the day staid home reading & writing -
Monday the 1st. of July & being Seperation Day (from Sydney) it was observed as a holiday, the most miserable one I ever spent, the weather in the first place was wretched cold & windy. I did not leave the house till 4 pm when I went to the Gymnasium for an hour - After tea Bessie, Clark & Mary & I went to a party at Mrs. Flowers enjoyed ourselves amazingly. There was two young men there, acquaintenances, one plays the piano well (Selby) & the other (Perryman) has a good tenor voice & sang a great deal, they are rather fast kind of cards but good company at a party - Miss Flower playd in her usual brilliant style - nearly 2 am next morning when we broke up - This evening after tea I helped Fred with some of his work for an hour, after which I went for my mother, who had been spending the day at my sister Mary's - left early, home by 10Pm -
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[1867-07-03-Wednesday]
13th [3rd] July 1867
Wednesday evening Bessie & I went to spend the evening at
Clarks, called at Mrs. Floreuns on our way, stayd
there a short time discussing the unpleasentness the Davies
had caused amongst our hitherto friendly circle. Miss
Norriss accompanied us to Clarks found the same people
there we had met on Monday night at Flower’s! Spent
the evening very pleasently singing Etc - left about 12 pm
Thursday 4th. Very busy at the office, after business was over
I went to Sandridge to see the Lanes on board
their ship the "Levanter" where I found my sister Bessie
who had been spending the day there, left about 9.20 rode
up in a cab, bitter cold wind blowing. Friday evening I
spent at home Mrs. Miss & Mr Saunders being at our house &
spent the evening with us. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went
to hear the Band play in the Gardens not many there we knew
got home about 6Pm. After tea, I went to town, met Adamson
rambled about for a couple of hours, quizzing the many folks
one meets on a Saturday in that very popular promenade
Bourke St. Being very wet on Sunday, I did not leave the house
during the day, passed the time reading & writing. In the
evening I went to Smarts for about an hour, home by 9 Pm
Monday July 8th. very busy at the office, two large ships having
arrived at our pier spent the evening at home. Tuesday night
Mr & Mrs Lane spent the evening at our house. Wednesday
evening Bessie & I with Saunders & his sister, went to a party
Kidgell gave at his place “Balaclava” at a long distance
from our house but having the use of his “trap” & a couple
of stunning horses we rattled down there in grand style
found a very merry pleasent party assembled all bent
upon enjoyment which we had to our hearts delight
in a variety of forms. Left there about 2.30. next
morning & got home about 3.30. after a long drive
& so passed another jolly day - Thursday I was very
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tired & seedy, after tea I went out for a little while
for a walk, home early & tumbled into bed. Friday
evening I went to the Penny Readings Trades Hall Carlton
home by about 10.20 - The English Mail arrived
yesterday no letters or news of any description from my
father. We are very uneasy in consequence, he
having promised to write & send us some money by
this Mail, mother is considerably in debt & I have to
meet my second Bill of Miss Dixons in another 2 months
so fathers delay makes me feel very anxious
July *--th.1867
Saturday, 13th. Went to the Gardens in the afternoon to hear the
Band play. In the evening I went to an Amateur Concert
at Fitzroy Police Court, J Stewart sang there & others I knew –
met A.Ballantyne walked home with him.
Sunday morning I went to the Theatre heard a Mr. Moss
preach an excellent sermon, Mr Henderson is not well.
In the afternoon Alf Peel & his wife called & spent the
rest of the day with us, they have just come down from
Beechworth, where he had taken up a large piece of
ground with the intention of settling down as a farmer
but not agreeing with his partner, he gave it up & is now
looking out for something to do in Melbourne - I hope
he may be successful Mrs. P has had a fine little
daughter since I last saw her. I walked home with
them to their lodgings.
Monday, 15th. Spent the evening at my sister Marys
practising over a lot of Glees, got wet through to the
skin coming home, through lending my umbrella to a
woman I met & saw home to Carlton –
so much for being too good natured -
Tuesday 16th. Clark called at the office in the
afternoon to ask me to take Mary to the
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Philharmonic Concert in the evening, he having purchased
tickets for the same & not been able to go owing to a
lot of work he has to finish at his office - I went & enjoyed
a treat. Mendelsohns music from Racines Athalie
the chorus were well sang, best I remember ever hearing
at its conclusion meeting Clark at the door I gave him
my charge & having a pass into the Haymarket Theatre
I went then & saw the Celebrated Actor I.Anderson who
has been in Melbourne, a week in the last act of
Hamlet, he appears to be a very fine actor he comes here
with a good European repute, he is getting old, we Colonists
only see these great actors & actresses when they are old
& worn out - Walter Montgomery, another great Star
has arrived so there will be considerable rivalry in
the Tragic Line - Wednesday night I spent at Smarts
being one of the daughters birthday a few friends had met
& we managed to make the time pass agreeably - I left
about 11.30 Pm. Thursday night having invited G.Bond
to our house, I staid at home, he came & spent the evening
with us, he is a nice pleasent fellow & excellent company, he
left us about 10.30 escorting my sister Mary home who
had also been spending the evening with us -
Friday, July 19th 1867. Sang a song at the Penny Readings Carlton after which I called at Smarts staid there about two hours - on arriving home, found Mrs. Smart at our house, so I had to see her home - Saturday 20th. cloudy weather, afternoon went to the Gardens with Bessie, met Mary & Mr. Clark's couzin Miss Unwhin [Unwin] & George Bond all went to Marys house to tea spent a pleasent evening together, a Mr Jones was there also a most comical old gentleman, 11 Pm when we reached home - Sunday morning I went to hear Mr Henderson preach - In the afternoon went to Sandridge went on board several ships at
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present laying alongside of the Pier, great numbers
where promenading about, the Boatswain making a
little harvest by conveying people backwards & forwards
to the S.S. Gt Britain at present in the Bay –
staid home during the evening -
Monday 22nd. Dull day, busy at the office, went to the Gymnasium, after tea, I went to Smarts went out for a short time with Miss S. came away early.
Tuesday July 23rd.1867 Busy in the office, fresh ships arriving, alongside of the Pier. After tea I went to the Gymnasium took Fred with me & got him to join feeling confident it will do him a deal of good, staid there till 9 Pm, then came home - Wednesday Capt Lane & his wife spent the evening with us & also Mary & Clark - Thursday evening I took a strool went down to Finley *Forge Brunswick St. staid with him about ½ an hour & then came home & passed the rest of the evening with Bessie singing Reading Etc -
Friday 26th July 1867. I wrote a long letter to my father during the day. In the evening Fred & Bessie & I went to Marys to spend the evening found Mr & Mrs. Lane there passed the evening away very pleasently 11.10 when we arrived home
Saturday 27th Afternoon, spent in the Gardens met Mrs. Lane who introduced me to two American ladies named Pierce, very strange notioned people who were continually guessing & calculating at everything - On arriving home had tea, after which Miss Hoskins called & spent the evening with us, her couzin J.Saunders, called about 9 Pm for her Sunday. Spent the morning reading. In the afternoon I went to Sandridge called on board the "Levanter" could not stay long as I felt so uncommonly queer, & seasick owing to a stiff breeze blowing & the Bay being very rough - so I spent the
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the rest of my time on terra firma, viz a wooden pier –
great crowds were there like myself taking the air
I fell in with the Pittman & some friends of
theirs walked from the Station home with them –
spent the evening at home - Mary & Clark being here -
Monday 29th.[July] 1867 Very busy at the office, some
ships having come alongside the Pier, spent the
evening at Smarts -
Tuesday July 30th. Felt very queer all day, blood out
of order Etc. sore lips & bad corns, every thing
proving very disagreeable,? bad temper, Spent the
evening at Finlays met J.Stewart there, he sang
songs beautifully.
Wednesday 31st.July 1867. Still queer & out of sorts, spent
my evening at home, very pleasently, young J.Jenvey called &
[staid] till 11.P.m
Thursday August 1st.1867 Very busy at the office, on leaving business I went on board the Levanter met my Mother & Mary with Clark & Fred there, rather a large party of us, we sat down to a fine supper consisting of what to our Anglo Saxon tastes appeared strange medley Pork & Beans with Braberry pickles (an Americans national dish corresponding to our Roast Beef & Pudding I suppose) Hot Rye Bread & short cake & sundry other odd dishes all of which I relished not so my bother Fred, who rated the whole as a regular hodge podge & condemned the spread altogether in terms not altogether becoming a visitor I was very much annoyed at what he considers plainspeaking, but what I term downright rudeness. Capt Lane was not well, so with Mrs. L we had to amuse our-
6/141 |
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selves the best way we could we sang & played a
few social games of cards Mrs. L playing the
Guitar for us, so we managed to spend the
time agreeably we left Sandridge by the 11.15.Pm
train & rode from the Station home, bitter cold
on reaching home our pleasure was somewhat
damped by finding that during our absence
my sister Bessie had been attacked with
Measles, a neighbour Mrs Hungerland was in
attendance upon her, rather strange for a
girl of 19 to catch such a thing & she having
had them when a child
[1867-08-02-Friday]
Friday 2nd July. Weather very cold & frosty. Towards
evening it changed & commenced to rain – during
my lunch hour I visited the Public Library &
was very much struck with a beautiful piece of
marble statutory, called La Puberta, by L.Flaminio
the most exquisite bust of a girl I ever saw, I
was so struck with it that had there been none
present I felt inclined to kiss the lips, it was
presented to the Trustees of the Library by the Honb
G.Verdon C.B. our Treasurer, who brought it out
with him from England on his recent visit there
My sister Bessie still continues very unwell – After
tea I went with Finley to the Wesley Church, Bk St
& heard T.Fielder play on the Organ.
Saturday 3rd. as usual, after doing my domestic
duties in the afternoon I went to the Gardens
to hear the Band play. After tea took a strool
about town with Rt Richardson, 10 when I
arrived home -
Sunday 4th. In the morning I went to hear
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Mr Henderson preach at the Theatre, he delivered
a spendid sermon at its conclusion I met
J.Saunders & we took a walk together, conversing
upon a variety of subjects, bordering rather
on metaphysics, of which he is fond of - Mary
& Clark spent the rest of the day with us - her & I
went in the afternoon to St Marks Church to
witness the ceremony of confirmation, the place
was crowded with spectators, it did not impress
me very much, being or having dissenting
notions on such matters. In the evening
I went to Smarts staid there till 9.30. Pm -
Monday 5th.July 1867. Spent the evening at home, my sister Mary spending it with us, Clark calling for her about 11 P.m. Tuesday evening I went to the Penny Readings at the Fitzroy Police Court. Dr Embling M.P. in the chair, Mr. Jones M.L.A. gave an address the subject being the works & characters of Dickens the Novelist, an excellent synopsis, met A Ballantyne there came home together. Wednesday evening I went to see the celebrated actor Walter Montgomery, in the play of "Much Ado About Nothing he taking the part of Benedict, he is without exception the most natural actor I ever saw, plain brusque without the slightest tinge of rant or staginess in his playing. I really enjoyed myself & came away with quite a different idea of Benedict's character than I ever before entertained. Mr Gotch sat near me & in his company were Grimwood & Mr. Davis the latter just having come over from Hobart Town I hear, with the intention of seeing whether Tom is a fit & proper person to espouse his daughter Julia, who was living at our house some weeks ago & where she became
6/143 |
1218
intimate with him ere she left for her home. Tom
represented himelf as a clerk in receipt of a salary
of £250 ayear & having a house besides of his own
the facts are he has £100. ayear & no house – his
object in attaching himself to her was with the idea he
was going to (be) getting fortune with her which is also
another myth. I trust nothing may present the
truth of each others representations being brought
to light before they are united, for the both well
deserve to be swindled
Thursday night, I spent at Smarts I dont go so
often there are formerly, tho’ I am always pressed
hard to visit them. I have given them pretty plainly to
understand I mean nothing serious towards Jessie
but she very foolishly makes a show of passion
that could be misunderstood. I feel under the
circumstances I have no right to be such a
frequent visitor, but whenever I do call a promise
is invariably exacted from me as to when I
will renew my visit, & I am obliged to give *over
tho’ many times far from agreeable - I wish I
had moral courage enough to give them offence -
Friday 9th August 1867. Beginning to get slack at
the office, ships alongside having discharged their cargo
& no others arriving to fill their place. The weather
lately has been shocking bad, cold, wet, & miserable -
I spent the evening at Pittmans Nicholson St met
several people there I am acquainted with, managed
with singing music & parlour games to spend a
merry pleasent evening, 11.30. when I left. –
Saturday 10th/8/67 Left the office 12.30.Pm on arriving home read for a couple of hours & then went with
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my sister Bessie to the Gardens, met Mr. & Mrs
Lane there after the performance was over, they
accompanied us home & staid tea & spent the evening
with us Clark & Mary were also here so altogether
we spent a happy sociable evening, more
especially Mother & us having been freed from some
of the anxiety attendant upon our circumstances
being somewhat relieved by having received a
long letter by the Mail from England enclosed within it
being a Draft for £205.0.0. which he sent & not
before it was wanted. I owe over £30.0.0 which I shall
be able to pay, mother owes about the same amount
so we purpose to put the rest in the Bank at interest
until we hear whether we are to receive anything
from Aunt Lucys estate, & if we do we purpose
that is mother & I purchasing a house of
our own, father writes in reference to the Atherston
versus Watmuff case, that it has been settled & that
the Atherstons have gained it, the particulars he does
not know of yet, with the exception that the affair
is at present in Chancery & that father has had more
bother & will have to recover the balance, if any,
there he believes it is worth, what I can understand
of the case is that my Aunts House Keeper Rowena
Atherston was left to her by my Uncle the sum of
£20.0.0 per annum but through some flaw or another
she has claimed £40.0.0 a year, & I believe has
gained the point, to meet this a sum of
of £1600.0.0 will have to be appropriated for the purpose
& what with Law expenses which will have to be
met out of the residue, I[m] afraid very little
will ever find its way to Australia. Aunt Lucy
my Uncle Henrys deceased widow, left all her
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own property to some Lawyers, who are no relations
of hers, the estate my Uncle her husband left, is what ~
we have had the bother about. My father is at present
living in Liverpool & is enjoying better health than he
has done for some time previously, he appears to be still
estranged from his brother, my Uncle Joseph - I wish they
would be more friendly disposed towards each other
Sunday llth./67 Dull wet day, didn’t go out all day spent
my time reading. In the evening I went to Smarts for
a short time no one at home but the mother, did not
stay long, she pumped me concerning the intimacy between
Jessie & I. I very plainly told, she was very friendly towards
me & hoped what she had said would not offend our acquaintance
Etc Etc -
Monday evening I went on board the Levanter, found
my sister & Fred there, had tea & bade our American
friends adieu as they sailed for Bombay the following day
the Capt was very ill & Mrs. L. in a poor way in consequence -
I regret their departure very much, having seen a great
deal of them during their stay here, & the more we saw of
them the better we liked them with mutual good wishes
we parted hoping to meet again at some future time -
Tuesday evening I went to the Penny Readings at the
F.P.Court heard a very interesting lecture on chemistry
by Gilchrist –
Wednesday night I spent at the Fannegans Granite Terrace -
Gertrude St. no one there but the two Miss Fs talked & chatted
related all the scandal Etc, we had heard of our acquaintances
since last we met, left about 10Pm on arriving home
found my mother had not returned from Marys where
she had been spending the day, so I went for her
on arriving at Marys, found mother had left, but
missed her on the road, a Mr. & Mrs. Machern
were there so I was induced to remain till 12 Pm
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1221
playing Cards & conversing nearly, 1 Am when I arrived
home - Thursday evening I spent at Marys
trying over some songs & Glees, a Mr. 0.Laugne called
& also Fred we left there about 11 Pm.
Friday evening spent at home. Jms Stewart called & staid a
couple of hours with us, he has a beautiful & well cultivated
tenor voice & he sang a great deal for us, he has been
very unfortunate since he left the Christy Minstrels, his
connection with them [h]as done him no good, a sort of
prejucice exists amongst people employing those who have
been in public in such a line to make matters worse
he married a girl who he has been long attached to, some
twelve months ago, she was confined of a youngster about
a month ago, all they have to live upon is his salary from
her Precentorship (£50 a year) & a few music pupils he has -
Saturday noon on arriving home I found my couzin H -
Vickerman at our house, he came down to make a
few purchases, he is getting on very well with his
School, it is worth about £200 ayear to him. In the
afternoon I went to Gymnasium for an hour from
there I went to the Fitzroy Gardens, to hear the Band
play, being a fine day great numbers were present. In the
evening I went to town & rambled about.
Sunday morning I went to hear Mr Henderson, Harry
left us in the afternoon. In the evening I went to the Smarts
no one at home but the old lady, did not stay long
August 24th.1867 Been lovely weather all the week, very busy at the office, the fore part of the week beginning to get slack, we want a few more ships alongside. At the beginning of the week I received
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1222
an answer from my communication to the Registar
of Births & Deaths Greymouth informing me that owing
to some clerical error, my brothers death & burial had
not been registered, very annoying, for my father
informs me he will require the registrar to settle
our affairs at home - I must make another effort
to procure it - Tuesday, I went to the Penny Readings
Fitzroy Police Court. Wednesday night Bessie & I
spent at Mrs. Florauns. Friday night I went to
the West Melb Literary Institute, where a conversazione
was held. I was on the programme, to sing which
I did, a couple of songs. Saturday afternoon spent at
the Gymnasium after tea went to Smarts. Mrs. & Miss
S. I found had gone to Ballarat, spent the evening
with Jessie, left about 10 pm & came home –
[Sunday, 25 August 1867]
Sunday, 26th. 1867. Lovely day. In the morning I
went to the New Congregational Church, built for
Mr Henderson at the corner of Collins & Russell Sts
I went early but found great difficulty in getting admittance
(hundreds were obliged to leave in consequence) the Revd
Mr. Graham (from Sydney) preached the opening *service
taking for his text from the 15th Chapt. Exodus & 20th verse
he is a very talented & eloquent preacher, & I was well
pleased with his discourse. The church cost £14,000 & it
was opened with a debt of under £4,000 which is
to be hoped will soon be cleared off. In the afternoon
I took a walk to Fitzroy Gardens, met an old
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1223
acquaintance, Mr. English. In the evening I went
to Richmond for my sister Bessie who had been spending
the day at the Rekowskis we left there about 10Pm
calling at Dalrymples on our way home, very tired when
we arrived home.
August 31st 1867
Another week passed, nothing particular to note, the weather
fine, health pretty good, mind & body kept pretty well
occupied, home & abroad, but on the whole not much different
mentally or physically. Monday evening I spent at my sisters
Tuesday at the Readings, F.P.C. Wednesday, Mrs. Floraun Mrs *Dove
Miss Norriss & Cameron spent the evening at our house –
Thursday we had at our house another party to
tea & to spend the evening - Old Mrs Bond & her two Sons
William & George, with the formers wife, also my sister Mary
& her husband. William Bond is a middle aged man &
when I saw him last, on Board the Ship “Brothers” when
we were fellow passengers nearly 19 years ago, he was
a thin stripling of a young man, now he is stout &
looks as he is, a regular "paterfamils". George is a
smart young fellow, not quite so old as I am -
it seems strange that after such a lapse of time
our families should thus become so intimate
The old lady is a most pecular religious enthusiast
who is hourly looking for the coming Christ
& expects to be carried up to heaven -
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1224
yet in all other respects is a nice sensible
old soul - We made things as pleasent as
possible & altogether we spent a most agreeable
& social evening - Miss Norriss was also here
& I, on breaking up, saw her home to Mrs Florauns
Friday night I spent at the Penny Readings
Carlton at the conclusion of the performance
I in company with another young fellow, escorted
two young ladies home to Hotham nearly
12 when I got myself home –
Saturday. On leaving business I hurried home
& in company with my sister Bessie proceeded
to Richmond where we found awaiting us
a large party of friends consisting of the
Misses Bishop, Browning, McCathy, Hamilton & Saunders
with Messrs Saunders Lennox Bond, Hamilton & the
Bros Ballantynes. We took a large boat & all
embarking we had a delightful pull up the
river. The company being agreeable & pleasent &
all knowing each other well, the day being
fine & warm the scenery pretty Etc all tended
to make the trip very enjoyable. We landed
at Pearsons Tea Gardens, & after partaking
of some refreshments returned, singing & laughing all the
way down. On landing we made the best of our
way home, being a long distance, we were very
tired & weary when we arrived home, but after
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tea we were all right, spent the rest of the evening
at home.
Sunday Sept 1st.1867
Lovely day, after Breakfast read an hour, then went to
hear Mr. Graham preach in Hendersons New Church. In the
afternoon I stayd at home reading till 4 Pm then took a walk to
the Cemetery, home by 5 Pm. Mother Fred & Bessie went out
to Church, so I had to stay at home, soon after they had
gone, Alf Peel called, & spent the evening with us. -
Sept 7th.1867
Weather has been very changeable during the week, the first
three being very hot, the last three bitterly cold, Friday in
particular, when we had a terrific fall of hail & in some of
the suburbs, I hear, a quantity of snow fell something
unprecedented in this part of Victoria - We have not been
very busy at the office, owing to the few ships at the pier
most of the late arrivals going to the pier at
Williamstown & will do so for some months in consequence
of the wool season just commencing.
Monday evening Clark & Mary with Miss Ellen & Effie Flower spent it at our house Mrs. Smart was also here, & what with singing & playing we passed the time very agreeably nearly 12 OC when we broke up. I accompanied them a part of the way home. Tuesday evening I spent at Stewarts where I met his wife, she is a very nice pleasent & very pretty woman, stayd a couple of hours, singing - Wednesday, on leaving the office I went to Mrs. Bonds
6/151 |
1226
Richmond, where I found my mother Bessie & Mary
& Clark who bad all been invited to tea & to spend
the evening, several other friends of theirs dropped in
& what with singing, recitations, music & variety of
parlour games we spent a happy social evening together
on leaving them at about 11 Pm & not being able to come to
terms with a cabman we met, we had to walk home
Coming home it came on to rain very heavily & we
were not long before we were nearly wet through, for
myself I did not care, but mother has not been well
since - it quite put a damper on our enjoyment.
Thursday evening I spent at Stewarts. Friday evening
I went to the Penny Readings Carlton, & sang a
song at them, & to my intense disgust Grimwood
was playing the accompaniments in his usual bad
style - spoiling the vocalists & piano by his infernal
forte playing - I hardly took any notice of him
but treated him as the greatest stranger –
Saturday - Spent the afternoon at the Fitzroy Gardens
In the evening I went to the Theatre Royal to see
Montgomery as “Shylock” & the Duke in Tobias
play of the “Honeymoon” I was highly pleased
with both performances more especially the first
I never saw passion displayed, in all its intensity, by
any actor in such a subdued & yet so earnest
a manner, as he depicted it. 12 Pm
when I got home -
6/152 |
1227
Sunday (8th.Sept 1867) Lovely day, rose very late 9 Am,
after breakfast read for an hour, afterwards went to
hear Mr. Henderson, being the first time he has preached
in the morning in his New Church his subject was
principally in connection with its erection, taking
for his text the a/c of the Building of the Temple at
Jerusalem by the Jews on their return from cap-
-tivity - as described by the Prophet Zecariah,
read a deal in the afternoon until my eyes
began to ache when I took a strool to the
cemetery. Met Miss Finnegan walked nearly
home with home, after tea I went to the Smarts
stayd there about a couple of hours -
Sept 15th.1867
Very slack at the office, no ships of any
consequence having arrived during the week
Weather has (been) very changeable. English mail
arrived on the 10th. bringing an account of the
shooting of Maximillian, Emperor of Mexico & the
festivities in London attendant upon the
visits of the Sultan of Turkey & the Viceroy of
Eygpt - no letters from any relatives - Monday
evening I went to Clarks (calling at Smarts on my
way,) found my sister & mother had left, they
having left word where I could find them
at a Mr. Johnstons a neighbours. Went there
& found them all comfortably enjoying themselves
6/153 |
1228
I stay’d till 10Pm when we had a nice
lobster supper & left for home. My mother
is far from being the good walker she was
very little knocks her up, however I got
her home all right. Tuesday night I went
to a concert at the Orderly Rooms Carlton –
in connection with St Judes Church, & all
amateurs, being the performers, & some of them
very indifferent ones, did not tend to improve
it, altogether it was one of the tamest affairs
I ever attended, however it was well attended
& I suppose that was the object desired
got nearly wet through coming home, found
Jessie Smart at our house, had to see her
home, which of course I had to consider a
pleasure - Wednesday evening, I went to
hear Mr Henderson got there in time to hear
the benediction. I remained in the church to hear
Mr. Russell play the new Organ just erected -
it is a magnificient instrument - after blowing
the bellows for about half an hour I began to
get tired & so decamped in company with
my brother Fred & a Miss *Fleewaiter saw her
home & then we made tracks for our own –
Thursday evening, I spent at my sisters
Clark was out so we enjoyed ourselves
trying over a lot of music & singing over
6/154 |
1229
duets & songs, Clark came in about 10 I stayd
till 11 when after partaking of some hot "toddy"
I wended my way homeward, its a long walk from
our house to East Melbourne –
Friday evening, I spent at Stewarts. Mrs. S is very ill
& in bed with rheumatic fever - I staid about an hour
got nearly wet through coming home. Saturday
morning feeling unwell I took a hot bath at the Baths
on my way home & instead of doing me good had
the contrary effect. I have been suffering ever since
with a most acute headache. In the afternoon
Bessie & I took a walk into town, did some
shopping together, home by 5Pm. After tea Jms
Stewart & I went out to Footscray to sing at a
Concert there. I was too ill to sing, but my companion
did to a not very appreciative audience, so I did not
lose anything, it was 11 Pm when we got home.
