A LOG OF THE SHIP DAUNTLESS WHICH SAILED
FROM GREENOCK, 17th FEB. 1840 WITH ABOUT 150 PASSENGERS FOR ADELAIDE,
PORT PHILIP AND SYDNEY. KEPT BY JAMES FALCONER. Thanks to
Paul
Falconer for letting us publish this and to
Lina Moffitt for helping us to get this published. The original log
is now in the Mitchell Library, Sydney.SHIP DAUNTLESS / DAY MONDAY
17th FEB. 1840 11 a.m. Weighed anchor and sailed from tail of the
bank, Greenock. Wind easterley. 8 p.m.- Between Connall Light House and
Campbelltown. Midnightspoke the Cables for Adelaide and Sydney.
18th FEB. 6 a.m. Running out the North Channel. Wind East by
South. Caldee about 5 miles ahead. Saw several sails at a distance. 4
p.m.- Passed a brig beating westward. 11 p.m.- Blowing hard, most of the
passengers sick.
19th FEB. 7 a.m. Sails set. Wind blowing from South, standing
West by North. 2 p.m.- Stove in all the water casks on deck in
consequence of being loaded very heavily, having a fine Stallion and
Mare an deck, the property of P. INGLIS ESQ., bound for Port Philip. The
longboat and horse houses, though lashed to the deck, nearly washed
overboard. 7 p.m.- Still blowing very hard from South and the ship
rolling tremendously. The passengers still very sick and the state of
the steerage was now becoming dreadful. Very little attention being paid
to their comfort. 8 p.m.- Ship laying to.
20th FEB. 8 a.m. Still laying to and found the Stallion dead
in his stall by not being properly secured and the severe rolling of the
ship. MIDNIGHT Still laying to and wind blowing very hard from the
South. Steerage passengers beginning to be very discontented, no
victuales being served out since Monday night and plenty of cooking
going on for Cabin passengers, Ship still and many passengers very sick
and the steerage in a dreadful state, nothing to eat, they begged for
preserve meat and it would not be granted. The Surgeon of the ship, my
own master, Dr. FLETCHER using every exersion in his power to relieve
the people. Mate got one of his fingers broken endeavouring to secure
the longboat from going overboard. Strong gale from the South. Two sheep
killed by the longboat. Blowing a whole gale.
21st. FEB. 8 a.m. Found the poor Mare killed in a singular
manner. Saw a square rigged vessel a few miles to seaward. 1 p.m.-
Horses both thrown overboard. Ship drifting West North West, two knots
an hour. 4 p.m.- Saw an immense shoal of porpoises spouted about for
sometime and went windward. 8 p.m.- Still blowing harder and ship laying
to. The people very hungry and rations still denied. This was thought a
hard case by everyone. Had it not been for the kindness of some of the
crew, many of the steerage passengers would have died, lasting on
nothing but tea for some days.
22d FEB. 8 a.m. Still laying to. Blowing very hard from South.
Shipping a good many seas. Drifted to seaward of a brig laying to. Wind
blowing hard with no alteration. All the hatches batoned down. The
people being kept without water till 2 O'clock, broke through the bulk
head Into forecastle in order to get warm water which had been boiling
about four hours.
23d FEB, Preserve meat was to have been served out today
instead of which the Captain was heard to say keep the hatches down but
first to throw them down a bag of biscuits. The Doctor coming amongst
them seemed to give them a little consolation, but it is hoped when we
come to more moderate weather, that we will get our rations more
regularly served out.
24th FEB. 8 a.m. Wind South East. Ship looking West by South,
laying to and drifting about 1˝ knots an hour. The place is now well
cleaned and the people are a little more comfortable. 8 p.m.- Wind more
moderate and ship under way.
25th FEB. 6 a.m. Wind South by East and ship laying West by
South going 5 knots an hour. 4 p.m.- Still looking West by South in
latitude 55 North and 18 West longitude.
26th FEB. 6 a.m. Wind S by E. Ship running W by S. 5
p.m.Moderate breeze and ship running W by S about 4˝ knots an hour.
27th FEB. 1 a.m. Wind SW. Put ship about on the other tack and
running SE by S.
28th FEB 6 a.m. Wind SW. Ship running SE, 4˝ knots. 10 a.m.-
Laid round on the other tack and running NW. Breeze moderate. Obliged to
make out a third complaint in writing to the Doctor against the Captain
of the quality and irregularity of our rations, besides which we have
made numerous other complaints since sailing. 7 p.m.- Wind still blowing
right ahead from SW and ship put about on the other tack again and
making a SE course
29th FEB. 6 a.m. Wind SW. Ship running alternately SE and NW.