Sept 15th.1868 Sunday. Fine day. Was very ill this morning did not rise till 10 AM, went out for a walk about 12 met the two Miss Richardsons (Albert R’ sisters) rambled about with them for an hour or so, felt a little better on arriving home, went to bed in the afternoon after tea, went to Smarts staid there till 9 Pm, still feel very unwell - hope I shall be better in the morning -
Sept 16th.1867
Monday. Went to the office this morning, feeling
worse about noon I left & came home, spent
6/155 |
1230
the afternoon very quietly, I managed to make a good
tea & felt all right afterwards went to Smarts & stayd
there till nearly 10Pm -
17th.Sept Beautiful day, very dull at the office, on arriving home found Miss Saunders & Miss MCathie at our house they stayd tea & left shortly afterwards. on their departure Alice Hungerland & my sister Bessie & I went to the Fitzroy Penny Readings, the place was crowded to excess & we were nearly suffocated with the heat & having to stand all the time made it anything but pleasent to endure. The performance consisted of a number of children from the ages of 4 to 15 who sang & recited in a most creditable manner with voice & gesture that would make many older amateurs desirous of equaling.
18th Sept 1867 Nice day but very dusty, in the evening in company with Fred I went to a Rehearsal for a Concert that is to take place tomorrow night on the occasion of the opening of the New Organ at Mr Hendersons New Church - selections from the Messiah Creation & other sacred pieces were sang very well [by] the Choir
19th Sept 1867 Thursday evening after tea, in company with my mother & Effie Flower, I went to the Concert, the place was well filled & the tone of the new organ universally was extolled. David Lee played upon it remarkably well. Exon sang Comfort Ye & Every Valley pretty well Mrs. Walker & a Miss Pitts being the lady soloists, the latter lady sang With Verdure Clad very well -
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1231
I joined the chorus during the second part of the
Performance - 11 Pm when the affair terminated
I believe to the satisfaction of every body.
Friday evening I spent at Pittmanns, singing.
Saturday afternoon in company with Messrs Marsden
Bros Bruce, Bond, Clark, & my brother Fred & I with the
Mesdames Norris, Phillips, Mrs. Clark & the Revd. J.Taylors
two daughters, forming altogether one of the most
agreeable partys I ever was connected with,
we went on a pleasure excursion up the Yarra
in a boat to Roberts where we landed & had
refreshments & indulged in several innocent
games to while away time, left there about 6 Pm
landed at 7.Pm & all adjourned to Clarks where we spent
the evening, after tea, in a most jolly manner - 11 Pm
when we got fairly on our way home.
Sunday 22nd Sept /67. Dull day went to Church in the
morning, spent the afternoon reading at home, in the evening
I went to Smarts to see Will who is going to
N.Z. on Tuesday -
29th Sept 1867
Weather been very dull, & unsettled, raining for
three days in succession, causing a total stagnation
in business, very busy at the office several
large ships having come alongside the Pier -
I have been from home very seldom this week
owing to my mother & sister Bessie being
very unwell, one would be confined to her bed
one day & the other the next. I have been very
6/157 |
1232
anxious & uneasy on their account, in consequence
I am happy to state they are a little better
just now & I hope to heavens may remain
so. I had the satisfaction of taking up the
second Bill for £21.10s.0d last Tuesday the
24 inst, when it fell due. The other one for
£9.0.0. fell due yesterday, but owing to Miss
Dixon not producing the Bill of Sale she has
over the Piano, I would not give her the money,
which I had by me, until she got it. I believe
she left it in the hands of a friend of hers named
Rutherford, who is a lawyer - or something in that
way, & he is at present on his deathbed & unable
to attend to anything in the way of business.
In company with Miss D. I went to Mr. R. house
but was unable to get possession of the document
Saturday afternoon, I went to the Gardens to
hear the Band play. In the evening I went
to the Theatre & saw Montgomery in Hamlet
he is, without exception, the finest Hamlet I have
ever seen on the stage, his conception of the
character is thoroughly original, based upon
the idea of Hamlets sanity throughout, & that his
eccentriation or madness was assumed. This
idea is not universally admitted, but from my
own reading I can come to no other conclusion
than he was quite sound in his reason but yet
a little more misanthropical than most
men are, arising from an exceedingly
6/158 |
1233
high wrought sensitiveness - This morning I
went to hear Mr. Henderson, went into the choir
for the first time having been invited to join
it - George Ramsden called at our house in the
afternoon, stayd tea with us & he accompanied
me afterwards to Mr. Henderson, heard a fine sermon
on the subject of industry - I was rather amused
at George, when Mr. H. in one part of his discourse
alluded to several American merchants who were no
less characterised to their good business habits than
by their piety, & in summing up the amount they
gave in charities, in dollars, my friend was engaged
in rendering them in to £.s.d. George, like his father,
is fond of money & can keep it when they get it –
& a pretty good share they possess of the filthy lucre.
6th.Oct 1867 Weather still very unsettled, scarcely a day passes without a heavy fall of rain - all at home pretty well in health My time passed much as usual my leasure hours in idleness & comparative frivolity, my business ones busy enough - Last Monday morning, in company with G.Ramsden, I went to Dr Grey the Oculist to consult him in reference to my eyesight, after examining them carefully & asking me many questions with respect to my eyes for years past, he pronounced the weakness as chronic & consequently incurable, advised me to
6/159 |
1234
use stronger glasses, than I am doing & after
using them for a week, to visit him again
when he [will] give me some general directions towards
preserving my sight from becoming worse -?
I have felt rather low spirited since, for I had
had always hoped time might strengthen them.
I am obliged to husband my sight now. I never
read or write after dark & with the exception of
the Newspaper I read in the office & an occasional glimpse
of a book my mind is running to waste for
want of food - in the evening I went to the Gymnasium
there being a Committee meeting & I, being one of
the body, I had to attend & assist in the business
framing new rules & arranging exercises Etc -
it was over by 9 pm. I called at Smarts on my
way home stayd about an hour there - Tuesday
evening I went to the Readings F.P.Court -
Wednesday, I went to Dinner with G.Bond &
spent the evening at his house Bruce Bros & Miss
Taylor were there & the time passed very agreeably
George accompanied me half way home –
Thursday evening in company with Clark
I went & joined A. Richardson's Singing Class
10/- per quarter, one night a week from the little
I saw of his system, I like it, simple yet
Comprehensive - Friday evening spent at
6/160 |
1235
Smarts Saturday rained nearly all day, did not go out.
Sunday, I felt very ill last night & early this morning I
was taken with violent retchings & a looseness in my
bowels, that utterly prostrated me. I never had such a
violent attack in my life & I dont know what could
have produced such a complete upsetting of my system
Towards the afternoon I felt much better & took a
a walk to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to
hear Mr. Henderon, sat in the Choir, was introduced
to Dr Miltons adopted daughter (*Annoyance) saw her
her home, called at Smarts for a few minutes, after
leaving her -
10th.Oct 1867
Weather more settled than it has been lately
Been very unwell since I wrote last - Monday
I was very weak & had no appetite. Spent the evening
at home my sister Mary being at our house. Tuesday
morning about 2 am I was again taken bad
with the same effects as before but attended with
more violent pain, so much so, that I was unable
to go to business & remained at home all day,
felt much better toward evening & after tea, I
having promised to sing at the Fitzroy P.Courts I
went & kept my promise, by singing two songs
I went feeling sure I should break down, but
6/161 |
1236
much to my surprise, I sang nearly as
well as if I had been in the best of health
Wednesday I resumed my duties at the office. In
the evening I called at Williams (Young St) Mr W
accompanied me to Clarks, there I spent the evening
Mr & Mrs. Johnston Mr Bond & Bruce were there altogether filling
his not very large parlour, all were very merry &
pleasent & I should have enjoyed myself much if
I had been well. I left about 10.30 Pm G.Bond came
halfway home with me. On arriving home I found
Mr & Mrs. & Miss Williams at our house, they are awful
talkers & Mr. W fairly bored me & I not being well
wished they would go home, however they did not until
nearly 12 Pm. This morning about 2 am I was
taken bad again with violent retchings & looseness
in my bowels. I felt very loath to come to business, but
my fellow clerk (Adamson) wanted to go to a wedding
so I did not like to deprive him of his pleasure. I
prayd for night to come which it did at last tho I
felt of much better. I was invited to a party at Bruces
(Jollimont) my brother & sisters went but I thought
it advisable to remain at home, which I did with
very pleasently with mother.
13th.Oct 1867
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13th.Oct 1867
Fine weather since last I continued my journal
happy to state I feel much better in health, tho’ I am
still very weak. Friday evening I waited upon
Miss Browning & Miss Norris & invited them to join us
in a boating party for the following day, from doing this
I went to the Choir Rehearsal at Hendersons Church,
practised over the Hyms & Chants for the Sunday services
home by 10.Pm. Saturday afternoon, in company with
fifteen other persons (ladies & gentlemen) I went up the
river spent the time between 3 Pm to 9 Pm very
pleasently on the water, & at the Tea Gardens, singing
playing Croquet & various other innocent games, we
were very tired on ariving home, being such a long
distance from the Boat house at Richmond, on arriving
home we were very hungry & we made mother stare to
see her Bread & Beef vanish ~~ Sunday morning
I went to Church & in the afternoon took a strool
about Fitzroy Gardens, found G.Ramsden at our
house stayd tea & we all, with Bessie, went to Church,
after the service was over, I met Miss Milton & saw
her home, she is a strange little oddity, plenty to say
yet on the whole I find her very sensible & observant
I believe she is an adopted daughter of Dr Milton
a strange ancient of days who at present is bedridden
6/163 |
1238
& existing upon charity, she seems like a
ministering angel to the old man, & his only
claim upon her, I believe, is gratitude.
[Sunday, 20 October 1867] Oct 19th[20th]1867 Weather been very unsettled during the week. I am afraid summer will never set in. The papers are full of accounts of floods all over the colony – with regard to myself I have very little to note, of interest. The Mail from England arrived at the beginning of the week bringing us a letter from my father - he is well in health but greatly bothered concerning the pending Law suit now in Chancery, it appears very uncertain whether we shall ever be benefitted by it, whichever way it may be settled. Father, when he wrote, appeared to be enjoying himself travelling about, he was in London for a few days whilst the Sultan & the Belgian volunteers were visiting there - Monday the 14th inst being my sister Bessies 20th. Birthday, we had a few friends to spend the evening with us, which we did very pleasently - Tuesday evening with Bessie spent at the Wesleyan Bazaar, K.W. St. met many acquaintances there. Wednesday, Jessie Smart & Idalia Rekowski spent the evening with us, I, seeing them home after -wards - Miss S. lives in Brunswick St, where I left her to proceed on to Richmond with Miss R, much to the disgust & jealousy of Jessie, who still persists in attaching herself to me - in spite of all my coldness & protestations of not entertaining any- -thing serious towards her, it was after 11 Pm when
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1239
I arrived home. Thursday night I went to receive my
singing lessons at A. Richardsons Class, over by 10Pm
met Miss Milton there & saw her home - Friday evening
as per promise I went to the West Melb. Literary Institute, where
the members & friends had met for a social meeting. I sang
twice & got more applause & praise than I was justly
entitled to. - Sarah Clark playd me my accompaniments &
I did not speak to her except to thank her on handing
her from the stage - she seemed very nervous & I must
admit I was slightly so, not only on meeting her there,
but also my old friend Mrs Griffin - who stuck to me &
would speak the first time this, nearly, 3 years we
mutually forgave each other - for what had passed –
but still determined to be as strangers whenever we meet
for the future - she introduced me to three other ladies
a Mrs. Glass & her two single sisters named ? Bonunlow who invited
me home with them, where I spent an hour or so
very pleasently singing a Duet & a song there, & partaking
of a nice little little supper, just the five of us, as cosy
as possible, I afterwards saw Mrs. G. to the Station –
between 12 & 1 when I reached home. Saturday afternoon
I went to hear the Band play on my arrival in the Gardens
it came on to rain, so meeting Clark & Mary I went
home with them stayd tea, on leaving them at 7 Pm I called
at Smarts stayd there till 9 Pm -
[Sunday, 27 October 1867]
Octr 26th [27th] 1867
Every variety of weather during the past few days
we have had hot winds & cold winds, hail & rain
beautiful calm weather, & several thunderstorms
6/165 |
1240
two of the latter being amongst the severest I ever
experienced - Been rather slack at the office,
just enough to do to keep us out of mischief &
nothing more - Monday I attended Rehearsal at the
Grammar School Collins St. to rehearse some anthems to be
sung at a Tea Meeting to be given in our chapel next
month. Tuesday evening I went to a Concert & Ball
at the New Orderly Room Carlton. I took Miss Milton to
the Concert at its conclusion I saw her home & returned
myself to the Ball where I danced till 2.30 am
next morning - I was tired next day, but in the
evening I went to Smarts for an hour. Thursday
I went to the Singing Class @ Richardsons, being a
rough night, I very few were there in consequence, I
saw Miss Milton home - she lives near the place
so we took the longest way round to reach her home –
11 pm when I reached home myself, Friday evening
after an hours gymnastics, (my usual quantum
about 4 times a week) giving me a fine appetite for my tea
after partaking Fred & I went to the Rehearsal at the Chapel
I am getting already tired of the choir, it is very badly constructed
the tenors have to sit on one side of the organ & in such a position
as to prevent anyone from seeing, & only with difficulty hearing
the minister. We rehearsed the Hyms for Sunday next & also
a couple of Anthems for the Tea Meeting. 10 pm when it was
over. Took me nearly half an hour to reach home
6/166 |
1241
I received a most affectionate letter from Jim Hamilton
he is still living in Dunedin & is in the employ of
the Govt. if there is such a thing in existence there, which
I doubt judging from the newsps. Jim states he is very
unsettled as regards his worldly position, & proceeds to tell me
of his spiritual condition which he considers of more
importance than all the riches & wealth of this world -
I wish I was in such a happy contented frame of mind,
his wife & four children are all well with himself, it was
a long letter & yet contained little news, some people
can write so much upon trifles - Spent yesterday after-
noon at home doing jobs about the house & Garden, in the
evening I went for a short time to Smarts - I went to Church
morning & evening to day, spent the afternoon reading -
Nov. 3rd 1867 [1867-11-03-Sunday] Weather tolerably fair the last few days being very hot, very little doing in the way of Business in consequence of the Races which have taken place the past 3 days - great excitement prevails also on a/c of the arrival of Prince Alfred in Adelaide where he is getting feted to his hearts content & the Adelaide people enjoying & making holiday. Our turn will come when he honors Victoria with his presence – he is expected to arrive here in about a fortnights time great preparations are being made to receive him right loyally - Monday evening went to a Rehearsal at the Church - Tuesday evening I spent at Marys calling on my way at Smarts where I stayd about half an hour - Wednesday evening, I went to a
6/167 |
1242
wedding party at Mr Kerrs Johnston St. his daughter
Jenny was married to a Mr. Berriman, it was
9 Pm when I went & about 3 am next morning
when I left. I met a great number there I knew
amongst the number Sarah Clark who I had not
spoken to for 2 years, owing to an unpleasent little
circumstance that occurred. We were friendly towards
each other, & she seemed inclined to renew the
acquaintance as familiarly as formerly, but I
was not so inclined & treated her just as I did
any other lady present I enjoyed myself very
much, but what with the singing laughing eating
& drinking Etc I felt very unwell next day -
managed to catch a cold & a very nasty sore throat
verifying the old proverb, after pleasure comes pain -
a proverb that does not hold good in every case -
Thursday night I went to Richardsons for my
singing lesson, he not being well the class was
postponed. I met Miss Milton (*annoyance) there & took a
pleasent walk through the Gardens with her, after
9 Pm when I saw her home. Friday night, my cold
being so bad I remained at home. My sister Mary spent
the evening at our house. I saw her home Saturday afternoon
went to hear the Band play in the Gardens – spent
the evening at Smarts - This morning & evening
I went to Chapel, heard Mr Henderson preach
6/168 |
1243
an excellent sermon on each occasion – spent
the afternoon reading - on leaving church this
evening I met Jessie Smart, walked home with
her, she is going to Geelong tomorrow. I am not sorry
for she there may among new scenes & new friends
learn to forget & cease to think of me - I never saw
a girl so infatuated as she is - nothing I can say
or do will wean her from affecting her partiality
toward me -
Novr 10th.1867
Weather fair the past week, the town & country
in a great state of excitement owing to the arrival
of Prince Alfred, (the Queens second son) in Adelaide
where he arrived last Sunday evening. The papers are
full of his reception there - & the reception they we
purpose giving him in Melbourne where he is
expected to arrive on the 18th.inst. nothing but
reception Committee meetings, illuminations, triumphal
arches, Balls, Fetes, Etc form the topics of conversation in
every circle. Monday evening my sister Mary with Mr &
Mrs. Drake & George Bond spent the evening at our house
Tuesday evening, Fred & I went to hear the Rehearsal of
the pieces to be sang at the concert given by the Philharmonic
Society when the prince arrives, some of the pieces were
well sang & are very beautiful - Wednesday evening our
Tea Meeting took place. I took Mother to it, it was held in
the Grammar School & being far too small for the number
it was very crowded, rendering everything very uncomfortable
6/169 |
1244
as it was impossible to get seated near anyone we
knew, after the tea was over, everybody adjourned to
the Church. I went into the Choir & assisted in
the Anthems that were sang, we enjoyed ourselves very
much in the choir, not paying much attention to
what was being said in fact is was impossible
to hear owing to the badly arranged manner the
Choir is constructed - altogether it was the poorest
Tea Meeting I ever attended. Thursday evening, I
went to Richardsons Class & had a good practice –
Friday evening, Bessie & I went as per invitation
to Mr. I.Lloyds party given at his fathers quarters
in the Police Court, Swanston S. met a great many
there we knew, spent the time as is usual on
such occasions, singing & dancing, & stuffing our-
-selves with indigestible luxuries, which were
provided in abundance - I never went to a party
where there was so much convenience for giving an
affair of the sort there being so many fine large
rooms, the Ball Room (impromptu) is a magnificent
Hall, used on certain occasions as a Court house -
I enjoyed myself very much - my pleasure being
during one Dance slightly marred by
my partner a Miss *Grinsell fainting in my arms -
creating quite a little sensation in the rooms - it was
4 am when we broke up making it nearly 5 when
we reached home, broad daylight, fortunately the
day was the Prince of Wales Birthday & a holiday
so I staid in bed till 10 am. Lloyd & Baker
called upon me at 11 & staid till 1 pm, on their
6/170 |
1245
departure, Bessie & I dressed & went to the
Athletic Sports, held on the Melb' Cricket Ground –
the day was very hot & feeling rather seedy, from my
previous nights pleasure I did not enjoy myself so
well as I would otherwise have done - there was some
very good running & jumping & on the whole, managed
to pass the time away agreeably, chatting & walking
about with different acquaintances I chanced to meet
on the ground. We were very tired on arriving home,
went to bed early This morning & evening I went
as usual to hear Mr Henderson, his sermon this
evening was one of the most impressive I ever
heard him deliver & I sincerely hope many hearts
were touched by it, at the conclusion of the service
I met Miss Milton & walked home with her –
I received a long letter from Jessie Smart on
Wednesday from Geelong full of sentiment Etc - I
replied to it on Friday & pointed out to her the folly of
writing & nurturing a passion that can have no
happy results. I trust she will take the hint & discontinue
her communications -
Novr 17 1867
Weather very hot all the week? a change yesterday, when it c in the
morning we had a most refreshing shower of rain. The English Mail
arrived on Thursday, very little news, we received a letter from Aunt Sarah
in which she states she has had an indirect communication from
6/171 |
1246
some source or another the my Uncle John Thomas Watmuff
who has been absent & not heard of for 16 years, is now some-
-where in Australia & requests us to make some enquiries about
him - he was a very eccentric & very wild & reckless in his youth
took to the sea, was a cadet on board Nelson's Ship "Victory"
Portsmouth, served & was wounded in the battle of Naverino
more than once the sole survivor of shipwrecks –
I received a letter from Jessie Smart on Wednesday -(in reply
to the one I sent last week,) in which she upbraids me &
accuses me of being cruel & heartless Etc. in my writing in
the manner I did, this arises simply from the fact that I
stated in my letter the apparent impropriety of her desiring to write
to one, who had never be(en) toward her more than a friend
so I trust all is over between (us) not that anything existed
between us more than mere friendship at least on my part -
Monday evening Miss Baker spent the evening at our house
she left about 9 pm when I went to the Ball given by
the Committee of the Carlton Penny Readings, to those who had
contributed to the entertainments. I stayd till nearly 1 am
had a few good dances, all of which I enjoyed. Tuesday
evening spent at Pittmans, singing. Wednesday evening spent
at Clarks. Thursday, went to Albert Richardsons Singing
Class, at its conclusion I saw Bella Milton home, on leaving her
I passed Pittmans place saw Mrs & Miss P. under the Verandah.
they insisted upon me going inside which I did met a Miss
Lee there a beautiful singer, who sang several songs in
a style seldom met with by an amateur. I sang two
Duets with her. 12 Pm when I arrived home, found my
mother had not arrived home from Clarks where she had been
spending the day so I started to fetch her, met her about half
way in company with Clark - 1 OC when I got to bed -
Friday evening I went to sing at the Abbotsford Penny
Readings, there was a very meagre attendance. I was
6/172 |
1247
introduced to some very [nice] people there, among the number
a Miss Wright & Mrs. Morgan I went home to the formers
residence stayd there about an hour singing Etc. This infernal
singing is becoming a bore - if a person is supposed to be
able to sing a song, wherever he goes the first request is
do sing something - no excuse is accepted, & one is obliged
to put up with a bad accompaniment, at other
times a not over appreciative audience & submit to all
manner of criticisms which are not at all times the most
pleasing - on arriving home I found my old friend Bob
Hooper, who had just arrived from Bendigo & was enroute
for N.Z. by the Omeo which sailed yesterday, he informed
me his reason for doing so & leaving Victoria was, because his
Mother had, in her old age, got married, to McCaffrey -
who is about 15 years younger than she is - they are living on
Sandhurst at the old hut on the hill in Long Gully –
Bob stayd all night with us when I bid
him adieu in the morning - & wished him every prosperity
he is a fine manly spirited young fellow, & a great favourite
of mine from his boyhood up - Saturday afternoon I
worked in the garden for an hour or two, afterwards went to
town & stayd an hour at the Gymnasium, in the evening I took
my sister Bessie to see the illuminations in the course of
preperation for Monday week next, some of them are
most beautiful those especially at the public buildings,
Banks Etc in Collins St. the town was crowded with people
bent on the same errand as ourselves, & all we met seemed
to think the Prince will be very much gratified by the
preperations in progress for his reception - This morning & evening
, as usual, I went to hear Mr. Henderson, rather annoyed
to find my brother & self the only gentlemen present – few
care about being connected with the choir as it is now situated
& conducted - I spent this afternoon in a pleasent strool
to the cemetery -
6/173 |
1248
Novr.22th.1867
Weather very hot & sultry during the week hot weather set in in
earnest with all it accompaning inconveniences, hot wind & hot
sun, & dust flies by day & mosquitoes by night, Etc - Monday
evening spent at home excepting for about an hour when I went to
the Gymnasium. Tuesday spent in a similar manner –
Wednesday Bessie & I with Mary & her husband went & spent
the evening with G Bond found a pleasent party met there
enjoyed ourselves very well broke up at a late hour tired
when we arrived home, Thursday evening went to my singing
class, met Clark & Bond there, made arrangements with
them about getting a conveyance to take mother &
my sisters to see the illuminations on Tuesday night &
for interesting other sights that are to take place shortly
Friday evening the “Galatea” was telegraphed off the Otway
great preparations are in progress to meet the vessel with
its Royal Captain to morrow at the Heads, where a
steam flotilla consisting of some 20 vessels are
to form an escort to their anchorage in the Bay.
I had anticipated having a few days holiday, but all my ideas
in that respect were dissipated, by being informed this evening
on leaving the office with all the other clerks in the Goods Dpt.
that we should be required to assist in the passenger Traffic
tomorrow, our duties to commence at 7 am, such meanness
such a dog in the manger kind of spirit I never experienced before
I know no more about the duties necessary than the greatest
stranger. I cannot express the intense disgust I feel on
the occasion, so different from what I had expected. I, with
others have being forward to the Princes arrival with such
pleasure, in the hope of enjoyment, & now to have
to be put to do menial porters duties is rather too bad -
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1249
Novr.26th.1867
The last four days have passed away as a dream. I feel now after
the Bustle & excitement attending the Prince Alfreds arrival, like one
who after being crushed in a crowd had managed to escape & get into an
haven of rest. The Prince was met at the “Heads” by a steam
flotilla which accompanied the “Galatea” to her anchorage, the day
being observed as a holiday those who tried to do business met
with little success, nearly everybody turned [up] those who were able
went in the vessels on the Bay those who remained behind
lined the beach from St Kilda B to Brighton, the Piers not only
at Sandridge but at Williamstown were covered with people
eager to see the pageant - Monday was “the” day, when he made
his landing, being received on our pier, by all the elite of the Colony
Sandridge was crowded with people, windows & Balconies & Stands being
full of people eager to display their loyalty Etc - A carriage
here met him which heading a procession, the like of which
(h)as never been seen or ever will, Im thinking, again in Victoria,
in which he entered conveyed him to Melbourne. The procession
consisted of Volunteers, Military, & the various Orders of Freemasons -
Odd Fellows, Foresters, Etc. Etc. the road was lined with people
& at Emerald Hill where a Triumphal Arch was erected, the
procession stopped & an address was read from the
Borough & some 3000 children sang the National Anthem after
which he proceeded on his route. Princes Bridge was beautifully
decorated with Arches & Flags, the procession then proceeded
to along Swanston St. *into the Town Hall, where he was met
by the Mayor (Mr Butters) who read an address, some 10,000
children arranged in Collins St sang the National Anthem
when he moved along Collins St as far as William St which he
turned into & then came down Bourke St to the Parliament Houses
& on to the Treasury where he alighted & some more addresses
were delivered after partaking of some refreshment, he left for
Toorak. It would be impossible for me to describe Melbourne
& its streets with all their trappings & finery, its tens of thousands
of spectators, arranged wherever it was possible from
ground to roof to obtain a sight of his Royal Highness
6/175 |
1250
the excitement & Bustle & intense enthusiasm. Bands of Music
flaunting banners of every country under the sun, decorations
wreaths of evergreens, transparencies, well dressed & orderly people
everywhere - all formed such a sight as has never, been witnessed
I dare say, never will be again in Australia at least in
this century. Tuesday, a Levee was held in the Exhibition
Building & some 3 or 4,000 gentlemen were presented to him
In the evening the town was illuminated & turned out a
perfect success - a blaze of triumph, as soon as darkness
set in, the various premises, public & private, throughout the
city were lighted up & by a little after 9 Pm the whole city
was a complete mass of variegated light. In the principal
thoroughfares it was like walking through a picture gallery
so numerous & varied were the transparences, nearly every
building was illuminated the majority of them, with exquisite
taste. His Highness, with the Governor, Honbl.-Yorke, Lord
Newey made the circuit of the city in a carriage & pair
escorted by mounted troopers, he wore a Glengarry cap
& looked astonished at the sight which presented itself everywhere
he was loudly cheered on his progress - it was after
2 a.m. before it was all over & the crowd found their ways
to their respective homes - With regard to myself, I had
little share in fun & amusement attending these great doings.
Saturday morning, I had to come on Duty at 6.30 Am & was
stationed at St Kilda as an assistant porter doing concourse
platform duty - all day, to my intense disgust. It is a
shame the Company should have done such a disgraceful
thing as to insist upon gentlemen doing such menial duties
however, I made the best of it, opening carriage doors, & checking
tickets Etc - In the afternoon I took a strool on the Esplanade
it being crowded with people. I met my mother & sister
who had been spending the day at a friends, all were out
looking at the Marine flotilla coming in, presenting a very
animated & pretty sight. I left St Kilda at 7.30, & came to town
6/176 |
1251
in company with a fellow clerk who was not very sober. We went
into an eating house & had a good meal of steak & onions, met
my brother Fred there doing the same, he had been to Queenscliff in
the “Hero” & had just returned, after finishing, I went up to Carlton
with my friend, putting him on his way home - after which
I returned into town found the streets densely crowded & nearly
all the places illuminated - I was very tired & knocked up, &
thought Id go home when I met Miss Wright & her mother
& while conversing with the former, the latter managed to get separated
from us & we saw no more of her, much to my annoyance
for I had promised to go to St Kilda & bring my people home
from there during the evening. Miss W. wouldnt think of being
left alone so I had to stick to her & see her home 11 pm when
I did so, she is a nice girl & a good merry companion, if I
had not been so tired I should have enjoyed her society much
better than I did. I got home about 11.30. & was not long before I
was soon sound asleep - Sunday, morning being tired I did
not rise till nearly 10 am. after breakfast being too late for
Church, I strooled about town looking at the preparations being
made for the Princes reception on Monday. In the afternoon
I went to hear the Revd Oswald Dykes, the great Presbyterian
minister who preached in Hendersons church on this occasion
on behalf of the Ladies Benevolent Society - the church was
crowded to excess scarcely standing room to be obtained -
The discourse was a most eloquent one & had the desired
effect of drawing a large collection from those there -
In the evening Miss Baker - & Dick Ryland called &
stayd tea with us, after which we parted. I got down to
Church too late to get in so waited outside until it was over
when I met a lady friend & saw her home - found Clark
& Mary at our house who stayd supper after I got home -
Monday morning at 8 am I had again to go on duty at
St Kilda - stayd there & running up & down the line in the guards
van till 12.30 when I got out at Emerald Hill thinking to
see the Prince & procession pass by, but was disappointed
saw the latter, the former having passed some few seconds
6/177 |
1252
before my arrival. I met here my old Bendigo acquaintances
John Drysdale & Price, we walked across the swamps together
& managed to get into Collins St & into a good position to
see the Prince when he passed there, which we did, got a
good glimpse of him, he is a fine manly looking young
fellow, & appears to be hardy & well tanned by the sun
it must have been very gratifying to him receiving such an
ovation on his passing. I lost my friends, but alone I soon
reached the Treasury, got another good sight of him when
getting out of his carriage. I was glad to get out of the
crowd after this, which was thicker at this spot than
any other place in town - I walked back to the station
found my mother & Bessie very comfortably seated on
the stand there that had been erected for the use of the
clerks & their families, only stayd a few minutes
with them & then went to resume my duties at St Kilda
in the train going down, I saw Miss OLeary & Miss Hutly
two very pretty girls & on arriving at our destination
seeing they were alone, I proposed to a fellow clerk of
mine joining their company, all being agreeable we
went down to the beach & had a delightful walk to the
Red Bluff - made enjoyable by the pleasent company & far
from the noise & bustle we had just left, on returning
to the station at 5.20 Mr Griffin informed us he
could get along without us, & we might go if we liked
so I came into town & again joined my ladies walked
to Collingwood with them when I left them & went to East
Melbourne to Clarks, where I found all our family
assembled after a good wash & a good tea I felt a deal
livelier & the lot of us sallied forth into Fitzroy Gardens
which we found beautifully lighted up with coloured
lamps, thousands of people were enjoying the scene
6/178 |
1253
after rambling about for some time we returned to Clarks
& partook of a good supper, the Miss Flowers being there -
after finishing we left for home reached it about 12.30,
tired & weary.- To day, Tuesday, I went to the office found
the sheds closed, & no business to be done, an order came
for the clerks all to go on the platforms along the
line & resume their duties there - a few of us
I among the number did not go, for having a deal of
back work in the office to do, I was determined to do it
in preference to doing porters work - I got out a great
number of accounts & remained until 5Pm when I
came away, after tea, I & Bessie & Fred went to Clarks
met my mother there & Mr Bond - we had engaged a
car between us to convey us through the town
to see the illuminations, at the price of £1.0.0 we get into it
& started but on reaching Spring St we found it impossible to
proceed further the road being blocked up with conveyances
of every description, after making many attempts, all to no
purpose, we were compelled to turn back, we thought we
might succeed in effecting an entrance at the other end
of the town so drove for Spencer St. found the entrance
to it in Flinders St blocked up, & such a Babel of sounds
children & women crying & screaming, men cursing
& swearing & hollowing horses plunging & kicking, wheels
locked Etc, so frightened our ladies that we resolved, seeing
no chance of witnessing the illuminations in a vehicle, to get out &
walk about the town, a happy idea & one I wish we had con[sidere]d
before engaging a cab & such an expense. My mother I
put under my own charge & managed to pilot her about in
spite of her infirmities, so that she enjoyed the sight well
We roamed about among the crowd, saw the Prince and
criticized all we saw as much as anybody, until
getting tired we left town with reluctance, about
11.30. & made for home found all safe & get to bed.
6/179 |
1254
[1867-12-01-Sunday]
Novr.30th.1867
Weather very hot the last few days - not making it very pleasent to
the holiday folks who have been abroad during the late demonstrations given
in honor to the Prince. Wednesday, busy at the office doing my
work as usual in the evening I went to a wedding party at
McColls in Moore St. Fitzroy. Miss M (a friend of my sisters),
married a young fellow named Barrfoot, about 25 or 30 visitors
were present, all crowded in a small room, who tried to be agreeable
& make things pleasent I cannot say I enjoyed myself very
well, not caring much for the class of people present, my
sister & I staid there until about 2 Am next morning – the
next day Thursday, was an awful hot day, a hot north wind
blowing accompanied with clouds of dust. I went to the
office, as usual although the day was observed as a general
holiday, being the day of the Free Banquet was to be held in
the Zoological Gardens on the Bank of the Yarra opposite the
Botanical Gardens. We managed to get away about 2 Pm & *vis[i]t[e]d
the place found about 50,000 people present all anxiously
awaiting the arrival of the Prince before commencing proceedings
the day was [hot] & the people tired hungry & thirsty, they were not
disposed to wait longer, & instead of the committee preserving
order & method in the distribution of the “good things” provided
they found themselves quite unable to do anything & to make
things worse, the Prince never came at all, a fact very
much to be regretted for if he had, something like order
would have been produced, but as it was, there was nothing
but rushing pushing crowding & confusion everywhere &
before 3 Pm not an atom of food, eatible was to be obtained
I was fortunate enough to get a small loaf of Bread which I
divided among my friends the most of whom reserved *their
share as a momento of the great failure - every body
was disapointed & disgusted & expressions of regret were
universally uttered, the fountain of wine was rushed
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by a lot of low rabble who fought & tumbled & wasted the
liquor in a most disgraceful manner & so ended about
5 pm, what all classes had looked forward to since the idea
of the affair became known as to be the best & greatest climax
of all the “great things” the public was to share in during the
Princes visit amongst us - it was a miserable sight to witness
the thousands of people with numbers of children, most of whom
had been on the ground for hours in the boiling sun unable
to get so much as a drink of water unless they went to the River as
many did. Adamson & I were together all the afternoon & I dare say
few enjoyed themselves more under the circumstances than we
did having no one to look after but ourseves, we roamed about
meeting many we knew, chaffing & joking on the disappointment
so apparent on many countenances - I left about 5 Pm & came
home, went to sleep for a couple of hours & at about 9 Pm Bessie
& I went to a party at Williams's (Young St) where we found a
large number of people assembled, most of whom we knew
& all bent upon enjoyment, & plenty of it came to our share -
we danced & sang, eat & drink Etc. as is usual on such
occasions, until 4 am the following morning, felt rather
seedy the next morning, but had to go to business. We were
not very busy, so I left about 2 Pm & came home, having
a look on the way at the preperations completed for
the Prince to lay the foundation stone at the New Town
Hall corner of Collins & Swanston St - which said event came
off I understand with great eclat, on arriving home I went
to bed & slept till near 7 when after partaking tea Bessie
& I went to the Library & mixed in the crowd assembled
there to hear the singing of the Germans who had get up
a Torch light procession & honored the Prince with their
escort from the Exhibition Building, where a grand Civic dinner
had been held, to Princess Bridge. I saw the procession but
did not hear the singing owing to my sister getting so
nervous & frightened, being in the crowd so much so
I had to take her from it to my intense annoyance
We met Miss Wright & her sister & joining together we got
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upon the Grand Stand at the Town Hall & there saw the
procession pass. It was a strange, wild but picturesque
sight, & a very unusual one on British soil. 800 hundred
persons were supposed to have taken part in it. it was
nearly 11 Pm when it was all over, 12 when I got home
having accompanied Miss W. home. Saturday 30th inst – In
the afternoon in company with the Bros. Ballantyne – Miss
Bishop & Miss Walters & my sister took
a Cab & went to Richmond where we hired a boat & had
a fine pull up the river to the Tea Gardens, where we indulged
in all the luxuries obtainable there & had a good romp &
bit of fun Etc. We returned arriving home by 6.30.Pm
In the evening I went down town, met Adamson & took
a strool together home by by 10 pm - & so has passed
one of the most exciting & jubilant weeks ever Victoria
has known or will again in this generation I think
Decr.8th.1867
Weather been somewhat varied during the week, but fine on the
whole. The Prince left Melbourne last Monday & is at present on a tour
through the Western districts where he is receiving ovations at every
settlement he passes through. Melbourne has lapsed into its
original channel since his departure, the people having had a
surfeit of royalty the preceding week - Monday evening I spent
at home my sister Mary & Miss Cass being here. I saw the
latter to the railway Station late at night. Tuesday night
I went to see the Japanese Troupe of Jugglers at the Haymarket
Theatre, they do some extraordinary feats of skill, in top spinning
& balancing Etc. Wednesday evening after tea, I went to Mary's
she was out, stayd about an hour with Clark - Thursday, I went
to Richardson Singing Class, at the conclusion of the lesson
I accompanied Miss Pittman home, stayd at her place
some two hours in company with several others there, very
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pleasently together, singing Etc. Friday evening, went to Hendersons
thinking there was to be a Rehearsal, finding the church in darkness
I concluded there was to be none so came home found Clark & Mary here
who spent the evening with us – Saturday, afternoon I
went to hear the Band play in Fitzroy Gardens, met Mary & Clark
& wandered about the grounds with them until 5.15 pm. on reaching
home found Miss Hoskins there who stayd tea & spent the evening
with us, I seeing her to the Rly Station at 11 Pm. This morning
& evening I went to hear Mr Henderson, he preached one
of the finest sermons I ever heard to night (All is vanity Etc) This
afternoon I took a long walk to the Botanical Gardens, not having
been there for the last 3 years. I noticed many changes & improvements
since my last visit, they are without exception the most beautiful
laid out grounds in the colony & it must astonish a stranger to find
so many rare & exquisite plants, shrubs & trees, Etc as have been
collected by our clever & talented Botanist Dr.F.Mueller. I was very
loath to come away, having only taken a cursory
glans of things.
Decr 15th 1867
Weather very unsettled this time of the year. Monday & Tuesday
it was very hot Wednesday, Thursday & Friday very wet & cold
We have been very slack at the office the last few weeks, but are now
likely to be the reverse for some weeks to come, owing to the great number
of ships which have arrived & placed alongside our pier - The Prince
has been absent nearly all the week at Ballarat, he is at present
in Melbourne having arrived here on Friday, he purposes visiting
Castlemaine & Sandhurst next week - Monday & Tuesday night I
stayd at home except for a short time when I accompanied
Adamson to Cleelands to choose a fancy Dress for the coming Fancy
Ball, to be given by the Corporation on the 23rd inst. through the
kindness of Clark who succeeded in obtaining an invitation for
Bessie & I, we purpose honouring the affair with our presence. Wednesday
& Thursday night I spent at home. Friday night I attended a rehearsal
at the Church owing to the sparce attendance I would not stay - it is to be
regretted that members take such little interest in the Choir considering what
a fine Organ & congregation their is in connection with the Church
some object to the Organist (Mr Russell) some to the secretary (Brown)
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& others to the ill arranged way the Choir is formed - being behind the
minister & situated badly for listening to the preacher -
Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens to hear the
Band play, in the evening I went down town for a strool, met
the Miss Bomenlaus went home with them to ABeckett St
stayd at their house till 11 pm very pleasently singing Etc -
To day morning & evening I went to the Church as usual
in the afternoon I spent reading the life of G.Whitfield.
Decr 22nd 1867
Weather vey fine all the week. Spent my leasure time
much as usual, with little profit to myself or anybody
else. I often feel ashamed of myself at the anomalous
state I have got into, living for apparently without an object
except for pleasure & living for ones one pl enjoyment seems
selfish & not the thing in my eyes - Monday evening
I in company with Marsden went to the Varieties
spent a jolly evening there heard some good, bad & very
indifferent singing. Tuesday night went to a party
at Mrs. Flowers 3 am when we got home next morning
Wednesday evening spent at home - Thursday was a
fearfully hot day, the Thermometer standing at 105º in the shade
went to the Singing Class in the evening, the last night of
of the quarter, on my way home I called & stayd for about
an hour at Pitmans. Friday night I went to my
sister Marys, found Mother there who stayd all night
with her as Mr. Clark had gone on a pedestrian tour to
Lillydale he returned yesterday afternoon, when I met
him in Fitzroy Gardens went home with him & tried on
one of his Volunteer officer suits of a fashion now obsolete
found it fit me well, so I intend wearing it tomorrow
evening at the Fancy Ball, after tea we went together
to the Philharmonic Concert given at the
New Exhibition Building - the place was crowded,
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& on a Dais at the end of the Hall sat the Prince, the
Governor, & Elliot Yorke & other notables - the choruses of Athalia
were the best I ever heard, the singing of the St Kilda Glees Scy -
was also good, although taken together, I have been at many
a better concert - at the conclusion of the concert, I met
Miss Bonumlaw walked home with her, after 12 when I reached
home - This morning & evening went to Church, spent the
afternoon strolling about in company with Marsden and Jones -
Decr 29th.1867
This has been a holiday week being X mastime, but I
must say I passed it in the most quiet manner, from
the fact of not having any money to indulge in any fun
or join in any parties or picnics, however I had one
nights pleasure which more than compensated me for any
loss of enjoyment I may have missed. I allude to the
Fancy Dress Ball which event took place on Monday night
the 23rd inst. Bessie & I went to Clarks where we dressed, left his
place about 9 pm, in a cab, we engaged, for the night –
Mary was dressed as a Spanish lady, Bessie going as Colleen Bawn
Clark went in the 1st Vict Uniform, I went in a dress of
his, when Captain of Engineers, which looked very well on me not
very gaudy, but good – on entering the rooms a most indescribable
scene presented itself, upwards of 3000 people, some dressed
in the most gorgeous manner & all in fancy costumes
according to the tastes, or means of the wearer, the latter not
having been taken into consideration much, for I have
heard many a lady had pawned her piano to purchase dress
for the occasion however none appeared to care much
about the ways & means of coming for every body appeared
happy & delighted & free from care – costumes of all
ages & nations could be seen, characters from plays,
Books, & poems, Harlequins, Clowns, Pantaloons
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1260
Fairies, Gods & Goddesses, sailors & soldiers Etc Etc. The Prince, Vicount
Newey & the Governor Etc. were there – few there ever witnessed
such a scene or ever will again I think our party left about
5 am the next morning & it was amusing being broad daylight
to see the motley crowd wending their way to their respective
homes in their strange costumes, all looking vastly different
from what they did a few hours before in the gaslighted halls
I was terribly knocked up the following night having had to do
a hard days work at the office, so I stayd at home & was not
long out of bed. X mas morning Fred & I went to St
Peters Church & heard some good singing, in the afternoon
we took a trip down to Sandridge, roamed about the pier
& visited a number of ships. Clark & Mary & Mr. & Mrs
Poynton (Clark’s sister & brother in law) spent the evening
& stayd supper at our house - Boxing day, I had to
go to business in the morning, so that I was unable
to go or make any arrangements for joining in a
picnic or anything of the sort, however I left the
office about 10 pm & took a pass for the Rly visited several
stations on the line, pulled up at last in the Survey
paddocks where great numbers of picnics were being
held among the number the German one. I met
many there I knew so I managed to enjoy myself
pretty well after all. I left about 6 pm & by train
got to the Cricket Ground where I alighted & made for home
where I found Miss Baker spent the evening very
quietly saw her home about 11 pm, when I got back
again - Friday evening I went to Rehearsal at the
Church, walked home with Marsden & Miss Brown -
Saturday on leaving the office I went to Sandridge to see the
Regatta found very few on the pier & the sport, rather
slow. I left at 3 pm & came to the Fitzroy Gardens where
I met my sister with Miss Baker & Misses Phillips
spent an hour or two very pleasently after tea I
went for a strool into town – home by 10 pm
This morning I went to Hendersons, in the afternoon
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1261
I paid my old mate Harry Dight a visit, found him & his wife
quite well their baby[2] has grown into a fine handsome boy
they seem very happy & were very glad to see me They wanted
me to stay tea but I declined They informed me that Rowitts
widow (Mary King that was) is at present in town. I fancied
I saw her in town the night before - & I feel sorry now I
did not accost her – on arriving home found a young lady
at our house Katie Langtree, she used to live with us
many years ago when a child & has seen many roughings &
trials in her life & is now living with an aunt, who it
appears makes a Cinderella of her owing to the manner
in which her father treated my mother in reference to her
she did not like to come & see us, he is dead & hearing of us she
came, it was quite refresing to witness the unaffected joy
she expressed on meeting us again & talking over with my
sister Bessie old times – when they playd together - Fred & I
went to Church in the evening. Mr. Henderson preached a most
impressive sermon from that position of Luke when, the rich
man says to his soul eat drink & be merry, he became very
much affected at one time when alluding to the great numbers
he had preached to during the past 18 months & finding so
very few sincere inquirers, many times, he had thoughts
of discontinuing preaching in consequence, for he thinks that
if he is not doing good he is doing harm - I hope & trust
he will not abandon his calling, if good is to be done in Victoria
I feel certain there are none in it more able & earnest in
Gods work & capable by their eloquence & abilities to accomplish
it than Mr. H. even if he is not reaping he is sowing the harvest
Jany 5th.1868
Weather everything that could be wished by the holiday &
pleasure seekers. Pleasure there been any amount of – what with
picnics, Fetes by Oddfellows & Foresters – Sunday School
children, Races, Etc Etc – the town & suburbs have been
quite gay & lively – very little having been done in the
way of business during X mas week - tho I think on
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the whole people have been much quieter than usual at
this time of the year owing I think, to the Princes arrival
so soon before the holidays & the many & gay scenes that have
taken place in consequence, however, we are to be a
little quieter for the future, his Royal Highness having
taken his departure from our shores for fresh pastures –
in Tasmania, he sailed yesterday in his good ship “Galatea”
& I think he cannot complain of the mannner he has
been feted here during his stay, enough homage & handshaking
to turn any head but that of Royalty – with regard to
myself, a more humble being in Creation, but one
that may make as large a pile of dust when dead & buried, I
have managed to scrape together some atoms of pleasure
which taken together makes a good show, not having any
money, I had to be very quiet & not indulge in too
much or in fact any pleasure or amusement that cost
anything - Monday evening G Bond & his married sister
Mrs. Taylor spent the evening at our house Tuesday I spent
the evening very pleasently at Mrs. Florauns. Wednesday
being New Years Day was observed as a holiday. Fred, Bessie
& I joined a pic nic party consisting of the Bros Ballantyne &
two or three more gentlemen with an equal number of ladies
Misses Bishop, Walters, McCatheys (2), Smith, Norris & Mrs Floraun all
forming together a very nice party We met at the Yarra
(Richmond), where we took a large boat & with a fine box
of provisions provided by Hasie we pulled up the River
& landed at the Survey Paddock where we choose a nice
quiet spot & spent the day in a most enjoyable manner
singing, dancing, flirting Etc. We left about 5 pm & enjoyed
our pull down the river, landing about 6 pm. 7 when we
reached home the distance being nearly 4 miles. – after tea
Bessie & I dressed & went to a party at Mrs. Gotchs
arrived there about 8.30. found a pleasent lot of folks
assembled & all bent upon enjoyment in spite of
the exertions of many present who had [been] picnicing at
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about – every luxury of the season was provided & our kind
host & hostess did all in their power to make things agreeable
we had some singing & plenty of dancing, & when tired could
go into the cool retreat provided by the Conservatory being
thrown open to the company - I was acquainted with
the most who were there so there was no feeling of restraint
or anything in that way to mar our pleasure – we
broke up about 3 am next morning, nearly 4 when
we got home regularly done up with our days activity
Thursday felt very tired & seedy, & being very busy at the
office I felt it severely & hoped I should not be invited out
again for some time - In the evening I took a strool
into town met Mr. English & had a long chat with him
he walked part of the way home with me, on reaching home
it was not long before I turned into bed - Friday night
in company with Fred I went to the Exhibition Hall, to hear the
Concert given by the Victorian Musical Association. Found the place
about two thirds full the Governor & Lady being present, the Prince
was to have been at it according to advertisement, but all present
were doomed to disappointment for he had gone to see a Japanese performance
at the Princess Theatre – the concert was miscellaneous, the principal
feature in it being the production of a composition called
“Galatea Secunda” by Summners, the conductor, some portions of
which were tolerable & worth listening to, what pleased me
most was a trio for tenor Bass & Sophano & was well
sang by Donaldson, Emery & Mrs. Fox. The affair on the whole
went rather slow, very little spirit or enthusiasm being
displayed either by the performers or the audience, 11 pm
when the affair concluded - Saturday afternoon for want of something
better to do Bessie & I went to hear the Band play at the Gardens
In the evening I took a strool about town. Went to church twice
to day, took mother with me this evening heard Mr. H. preach
one of his best sermons on the “Continuity of Things” -
Jany 12th.1868
Weather beautiful & cool for this time of the year, in fact I
never remember to have experienced such a mild summer
since I have been in the colony
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every thing in the way, as was expected, of business, is very dull
now the Prince has left us. People seem very quiet as if
they had been extravagant lately & intended to retrench to make
up their deficiencies - Our firm (the Rly) I think is about
the busiest in Melb. having a number of ships discharging
at the Pier, our sheds are crammed with goods of all description
crowded together for want of room – presenting a pleasent contrast
to the empty sheds of some weeks past – with regard to
myself, I have little else than a recital of a round of pleasure
& social phases to note. Monday evening, my sister Mary &
Ellen & Effie Flower spent at our house, all enjoying
ourselves pretty well, Fred & I seeing them to their respective
homes at between 11 & 12 pm - Tuesday night I went to
the Haymarket Theatre, to hear the New Italian Opera Company
in “Ernani” they produced it very well, but I cant say I liked the
sophano Signora Ida Vitelli, or the Tenor “Devoti”, but the Bass
& Baritone, Bertolini & Antoni, are without exception the
best singers & possess the best voices I ever heard in my life -
I was highly delighted with the performance, & I was astonished
there was such a poor house to receive them in only their
second appearance, perhaps it was owing to the Opera being so
little known the music is very difficult, being set so very
high that it tests the voice too much - Wednesday evening
I spent at my sister Marys house. Thursday evening after tea I
went to South Yarra & spent the [evening] at Casses, my sister Bessie
having gone there in the afternoon. I found rather a large
party there, & all enjoying themselves, as usual, singing,
playing cards, & forfeits & other parlour games. I am getting
quite sick of that sort of thing & was very glad when we
got away & caught the last train for town. 12 pm when
we get home tired after our long walk some two miles from
the station. Friday night, I went to Rehearsal at the
Church, walked home with one of the lady members of the
Choir. On getting home found Mrs. & Miss Smart here –
saw them home. Met Jessie who has just returned
from Geelong, & Ballarat where she has been staying
the last 2 months, & owing to my coolness) or cruelty
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1265
as she termed it, has managed to my delight to cease to think
of me as anything more than friend. I hear she is engaged
to be married to a Mr Wilson of Ballarat who has for a long time
been after her – I do not know whether the report is true, but
I hope it is - Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens
In the evening I went to hear the Opera of the “Elixer of Love” in
which the new Bass, Antoni came out to advantage - Went as
usual to Church morning & evening this day. Mary & Clark
came to dinner & spent the day with us.