12 NOON- Wind taken fairly of and ship making nothing being a real calm.
6 pm. - No wind and sails flapping laxily against the masts. 10 p.m.- A
very light breeze from the NW and the ship moving slowly SW, her direct
course by observation, we were in 53˝ North latitude and 20 West
longitude. There was a birth on board this day.
1st MARCH 6 a.m. (14 days out-Sabbath) Breeze taken off and
ship moving about with the swell at pleasure. 12 NOON- A light breeze
sprung up from SSE and ship going WSW about 4 knots. The Captain read
prayers on the quarter deck and went through the English form of Baptism
with two children. 8 p.m. Ships course and wind as before. The weather
serene and clear.
2d MARCH 6 a.m. Wind SE. Ship going SW, 5 knots an hour. 8
p.m.- Wind and course as before.
3d MARCH 6 a.m. Wind S by E, blowing heavily. Ship making a
course W by S. 12 NOON- Blowing hard and sailors reefing topsails. Wind
and course as before in North latitude 50˝ and longitude 24 West. Saw a
large ship to leaward appearingly homeward bound for BRITAIN. 8 p.m.-
Wind increasing and a heavy sea running. Some of the women sick.
4th MARCH 6 a.m. Wind SSE. Ship making a course of SW by W and
the ship rolling very much. 1 p.m. - Saw a large ship running eastward.
6 p.m. It blew a severe gale and ship rolling tremendously.
5 MARCH 7 a.m. Ship still making a SW by W course about 3
knots an hour having four close reefed sails up. 12 NOON- In North Lat.
49 West Long. 24˝ Raining very hard, wind abated. 5 p.m.- Raining very
hard and wind entirely off, sea running very high. Captain and two of
the married men passengers quarreled. Captain was for putting them in
irons but the crew refuse their assistance. The Captain seem bent on
keeping from the passengers and crew their just demands. There seems to
be enmity between Captain and everyone in the ship, Mates not excepted.
6th MARCH 6 a.m. Becalmed. An excellent sheep dog belonging to
my brother died. 8 p.m.- Still calm and night most beautiful.
7 MARCH 6 a.m. Fresh breeze sprung up from S. Right ahead of
us, ship running westerley. 12 NOON- In North Lat. 48 and 27 West Long.
Put ship round an other tack. Running E by S, 4 knots an hour. 4 p.m.
Mutiny broke out between Captain and some of the sailors. A few of the
sailors drunk and refused to return to duty, 8 p.m.- Dispute still
continuing and all the sailors below refusing to do duty till their
wrongs are redressed. 12 MIDNIGHT- Wind S. Ship going E by S. The
Captain and crew are still on the same terms. The mutineers still keep a
man at the wheel but the Captain Mates and Carpenter have all the work
to do on deck themselves. The Cook has joined the mutineers.
8th MARCH-SABBATH 6 p.m. Fresh breeze and ship making a course
S by E. Crew have refused to turn out, they still keep a man at the
wheel. The ship is wrought by the Mate's Boatswain, Carpenter and bays.
A fine fresh sailing breeze which is fortunate as the ship could not be
managed were a squal to arise. 12 1001 -Several communications passed
between forecastle and Officers but no accommodation arrived. 2 p.m. -
Divine service was performed by the Doctor. 8 p.m. - No reconcilement
has yet been made and the crew for running the ship back to Britain. All
the fire arms, swords and cutlasses are all secured in the Cabin and
proposing to fire down an the crew if they would not yield obedience by
turning up if they are required during the night. Passengers in an
almost alarming state of mind especially the ladies. 10 p.m.- A squal
sprung up and crew refused to shorten sail. The Captain then applied to
the passengers who sprang out of bed with great elacrity to assist in
shortening sail. This had the effect of causing the whole of the
mutinying crew to turn up and after the sails were reduced and the squal
having passed by, the crew were addressed by the Officers before all the
male passengers when they promised to turn to duty, the Captain having
pledged himself to redress grievances, They were informed of the
preparations which had been made for then during the last 3 hours.
Upwards of 100 musket balls having been made, and about 20 guns and
pistols loaded and ready to fire down the forecastle amongst them,
whereby, some of then must have been shot. 12 MIDNIGHT- All going on
quietly.
9th MARCH 6 a.m. Wind S. Ship going E by S, 5 knots an hour. 8
p. m. Wind still ahead from S, ship on other tack going SW.
10th MARCH 7 a.m. Wind still from S. 8 a.m.- Saw a French Brig
which sailed by the stern about a mile distant running northward. The
Mate hoisted the number of the ship and they only hoisted the French
flag. 12 NOON - becalmed. MIDNIGHT- A light breeze arose from the E.
11th MARCH 6 a.m. A fine breeze from E and the ship going her
course S about 3 knots an hour. 12 NOON- Hoisted a fore top mizzen sail.
Ship running about 6 knots an hour. 9 p.m.- No alteration.