Jany 19th.1868
Weather very unsettled, in fact more like winter than summer
spent my time rather dull, if anything this week being very
busy at the office felt very little inclination to go out much
in the evening. Wednesday evening I went to see “Dragon
Troupe of Japanese, consisting of some dozen performers, who go
through & do the most extraordinary feats of conjuring, juggling,
balancing, tumbling, Etc Etc. such as few Europeans have ever
witnessed before, among the party are three women, one of whom
put to shame by comparison any European performer on the
slack rope, on which she walks from the stage to the Boxes
& back without the aid of pole or anything to balance her -
Thursday night, I joined for another quarter, Richardsons Singing
Class, he proposes giving a concert shortly by the members
we had a good rehearsal, the principals singing really well
Operatic music being the description chosen for the occasion –
Friday night, I stayd at home. Jessie Smart called & spent
the evening at our house I saw her home, had a long chat on
a variety of subjects not worth alluding to here – though I
have given her every cause, as she says, for her to hate me &
that I have treated her shamefully, yet she cannot help liking me
I sincerely wish & hope it may not be long before she is married
her sister Annie is to be married on the 21st inst after which the
rest of the family are going away to live at Ballarat. Saturday
rained all day, spent the afternoon reading Dickens “Sketches
by Boz”. In the evening took a strool into town met my
old friend (English) had a long chat with him, got wet through
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on leaving him on my way home - Wrote a long letter to
Hamilton during the week - Mail arrived from England last
week no news from Father, much to our disappointment -
This morning & evening I went to Hendersons. In the afternoon
I took a walk for about an hour, after the service was over this
evening I called at St Marks Church on my way home –
Jany 26th.1868
Monday. busy at the office. In the evening I went to
Mrs. Florauns, several pleasent people there spent a jolly night singing
dancing Etc. nearly 1 am (21st) when Bessie & I got home - Tuesday
night I went to hear the Italians in “Trovatore” Wednesday night, I
went to Mrs. Florauns staid there till nearly 9 pm from there to
Wrights, where I met Bessie, & remained till after 10pm came
home & afterwards went to Smarts party given in honour of
Annies marriage with Mr Boorman – found a number of
jolly people there, most of whom I knew, my mother
being amongst the number. We left about 1 am the next
morning - Thursday evening I went to Richardsons -
Friday night spent with Jessie Smart Saturday afternoon
I went to St Georges Hall to a rehearsal of the Concert to
be given by Richardsons there (Wednesday next) In the evening
I went to see the Haymarket Theatre in company with A Ballantyne
& heard Lucy Escott & Squires in Maritana after which
the Daughter of the Regiment was given very creditably by the
Italians, who are gaining ground in the public estimations
This morning & evening went to Church. In the afternoon
I took a strool. After the service was over this evening, Fred & I
accompanied a Miss Robinson home, no joke of a walk, nearly hour
to Abbotsford - The weather has been fearfully hot the last
few days.
Feby 2nd 1868
The weather has been lovely the last few days, making
a pleasent contrast to last week. I have been very
busy at the office, nothing else of much importance
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occuring to me, & as for public matters they concern me so little or
else I take so little interest in them that I seldom ever refer
to them in my journal, at present, we have the Elections going
on & of course there is considerable excitement in reference to
their results. Last Monday, a person called on me, a Miss Lewarne
a passenger by the Otago S.S from N.Z. she brought me a letter from my
old friend Hamilton who informs me he has been discharged
from his situation as Gold Receiver of the Gold Fields Dept. & not being
satisfied with the manner of his discharge, he proceeded at once to Wellington
the seat of the Govt. where he explained his case, so eloquently that he
was reinstated with a higher salary, & when he wrote to me he
was on board the Steamer returning to his family. His letter as usual
is very humorous. Monday evening I spent at Clarks. Tuesday
I went to a Rehearsal at St Georges Hall. Wednesday evening the
Concert took place, a most decided success, in every way, at
its conclusion & when the people had left the place all the pupils
with a few friends remained & we had a dance. I remained till
1.am. when I left for home Thursday night I went to Harry
Dights house, he was absent I stayd about an hour with Mrs. D -
Friday evening, I went to hear Verdis new Opera (in English)
which he called “The Masked Ball” I was doomed to dissapoint
for after two Acts had been produced it was announced that owing
to the indisposition of Lucy Escott (the “Prima Donna”) they could not
give us the rest, so to make up they gave us the last two acts
of Sonnambula with Beaumont & G.Warden, which same
was not worth listening to, having been put on the stage with
-out any preperation - on leaving the Theatre I met Mr &
Mrs. Dalrymple walked down the street with them. Saturday
afternoon in company with Bessie I went to hear the Band play,
met Miss Wright & walked about with her. After tea I called at
Smarts, took Jessie out for a walk, much to her mothers disgust
We did not stay out long – for I was home by 10.20.pm -
Sunday, morning went to Church, spent the afternoon reading
in the evening went to Church, met Jessie Smart at the door
Fred & I walked home with her - Today is my 29th.birthday Feby 2.
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1268
Feby 9th 1868
The weather has been hot, more especially the first few
days of the week. Nothing of importance to myself having
occurred I have little to note. Monday evening I spent at home
my sister Mary, Miss Effie Flower & Eleanor Wright & Mr. G
Bruce spending the evening with us, broke up about 11 pm I
seeing Miss Wright home. Tuesday evening Bessie & I spent at
Mrs. Florauns. Wednesday evening I spent at Smarts. Thursday
went to the singing class, on leaving it I went to Clarks
Mary playd & sang for about an hour. Mother had been
spending the day with her, late when I got her home -
Friday night Fred & I went to Abbotsford & sang a
couple of songs each at a concert given at Drakes School
Room – for the Benefit of a Sunday School. The night was
very hot, & the place crowded made it anything but agreeable
work singing – after it was over we went to Drakes house
being moonlight he showed us his garden which is a fine
one. We then took our leave but not before discussing
the merits of a bottle of his home made wine -
Saturday afternoon I stayd at home gardening & reading
in the evening took a strool about town. My leasure
hours Ive spent reading Dickens’s “Martin Chuzzlewit”
a book full of humour, & good provincial every day
characters - Went to Church twice to day. Mr. H. preached
one of the finest sermons he has delivered since he has
been in his new church, this morning, on the relation
of the Church to families - spent the afternoon reading
On leaving church this evening I met Jessie Smart
walked home with her, her mother & self are going
to leave Melbourne for Geelong next week -
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1269
Feby 16th.1868
Been lovely weather during the week. I have been rather
slack at the office owing to the falling off of shipping at our pier
it is much to be regretted that owing to bad legislation our
commerce is so rapidly declining, it makes us employees
rather dispondent being in receipt of poor salaries, and trade
falling away does not give us any hope of their being
increased. I wish I could see an opening into something
better. I have thought very seriously of trying my fortune
in Japan, the ports of that country I hear are at last
to be opened up for commerce, many European commercial
houses purpose opening branch establishment at the more
important places. Many have left and others thinking of
doing the same from Melbourne. I dont blame those who have
enterprise sufficient for the attempt, & I sincerely hope
their efforts will be rewarded for there is very little prospect
at present in Victoria for a young man getting on – things
having gone so backwards the last few years here. The English
mail arrived (before her time the (12th.) on Wednesday, the news
by it are not very important, excepting the unsettled state
of the Fenian movement, this disaffected clique have been
rising & meeting in all the towns in England & Ireland
causing a deal of mischief & uneasiness, the war in
Abyssynia is progressing, troops & stores having been landed there
6/195 |
1270
but it is surmised that it will be a long time before the
British consuls & prisoners now in King Theodores power
will be liberated - Mother had a long letter from Father
who is in rather indifferent health, he informs us further
about my long lost Uncle, John Thomas, who had not been
heard of for 20 years & was supposed to be dead, it appears
he is alive & had written to England from New S Wales
or N.Z. & that any communication made to the Union Bk
there or Melbourne (so I understand) would find him. I lost
no time in calling at the Bk. but I could hear nothing
concerning such a person, it is very extraordinary, & to
make it more complicated, in case he turns up, is the fact
that his annuity his father left him has been divided & is
now partly spent & partly in the hands of Uncle Joseph
who will have to “stump up” which will prove a hard
thing for him to do, being so fond of money & so miserly
for my own part I should like him to turn up –
I dont care whether its to our interest or not. Father
& those at home judging from the tenor of this letter dont
appear particularly well pleased at his turning up -
Monday evening I took a strool about Fitzroy met Miss
Wright saw her home & stayd about an hour at her house
Tuesday Bessie & I spent the evening at Bakers in
Hoddle Street.
Wednesday Miss Wright spent the evening at our house I saw
her home about 9 pm. on leaving her I went to Smarts
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1271
to bid Jessie good bye as she was going the following day
to Geelong. Thursday evening went as usual to the singing class
at Richardsons had a couple of hours good practise, home
by 10pm. Friday evening being wet, I did not go as I
thought of doing to the Rehearsal at the Church, but spent the
evening at Jim Stewarts, Rathdowne St. found him more com-
-fortably settled than when last I visited him, his wife is well
& able to knock about. I spent the evening very pleasently with
them. Saturday afternoon I joined a large party of friends in a
boating excursion to the Tea Gardens, where we regaled ourselves
with refreshments & dancing & singing, got back again to the punt
at 7 pm. I called at Mrs Florauns & after having a good wash
I went to hear the Opera of “Un Ballo in Maschera” a new Opera
by Verdi & in my opinion far superior to any he has hitherto
produced I was very much pleased & I am sorry the season is
closed, time it was! according to the Managers statement – who
informed the public that for 6 weeks performances the four new
singers (two of whom are without exception the finest artists
that have appeared in the colonies,) only shared between them
£50. which must be very discouraging, the fact is there are too
many places of amusement open at present in Melbourne, no
less than 3 theatres, and about 3 other first class entertainments
held in Halls & Concert Rooms – it is impossible for them
all to be supported - Lennox was with me all the evening –
12 pm when I got home. Went to church to day, Mr. Gossman in
the morning, Mr Fletcher in the evening, spent the day reading. I walked
home with Miss Pitts after the service -
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1272
Feby 23rd.1868
Been lovely weather all the week. Very busy at the
office. I must think of making an application for an increase of
salary. Monday Miss Adamson & Emily Walters with Jim &
Alf Ballantyne spent the evening at our house 12 when we broke up
Tuesday evening I spent at Marys. Wednesday evening Bessie & I
spent at Wrights. Thursday went to the Singing Class. Friday
I went to the Rehearsal at the Church, left about 9.30. & called at
Mrs. Florauns stayd there till 11.30. singing & dancing Etc -
Saturday afternoon, I was working very hard in the garden till
4 pm when I dressed & went to the gardens, met several there I
knew. After tea I took a strool into town, rambled about with
J Ballantyne & Young Kyte till 10pm. This morning I went
to Church Mr. Price preached, spent the afternoon reading till
4 pm when I took a strool to the Cemetery, went to Church
in the evening & on arriving home who should I find at our
house, to my astonishment, but Mr. & Mrs Watmuff
(my fathers cousin) & my fathers long lost brother John Thomas
he is a most extraordinary looking being with only one eye
& if his hair was grey would look 90 years of age, he is so
wrinkled & withered looked with the toil & hardship he has
undergone during his chequered life. He informed us that
he has been knocking about the colonies the last sixteen years
partly in Tasmania & partly in Victoria & N S Wales
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he looks like a rough tough old Bushman, no flesh on his bones
& the skin hanging on them like old parchment, he appears to
be a jolly goodnatured sort of fellow, rough in his speech &
manners, but possessing I should imagine a good kindly heart
easy going, but still very shrewd, he looks, what he is, a wreck of a
reckless, jolly neer do well, presenting quite a contrast to
my father, who is so very gentlemanly & fastidious in all things -
The reason he states for not writing home was, having no one
but himself to think about & never being in actual want, he
thought he would let his money accumulate until he got too
old to work & then he would have it in his old age.
He has been living the last 7 years in the neighbourhood
of Fort Bourke, some 700 miles in the interior, on the Darling
River, where he has been employed in prospecting for country for
squatting stations, some twelve months ago he was prostrated
with fever and ague & was ill a long time & his money ran
short, & while ill he thought he would write home, which he did
to Uncle Joe, (his brother) who has the use and control of
Uncle John Thos money since leaving England. He requested him
to send out to the Bk of N.S.Wales Melb. the sum of £50. to
enable him to go to England, he left Fort Bourke about three
months ago on getting somewhat recovered and travelled to Melb -
where he arrived yesterday, on calling at the Bk of N S W where he had
told Uncle Joe to send him money he found none there. Poor
fellow, he didnt know what to do, he went down to the wharves
thinking of going over to Tasmania but finding no vessel that
would employ him he had to think of something else.
Some years ago when he was in Melbourne he had
accidently heard there was a family living at Richmond
named Watmough & imagining it might be some
relatives who for some reason had changed the name
slightly, he wended his way there, & discovered they were
no relatives, but they informed him there were some
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1274
people the same name as himself, living in Collingwood
with this information he managed by enquiring to find
out Mr. & Mrs. S.Watmuff, (second couzins of mine) who
made him welcome, they knew him when he was a
boy in Lincolnshire, so to day they brought him to our
house. Of course we have made him as welcome as
we could, he purposes writing home to Uncle Joe again &
insisting upon him sending him his money & in the
meantime he will go up the Bush until he get a
reply, we have promised never to see him want & I intend
to give him £5 in the morning to enable him to go to
where he is thinking of doing somewhere on the Goulburn River
on Blakes Station, where he hopes to get employment –
he would not sleep at our house, Mrs. W on the Flat having
made him promise to stop with her while he stays in
town. I think it awful cruel of his brother Joe in not
writing at once on hearing of his turning up & welcoming
him as one from the grave I know if it had been a
brother of mine I should feel so overjoyed that anything
like personal considerations would have been as nothing
I fancy Joe must have made use of J.Thos. money
thinking he was dead, without having administered
to his property or made proper enquiries whether he was
living or dead - I suppose our family will be affected
somewhat in our prospects by this but for my own part
I care little, it would afford me more joy seeing poor J.Thos
in possession of his own, than having it myself -
March 1st.1868
Weather very fine, very busy at the office, several
large ships at the pier. Monday evening my Uncle
John Thomas called and spent the evening
at our house
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Bessie & I went to Mr Gotchs, spent a very pleasent
evening, there being several people present, of a sociable
*turn, a Mrs. Ross from Sydney, a Miss Riedle, Mr Conaut
& Mr. Laby. - Tuesday evening I spent at home my Uncle
being at our house. I walked down to Hoddle St with him
he left Melbourne the next morning for the Goulburn where
he purposes staying until he hears from England, in reply
to the letters he has sent to Uncle Joe & Aunt Sarah. John
Bruce & G Bond with Effie Flower were also at our house -
Wednesday evening I spent at Clarks 12 pm when I got home
Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing Class
walked home with 3 young lady pupils who live in our
neighbourhood, in the day time I went to the Treasury
to the Registrar Generals office, to see if my brother Charles
birth (which took place on board the Ship Brothers” on
our voyage out from England 18 years ago) had been
registered, after paying 2/6 I was informed it had not been
but on payment of another 5/. I got the certificate of the
registration of his death & burial, which I purpose sending
home by the mail. Hearing Dr Hedley of Sale was the Doctor who
came out in the ship with us, I wrote to him, requesting
him to furnish me with a Certificate of Charles birth. I hope he
will attend to it before the Mail leaves here which it does on the 4th.
there is a deal of bother attending these things, & also expense
as I have told father it is like sending good money in search
of bad money - Friday night I spent at Clarks. Saturday
afterday Clark & Mary Bond & Bruce Bessie & I Rekowski &
self formed a party and went up the River enjoyed our-
-selves very much. On arriving home, found Miss Hoskins
at our house, who stayd till 11 pm I had to see her to
the train after that, a four mile walk there and back
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1276
& not feeling inclined for it I did not relish it -
I have no patience with ladies staying at houses
until all hours uninvited & then expect gentlemen
to see them home Etc. I am getting tired of that sort
of thing. Sunday, to day, this has been one of the
hottest days this summer, a hot wind accompanied
with clouds of burning sand & dust, enough to half
smother a person, & the sun was fearfully strong. The
thermometer stood as high as 105º in the shade & 146º in the
sun, a pleasent change took place about 8.30 pm making
it more agreeable.
March 8th.1868
Weather has been fearfully hot all the week, not one cool
day, the thermometer standing about 90º in the shade nearly every
afternoon at 2pm. I was somewhat surprised last Tuesday
morning by my Uncle John Thomas who I thought had left
town last week, calling upon me at the office, he said he had
not felt well since he visited us, & his object in calling upon me
was to make a will, it was entirely at his own suggestion
nothing that ever any of our family said could have induced
him to think we had any idea of his doing such a thing
in our favour. The next day I drew up a Will at his own
dictation in which he states he gives, devises & bequeaths the whole
of his property of whatever nature whatsoever real & personal
unto his brother Stephens children, share & share alike
& making me sole executor. I dont know what his
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1277
property consists of, if he has not a penny to bless himself with
in this colony, but I believe he has an annuity of £40 or £50 ayear
which he has not drawn upon for the last 18 years, & there is the principal
from which the income is derived from, all of which is in Uncle Joe's
possession he having had the use of the same during that period
tho I have heard some of the interest had been divided, but of this
I have some doubt, however, such as there is it was very thoughtful
& considerate for him to leave it to us, tho, I dont place much
dependence on John Thomas, he is a queer fish & if he gets hold of his
own would soon spend it & make it fly, he signed the will in
the goods office of the Railway I am employed at, the witnesses
being Thomas Rooke & Benjn.D.Smith on the 4th.March, 1868
-
He spent Tuesday evening at our house & part of Wednesday when
he bade us good bye once more stating he was going up the
country for a few months, the following morning, judge my
surprise on Friday evening on arriving home to hear from mother
that he had been at our house drunk, he having spent all the
money mother had given him & wanting to see me, he left word
when he was staying at some low public house in Russell St
& wanted me to call on him the following morning, which I
did but found him not at home, however he called at the office
looking a sorry fright. I promised to try and get him some
more money but only on condition that he left town, for
it is disgraceful for a man like him coming to our
house in such a state - in the afternoon I called upon him
found him in company of about half a dozen dirty
looking fellows, who had that peculiar look attending those
gentlemen who have been sent out from England at
their countrys expense for their countrys benefit,
but who Uncle informed me were shepherds, & purposed
going up the country at once. I gave him £1.0.0 & a
lot of clothes, informing him not to spend it in town but
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1278
to make the best use of it, for I could not give him
any more & I also gave him to understand that he
must not come to our house again unless he came
sober. I dont wonder at his relatives in England
not wishing him to return there, for I heard he used to
disgrace them frightfully when he was home & so I
bade him good bye, & I trust we shall not be annoyed
with him again, since his sojourn in Melbourne he has
been living at Mrs. Watmuffs Hoddle St, who I believe was
very kind to him, but with whom he did not leave on the
best of terms. Monday night the two Miss Cases, Geo
Bond & Bruce spent the evening at our house. Tuesday evening
Miss Baker & her brother called I walked home with them
Thursday night I went to the singing class Friday night
I went to Clarks on my way home a large fire was
raging at the corner of Peel & Cambridge St Collingwood
which consumed 8 houses. Saturday afternoon after leaving
Uncle John Thomas, I went to the picture Gallery at the
Library, & looked with pleasure on some beautiful pictures
that have lately been added to the collection, on leaving
there I went to Fitzroy Gardens, met Miss Baker & took a
long walk with her. After tea, I went to town knocked
about with Adamson went to the Polytechnic with him
stayd about ½ an hour there on leaving there I met a party
of friends who had been boating. My sister was among the
party we went through the Market - nearly 11 pm when we
arrived home. Very hot to day, went to church night & evening
a Mr Nemo preached. I walked home with Susan Woodruffe
I have been put to considerable trouble & expense this week
in my endeavours to procure the certificate of my brother
Charles birth, it appears the birth was never registered
on the ships arrival, but hearing that Dr Hedley of Gipps
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1279
Land came out with us & attended my mother during
her confinement, I wrote to him requesting him to furnish
me with a certificate of the birth, he wrote me word that he had
to make a declaration before a magistrate, which cost me £1.1.0
& had to get the signature of the magistrate (Pearson) certified to
by a notary (Willan) in Melbourne which cost me another
£1.1.0. I sent the lot to England by the Mail so I hope Father
now will have possession of all that is necessary to
enable him to settle the Chancery case -
March 15th.1868
Weather has been beautiful & cool, annoyed considerably
at the beginning of the week by my uncle who I had thought
was gone up the country, it appears he spent the money I
gave him on Saturday so he came to me on Wednesday with a cock &
Bull tale saying he was starving & had lost his swag & all he had
I told him I could do nothing more for him, the week before last we
gave him £5, Saturday another £1.0.0 now again a few shillings,
its shameful we should be bothered in such a manner by him. The
next day Thursday he went to Fred & wheedled some silver
out of him. We have seen nothing of him since. I never
saw a dirtier & more disreputable character in my life
than he is, all the clothes I gave him he has parted with, lost
even his hat. I dont care if he never turns up again unless he
can keep sober & look a little more respectable - he was very
cautious in his conduct before the Mail left here, so we could
not write home anything bad about him. Monday & Wednesday
evenings I went to Beers Chapel to rehearsals for a concert that
took place there on Thursday night, in connection with a Tea Meeting
during the affair we heard of a dreadful crime being committed
in Sydney, the attempted assassination of Prince Alfred our late
public guest, by a man named OFarrell, who at a picnic
where the Prince was, very deliberately shot at him from behind
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1280
in a most cowardly manner the ball entering his back and
lodging in his abdomen. The wretch was not satisfied but fired
again at him but someone near by knocked the pistol one side
but not before it was too late for the ball passed the prince & lodged
in the heel of a Mr. Thorn, Mayor of Sydney, who is not expected
to live suffering as he is from lockjaw. The bullet was not extracted
from the Prince till yesterday. The most intense excitement
prevails among all classes, more so from the fact of its being
discovered that the man is one of a band of Fenians who had
drawn lots who was to do the deed. Indignation meetings
have been held throughout the colonies to exress their sympathy
for the Prince & also their abhorance to the crime, it was with
the greatest difficulty the police prevented the people of Sydney
from exercising summary punishment on the assasin
Irishmen are in bad repute just now & I have heard many
affirm that they are ashamed to acknowledge the land
of their birth. The Roman Catholic & Fenian sympathisers proposed
holding a mock funeral in honour of the Fenians who have
lately been living in England for the murder of Constable
Brett, on the 17th.inst St Patricks Day, but while the public
are so incensed by the late outrage, I dont think they will
carry out their purpose. Friday evening went to the Church
Rehearsal at Hendersons. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to
the Gardens to hear Band play. In the evening I went to
Theatre Royal & saw performed the Colleen Bawn & a
Burlesque called Acis & Galatea - a change for me
but awful rubbish to sit out [on] a hot night - Went to
Church night & morning, it was quite refreshing to see
the place crowded again. Mr. H. returned from Tasmania
during the week & appears greatly improved in health & also
in appearance. In the afternoon I went to Sandridge Rly
Pier, met Finley and two young ladies there with
whom I kept company with & visited several ships that
were alongside - Went to church in the evening,
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1281
densely crowded, & very hot - after the service I walked home
with pretty S.Woodruffe.
March 22nd 1868
Weather very fine. Nothing of importance to relate, the
Prince is pronounced out of danger. Mr Thorn who was
shot in the foot, is still in a precarious state, the man
OFarrell is to be tried next week. I sincerly trust for the
credit of the colonies, that he will prove to be insane
tho’ he admits himself as being one of a party who drew
lots to kill the Prince & further states he had on
two other occasions been on the point of making the
attempt, the bloodthirsty villain, hanging is too good a
death for him - The Mail arrived on the 18th inst from
England no letters from father, mother received a long
Letter from Mrs. Capt Lane, written in Calcutta – describing
E.I. life - they were on the point of leaving for Bombay,
Monday night, I went to an anniversay meeting at
the Brunswick St. Wesley Church. Js.Dare & other ministers
spoke, there was some good singing, one young fellow
not more than 20 years of age named Ben Clarke,
sang “Comfort Ye” from the Messiah very creditably –
Tuesday night I staid at home. Wednesday night I went
for a strool into town, called on my way home at
Mr & Mrs. Baumans (Annie Smarts) found my sister Bessie
there, did not stay long, home by 10pm. Thursday, my
mother & Mary went to Brighton where they purpose
staying for a week or so. I think the change will do
them a deal of good - in the evening I went to Richardsons
Friday night I went to Rehearsal at the Church, practiced
some pieces, our organist Mr. John Russell is going
to leave the colony next month in the “Moravian” & it is
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1282
proposed to give a concert for his benefit - he
is a man very much respected & at one time held the position
of conductor to the Philharmonic Society here, he has been
very unfortunate in business, and has grown very cross &
irritable - to much so for a leader of a choir. I fancy there
are few in the choir who will regret his departure –
Saturday afternoon I stayd at home, digging up the garden
in the evening I went to town met Clark walked about
with him for some two hours. This morning Bessie went
to Brighton to see mother she will not return till tomorrow
so Fred & I are keeping bachelors hall together. Bessie left us plenty
to eat but then a piece of Roast Beef she had cooked, we found on
coming home to dinner a subject of discussion between three
cats, who had managed to get it out from under a wire dish
cover, so we have had to put up with makeshift meals
I went to Church morning & evening, in the afternoon I
took a long strool about the Cemetery. After service
was over in the evening I walked home from the church
with a pretty girl belonging to the choir
March 29th.1868
Weather very unsettled. Mother still down at Brighton
pretty busy at the office. Monday & Thursday evening I attended
the rehearsals for Russells concert. Wednesday on leaving the
office I went to Brighton, found Mother & Mary very comfortably
settled at a lodging house there. I stayd until 10.30, with them
Met Emily Walters at the St Yarra Station on leaving the
train at Melbourne I walked home with her & Perryman to
Carlton. Friday evening went to the Church, as usual
having more fun than music. I never met with such
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1283
a jolly lot of girls as our choir contains, there are a few sober
sided ones, & well there is or I am sure the rest would
get into bad repute. I suppose things will be altered when
we get our new conductor (David Lee) Saturday it rained
all day without intermission so I was compelled to remain
in doors. Passed the time reading Etc - Went to church
this morning & evening. Mr. H. preached on each occasion
very powerful & eloquent sermons. In the afternoon I
went out for strool & much to my surprise met Jessie
Smart, whom I had thought in Geelong, she was in a
pecular mood, having got hold of something or another
respecting what I have said about acquaintanceship
I met her again after leaving Church & we took a long walk
together & I strongly recommended the propriety of
our acquaintance being severed & so we stand at last
much to my satisfaction, under present circumstances.
April 5th.1868
Winter set in, weather gloomy & overcast one or two very
wet days. Fred received a letter from Uncle John Tom, dated at
Benalla & stating that he was "hard up" & requesting him
to send him some money. I never heard of such impudence
Fred declined doing so, & I am sure I would not have done so
had not mother persuaded me to send him a £1.0.0
which I could very ill spare, on Wednesday (to P.O. Seymour
I called at the Bank of N.S.W. to see if there was a letter from
Uncle Joe to him laying there, but found on enquiring
there was not, Monday night I went to Rehearsal. Tuesday
evening I went down to Brighton to see mother & Mary
took a pleasent strool on the beach before dinner, came
home by the 8.11. pm train. Wednesday night I sang at
Carlton at an entertainment. On leaving there went to
the Church to Rehearsal. Thursday night dreadfully wet
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1284
Russells concert took place, considering the wet night
I was greatly astonished to find the place well filled
with regard to the entertainment it was one of the best
concerts ever given in Melbourne solos & choruses from
Judas Maccabeus, Elijah, Samson, Creation & Messiah, some of
the performers being the best musicians in the colony, at its
conclusion I had the pleasure of paying the fare for one of
the young ladies. Friday night went to Rehearsal. Saturday
night I went to the Theatre had a jolly good laugh witnessing
the Drama of the “Pilot” & the Burlesque, “Acis & Galatea”. Went
to Church as usual night and morning. In the afternoon I
took a strool to the Cemetery.
April 14th.1868
Weather very cold if changeable, being Easter week we had
some holidays & I must say I never spent a pleasenter
time. Monday, night I stayd at home Mary being at our
house I saw her home. Tuesday night I went to Stewarts
with a friend named West, stayd there till 9 pm, & then came
home. Wednesday 8th. night I went to a wedding party at
Mrs. Flowers, her daughter Emily was married to a Mr. Turner
of Beechworth. I didnt see either of them, having left town
immediately after the ceremony - I went about 9 pm
& found about 50 people present, all bent upon spending a jolly
night which we did dancing until 4 am the next morning
Thursday night I went to Richardsons Singing class & joined for
another quarter (10/-) practiced some glees & choruses. Friday
(being invited to spend my holidays at Kidgells Balaclava)
I arose at 6 am reached the train by 7.10 & went there
found several people present who had been invited, after
6/210 |
1285
breakfast some of the party on horseback & others in Ks buggy
we travelled for about 4 miles to Harrymans (Caulfield)
where we were joined by Mr. & Mrs. H. & Mrs. Hs two sisters
fine jolly girls Alice & Florence Webb, left there about about
11 & had a delightful drive to Mordialloc on the Sea shore
some 15 miles from Melbourne where we camped & had
some fine fun & discussed the vituals Etc we brought
with us. We engaged a boat & went out on the sea a short
distance the wind & surf being rather strong after an hours
sail we made for the shore & with some difficulty got
all landed but not before nearly meeting an accident
the boatman, owing (to) the boat rocking lost his balance
& turned a somersault into the sea very nearly carrying
me with him my hat went overside & got a ducking
I caught hold of the mans shirt & saved him from
getting washed away, he managed to scramble ashore
We had a splendid drive home to Kidgells where we found
a good tea awaiting us. after washing & refreshing ourselves
we turned to & made a night of it dancing & singing
I & my sister Bessie slept there that night
Next morning Saturday after breakfast I came into town
by train came home & had a bath & changed my clothes
& went down to the Kidgells again on arriving there I was
shocked to find that during my absence a sad accident had
happened to one of the visitors, Mr. Schoefield, It appeared a lot had
got into the buggy for a drive & Mr S. sat behind & not having
much room had slipped off & falling between the wheels had
got his leg terribly cut & bruised so much so that it will
be some weeks before he will be able to get about again
I was exceedingly sorry, for he is such a young fellow
he is one of the Revd. Henderson's most promising collegian
students, a good Christian. I was forcibly struck by the
6/211 |
1286
manliness & fortitude he displayed in his misfortune
never murmuring or complaining - thankful it was
no worse & regretting he should be the cause of the *pity
sorrow in the breasts of those around. In the afternoon
we drove to Harrymans & visited the racecourse where
some Races of a local character were being held I
was on horseback & enjoyed myself very much
flirting with the Miss Webbs. We were sorely pressed
to remain the night at Harrymans, but knowing Kidgell
was expecting us at his house we were forced to decline
on arriving at Kidgells we found some more visitors *had
arrived (Mrs. & Miss Saunders, & such a pretty girl named
Webber.) I got very intimate with the latter & was very
loath to leave at night when I did, with G. Ferer, coming
to town by the last train, arrived home by 12 pm
rather tired, next morning, Sunday, went to Church stayd at
home in the afternoon, went to Church in the evening, walked
home with Jessie Smart. Next morning, Monday, I went
down to Balaclava again found Mr. Schofield much
better & Miss Webber as charming as ever, & all apparently
glad to see me down again. We spent a pleasent quiet
morning singing, reading, flirting Etc, till 3 pm when
we all went for a drive to Harrymans where we spent two
hours ditto, drove home on our *own & stopped at a Mr Evans
who made us very welcome where we had tea after
which, things were cleared away & the piano opened
& we had dancing & singing till 2 am this morning
little Miss Arthur was there & sang as usual beautifully
she is one of the merriest little girls I ever knew, on arriving
home at Kidgells we sat up another hour, being Leap year
6/212 |
1287
Miss Webber proposed to me & I accepted her & we are engaged
(query) *where the arrangement is considered seriously by
both parties. This morning we met at Breakfast & had
a jolly laugh at each other, after breakfast the horses
were saddled & Kidgell drove Miss W & I into town
& so my holidays terminated, having to go to office work
this morning. I was surprised last Thursday by receiving
a letter from J.Hamilton, written & posted in Sydney. I had
thought he was comfortably settled for life in Dunedin but he
now informs me that having been made a tool of & kicked
from pillar to post by the Provincial Govt. of Otago his life was
fairly worn out, & hearing the Steamer Albion which
was laying at Pt. Chalmers had been chartered by a Sydney firm
to convey cargo to Japan, he applied for the Supercargo's
billet & got it, having a desire to go there, he thinks it a very
good opportunity to see what kind of place it is and whether
there is any chance of doing anything there or not. They are at
present receiving cargo & purpose leaving for Japan via
Fiji Islands on the 1st.May, he desired me to make all
enquiries respecting the place I could in Melbourne, but
from all I can hear, I dont think there is a very
good opening for people without capital. I do not like
to inform him of what I knew of Japan for fear of dis-
-couraging him, he left Mrs. H & little ones in Dunedin,
I wrote to him on Tuesday. Poor Jim he has had a
deal of knocking about since I knew him I hope he
will at last come out all right, tho I do not approve
of his present step, if he had been a single man without
encumberances I would have recommended the step & applauded
his pluck, but I cannot reconcile his leaving his wife &
family to the tender mercies of strangers & the suspense
she must endure during what must be a long
seperation Jim wishes me to write occasionally to his wife
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April 19th.1868
Weather lovely, felt somewhat dull after my holidays
as is always the case when the reaction takes place after
excitement. The English mail arrived on Wednesday
no letter from father, public news not much importance
except Disraeli being made Premier of England a honour
he has long sought for. Tuesday evening went home
found all well, staid at home. Wednesday evening, Mr. & Mrs
Johnson & my sister Mary spent the evening at our house
Thursday evening went to Richardsons. Friday night I went
to the Carlton Penny Readings. Saturday afternoon went to
the Gardens for a walk met a number there I knew
In the evening I went to town being showery left early
& called at Jim Stewart & had some singing didnt
leave till 11.pm. this morning & evening I went to Church
but did not take my accustomed place in the Choir
we have a new organist David Lee & I do not
approve of the manner he has treated members of the
choir so I do not think I will join it again
Mr. Pringle organist of St Francis Catholic church
pd me a visit on Saturday, he try to prevail upon me
to join his choir as first tenor. I did not think
myself qualified for the position being a poor reader
but he promised to instruct me & work me up in the
solo & connected pieces if I would consent, but I
declined, had it been a Protestant place of worship
I would have jumped at the chance for the sake
of the tuition, let alone the £32 per year, I
should have received had I accepted the offer
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he is the best instructor in the colony, & I have no
doubt he would have made me a tolerable singer
in time - bother the singing, it gets me into a deal
of company & creates annoyance, by being continually
pressed to sing & assist at all manner of entertainments
I am fond of music but I enjoy it in a private manner
This afternoon I took a walk as far as Et Melbourne
called at Mary's did not stay long, on leaving the
Church this evening I took a long walk with Geo’ Bond
conversing upon spiritual subjects Etc -
April 26th 1868
Weather lovely, not very busy at the office, time gone by rather
pleasently Monday night I went to the Theatre Royal. Tuesday
I spent at Clarks. Wednesday I went to the Carlton Readings & sang
a couple of songs there, met Jessie Smart, Barman & his wife
walked home with the former. Thursday, went to Richardsons
Friday went to the Readings at the Trades Hall, heard some good
things. The Chairman C.E.Jones MP. gave us a dissertation
of Dickens works & some of his characters which was really
worth listening to & also the reading of Weeks another M.P.
who read Southey’s “Waterfall” & one of the Ingoldsby Legends
very well - on leaving the place I met Jessie Smart
who had [been] inside I walked round to her sister Mrs. Bauman
with [her] stayd about with her there, & afterwards saw her home
Saturday afternoon I went to town with my sister Bessie
came home through Carlton Gardens the Band playing
there a great number of people were congregated., stayd
there till 5pm & came home after tea & went to town
met Nellie Lambert & walked to Elsassars with
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1290
her, on leaving her I met Mrs. Glass & her two
sisters rambled about with them & at length walked
to their house a very handsome one in W.Melbourne
They treated me very kindly, as they always do when I go to
their house, we had some singing after which I
left got home by 11 pm. I went to Church morning &
evening to day, taking Bessie with me in the evening. In
the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetery, a gentleman
was there, a Drill Sarjeant from St. Kilda was being buried
with military honors. I wrote a long letter to my
old friend Hamilton on Thursday. I also received a
letter same day from my Uncle John Thos. in which he
informs me that he has been at work & is now at
Kilmore where I am to write to him & inform him
whether there are any letters awaiting him at the Bk
N.S.Wales. I enquired yesterday, there were none -
I purpose writing to him on Monday if I have
time -
May 3d 1868
Weather lovely. Wrote to my uncle on Monday & also to Hamilton
In the evening I went to Baumans @ Carlton spent a pleasent
evening. Tuesday evening I spent at Clarks, reading a new
& singular work by Hepworth Dixon called “Spiritual
Wives”. Wednesday night Bessie & I went to a party at
Dalrymples, Richmond, where I spent a most enjoyable
night did not get home till 5 am next morning, met
many pleasent people at it - Thursday evening, went to my
singing. Friday evening I spent with Jessie Smart prior
to her departure to Ballarat next week sometime
her mother has taken a business there & Jessie is to go &
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1291
assist in it. Saturday afternoon I had purposed going to Sandridge
(to see the Sussex sail. Mrs. Gotch & daughter having gone by
her to visit England, our old Organist Mr. Russell sailed the
same day in the “Moravian” he was presented with nearly £160
being the proceeds of the Concert given to him some weeks ago
in Hendersons Church-) but having a lot of work to do
at home, I did not go. In the evening I went to the Temperance
Hall Russell St & sang at an entertainment given there
To day I went to Church night & morning. In the afternoon
I took a walk to the Fitzroy Gardens, met Mrs. & Miss Dove &
Mr. James had a long chat with them, also met Clark & Mary
walked about with them -
May 10th.1868
Weather still beautiful, busy at the office tho not as busy as we
ought to be, what with protection & the state of our unsettled Govt.
with the Deadlock still in existence. Merchants here and at home
are very chary in their imports & business transactions with
the colony the consequence being a great falling away in our
trade. I received another farewell letter from Hamilton last week
the vessel he is going to Japan in has been postponed until the
llth inst. Monday evening Mary spent at our house several others
dropped in Jim Ballantyne, Effie Flower, Mr & Mrs. Bauman. I saw
Mary & Effie home, after 12 when I got myself home. Tuesday night
Mrs & Miss Dove & Mrs. James with D Adamson (my fellow clerk) spent
the evening at our house very pleasently, 11 when we broke up, Dave & I
seeing the ladies home. Wednesday evening I went with Jessie
Smart & Mr. & Mrs. Bauman to the Trades Hall did not enjoy our-
selves, such a wretched entertainment. Thursday evening
I went to Richardsons Singing Class, Friday evening I
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1292
took a walk to town with Adamson, but before doing so I
went to see Mrs. Peel. Alf went to Dunedin some weeks
ago & has sent for his wife she leaves here on Monday
Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Gardens to
hear the Band play in the evening I met Jessie
Smart & we took a short walk together I had thought
she was gone to Ballarat, but she informs me she is
not going until next week sometime. I shall not
be sorry for it is very annoying to continue attention
with one I know can be but a friend under any
circumstances - I went to Church night & morning
In the afternoon I took a walk to see Fred Rookes house
he is building. I found it nicely situated on the Road
to Heidelberg. The only objection I should have to it is the
distance from town an hours walk is no joke when
a man is tired after a hard days work -
My spare time I have spent in reading J.Montgomerys
poems, his “World before the Flood” is a sublime composition
& so is The West Indies. I hardly can say which I like the best
I am sorry to state my mother is very ill with
Influenza & a severe cold I hope she may soon recover, our
house seems dead without her presence to cheer it -
May 17th.1868
Weather beautiful / busy at the office, Mail arrived from England
14th inst recd a letter from Father Chancery case still in
abeyance & likely to remain so for many a long day from
what I can gather from his letter, he writes a deal about my
Uncle John Thos. & how I am to [go] about finding him out Etc
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1293
our letters informing him of his visiting us not having arrived
he is not aware of our having already met him, & of the
trouble we had with him - father informs us he has not [been] well of
late which I am very sorry for - Monday evening I spent at
Clarks. Tuesday evening at Bormans - Wednesday evening the two
Miss Wrights were at our house they did not stay long. I saw them
home about 8.30. on leaving there I went to the Carlton Readings
heard Miss *Ivey sing some ballads very well, a Mr. Gasgill
a Professor of Mnemonics, gave us some illustrations
of the result of acquired memory, which were truly wonderful
Thursday evening I went to Richardsons Singing Class, on arriving
home found Jessie Smart at our house had to see her home
bade her good bye once more she was to have gone to Ballarat
yesterday (Saturday) I dont know whether she did or not -
Friday evening Bessie & I went to a party at Bakers (Hoddle St)
enjoyed ourselves very much, met Mrs Minify (Georgie Roberts that was)
3 am next morning when we got home. Saturday afternoon staid
at home reading. In the evening having an order for the Theatre I went
to see Montgomery in “Richard the Third” his impersonation of the
tyrant was very fine, but it is a pity that he should be so badly
supported by the beggarly company of actors at present playing
with him. The colonial stage missed poor Vincent, who died from
an accident about a fortnight ago. I met Will Smart there
he has just come from a trip in New Zealand & he informs
me he heard anything but a creditable account of J Hamilton
& the cause of his leaving Dunedin I should be sorely
grieved if there is any truth in the reports he heard, for I had
always looked at Jim as a pattern of a man, & if he has fell I
have little faith in human nature - I went to Church this
evening, in the morning I went to hear Hadyns No. 3 Mass
sang at St Francis Chapel (R.C.) Spent the afternoon reading
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1294
[Sunday, 24 May 1868]
May 25th 1868
Weather very unsettled, had a deal of rain during the week, busy at
the office - Wrote to father, yesterday 23rd. Monday I was
somewhat surprised by Jim Hamilton calling on me - he had
just arrived from Sydney - he informed that he was treated very badly
by the owners of the S.S. Albion, that he was purser of to proceed to
Japan, & so left her & came round here with a view of trying
to get into something in Melbourne not feeling desirous of
returning to Otago for what reasons I know not, except there
is some foundation in the report I heard about him last week
from Will Smart. I have not accused him of it yet - not
feeling inclined to hurt his feelings by what may be
unfounded suspicions - though I must admit I have not
been the same to him, I should like to *say, in consequence
of them - Tuesday night he spent at our house. Wednesday
evening I sang at the Penny Readings Carlton. Thursday night
at Richardsons, where we had a Rehearsal for the Concert that
he is going to give next Thursday. On arriving
home I found Mr. & Mrs. Dalrymple, Idalia Rekowski
& Mr. Odell at our house, they stayd till after 11 pm.when
I walked part of the way home with them. Friday
night I went into town – home by 10 Jim Hamilton at
our house I walked home to his lodgings with him in
Gertrude St. - he has not got into anything as yet -
Saturday afternoon I went to a Rehearsal at Richardsons
In the evening Hamilton, Bessie & I went for a walk into
town. This morning, Jim & I went to hear Mr. Fletcher
preach, Richmond I liked him very much, met J
Ramsden on our way home - Jim came home with me
& stayd dinner & Tea at our house - In the evening
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1295
we went to hear Mr. Henderson, spent the afternoon reading
May 31st 1868
Weather fine, but cold, spent my time much as usual. Thursday
night Richardsons 3rd Pupils concerts came off & it proved one
of the most successful affairs of the sort ever given in Melbourne
The music was first class being selections from the best operas
& having some really fine voices in the class it was rendered very
effectively, at its termination the Hall was cleared & then came a
Ball dancing was kept up till near 4.30 next morning
My friend Hamilton is still in town, I broke the subject of
the rumours I had heard about him & he not only denied it, but
informed of me of a diabolical attempt that has been made
in Dunedin to injure him - he hopes time & circumstances
will bring things to light that will clear him from all imputations
Saturday night I had an order for the Haymarket Theatre & I went
to see a new actress make her debut, a Mrs. Florence Williams, a
daughter of James the Novelist - I can only state she is one
of the most miserable failures I have seen, a poor appearance
a bad voice, no tact, no idea of producing dramatic effect -
Tuesday night Hamilton, Bessie, Fred & I spent at Clarks, Mary
does not appear very well. I shall feel anxious on her account
until she gets over her confinement - This morning & evening I
went to Church - spent the afternoon at Marsdens singing Etc -
June 7th.1868
Weather very cold & frosty, with a litle rain occasionally –
very busy at the office - Monday, being Whitmonday
I had a half holiday. Bessie & I took a strool into town
in the afternoon, after doing the fashionable in Collins St we
went to Et Melbourne. I stayd with Clark & Mary, after which
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1296
I walked into town, met Miss Weber walked home with her
after which I returned to Mary's, spent the evening very
pleasently with her & Mrs. Johnson - Tuesday night I
spent with Hamilton at his lodgings in Gertrude St
Wednesday evening Idalia Rekowski & Miss Odell & her brother
with Hamilton came to our house & stayd till 11 pm -
Thursday evening I went to the singing class as usual
Friday evening I attended a meeting at the Gymnasium
for the purpose of winding up the present association
the Society being in debt about £70 to the instructor
(Johnston), it was decided expedient to make over to him
the whole of the property in liquidation of his claim
on condition that he would still continue the Gymnasium
as usual but entirely on his own responsibility –
Saturday afternoon I went to Kidgells at Balaclava
where I found several friends and acquaintenances, we
playd Croquet & danced until dark, when we adjourned
to Kidgells house where we had tea after which we
passed a pleasent evening, singing & dancing Etc I left
by the last train getting home about 12 pm. Went to Church
morning & evening to day, took a walk in the Cemetery in the
afternoon -
June 14th.1868
Weather very cold & frosty but on the whole very fine &
agreeable - Busy at the office, the usual routine.