12th MARCH 6 a.m. Wind E by S. Ship running S by W 4˝ knots an
hour. 12 NOON- As above. 8 p.m.- Wind as before. Ship running 5˝ knots
an hour. AS we did not get a sight of the sun today, we did not get our
bearings taken
13th MARCH 6 a.m. Blowing fresh from E. Ship running S, 7
knots an hour. 12 NOON - In north lat. 43 40" 8 p.m.- The same as above.
14th MARCH 6 a.m. Fresh breeze from E. Ship running S, 6 knots
an hour. 12 NOON- Running between the Azore Islands and PORTUGAL in
north Lat. 41˝ and 19 West Long. 8 p.m.- Running as in the morning, the
weather very dark, cold and cloudy. Saw no land since the evening after
sailing.
15th MARCH SABBATH 6 a.m. Fresh breeze E. Ship still running
S, 7 knots an hour. Weather very dark. 10 a.m.- Saw three vessels at a
distance, one of which had no canvas up except the fore top sail all
torn to pieces with the wind. The Captain seeing her in such a state,
steered toward her, came within a quarter of a mile of her. The Captain
saw that there was no person on board alive, he then held the ship's
course. She was waterlogged and was completely sunk. She was loaded with
timber or oil. The Spanish colours were up. The waves were washing over
her and every time the ship did rise with the swell, the water was
coming out of her Cabin windows. It was a Spanish vessel. A large Brig
seemingly abandoned 10 day or a fortnight. She appears like as if she
had been boarded several times, her yards all clean but two and a great
number of her cables away and bullworks all broken. 8 p.m.- No
alteration.
16th MARCH 7 a.m. Wind N by E. Ship running about 7˝ knots an
hour. Saw a great deal of porpoises, ran before the ship. 6 p.m.- Saw a
small vessel to leaward. No alteration.
17th MARCH 6 a.m. Very calm wind X. Sailing very little, the
weather clear. 12 NOON- Becalmed and very warn in N Lat. 34 43" and 18 W
Long. 8 p.m. - Still becalmed.
18th MARCH 6 a.m. Wind SW and the Island of MADEIRA in sight
to eastward. 9 a.m.- Wind SW being right ahead, ship going NW. 2 p.m.-
Wind round to W by N, ship running SSW, 3˝ knots an hour. 9 p.m.- In the
Lat. of MADEIRA about 30 miles to westward of it.
19th MARCH 6 a. m. Becalmed. NOON- Becalmed. 2 p.m. - Light
breeze f rom S. 4 p.m.- Becalmed. 6 p.m.- Fresh breeze from W, ship
going S by W, 4˝ knots an hour. 10 p.m.- Blowing hard from W, ship
running 6 knots SSW. Communicated by signals at noon with a Spanish
schooner.
20th MARCH 6 a.m. Making a SSW course 9 knots an hour. NOON-
Becalmed in Worth Lat. 31 40". 10 p.m.- The day has been very warm. We
have seen several flocks of porpoises and a shark for the first we have
yet observed.
21st MARCH 6 a.m. Becalmed. 10 a.m.- A light breeze from SE,
ship running SW, 3˝ knots an hour. At noon we were in North Lat 31 13".
22d MARCH SUNDAY 5 a.m. Wind SE. 11 a.m.- The Dr. performed
divine service on the quarter deck. 5 p.m.- Strong breeze from SE. Saw
several vessels to windward. 9 p.m.- Still blowing hard. A large ship
close to us at windward, The night was dark. The Captain burned a blue
light and the other vessel did the same. She passed very close to our
bows but not within hail. She appeared to be bound for SOUTH AMERICA.
23d MARCH MONDAY 6 a.m. Light wind from SE, Going SW. 12 NOON-
In North Lat. 29. Wind more ahead. 8 p.m. - Fresh breeze from S, ship
going W. Saw a Bark to windward. She has been in sight the whole day. 10
p.m.- Wind right ahead from SW. Running W by N.
24th MARCH TUESDAY 6 a.m. Wind SW, running SSE. 10 a.m.- Saw a
sail to windward. 12 NOON- 3 large grampoises of the whale species swam
for a short time along side of us. Mr DOVE, a cabin passenger, wounded
one of them with a musket ball, then they all took off. 10 p.m.- The
night clear and beautiful.
25th MARCH WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Wind SW, running SE. 12 NOON-
Several sails in sight. Wind very light. In North Lat. 28 9". 8 p.m.-
Fancied we saw CANARY ISLANDS this afternoon but could not be certain.
Night warm and beautiful.
26th MARCH THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind SE, ship going SW. Squals from
E, S, and SW, with very heavy rain and lightning. 11 p.m.- Becalmed. 2
p.m.- Light breeze from SSE, ship going SW. 9 p.m.- Fresh breeze from S,
ship going W by S. Saw several vessels during the day . At 12 noon, we
were in North Lat. 27 35". The CANARY ISLANDS visible to the SE.