Monday evening in company with a friend named
Whitty & young lady Miss Marsden, I went to Pittmans who
are now living at Jollimont spent a pleasent evening
there till 10 pm when I left & called at Pitts, where
I remained till 11.30. I saw a Miss Campbell home
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1297
from there to Carlton, after 12 when I reached home -
Tuesday evening on coming home from the office, I met
Miss Webber, walked home with her to Collingwood, on
leaving her I came home & did not go out again
Wednesday evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson's fourth
& last of a series of Lectures on the Work lately out
called “Ecce Homo”, I have not read the work, but from
what I could gather from the Lecturer it resembles
Rehrans Life of Christ - holding Christ up as a pattern
for human example, a thorough pure holy upright man
& nothing more, depriving him of his divinity - Mr. H
condemns the work in toto & asserts that he would never
preach more if he could not find a misrepresentation
missinterpretation & contradiction in every page of the
book. (it is very perplexing for I have heard & read of
the book & its contents having been approved of by many
ministers & theological students, so much so that it
is enough to shake ones faith in the redeeming blood of
Jesus - if that faith was not well grounded - on leaving
the Church I went to Clarks for mother who had been
spending the day there - Thursday evening I went as
usual to Richardsons Singing Class. Friday evening I
remained at home. G Bond called & stayd till 9 pm -
Saturday afternoon I went to see a game of Football
between the Melbourne Club & a Club formed out of the
14th.Regiment - the playing in my opinion was very good
& extremely exciting the Melb men proved too much for
the Soldiers the former getting their two goals by 5Pm
In the evening I took a walk into town met Lous Burke
she is looking, poor girl very thin & ill her baby is very
unwell & not likely to live. I think it would be a
mercy
6/223 |
1298
God would take it. This morning & evening I went to
Church. Hamilton spent the day with us -
after leaving Church this evening I saw Miss Pitts
home to Jollimont. - The English Mail arrived
beginning of the week no letters or news from home
except a short note from Aunt Sarah to my mother
June 21st.1868
Weather cold wet & miserable, principal subject for public talk
are politics & the present Deadlock which seems as far off being settled
as ever. The Ministry being in a minority the country is in a
most ruinous state - Monday night staid at home, Tuesday at
Hamiltons lodgings. Wednesday evening I sang two songs at
the West Melb Literary Institute at an entertanment given
there, the Mayor (Butters) in the chair Thursday evening I
took my sister Bessie to hear Walter Montgomery in
Bulwers Play of “Lady of Lyons” he was very good as Claude.
Friday evening I met Louis Burke saw her home, having a
bad cold, I came home early - Saturday rained nearly all day
did not go out in the afternoon, spent it reading & copying
music. In the evening I went out for a strool met
Louis Bourke walked home with her, afterwards
went to Jims lodgings, was introduced to some
funny people who are living in the same house
11 pm when I arrived home. Sunday morning
in company with Bessie I went to St Marks
Church, to hear the Revd. T.B.Garlick
preach, he is a connection of ours, his brother
having married my mothers sister Martha
who died many years ago in Adelaide leaving
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1299
a family of whom we have heard nothing of
since - his brother, the Revd. T.B.G who called on
my mother on Friday was present at my fathers
wedding, he preached a very good sermon for a
Church of England Clergyman. Hamilton spent the
afternoon with us. In the evening we went to
our Church heard the Revd G Clarke from H.T.
preach -
July 5th.1868
A fortnight since I continued my journal, nothing particular
occurring to note, family all well excepting myself, having suffered
severely with a cold. Hamilton still in Melbourne, living at
our house, he has an idea of leaving for N.Z. on Monday, last week
I spent as usual, pleasuring Etc. Tuesday evening the 23 ult, I went to
St Georges Hall, to hear the Philharmonic Socty. produce "Israel in Egypt"
the choruses very fine but the effect was marred by the inefficient
vocalisation of the principals, excepting the Tenor, Exon, who sang well,
after the concert was over I walked to Richmond, with Mr. & Miss
Odell & Idalia Rekowski late when I got home. Wednesday 24th I
took my mother to a concert to hear, an old favourite sing
Mdm Anna Bishop assisted by a young artist named ‘Lascelles,’ the former
sing as well as ever, but her voice is somewhat reedy, but the taste
& judgement she displays is perfect & effective. Lascelles has an ex-
-traordinary organ, he sings tenor songs with a tenor quality of voice -
immediately afterwards he sings a deep bass song, with a strong
baritone voice, its truly marvellous, the contrast, both voices are
false ones, but he sings in the most finished & artistic style
6/225 |
1300
25th. I went to my singing class at Richardsons - 26th. went
to my sisters she is still knocking about, expecting to be
confined every day - Saturday afternoon I went to Fitzroy Gardens
walking about with Miss Odell & my sister, met Clark & Mary
the latter to my surprise apparently quite well & strong considering.
In the evening I took a walk met Louis Bourke, had a chat
with her for a few minutes -
Sunday morning & evening went to Church. In the afternoon
took a walk as far as the Cemetery - Monday evening 28th. very
busy at the office, on arriving home my mother informed me that she
had been spending the day a Clarks, on asking her how
Mary was, she said as usual the following morning at
breakfast on looking over the columns of the “Argus” I saw
that on the 27th. inst the wife of J.J.Clark was safely delivered of a Son -
Mother had not informed us of the event although she was aware
of it. I went to see her yesterday, Saturday, found her quite well
the baby a boy is a fine big child - Wednesday being the
1st.July & Seperation Day was observed as a holiday in all the
principal offices in town, having a deal of back work to do
I availed myself of the day to *pull it up, so went to the office
as usual - In the evening Mr. Schofield & Mrs. Green called
& staid tea, on their leaving our house, I went to Et
Melbourne, & spent the night at Odells, very pleasently, they
are very nice people, it was 2 am next morning when
we arrived home - Thursday evening went to my singing class
Friday evening I spent at home. Saturday after calling at my
sisters I went to the Gardens met some friends there -
walked home with the Miss Wrights Rt Williamson
was at our house, staid tea & spent the evening with us
went to Church night & morning. In the afternoon
Hamilton, Williamson, Fred & I took a walk to the
Cemetery. On leaving church this evening I walked over
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1301
to Wollastons Church, the people were just coming out
I met Miss Webber & some other friends & we all took a
delightful walk (moonlight) to Johnston St. Bridge. - 11 pm when
I got home -
July 12th.1868
Weather unsettled since I last wrote, raining one day
frosty next & so on. Mail from England arrived on Monday bringing
us a long letter from father, in which he informs us that he is not
enjoying the best of health, having lost his sense of taste & smell -
I am very much grieved to hear such is the case - he states that
the Chancery Case appears to be as far from settlement as when last
he wrote, he alludes to Uncle John Thomas's affairs, & he tells us
that his (J.T) principal has been divided between Aunt Sarah
Uncle Joe, & my father, the money £200 that he sent to mother
being part of it. Now that John Tom. has turned up he will have
to refund what he received - by the same mail came a letter from
Uncle Joe, to Uncle John T. (the latter having told me to open any letters
that came for him I took the liberty of opening it) & found it to
contain a letter of Credit on the Bk of N.S.Wales for £50.0.0 in his
favour, on the fly leaf of same was a most affectionate letter
in which he advises Uncle John Tom. not to draw upon
his principal but that he being the executor to his father will & having had
the management (and the use of the money) during Uncle J.T. absence)
of it, he proposes sending him out the interest in the shape of
an annuity - what I remark as rather strange, in the letter is
the fact of Uncle Joe never alluding to the money he must have
received during the 16 or 17 years of Uncle John Tom absence
I feel positive he expects to receive all his back money, tho’ I
doubt whether he could legally recover it. My father thinks it
best to send him out the principal & have done with it & him
I dont agree with the idea for I feel assured that if he received
such a sum that he would soon squander it away in drink
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1302
Uncle Joes idea of sending him out just the interest as
formerly is the best, immediately on receipt of the
letter I wrote to the P.O. of Seymour, & also the P.O. at
Kilmore letters of the same tenor & date informing him of
the arrival of the £50 I hope he will receive one of them
tho’ I fear not having heard of him the last two months
that he has gone further up the bush, if so I hope he
will write & let us know his whereabouts. When Uncle
John Thomas wrote to Uncle Joe, from Melbourne when living at
our house he alluded to the kindness we have shown him. Joe
refers to it by stating that he would not forget it, & that he
had remembered us in his will, but the funniest part
of the extract is the old gentleman had deliberately
ran his pen through “the will” (I mean the words) I suppose
he thought we should perhaps be shown the letter & the
allusions might raise hopes that in the future he may
not be inclined to gratify
Tuesday evening Misses Odell & Rekowski
with Mr. Batten & Mr Odell called at our house & spent
the evening with us - Thursday evening went to my Singing
class, as usual - Friday evening I took a walk, met Louis
Burke, out with her for a hour or so. Saturday afternoon spent
at my sisters Mary she & the Baby are doing well - In the evening
Mr. Schofield called & had tea with us. Hamilton & I walked
home to the Congregational College with him - from there
we went to town for a walk. This morning & evening I
went to Church. In the afternoon took a walk to the Cemetery
July 19th.1868
Another week passed much as usual with little variety
rather slack, for a change, at the office.
I received a letter from my Uncle John Tom, quite
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1303
unexpectedly, for from it I gather he left the neighbourhood
where he last wrote to me some months ago, so that the
letters I wrote to him will be returned to me, he states
that he had been engaged cutting wood for an engine at
Huntley – Bendigo - & that that party had [become] insolvent &
he himself left in debt for his board & lodging amounting
to £5. which sum he requested me to forward him
enclosed was an order on BK to draw
any monies that might have been sent to him from
England, with this order I endeavoured to get the L/C
cashed, which I held but the BK would not cash it
until endorsed by my Uncle - so I accordingly sent it him but
as yet I have not received any reply. I cannot account for
his behaviour. The mail for England, left on Saturday the 18th
I wrote to my father by it. Mr. Hamilton is still living with us
he expects Mrs. H & family from N.Z the latter end of next week -
Thursday evening went as usual to Richardsons Singing class, practised over
some excellent music from various operas. Wednesday evening Miss
Baker spent at our house. I saw her home afterwards. Saturday
afternoon I & Bessie went to the Gardens to hear the Band play, met Mrs.
& Miss Odell there & Dalia Rekowski. My sister & I accompanied home
to Mrs. Odells, & being Miss O. 20th Bthday, we spent very jollily together
between 11 & 12 when we arrived home - Went to Church morning &
evening this day, in the afternoon I took a strool to Fitzroy Gardens met
Mrs. Mapelstone & a friend walked home with them. The weather
during the week has been very cold, wet & foggy -
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1304
Melbourne July 26th.1868
Fine weather but cold, getting slack at the office -
Monday night I spent at my sisters (Clark) mother was there
& Hamilton, Tuesday evening I spent at home, Wednesday evening
Hamilton, Bessie & I went to Williamsons (Nt Melb’) several
other people were [there], we managed to spend a very pleasent evening
together, we left there about 11.40, in company with the
sisters named Findley who live down our way -
Thursday evening as usual I went to Richardsons Class
Friday spent at home except for about an hour when I took a strool out
Louis. B. poor girl is suffering severely with a bad cold & general debility brought on by their clothing
hard work Etc. Saturday afternoon Hamilton & I spent househunting, he
expects Mrs. H & family over from Dunedin next week. In the evening
I went out for a walk, met Emily Phillips rambled about Fitzroy
with her for an hour or so, after seeing her home I went to town
met English had a long chat him. Went to Church this
morning & in the afternoon took a walk to the Gardens met
Mrs. Floraun & Miss Norris. In the evening I went to Church
after the service, walked with Miss Pitts to her house in Jollimont
I cannot understand Uncle John Toms silence nothing
heard from him as yet.
August 2nd 1868
Another week nearer my grave, grave reflection! -
more especially when I feel how little good I have
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1305
done to myself or to others during the time, or preceding -
My employment consists of nothing but a routine with little
change from week end to week end, copying manifests -
endorsing B/L - making out invoices & such like –
Monday evening on reaching home, I found a note had been
left at the house for me, which on opening, I found to be from
my Uncle John Tom, informing me that he had arrived
in town that day & wished to see me. I went to where
he had put up the London Boarding House in Lonsdale St
after tea I went & saw him, he certainly looked better than
when last I saw, [him] externally, for he had got a decent
suit of clothes on his back - he told me he had got the
L/C cashed in Bendigo & that he had spent the most of the
money leaving himself with barely sufficient to get up the bush
with again - I should infer from what he told me, that he
had paid his debts - & bought some clothes & a new swag
& I believe had had a good spree besides - I was very much
annoyed at him not giving my mother the money
he had borrowed from her, not allowing for the sums he had
had from Fred & myself - we had a long consultation
together about his plans for the future - he wishes to
have a part of his money sent to him out say £300
as soon as possible to enable him to commence farming
and the rest in 12 months, or less time, afterwards -
wished me to write a letter explaining his views &
& intentions to Uncle Joseph - which I promised to do
for him the next day, on leaving him about 9 pm
I went to the Princess’s Theatre & sat for a couple of hours
witnessing the greatest rubbish I ever saw on the stage
excepting some performances by some Gymnasts -
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Tuesday evening Uncle came to our house & we had a another
long talk over his affairs, & then dictated a letter, to send to
Uncle Joseph, containing John Toms views - he bade us good bye
but he called on me the following day & stated he was then on
the point of leaving for “Woodend” & when he was settled he would
write to me. Wednesday evening I went to an evening party at
Atkinsons, Drapers, Smith St. it was Miss A birthday. There was a
about 30 people present, & what with dancing, singing, forfeits &
parlor games, we managed to spend a jolly night of it. There are
three Miss A. very pretty girls, the eldest & I did a tall amount of
flirting which ended in her giving me her likeness, by way of souvenir -
on leaving them I accompanied Mr. & Mrs. Stewart & a Miss Eilly home
to Carlton, after 4 am when I got home, very tired. Thursday
evening I went to Richardsons Singing class, where was held a
Rehearsal for the Concert which is to take place in the Duke of
Edinburgh Theatre, in a few weeks time, for benefit of the
“educated poor” of Melbourne, the Governor Manners Sutton
has promised to patronise the same, so I expect it will be a
fine concert, as far as the singing goes I am sure it will
for connected with the class are some of best, if not the best -
amateur vocalists in Melbourne - Friday evening I went
out for a strool met Louis B. she was little better than when
last I met her - Miss Dove was married on the 30th. inst to
a young fellow named Mason, what a fine chance I missed,
she has an independency of £400.0.0 a year. I had every
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1307
opportunity of possessing her, strange I neglected it, but I have
a horror against going in for money in such cases, had she been
poor I would have, no doubt, tried to win her, for she is a most
unaffected person, & rather accomplished - but it is too late now
to repine - I met Miss Webber on Wednesday. I fancy she was
rather cool to me - she informed me that Kidgell had proposed
for her, but that she had declined the honor, poor fellow, I can
understand his reason for making up his mind to leave the
colony, as he intends doing, & commence on his own account
in Queensland - girls are fools, Kidgell is a clever fellow &
very good natured & splendid company & very well informed &
intelligent, has a good salary & a rising man, he happens to be
rather short in stature - & young ladies nowadays must
measure their love by the length of the party concerned, would
I were taller? - how strange, the same ladies that he has
wanted & tried for, I could have had by asking for, if I had been
so inclined, & in position to marry them - whereas Kidgell is
a thousand times my superior in every respect, & yet he is
continually being refused, what idiots girls must be - & what
a want of discrimination they display - Saturday afternoon
Bessie & I went to the Gardens to hear the Band play, met Mary
with the nurse & baby, also Alice Odell & Dalia Rekowski & several others
friends and acquaintances - spent a pleasent afternoon, after tea, I took
a walk about Collingwood met the Wrights, went home with them
I went to hear Mr. Henderson preach to day night & morning -
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1308
he was particularly eloquent on both occasions. In the afternoon
the Bros’ West called at our house & stayd about an hour or so
when Fred & I accompanied them to their lodgings (Carlton at a
Mr. Neighbour,) when we staid tea they are clever young
fellows, one of them is studying for the Ministry,
Mr. Neighbour, Junior is a young man of great promise, being a
B.A. & not twenty years of age - after tea, we went to
Church together. I accompanied Casey Browning home after
the evening service was over - to her fathers house, Brunswick
St.
August 9th.1868
Weather very fine during the week. I have been suffering severely from
a cold, & also an attack of bile, a thing I have not had for the last 15 years
Monday evening we had full of visitors at our place. Miss Odell & Misses Cass
& Rekowski, T.Odell & Goode, spent a pleasent evening together, Tuesday even
I spent at Clarks. Wednesday evening I went to see my old friend
Harry Dight, found him & his wife quite well Mrs. D has lately, within the
last month given birth to a daughter, thus making two children, Harry is
working at his trade & he informs me has hard work to make things
meet. I left him about 10Pm. Thursday night, I attended a rehearsal of
Richardsons pupils for at the Theatre, for the concert to be given on the
12th.inst. everything went off very well. Friday evening, I & Bessie
went to Mrs. Florauns & spent the evening at her house, 12 pm when we
reached home. Saturday afternoon I went to the Gardens, met several there
I knew, after tea I went on to another Rehearsal at the Theatre, it was
over about 11 Pm, at its conclusion, in company with Joe West & Neighbour
we went into a restaurant & had supper. I felt very unwell this
morning & did not go to church took a short walk before
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1309
dinner felt much better. In the afternoon I took a walk to the
Fitzroy Gardens, met Marsden who accompanied me home to tea, after which
I went to Church, heard Mr. Henderson preach an excellent sermon -
We are very slack at the Rly. the ships arriving just now & for a few months
to come, mostly go to the pier at Williamstown where after being discharged
they load wool, during the season, for return cargo.
August 16th.1868
Lovely weather during the week, very slack at the office.
I have been suffering from a cold & bad headache all the week but I am happy
to state I am getting all right again. Monday evening, on leaving the
office I went to Dinner at Mr. W.Bonds house, Abbotsford, where I
found my Mother, & Bessie & Hamilton & G.Bond, we spent the
evening very pleasently. Mr. Mrs. B. are very nice people, & very kind &
good natured, they have a nice house beautifully situated on the banks
of the River Yarra, we left about 10.30 pm. Tuesday evening I spent
at Marys, her baby was not very well & kept up a continual squall
all the evening, making things to me, who, am an old bachelor, any
-thing but agreeable, such are the joys of matrimony. Wednesday
eveing Richardson with his pupils & Class gave a Grand Operatic
Concert, in the Duke of Edinburgh Theatre, for the benefit of the
“Educated Poor” the house was crowded from pit to gallery, the Dress
Circle contained the Governor & Suite & all the elite of Melbourne
considering all the performers were amateurs, the concert was a great
success, not a break down, nor yet a thing sang out of time, which
is saying a great deal, as the selections comprised some of the
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1310
most difficult music, both solos & concerted pieces from about a
dozen different operas, everybody appeared well pleased – at the
conclusion of the performance, the stage was cleared, & those
who took part in the concert, stayd behind & danced until about
2.30 next morning myself of course being among the number
Thursday evening I remained at home - Friday, ditto, except
that I took a strool for an hour or so after tea – Saturday
on leaving the office at 12 am, I went to Sandridge, having heard
that the Rangetoto had arrived from Dunedin. I thought of meeting Mrs.
Hamilton, but found, that Hamilton had preceded me, so I had my journey
for nothing, on arriving home, I found Mrs. H. and family of four
children here, all well. H has taken a cottage, near us where he
purposes living in, but will still live with us until tomorrow,
we are pretty crowded. In the evening I took a walk into town
This morning, Sunday, I went, in company with West & Marsden
to St. Francis Chapel (R.C.) heard Haydns No 3 Mass rendered
very well, but the chief attraction for me, was Armes Beaumont
singing the “Cujus Animam” (“Stabat Mater”) in a style & with a
force never equalled in Australia, I believe, he took in the
cadenza at the finale Db. in his natural voice, a note I never
heard before, or ever read of being sang by anyone, In the afternoon
I took a walk to Clarks, stayd about an hour with them, the
baby I am sorry to state has a bad cold. In the evening I
went to Hendersons in company with Geo Ramsden, who had
been to tea at our house - got home early - I wrote a long
letter on Father by the Mail which leaves for England to day
August 23d 1868
I have been, & am still, very ill, all the week, suffering severely
6/236 |
1311
from Tic Doloureux. I never suffered such long continued agony in my
life. Monday evening West & Marsden spent at our house – singing
Tuesday took a strool about town called at Richardsons, home early -
Wednesday evening I went to Clarks to bring my mother home who
had been spending the day there. I was very unwell & was glad when I
got home. Thursday I went to Richardsons singing class -
Friday evening too ill to go out. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I took a strool
about town, in the evening we did ditto about Collingwood shopping Etc -
Sunday morn so ill I did not go to Church In the afternoon
I went to the Cemetery met Marsden, the day was lovely & the place
beautifully situated & we enjoyed ourselves, with the exception of my still
suffering from Neuralgia. In the evening I staid at home until 8 when
I sauntered down to Hendersons Church met Mrs. Hamilton & my
mother just coming out, came home with them, accompanied Mrs
H. home. They left our house on Monday, having taken a cottage
in Palmerston St near here, they are getting a little settled. H
has got a situation at Beauchamp & Rocke, the salary is small
but better than being idle, his responsibility is great, a wife & four
young children! The weather has been very unsettled, during
the week. We are very slack at the office, & likely to be so for
some time until the wool season is over.
August 30th.1868
Weather pretty settled, slack at the office. my health is much better than it
was last week, tho I am far from being as well as I should like to be
no family news to relate. Clark spent the evening at our house on Monday
Tuesday evening, afer tea, I went to Stewarts staid about an hour
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1312
from there I went to Henderson's church, a tea meeting had been
held before I arrived. I was in time to hear some of the
speeches that were made & also some singing by the choir a
report on the affairs of the Church was read, stating that the
debt has been reduced to £600, which sum it is hoped will be
cleared off by the end of the year. Never was a church in the
colony ever built & finished & paid for, in such a short time –
& besides this £1,000.0.0 has been given from the church funds
to other institutions, such as the Missionery Society &
Benevolents, during the past year. I came home with
Marsden. Wednesday evening, J.West called & in company
with him I went to the Atkinsons in Smith St. where I went to
the party some weeks ago, found Miss A. at home, alone, she
is a very pretty ladylike girl, expressed herself pleased to see us
& wondered why we had not called before, it was very bad
behaviour on our part, we staid about two hours & came
away. Thursday evening, I went to Stewarts, & spent the
evening, several people were there I knew, left about 11 pm
& accompanied two young ladies home to Collingwood –
Friday evening I went out for a strool, came home
early. Saturday afternoon I & Bessie went to the Gardens to hear
the Band play, met many people we knew. In the evening
I took a walk into town, on my way home I met L Burke
we had a long chat and a walk together. Sunday a dull
miserable day, went to Church morning & evening, spent
the afternoon reading - walked home with Mrs. Hamilton
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1313
Melbourne -
Sept 6th.1868
Weather very pleasent, & much warmer than it as been - beginning
to be a little busier at the office, several large ships having
arrived & being discharged at our Pier. I am happy to state that
I am much better in health than I was last week, my mother
has not been well lately. I sometimes feel very uneasy about her
Monday night, I staid at home except for a short time when I
went out with Bessie shopping. Tuesday night, I took her to
Mdm Annie Bishop & Lascelles, at the Theatre Royal, we met
Clark & Mary with Mr. & Mrs. Johnson, there, so we formed a very
pleasent party & enjoyed ourselves. Wednesday evening, I also went
taking with me Louis Burke. I thought it would cheer her up to
go to the Theatre, tho’ considering the circumstances she is in, I did
not care about being seen in public with her, she was very
much pleased & seemed to enjoy the performance & I am sure
it afforded me pleasure, if only to see her so happy, she
expects her husband will be brought from Sydney in a few weeks
time & put upon his trial for his offences against society in Victoria
when she hopes to be able to get a divorce from him, she has had
no communication or connection with him since her return
from Gipps Land where he deserted her. Thursday night I
went to Richardsons Singing Class, Friday evening, J West
& I paid the Atkinsons a visit spent a pleasent evening
there were several others young fellows there - Saturday
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1314
afternoon I took my sister Bessie to the Gardens to hear
the Band play. Mrs. Hamilton joined us, after tea, I took a
strool into town, met Louis Bourke, walked home with her
Sunday morning I went to Hendersons Church, Mr. H. has
commenced an exposition on the 15 Chpr. of St John. in
the afternoon I took a walk to the Cemetery, met the two
Miss Phillips there with Mr. Eskdale, joined them & had
a long strool about the grounds, pilfering a quantity
of flowers & blossoms we had no right to have taken –
I went to Church in the evening, walked home with
Miss Pitts, who informed me that Miss Webber was
engaged to be married. I should like to know if it is to Kidgell tho’ I cannot think such is the case –
My mother has not been very well during the week
the mail from England arrived, no letters but in
a newspaper we found some pencilled notes from
father, in which he informs us that he has been very
ill & was when he wrote, laid up in Cheshire with an
abscess in his groin, God grant that he may soon
recover - Sept 13th.1868
Nice weather, during the week. Been very busy at the
office, several large ships at the Pier. Tuesday evening I went
over to Clarks, who gave me a lesson in singing a piece of
music I am learning the Cujus animam from Stabat Mater
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1315
I left his house about 9 pm called at Florauns, my sister
Bessie was there, & several other visitors remained till 12 pm
dancing & singing Etc. Wednesday I took my sister to Hoskins
Assembly Rooms, where the German Leidertafel gave a concert
& afterwards a Ball, it was between 2 & 3 next morning
when it was all over. The part music was very fine
better than any I have heard before - I met a great many
people there I knew. Thursday evening I went to the
Singing class as usual. Friday evening I spent at Mrs.
Stewart, her husband I found, had gone to Bendigo, for a few
days, several people dropped in while I was there, left about
10 pm. Saturday afternoon in company with a large party
I went up the River boating. The day was anything but
propitious, but we managed to enjoy ourselves very much
on landing at Richmond, we all proceeded to Saunders
where Mrs. S. had provided a nice tea for us all, spent
the evening singing & playing sundry parlor games -
altogether I spent a most enjoyabl day. There
was a young fellow named Ford with us, an excellent musician
who playd several fine pieces of music during the evening, he informed
me that Miss Webber with whom he is well acquainted with, is
going to be married to “Long” of Bourke St. the man she has been
employed by for a long while past, he is rich, but twice her age
I knew him well having met him several times at Gotches
& other places - I went to church morning & evening
6/241 |
1316
In the afternoon, in company with Hamilton, I went to the
Cemetery for a walk - I received a letter from Uncle John Thomas
on Tuesday, he is still living in the neighbourhood of Huntley,
informs me he is on the look out for land to purchase when
his money arrives - ?
Sept 20th.1868
Summer weather setting in, still busy at the office. Monday
evening I went to an evening party at Whittys in Princess St
spent a jolly night, several there I knew, the Whittys are a very
pleasent, genial Irish family, it was 3 am next morning, when I
got home. Tuesday evening in company with Richard Ryland, who had
just come down from Castlemaine, I went to the Theatre Royal, to see the
Flying Scud performed. I was too sleepy & seedy from the effects of the
previous nights dissipation, to enjoy myself very much, 11 pm when
it was over - Wednesday, evening, Mother having gone over to Marys
during the day, I went for her, stayd about two hours, got home
about 10.30. very rough night, blowing hard, with shoals of dust.
Thursday evening Fred & I went to William St School Room
to hear a Concert there, got up by Donaldsons - several favourites
were singing, & some two little girls named Terluki, playd very
well on the piano, a thunder storm came on at the close of the
performance, we got wet coming home. Friday evening after tea
I went to Stewarts, Mr. & Mrs. S were out, a lady friend named
Eily was there keeping house I stayd some time with her
when we left, & I saw Miss E. to Fitzroy, home early
6/242 |
1317
Saturday afternoon, after reading a little, & doing everyday little domestic
duties, I took a strool into town, met Charlotte Roberts & Miss
Aitkin, walked home, or nearly so, with them, rambled about the Fitzroy
Gardens. In the evening I went to town, streets teeming with people
as usual, met several I knew, home early. Sunday morning
I went to Church. In the afternoon, in company with Mr.
& Mrs. Hamilton, I took a walk to the Cemetery, got home
in time to escape the rain which has been falling ever
since. after tea - tho still wet, I went to Church, sorry to
find it only half filled. Mr. H preached a most powerful
sermon, the subject being the training of students for
the ministry, he has rather peculiar views, he does not
believe in ministers who have to write their sermons, nor does
he believe in their going about gadding & gossiping or what is called
visiting he thinks it is lost time, he thinks a minister should know
the Scriptures by heart, thinks it a disgrace if they do not, when
a poor strolling player can repeat every line in Shakespeares
plays & many more -
Sept 27th.1868
Weather been very hot & showery during the week, rain has been
much wanted. I hope the farmers have had enough to last them
for some time. Monday evening I spent at Stewarts singing. Tuesday
I went to a conversazione at the Fitzroy Police Court, a miserable affair,
if it had not been for Stewarts singing, at its termination I went
home with Miss Atkinson whom I had met at the place -
6/243 |
1318
Wednesday evening, Mrs. Floraun & Miss Norris with G.Fever
called & spent the evening with us, passed it very pleasently -
Miss N is one of most ladylike & well bred girl I have ever met
I cannot account for her being left single for so long. I think she is
too refined for the class of young men, now to be met with in
Melbourne. I walked home with her to Mrs. F's where she is staying
Thursday, I went to Richardsons Singing Class, practising over a lot
of Operatic Choruses. The concert that he gave some weeks ago
realized £50. for the object it was given or, (“The Educated Poor”) Friday
evening I went to Stewarts & made arrangements for him giving
me some further instruction I require in singing - I purpose
commencing next week, 10 pm when I left his house. Saturday
afternoon I went to hear the Band play. In the evening in
company with Hamilton I pd a visit to Williamsons, stayd
about an hour. Bob accompanied us part of the way home
through town, 11 when I reached home. Sunday morning
& evening I went to Church taking my sister & Mrs. Floraun
in the evening, Mr. Henderson preaching on the occasion
a sermon specially for young women from the 30 verse
of the 31st.Chapter of Proverbs, the church was crowded to
suffocation nearly, he preached for an hour & thirty five
minutes. The discourse was such as has seldom been listened
to in Melbourne, & one I trust will do a deal of
good to those that heard it. I took a walk in the
afternoon to the Cemetery -
6/244 |
1319
October 4th.1868
Weather very unsettled. Slack at the office, expect to be busy
next week several large ships being due. Mail from England
arrived on 1st.inst. no letters from father. Mother recd one
from her sister Aunt Hartley of Halifax in which she informs
us that they are in very reduced circumstances. I am truly
sorry, it is very hard to have lived in luxury & in the midst
of plenty all her life & now in her old age, to know poverty
& being childless, makes it none the easier to bear. Uncle
Hartley never got over his heavy losses he sustained at the
commencement of the American War. (7 years ago). I feel very
anxious concerning my father, the last mail brought news of
his being ill I trust he has recovered. Monday evening
I commenced taking music lessons from Stewart. I like his
style, I think he will do me good. Tuesday evening I remained
at home till 9 pm when Hamilton called & requested me
to go to Emerald Hill with a visitor of his who lived there, he not
being very well. I did not object considering the person
was a nice young lady named Miss Campbell, whose
father is Manager of a Branch of the National Bank, E.H. Mrs.
H. accompanied us so I had company both ways, & the night
being a lovely moonlight one, I enjoyed my walk very well
Wednesday, I took my sister & Miss Norris to a Ball at
the Manchester Unity Hall, where we enjoyed ourselves
6/245 |
1320
very well until 4 am next morning, felt very tired
& seedy next day, but in the evening I went as usual to
Richardsons, after which, in company with *Darcy & another
friend, I went to Hendersons Church where was a grand
concert being held, neither of us had tickets nor money to
procure them, so we put a bold face on it & marched in
without being interrupted although there were three persons
at the door, who thinking we had been in before did not
attempt to stop us, it was awful cheek on our part, we
enjoyed ourselves none the less, what we heard of the
concert was very good considering *as the performers
were all amateurs, it was nearly 12 when I got home.
Friday evening, J.West called for me & we went to
see the Atkinsons stayd at their house for a hour & then
returned home. Saturday, afternoon did a few jobs
about the house, till 4 when I took a walk met
Miss Atkinson had a strool with her, till 5.30, after
tea called at Stewarts, thinking he would have given
me a lesson, as I did not get one on Wednesday, nor
will be able to attend tomorow evening having an
engagement, found him engaged, so took a walk
into town on my way home I met Miss Webber
walked home with conversing upon her intended
wedding with Mr. Long, bade her good bye with kind
wishes for her future happiness Etc Etc -
6/246 |
1321
This morning not feeling well I did not go to Church
about twelve I took a strool met some friends & went
to Carlton with them In the afternoon I went to the
Cemetery met Mr. Eskdale & the two Miss Phillips
rambled about the grounds with them & walked part
of the way home with them. In the evening I went to
hear Mr. Henderson who preached a grand sermon
forcible, eloquent & practical spent the rest of the evening
singing Sacred music, selections from the Messiah
Etc.
Oct llth.1868
Lovely weather during the past week, very busy at the
office, enjoying good health. I have very little of interest
to note, leading as I do such a monotonous life with little
variety. Monday & Wednesday evening I went to Stewarts
for my singing lessons, met Miss Atkinson on the Wed evening
& walked home with her. Friday evening having an order for
the Theatre, I took her to see the “Octoroon” performed, after which
I had a pleasent walk home with her. Tuesday evening
the two Miss Flowers, with Mr. & Mrs. Sayce spent at our house
I seeing the former home, much to my discomfiture, at
12 pm Thursday evening I went as usual to Richardsons
Saturday afternoon Bessie & I went to the Fitzroy Gardens
to hear the Band play, met Mary there, looking very well -
In the evening I went to town for a walk, met several
6/247 |
1322
people I knew, home early. Sunday I went to Church
in the morning Mr. H. had been taken suddenly ill
a Mr. Greenwwod one of the Students, preached an excellent
sermon. In the evening another of the Students, a friend
of mine, Mr. West, preached. In the afternoon I
went to the Cemetery for a walk, after leaving Church
I met Miss Campbell & walked home with her to Carlton
(a young lady in our choir, but no relation to the young lady I
went to Emerald Hill with in company with Mrs. Hamilton
a few days ago).
Oct 18th.1868
Weather very unsettled but on the whole very
pleasent. Monday evening, went as usual to Stewarts
for my music lesson, Tuesday evening, I took a strool
about town for an hour or so, Wednesday the 14th, being my
sister Bessies 21st.Birthday, we invited a few friends
a regular house full, & we enjoyed ourselves amazingly
singing, flirting Etc. Etc. 2 am next morning when
we broke up, next evening Thursday, I went to Richardsons
had an hour or two good squalling, on leaving there, in
company with Joe West, I went to Clarks, to bring my
mother home, who had been spending the day
there, found Clark, very busily engaged drawing
plans, for a house he intends erecting on a
6/248 |
1323
a piece of ground he possesses, Et. Melbourne, so we
were not long making a move homewards. Friday
evening, West & I went to the Collins St Baptist Chapel
in company with W.Ford the organist to try over some
pieces he kindly played the accompaniements for. I got through
the “Cujus Animam” much better that I anticipated doing –
Saturday afternoon I took a walk about town. In the evening
Mr. Dewer from Echuca called & spent with
us. Sunday morning went to Church, heard a good sermon
In the afternoon I went for a walk to the Cemetery
on arriving home found Miss Norriss & Mr. Schofield at
our house, who stayd tea, after which we all went to
Hendersons Church. I saw Miss N. home in company
With the Bros West, on leaving her we made for home
Wests remaining till 10.30 pm. - We received a
letter from Mary Ann (my couzin) informing us of the
death of her husband (Peet) who died a few days
before writing, in South Australia, it was an illsorted
match & being little love on either side the loss, if any,
is not acutely felt, judging from the tone of the letter,
I received a letter from Harry Vickerman (her brother)
he alluded to the death of Peet, but made no comment
on same.
Oct 25th.1868
Been lovely weather during the week, very busy at
6/249 |
1324
[the] office, all pretty well at home, except Fred, who has been
ailing the last days. I am afraid he is not very
strong, scarcely a week passing without he is complaining
of something or another. Monday & Wednesday evenings
I went to Stewarts, was in bad voice both nights & did not
make much progress in my studies Tuesday evening
in Bessie, Fred & Mr. Dewar I went to Clarks, he was not
at home, but Mary entertained us, we spent an hour or
two very pleasently. Thursday evening I went to Richardsons
he intends giving another Concert next month, so we are working
up some fine pieces for the occasion. Friday evening Bessie &
I spent at Mrs. Odells, Et. Melb’. several people were there we
knew & the time passed very agreeably until 11 pm when we
left. 12 when we got home, tired enough, after our long
walk, which tended to distroy in some sense the enjoyment
we had previously indulged in. Saturday afternoon Bessie & I
went to the Gardens, after the music was over, we met
Mr. West was accompanied us home stayd tea & spent
the evening with, he is excellent company, well informed
& intelligent, he is studying for the Ministry, preaches now
occasionally. Sunday morning, went to Church, ditto in the
evening, walked home with West. In the afternoon I took a
long walk to the Botanical Gardens, everything
looked beautifully fresh & green, the flowers & shrubs shedding
a most delightful perfume around. Crowds of folks
6/250 |
1325
were there met many I knew - I received a letter
from Alf Peel on Thursday, informing me of the death
of his father, he was a connection of my mothers, having
married a cousin of hers, Alf is still in Dunedin &
employed on the "Daily Times" there.
Melbourne November 1st.1868
Weather very fine during the week, not felt very well, think it
is owing to the change of the seasons. The English Mail arrived on Friday
no letters for us from father, except a few lines we found scribbled in a
paper, stating he was somewhat recovered from the effects of the
complaint he was suffering from when last we heard from him. Monday
& Wednesday evenings I went to Stewarts for my singing lessons.
Tuesday evening I took a strool for an hour or two home early. On
leaving Stewarts on Monday evening I went to a concert at St Georges
Hall, given by Professor Hughes & pupils, on the whole it was a poor
affair his leading tenors being formerly pupils of Richardsons who
left him because he did not think them good enough to entrust a
solo to them, Thursday evening I went to Richardsons as usual
Friday evening Clark & Mary spent the evening with us & also
J.West & Miss Ditcham, a young lady from Launceston, whose
acquaintance we made 2 years ago when she was on a visit
here, with the Revd. Mr. Beer, who lately got into such disgrace
some 3 months ago, & had to leave the colony, after being
expelled from the Church - Miss D. is really a nice
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1326
person. I saw her to town where I put her into a cab for
Emerald Hill, where she is at present living. Saturday afternoon
Bessie & I with Mr. West, (the student) took a pleasent strool
to the Botanical Gardens where we met Clark & Mary –
the day was fine & the Gardens lovely, being the prettiest promenade
about Melb, I enjoyed my afternoon very well - In the
evening I went to town, on my way home, I passed Burkes
shop. Louis saw me & came after me we took a long walk
together till nearly 12 pm. her husband has been brought
from Sydney after completing his sentence there, he was
brought up here on his arrival & put upon his trial for
robbing a travelling Jeweller some 3 years ago near
Geelong, & committed Louis poor girl is in a
sad way, her baby is not well, nor is she herself very
well, her husband has four aliases, she does not know
the proper name she ought to bear, she was married by
the name of Hayward, but thinks his proper name
is Sybon - whatever his name may be it is a
disgrace & she feels it, to bear, she hopes she will be able
to get a divorce tho I am very much afraid she will have
some difficulty in getting one. Sunday morning I went to
to the Catholic Chapel, Choir & sang in Gounod’s New
Mass, a fine production but nothing in comparison to
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1327
some of the Masses of Hadyn & Mozart, it was awfully hot
In the afternoon a heavy thunder storm broke over Melb I
went to Hendersons in the evening, got caught in a storm on
my way home, had to stay an hour & a half under a verandah
I met Marsden weather bound like myself-
Novr 8th.1868
Weather, lovely, during the week, very slack at our
office. Race week, very little business done, Sydney horses
winning everything. Thursday the “Cup day” was observed
as a holiday, a thing I dont approve of, holidays for
Races, I did not go - Monday & Wednesday evening I went
to Stewarts. Tuesday I went to an evening party at Pittmans
Jollimont. Thursday I went to the Richardsons. Friday evening I went
to the Baptist Chapel Collins St in company with W Ford the
Organist to try over some music. I did not sing much myself
there being a gentleman there named Fuller, who sang admirably
he is lately out from England & has heard the best singers of the
day & being a good musician he has picked up a style of singing
that one seldom hears in the colonies. Saturday afternoon I
took a walk, in the evening I took a strool into town
met Louisa Burke, or Mrs. Hayward, her husbands trial
took place the day before, he was sentenced to five years
transportation with hard labour, we took a long walk
together, nearly 12 when I left her, she is going
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1328
to make an effort to get a divorce, she is a lovely
woman & will have little difficulty in getting married
again if she is so inclined, her child is her only in-
cumbrance - & she clings to it with all a mothers fondness
Sunday morning & evening I went to Church, met
Ford, in the evening & West who came home with
me & staid an hour or so, making arrangements for
a picnic for Tuesday next, which is to be observed as a holiday
instead of Monday, the Prince of Wales Birthday –
Novr. 15th.1868
Fine weather at the beginning, but very changeable
since Wednesday when a change occured bringing with
it rain & hail in fact it was more like winter weather
the summer. Monday being Mail Day was not
observed as a holiday, Tuesday being substituted instead
Monday evening I went to Stewarts, on my return
home found Mrs. Hamilton & her friend Miss Campbell
at our house, who staid till near 11 pm. Tuesday
in company with Clark & Mary Fred & Bessie & about
20 others mostly ladies I joined in a picnic, left
Richmond punt at 11 am with plenty of provisions
pulled up as far as the Survey Paddock where
we landed & spent the day most pleasently
returned about 8 pm, when most of the party
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1329
adjourned to Clarks house where we spent the evening,
after supper we made for our respective homes –
after spending a most delightful day together-
Wednesday evening with Fred & mother & Miss Norris,
I went to the German Liedertafel Concert, at Hoskins
Rooms, Eliz. St, Bessie had gone to an evening party
at Dalrymples, Richmond, to which I was invited, so
after staying a couple of hours at the Concert, which
was very fine, I left, much to my regret, & went
there, found several people I knew, managed to spend
a couple of hours pleasently, arrived home about 2 am very
tired. Friday evening being wet I stayd at home, Saturday
after leaving business I went to Clarks to dinner after which
he & I went to see the Athletic Sports on the Cricket Ground.
They were very fine, the attendance being more
numerous than I remember ever seeing before. I went
home with Clark & after tea, I went [met] as appointed
a fellow clerk named Hart - called at Atkinsons, stayd
about an hour, then went to town where I met Louis.B.
we took a long walk together 11 pm when I left her
I went to Church to day, morning & evening, after the evening
service I again met Louis.B. took a walk together, talking
over her prospects of getting a divorce Etc, In the afternoon
I went to the Cemetery, met Adamson, the day was very
warm - very few people being out -
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1330
Melbourne Victoria
Novr. 22nd.1868
Weather very unsettled during the past week, but on
the whole very pleasent. Very busy at the office, the same
routine, with little variety, I am getting quite sick
of hanging on, expecting a rise of screw, which never appears
to come. I dont think there is a firm in Melbourne that pays
so badly as the M & H B U Rly. Monday evening, I went to Stewarts,
had a good hours practice at scales & exercises. Tuesday evening
in company with Evans I went to Livingstones in George St
Miss L. is a fine singer & musician, I sang several pieces,
& so did she, very much to my enjoyment, 11 pm when we
left. Wednesday, I went to tea at Hamiltons it was Jims
Birthday & he had invited several friends & we managed
to spend a very pleasent evening together, Thursday evening
I went to Rehearsal at Richardsons, Friday, in company
with Miss Wright my sister Bessie W. & J.West & Mr. Neighbour
I went as per invitation of Willie Ford to the Baptist Cpl
Collins St. where he is organist, he played several fine
pieces Joe West & I sang several pieces from Oratoria –
11 pm when I got home - Saturday afternoon on arriving
home I found my cousin Harry Vickerman at our
house he intends remaining in town until Monday
I spent the afternoon at Clarks singing & trying over
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1331
duets with my sister Mary. After tea I took my Sister
Bessie to the Theatre Royal to see the new Burlesque
of “King Arthur” we enjoyed it amazingly - 12 when we
arrived home. Sunday morning, not feeling well, I
did not go to Church, spent it reading. In the afternoon I
took a long walk. In the evening I went to Hendersons -
Church, after the service I met Miss Finegan walked home
with her, on arriving home found the Bros West at our
house, who stayd till 10.30 -
Novr.29th.1868
Been lovely weather during the week excepting Saturday morning,
when we had hot winds, a pleasent change occurred during the
afternoon - Monday & Wednesday evening I went as usual
to Stewarts for my music lessons Tuesday evening I went
out for a strool for about an hour, home by 9 pm. Thursday
evening I went to Richardsons, had a fine Rehearsal for
his Concert which is to take place on the 2nd December
Friday I took a walk into town on arriving home found
Clark & Mary at our house, spent a hour or two very
pleasently. Saturday afternoon I went, alone, to the Gardens
to hear the Band play - In the evening Mr. West, with
Neighbour, W.Ford, & Bob Williamson spent at our house,
singing & music we had in quantity if not in quality –
11 pm when they took their departure - The English
6/257 |
1332
Mail arrived on Wednesday bringing us a long letter
from my father, he is much better than when last we
heard from him, he has had to refund to Uncle Joe, the
Trustee for my Uncle John Thomas, the money he had received
when they divided the latters portion thinking he was dead
The Chancery case is supposed to be settled, but after deducting
the Atherstons share & the Law expenses, Etc. father is afraid
there will not be much coming to us he expects
that it will be fully 6 months ere [that] little can
be obtained, bother the whole affair I wish we had never
known anything of it, it has unsettled us very much
This morning I went to Church, walked home with
Carry Browning. In the afternoon I went to the Cemetery
met Miss Phillips walked home with her. In the
evening I went to hear Mr. Henderson deliver his
promised Lecture to Young Men. The place was
crowded to excess & all appeared eager listeners, it was
a very good practical address, full of truth & good
sound suggestions, dilated strongly upon young men
disciplining their minds when young, spoke long on the necessity
& dignity of work, & the incalculable mischief of idleness -
I took my sister Bessie with me the Bros West with
two young ladies walked home with us -
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1333
Decr.6th.1868
Very changeable weather during, hot & cold alternately. Still continue
busy at he office, Monday evening I went to Stewarts. Tuesday evening I
went to a Rehearsal at St Georges hall. Wednesday evening the
Pupils Concert came off. The house was crammed with a fashionable
audience, the Programme was very long, & contained works of the
best composers, some of the performers were very indifferent, while
other[s] say Miss Waymouth, Miss Noyt, Messrs Clark & Moule & Whitty
were far above mediocrity. Richardson, I think, is very much to
blame in giving some of his pupils too difficult pieces to perform they
might sing at Rehearsal very well, but when they get before an
audience they dont do so well, on the whole, the concert was not so
successful as the two last ones were, after the concert was over, the
Hall was cleared for the Ball only those remaining who were invited,
the pupils & their friends. Bessie & I remained until about 3.30
a.m. the next morning, after spending a very enjoyable time -
I felt very tired next day, went to bed early, Friday evening I
went to Stewarts, sang for an hour at scales & exercises, very
dry work, on arriving home I found Joe West who stayd till 11 pm
Saturday afternoon I & Bessie went to the Band in Fitzroy Gardens,
after tea, I took a strool & met Louis Burke 11 pm when I left her
Sunday morning & evening I went to Church. In the afternoon
I went to the Cemetery, met the two Miss Marsdens very nice
girls, enjoyed myself very much in their company -
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1334
Decr.13th.1868
Weather very fine, but hot, time spent much as usual -
Monday evening went to Stewarts. Tuesday evening, Fred & I
spent at Clarks Wednesday in company with a friend, Evans, I
went to Livingstones spent the evening singing Miss L has a splendid
mezzo sophrano voice Thursday I attended a Lecture by our
Pastor, Mr. Henderson in the Church which was crowded. The subject
being the “Deluge” viewed in relation to Scripture, Tradition & Science
The interst taken in the subject partly in consequence of a
series of letters of a very sceptical tendency, signed by “Habitans
in Cedar”, an anonymous writer, & the popularity of the lecturer
attracted a large audience, he evinced a deal of study &
cleverness in handling & arranging his subject which was exceedingly inter-
-esting & profiting at least to me, Henderson does not believe in
the universality of the flood, but only extended to that part where
man existed, his conclusions from tradition alone were con[vinc]ing
as to such an event having taken place, every part of the world
or its inhabitants, all having the tradition of the world at one
time being distroyed by water - Professor McCoy who was
the Chairman assisted the lecturer with his usual amiability
to make things pleasent, by affirming that there was nothing
in Science as far as he had studied the various branches
to affect the Scriptures in any way - altogether it was the
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1335
best Lecture I ever listened to & I came away feeling much
more enlightened by the very intellectual treat than before -
My sister & Miss Norris, the Bros West & Ford came home together at
its conclusion. Friday evening, I went to Stewarts for my music
lesson not having gone to him on the Wednesday as usual. -
Saturday afternoon I spent reading "Jane Eyre". In the evening I
went out for a walk met a young lady friend with whom I
took a pleasent walk with, 11 pm when I got home. I wrote
during the day to my Uncle John Tom who is at present living
on a farm near Heathcote @ at a Mr. Cocks Wild Duck Creek
I heard from him at the beginning of the week, he is anxiously
looking forward for news by the next mail from Uncle Joe
in reference to the disposal of his property - Sunday
morning I spent at home reading. In the afternoon, I took
a walk to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to Church, there
was a collection & it is hoped enough will be collected to
clear off the debt of the church, if so, it will reflect very
great credit in the congregation, two years have scarcely
elapsed since the building was commenced, its total
cost being £16,000. The fact of its all being paid
in such a short time is a thing unprecedented in the colonies
& such a structure! one of the most elegant erected in Australia
on leaving the Church I met G.Bond had a long walk &
talk together on coming home, I was accosted by a young lady acquaintance
who was in company with, & who introduced me to
Miss Stone, that I have not spoken to for upwards of four
6/261 |
1336
years, & with whom I used to be very familiar she was
very young at that time (16) & being pretty had a great many admirers
& I may say was very foolish. I had occasion to take
offence at her conduct for something that to me was unpar-
-donable, I wrote a letter to her at the time, a pretty
sharp one, but in which I took the liberty of pointing out to her
evil results that would arise from her continuance of her line
of conduct, scarcely a day has passed that I have not seen
her, but have never spoken to her. I have observed that she has
been very quiet & much changed, for the better, to my surprise
I heard some time ago that she was very desirous of seeing
me, having entertained a poor opinion of her I never cared
about renewing the acquaintance, however on this occasion I
could not get out of it, she told me it had pained her to be thought
so badly of by me but that she had endeavoured to correct her
many faults & thanked me most sincerely for the letter I wrote
her, the contents of which opened her eyes to her foolishness &
she was happy to state it had had the effect of keeping her out of mischief,
her object in wishing to speak to me was she did not
like to continue longer under the ban of my displeasure & the
contempt she was sure I had entertained for her. I was very
much surprised at her candour, & it certainly placed her character
in a more favourable light, than I ever thought it would, tho I
have heard from other sources, when I have expressed my opinion
about her, that I was much mistaken in my ideas
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1337
concerning her. I stayd talking to her about an hour, parting
on the understanding that we are to be good friends for the future
Decr.20th.1868
Weather unsettled during the week, very busy at the office –
Monday & Wednesday evening went to Stewarts as usual, also
to Richardsons on the Thursday on leaving there, I called
at the Baptist Chapel George St. where a rehearsal was taking
place for a Tea Meeting to be given on Tuesday next. Met
Miss Stone who is the leading sophano for the occasion – I
walked home with her. Friday evening I spent at Clarks
Saturday evening I met L.B. in town, saw her home.
Sunday, went to Church morning & evening, on leaving Church
this evening I met Miss Stone & walked about an hour with
her. I went to the Cemetery in the afternoon.
Decr.27th.1868
X mas week, as usual holiday time, tho for my part,
I never remember passing, on the whole, such a quiet
one. Monday & Wednesday went to Stewarts, Tuesday
I went to a Tea meeting, Miss. S. sang very well, after
the singing was over, she left, & I joined
her in a pleasent walk home. Thursday as if fate would
have it, I met her again by accident & we took a long walk
together, it was a lovely moonlight night & we enjoyed
ourselves very much. Friday X mas day. I had intended
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1338
taking my mother out somewhere, but she
not feeling well preferred remaining at home quietly
I went to St Francis R.C. Chapel & heard the choir to
sing Hadyns No. 3 Mass, the Adestes Fideles & the “Hallelujah
Chorus”. I was delighted with the performance, spent
the afternoon at home reading. In the evening Mother & I
went to hear a Concert of miscellaneous sacred music at
the Theatre Royal, Donaldson, Emery & Angus with Mrs Fox &
the Misses Easdowns being the principal vocalists -
saw Clark & Mary there, we walked home part of the
way together. Saturday, Boxing Day, another quiet day,
spent the morning reading walked into town, for an hour or
so met Ambler, had a long chat with him, after dinner
read again, left home about 3 pm walked about in the
Gardens for an hour, then went to Richmond Punt
where I met some people I was slightly acquainted
with who were engaging a boat for a pull on the river
they asked me to join them. Miss Stone being of
the party I was induced to do so, we had a nice pull
for a couple of hours, on landing again I left her promising
to call for her at her friends house at 10 pm. I went to
town where I had tea & walked back to Richmond saw
Miss S. home, by about 12 pm. Sunday morning I went
to Church. In the afternoon went to the Cemetery. In the evening
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1339
I went to Church, Mr. H being unwell, a young man
named Allen preached, after the service was over I met
Miss S. took a walk with her. The Mail from England
arrived on the 24th inst. bringing us no letters, one came
from my Uncle Joe a/d to my Uncle John Tom. which I
took the liberty of opening as he had requested me to do
it contained no money, he says that being the executor of
his fathers will, he intends acting upon the same, the will
empowers him to give Uncle J.T. nothing but the interest
unless he can bring a 6 years character for sobriety &
industry ere he can claim the principal which he wants,
which it is impossible for him to do, he expatiates
upon his own industry & how he arrived at an independent
position - John. T. will be terribly mortified on receipt of
this letter. I wrote to him yesterday, & informed him of the
contents. I did not like to send him Uncle Joes letter -
not knowing whether he was living in the same place
or not as when last he wrote, for I have received no
answer to the letter I wrote to him 3 weeks ago -
Jany 3rd 1869
Weather all that could be wished for this time of the
year, cool & refreshing, for the pleasure seekers. I have
spent my time very quietly considering it is holiday season,
I had no money to spend, & I have been in very poor
spirits caring little for amusements of any sort -
6/265 |
1340
Monday evening I went to Stewarts practising scales
& exercises. Tuesday, took a strool met some acquaintances
home early Wednesday evening Bessie & I spent the
evening at Mr Gotchs. Mrs. G returned from England
last week by the Mail Steamer she looks very well
after the voyage & in capital spirits as usual, several
friends were there, & we managed to spend a delightful
evening together 2 am next morning when we arrived
home. I was annoyed at the beginning of the week
by my Uncle J.T. calling upon us looking as dirty &
disreputable as ever, he has been working on a farm
near Kyneton, & hurt his hand, he had expected money
by the last Mail, & was in an awful passion at
Uncle Joes letter, he left town the following day
much to our relief, but not before going into a low
public house in our neighbourhood & informing those
present of our relationship, he is a dirty old blaguard
& looks as if he had been in a chain gang half his
life. Thursday evening I went out for a strool met a
lady friend, being a very pleasent moonlight night we took a
delightful walk togther, on arriving home at 10.30, found
the Wests at our house who did not leave until we saw
the Old Year out & the New one in, 1 OC when we went
to bed. Friday New years Day, being very gloomy & cloudy
in the morning, did not feel anxious to go out. The
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1341
Bros. West called about 1 Pm & asked Fred & I to join them
in a Boat & go up the river, we called for Miss Norris &
a Miss Campbell (Carlton) & with my sister, making it 7 in all,
we went & spent a few hours very pleasently, landing at
Pearsons Tea Gardens where we had some refreshments
took a walk on the surrounding hills & enjoyed the prospect
all came to our house to tea. Clark & Mary called also
stayd till 12 pm when we parted after spending a pleasent
day. Saturday on leaving the office at 12, I went by train
to Richmond, where I struck across the Survey Paddock to
a spot opposite Hawthorn where I had appointed to meet
a party of friends who had a picnic, came on them just
as they were at dinner to which I did ample justice,
after it was over we passed the afternoon dancing, singing &
flirting, till tea time, after which we took boat & proceeded
down to Richmond where we landed
the party proceeded to their several homes. Marsden & I
finding our way home at about 10 pm, on arriving home
I found Effy Flower & Mr. & Mrs. Dewar at our house
Mrs. D is a beautiful singer, she sang a song which
quite charmed me, I felt sorry I had not been home
earlier, however, I had no cause for complaint for
a pleasenter day on the whole I never spent - I
went to Church morning & evening to day. Mr. H
is very unwell, he thinks he received a sunstroke
about a week ago, that & the annoyance caused
6/267 |
1342
lately by the illnatured letters which have appeared
in the papers during the past week accusing him of
piracy in regard to his late lecture upon the Deluge
being the cause, his friends advise his going to Tasmania
for a month. I think & sincerely hope the change will do him
good – on leaving Church I met Miss S. took a pleasent
walk together for an hour or so -
Jany 10th.1869 Weather very hot, accompanied with plenty hot winds & dust, resumed the drudgery of the office on Monday, feeling much better in health and spirits for the respite. Monday evening I went to Stewarts. Tuesday I spent at my sisters. Wednesday, Marsden & I spent the evening at Stewarts, a Miss Webb from Sandhurst being on a visit with them, she is a fine jolly girl. 12 pm when we left, after spending a most agreeable evening. Thursday evening I met Miss S took a long walk with her, 11 pm when I arrived home, Friday I went to Stewarts to get my lesson after it was over, I was induced to accompany himself & wife, with Miss Webb to a friend of theirs, named Gerome at whose house we stayd till 11 pm, spending the evening very slowly, a lot of children being allowed in the drawing room, making an exhibition of themselves, by playing on the piano, pretty well for children, our praises may have been gratifying to their parents, but their performance
6/268 |
1343
did not compensate for the annoyance. Saturday, very
hot. In the afternoon I went to hear the Band play, remained
till 5 pm then went over to Et Melb’ to see my sister Mary
stayd about half an hour, returned home, after tea I went out
for a strool, met Miss S. took a long walk with her, to
Northcote & back nearly 12 when we parted. Sunday I went
to Church, morning & evening, Mr. Henderson has gone to Tasmania
for the benefit of his health. A Mr. Scales preached in the morning
& Mr. Laisehly in the evening, on my way home I passed
I News chapel, met Miss S. walked home with her – on
arriving home I found the Bros. West at our house who stayd
till near 11 pm. In the afternoon I went for a strool to
the Cemetery, being a lovely day, great numbers were there
My cousin Harry came down on Thurday evening & stayd
with us till Saturday morning, when he returned to his
school at Rochford -
Jany 17 1869
Weather very fine, great want in the country districts for
rain every thing in the shape of farm produce getting very
dear. Very busy at the office. Monday & Wednesday nights
I went to Stewarts, Miss Webb being there on both evenings
I stayed till 1 am Thursday morning singing & dancing Etc -
Tuesday evening I spent at my sister Marys house -
Thursday I went to Richardsons Singing Class, my
quarter being up, I think I wont go any more
6/269 |
1344
three nights a week being too much to devote to music
Friday night I took a strool about Fitzroy, met Marsden
home early, found Mr & Mrs. Dewar at our house, I was
very sorry I had been out for Mrs. D. is such excellent
company & such an agreeable person. Saturday afternoon
I read awhile then went to the gardens, on leaving
I met an old diggings acquaintance & mate of
mine formerly Harry Enniss, he has just come
from N.Z. but since he left me on the Manuherikia
River he has been to California, I find no change
in him the same rollicking, reckless fellow as of
old, he thinks of returning to N.Z. shortly - In the
evening I met Miss S. took a long walk with her
did not get home till 12 pm. Sunday been raining
all day, did not go out until the evening when I
went to Church heard Mr. Nims preach, met
Miss S coming out of I New Church, walked
home with her, found the Bros West at our house
who stayd till 10.30. pm -
Jany 24 1869
Weather very fine. Busier at the office than ever I
remember being before since my time in the Rly
great number of large ships discharging at our
Pier. Monday evening Harry Enniss & G Bond & Fox
6/270 |
1345
& West spent the evening at our house, parted about 11
I accompanied the former home to his lodgings –
Tuesday evening I met Miss S. took a long walk with her
Wednesday I went to Stewarts stayd till Marsden had
had his lesson nearly 10 when we left for home -
Thursday evening I met Miss S. took a pleasent walk home by about
10pm Friday evening I went to Livingstones Miss L being out
I did not remain long on coming home I met a lady friend
walked home with her (Miss S) Saturday afternoon in company
with my mother, Bessie & Fred, I went to Mr. W.Bonds house
at Abbotsford where we met [my] sister Mary & Clark
with G.Bond & Miss Norris. Spent the afternoon playing
Croquet after which we adjourned to the house where we
found a spendid dinner provided, to which we did ample
justice to spent the evening singing & flirting Etc –
Mr. W.Bond drove the ladies home in his carriage
at about 11 pm the gentlemen finding their ways home
as best they could. This morning I went [& heard] my friend
West Preach, at Mr. Hendersons Church, an excellent
sermon, rained during the day fine at intervals –
took a short walk in the afternoon. In the evening
I went to hear the Revd Mr. Menzies preach at the Pres
Church Collins St. where he is now the pastor, he preached
a splendid sermon, but I would much sooner have
read it than heard it delivered – he has a strong Scottish
6/271 |
1346
accent, & his manner in the pulpit is very officious
after sitting under Mr Henderson, who is so easy
& graceful in his delivery - on the conclusion of the
service, I called at I. New met Miss S. & walked
home with her & her sister Mrs. Lusty – found the
Bros West at our house – on arriving home who stayd
till 10.30 pm The English mail arrived on
Thursday, no letters from any friends or relations
for us by it, very much disappointed at not
hearing from Father –
Jany 31st.1869
Weather, very hot during the week, in fact the hottest week
we have had in Melbourne this season. We had no less than
four heavy thunder storms, one of which took place on
Thursday evening was one of the most terrific I ever
remember, at least in Melb, it did not last above an
hour. Monday night I went to Stewarts, stayd there
till 11 pm several friends, musical, being there. Tuesday
evening in company with a large party of Lady &
gentlemen friends I went on the Yarra to a night
boating party landed at the usual spot, Pearsons
where we partook of refreshments after which we
flirted, romped & danced till 12 pm, when we left
for home, on our way down the river we managed
to get on snag, & had to get out our ladies
6/272 |
1347
in another boat that was passing, in order to lighten
our own & get her off – fortunately, we managed to do so
without our boat sustaining any serious damage –
it delayed us about half an hour, making it 2 am
Wednesday morning before we got home. Wednesday
was a fearful hot day but a change took place in the
evening when a copius shower of rain fell but, no change
in the wind. I think the atmosphere was more sultry after
than before, I went to the Stewarts, but did [not] stay long feeling
knocked up from my previous nights exertions – Thursday
evening I met Miss S & went out for a walk got caught
in an awful thunder storm fortunately we managed
to find shelter in a little shop at the bottom of Brunswick
St where we remained upwards of an hour, on getting
her home I went to Sheppards Wine Shop & had a long chat
with Miss Sheppard, a nice girl who doles out colonial
wine & flirts with any customer who drops into her place
Friday night I remained at home Mr & Mrs. Drake
Mr & Mrs. Dewar spending the evening with us, passed
it very pleasently the latter lady is a fine musician
sings & plays well, she is getting well up in years now
& her voice is not what is used to be, but she sings with
exquisite taste & skill – nearly 12 pm when they
left. Saturday afternoon, I took a strool. in the evening I
did ditto in company with Miss S. Sunday morning, I went
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to hear a Mr. Day preach (from Castlemaine) in our Church
In the evening I went to the Gaelic Church Carlton &
heard a man preach, a Mr. McEachran. I liked him
very much, he is an earnest plain matter of fact
kind of preacher, but one that I am sure will do
his masters work well, he has a large congregation
on leaving I met Miss S, saw her home, Spent
the afternoon reading.
Feby 7th.1869
Weather very hot & oppressive, with occasional showers
of rain, but not enough to do the country much good -
Monday & Thursday nights I went to Stewarts. Tuesday
I went to my sisters, Mrs. Clarks found several friends
there, passed a pleasent evening together it was the
2nd of Feby & my 30th.Birthday. I begin to feel that
I am getting very old & to make it worse, not much
better in my position or prospects. Wednesday evening
I took a strool about Fitzroy. Friday ditto in company
with Evans & one or two more, about 9 I met Miss S
walked with her till 10 pm. Saturday afternoon I went
into town met several I knew, walked home to
Et Melb in company with Miss Aitkin. In the evening
in company with Miss S. I took a long walk to Northcote
12 pm when I got home. Sunday morning & evening
I went to hear Mr. Henderson who I am happy to
state has returned to his duties, much better in
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health, for his trip to Schnapper Point. - found the
Bros West at our house on arriving home -
Feby 14th.1869
Weather very unsettled, not so hot as last week
a deal of rain having fell, in occasional heavy
showers. Monday evening I went to Stewart raining
when I left & very sultry I went into town & got
wet through, caught a severe cold which I have not
yet got rid of. Tuesday night I & my sister Bessie
went to a grand party at the Ramsdens Et Melbourne
being the occasion of the second son Bob coming of age –
about 120 were present, a large marquee, boarded
& gas laid on served for a Ball Room the program
consisted of 24 Dances all of which I danced with
one exception, every luxury was provided that wealth
could supply, the host & hostess & their family doing
all in their power towards the enjoyment of their guests
altogether it was one of the best affairs I ever was at
nearly Six am the following morning when we broke
up. I went to the office as usual but my cold being much
worse & feeling seedy I was obliged to leave at 2 pm on
arriving home I went to bed slept till 6 when after
a good tea & feeling much refreshed I went out for a
strool, met Miss S. & rambled about till 10pm
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1350
Thursday evening I went to Stewarts singing on
leaving his place I went to George St Bapt Chapel
where I met Miss S. who had been singing there
I saw her home, on arriving at our house found Fox
& Evans here, had some more singing. 11 when
they left. Friday at noon I met Hamilton went
with him to witness his signature to the Transfer
Deeds of some ground he owned in Otago & is now
disposing of we signed in the presence of the Mayor
Mr. T.Moubray - In the evening I went to hear the
Carandinis sing, mother & two daughters, the latter sing
very well & have much improved since I last heard them
Fannie Carandini the alto, having the richest & best trained
voice I know of in Australia (Professional) there was a
wretched house & has been all the week, very discouraging
tomorrow however, is the last night they sing. Saturday
afternoon I went to town shopping with my two sisters
In the morning met L took a long walk together. -
Went to Church this morning Revd. J.C.Symons preached
an excellent practical sermon, a Mr. Greenwood officiated
in the evening. I took a walk in the afternoon, met
Marsden
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1351
Feby 21st 1869
Weather very hot & oppresive, during the week. English
mail arrived on Thursday, a long letter from father
containing a draft for the miserable sum of £10.0.0, all
of which with half as much more being due for rent -
Father is pretty well in health, he states that the Chancery
suit is still in abeyance. I wish to God it was settled I am
sick of hearing about it. Father thinks of returning home
when it is settled. I wonder he is not ashamed to
entertain the idea after leaving his wife & family for
10 years, at the most critical time of their lives. I am
surprised my mother has kept up appearances, & kept
her family respectiable during the time with so little
help, few women in the colonies like her, pushing
enegetic, with a spirit that nothing daunts, very
upright & straightforward in all her actions, continually
setting a good example to all around her.
My Uncle John Tom paid me a visit on Friday, dirty
& in rags as usual, he had expected Uncle Joe would
have sent him money by the last mail, but father
informs us such is not his intention, he will send him out
the interest & that alone. I gave him a suit of clothes
& some money, so I hope we shall not be bothered
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1352
with him again for some time, he is without
exception the most dirty disreputable looking old
vagabond I ever looked upon, & in my digging
experience I have seen some queer characters –
Monday evening went to Stewarts, practising scales
& exercises. Tuesday evening, I spent at Marys, saw
Georgie Clark home from there. Wednesday evening I went
to the B.Chapel, Geo St. to hear the choir there practise some
anthems. Miss S. was among the number. I saw her home
after it was over. Thursday evening after my lesson
was over at Stewart I went down by the 9.30.
train to Brighton to meet the choir I had heard
the night before, who had been singing at some Tea
Meeting there. I knew several of them & we had a jolly
time of it coming home after 12 when I arrived
home with Miss. S, who was of the party. Friday
evening I took a strool about Fitzroy, met several I knew
Saturday was a fearful hot day did not go out till
after tea when I met a friend with whom I took
a long walk, 11 pm when I got home - Sunday
morning I went to Church a Mr. Baker preached
an excellent sermon In the afternoon I took a
walk, met Miss.S. rambled about Carlton Gardens
After tea, In company with my sisters, Miss Walters
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1353
Miss Wright, I went to Church after the service was over I took
Mary home – got pretty wet myself before arriving home -
Feby 28 Weather very cool & pleasent, until yesterday & to day when the sun shone out its finest, attended to day with a hot wind & plenty of dust. Monday & Thursday evening I went as usual to Stewarts. I am improving very much in my singing. Wednesday evening I took a walk with Miss .S. Friday evening in company with a large party, I went up the river boating, enjoyed myself very much 1 am next morning when I arrived home. Saturday afternoon I went to town with Bessie & Miss Wright shopping. In the evening I met Miss S took a long strool with her This morning I went to Church very glad to find Mr Henderson there, he preached a fine sermon In the afternoon, I went for a walk met Marsden & Joe Ford, being very hot we went to the formers house & spent the afternoon there singing, staid tea, after which I went to Church, Mr. H. preached a sermon to Sunday school teachers - one of the grandest discourses I ever listened to -
[1869-03-07]
March 7th 1868
Weather very hot at the beginning of the week a change took place
on Tuesday morning attended with one of the most fearful
dust storms I ever remember seeing, however it tended to
make the weather much more endurable. Monday I wrote
a long letter to my father. In the evening I went to Stewarts
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1354
on leaving I took a strool about Fitzroy. Tuesday evening
I went to the vestry of the Gaelic Church. Stewart has started
a Glee Class there. Thornton & I went to swell the numbers
& give some color to the affair for a start, after it was
over we adjourned to his house & staid till near 11 pm
Wednesday evening I took a long walk with Miss .S.
Thursday evening on leaving Stewarts I met her again
& saw her home. Friday evening having been asked to
assist at a Tea Meeting to be held next Tuesday night
at Beers old Chapel I went there & rehearsed the tenor
parts of a couple of anthems Bob Ramsden playing
the organ, before going there I spent half an hour at
Hamiltons Mrs. H & Jim were going to a fancy Ball
so I did not remain long, they being busy dressing
Saturday afternoon Bessie & I played Croquet in the
Richmond paddock in company with Bond, Bruce &
several others, home by teatime after which, as usual
I went for a strool met a friend & rambled about
till near 11 pm when I came home. Sunday morning
I went to the Catholic Chapel (St Francis) & heard
the Choir sing Beethovens Mass in C, very indifferently
the organ solo & accompaniments played by Pringle (who is
without doubt the finest organist in the colony) were
very fine. In the afternoon I took a walk to the
Cemetary with a young lady friend. In the evening
I went to Church, Mother & Mary were there
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1355
saw the former half way home when I met Miss
S took a strool with her for about an hour -
March 14th.1869
Been lovely weather during the week, very busy at
the office. Time passed much as usual with little novelty
or variety to break the monotony of my existence –
Monday evening I went to Stewarts – on leaving I met
Miss S. took a walk together. Tuesday I went to a Tea
Meeting held in the Orderly Room Victoria Parade
a very jolly affair great number there I knew,
at its conclusion all adjourned to the Chapel near
by where the Induction of the new Pastor Mr. Edwards
took place. Several clergymen spoke, Hon. G Harker
being in the chair, the singing was very poor, on leaving
there at 10pm called at Mrs. Florauns staid about an hour -
Wednesday evening, for a wonder, I remained at home. Joe West
called & we spent the evening singing Etc - Thursday evening
I went as usual to Stewarts on leaving I met Miss.S. & took
a strool for an hour or so with her. Friday knocked about
Fitzroy met her again coming from practice walked home with
her. Saturday afternoon went to town with my sister, met
Donovan & had a long talk with him, he is the clerk of one
or two of the suburban Police Courts. I had not seen him
for years.- In the evening I met Miss. S, took a long
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1356
walk with her, 11 pm when I reached home. Sunday
morning I went to Church Mr. H preached a good sermon
on the lights & shadows of Christian life In the afternoon
I took a walk alone in Fitzroy Gardens. In the evening
went to Church, on my way home I called at I. News
Chapel, Albert St waited until the prayer meeting was
over when I met Miss. S. took a strool around Carlton
Gardens with her. 10 when I reached home, found the
Bros West & Neighbour with Mr & Mrs. Dewar at our house
I got pretty well talked to concerning my flirtation with
Miss.S. she is a very nice quite dignified girl, but the fact of
her father keeping a confectioners shop appears to be heinous
in the eyes of my people & those of my friends, for my own
part I am not at all tinged with the spirit of “Caste” in
such a matter, & would not hesitate in associating or allying
myself to anyone, whatever their position might be, so long as
they were honest & respectable. I enjoy Miss S’s company
very much, but I have not thought seriously concerning her
I am not in a position to do so nor do I see any liklihood
of such a thing taking place. My future seems very obscure
what with my loss of sight, & the slow progress I have made
hitherto in life - I get very dispondent on the subject -
March 21st.1869
Weather much pleasenter than it has been lately, less hot winds
Etc. Not quite so busy at the office, the arrival of a few ships
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1357
ships would soon make us the reverse. Monday evening I went
to a Concert at the Orderly Rooms Carlton, an excellent programme
was provided but the performers were scarcely equal to their task -
I was glad to see the place filled, being for the Benefit of the Widow &
children of Mr. Terleeki who died some weeks ago, he was a very
worthy man, a companion of Kossuths when expelled from
Hungary – at its termination I went to Stewarts staid there
till 12 pm. Tuesday night I meet Miss S & took a walk with her
Wednesday evening I remained at home. Misses Walters & Stoddart
Bond, Bros West, Mr. Neighbour & Mr Burtt at our house, spent
the evening very pleasently, principally singing. Thursday
evening went to Stewarts met Miss S. after my lesson
was over. Friday evening I took a strool about Fitzroy
dropt into the Wesleyan Choir Brunswick St, heard them
make an atempt to sing Mozarts 12th.Mass. Saturday
after[noon] I went to the Stewarts & after a sing we went together to
see a Cricket Match playd on the Carlton Cricket Ground
In the evening I met Miss S. took a pleasent walk
together. I forgot to mention that on Friday afternoon I
was surprised to receive a letter from Uncle J.Tom, requesting
me to see him in the evening. I went & found him engaged at
a little Wood & Coal Yard corner of Peel & Cambridge St Collingwood
where he has been at work since I last saw him he intends
leaving for the country to morrow (Monday) Sunday morning
I went to hear Mr. Henderson. In the afternoon took Bessie
out for a walk to the Cemetery. In the evening I went to Lonsdale
St Wesley Church, heard a grand sermon, after it was over
I met Miss S. saw her home -
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