27th MARCH FRIDAY 6 a.m. Fresh breeze from NW, ship going S by
W. 12 NOONWind nearer the N and ship running 6 knots an hour. 8 p.m.-
Very calm and the day has been very warm, and in North Lat. 26 37".
28th MARCH SATURDAY 6 a.m. Becalmed. A schooner seen at a
great distance from the stern. 12 NOON- In North Lat. 25 6", West Long.
20 36". 5 p.m. - The schooner made up with us. We spoke her. She was
from GUERNSEY for RIODE-JAKEIRO, out 19 days. 9 p.m. Fresh breeze from
E, ship running SSW about 4 knots an hour. Night very clear with a great
deal of lightning. By reckoning of the schooner, we were in North Lat.
23 1911.
29th MARCH SABBATH 6 a.m. Wind SW, blowing hard, ship going
WNW. NOON - Communicated with a bark lying to windward but at a good
distance and the sea running high. We could only make out her number.
Her name being CONNECTTICUT. 5 p.m. - Put round on the other tack. The
wind WSW, ship running S by E. 9 p.m.- Blowing hard. The Captain
baptised two children today.
30th MARCH MONDAY (43 days out) 5 a.m. - Wind West, ship
running S. Saw several sails at a distance. 12 NOON- In North Lat. 22
34". 2 P.m.- Wind NW, ship going SW, 5 knots an hour. 9 p.m.- No
alteration.
31st MARCH TUESDAY 6 a.m. Wind NE, ship going SSW. 12 NOON- We
were in North Lat. 20 10", West Long. 22. There was a trial by Jury on
the quarter deck today of a passenger upon whose person the Mate had
found two bottles of wine. He was condemned to 14 day on bread and
water. 10 p.m.- Wind NE, ship going SSW. 7 knots an hour.
1st APRIL WEDNESDAY 1840 6 a.m. Wind NE, ship going S by W. 12
NOON- In North Lat. 17 3911, West Long. 21 29". 9 p.m.- Running S by W,
7 knots an hour. The Island of BONA VISTA a few miles of from our
starboard side but not visible owing to the darkness.
2d APRIL THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind N, ship going S, 6 knots an
hour. It having blown a good breeze during the night, we have passed all
the CAPE VERDE ISLANDS on our right hand. NOON- In Worth Lat 15 1", West
Long. 21 17". About 200 miles off the mouth of the river GAMBIA. 9 p.m.-
Wind E, going S. Saw great numbers of flying fish, some dolphin and
several sharks. The Worth Pole now appearing very low in the horizon.
There was a flying fish alighted on the deck this evening.
3d APRIL FRIDAY 6 a.m. Wind NE, ship going SSW. NOON- In North
Lat. 12 4111, going 7 knots an hour. It is excessive warm, sun being
nearly vertical. 9 p.m.- Wind as before.
4th APRIL SATURDAY 6 a.m. Wind NE, ship going S by W. 12 NOON-
In North Lat. 10 16". Very warm. 9 p.m.- Going S by W, 7 knots an hour.
5th APRIL SUNDAY 5 a.m. Wind as above. Saw a Bark to leaward
about 6 miles off, appearingly going SSW. NOON- In North Lat. 8 7" and
West Long. 22. 1 p.m.- The Bark came along side. She was the ISABELLA of
LONDON from DUBLIN with troops for the ISLE OF FRANCE, out 31 days and
had called at FENEZIOFF, one of the CAPE VERDE ISLANDS. The Captain
performed worship on the quarter deck at 11 a.m. today, in the manner
according to the English Church.
6th APRIL MONDAY 6 p.m. Wind NE but very light. NOON- In North
Lat. 6 47". The sun being now a good way on the North side of the line,
we had it vertical today. 9 p.m.- The wind being very light today, the
heat was very great.
7th APRIL TUESDAY 6 a.m. Nearly becalmed. 12 NOON- In North
Lat. 5 611, West Long. 21 3011. 9 p. m. - Wind NE but very light.
8th APRIL WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Wind very light from WE. Several
sails in sight. Communicated by signals with a Brig. She wished us to
send her a Mate as she had lost her Mate overboard 5 days ago.
Afterwards she lay to and spoke us. Her name was the LIBERAL of LONDON
from PLYMOUTH to CALIFORNIA, out 21 days. lone of our hands who could
undertake the office of a Mate would go and Mr. WYLIE, our 2d Mate,
would not be allowed by the Captain, although willing himself. The 'avi'
being cloudy and the wind variable, we did not get the Lat. today. 4
p.m.- Wind NE but very light, ship going S by W.
9th APRIL THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind variable and light. NOON- In
North Lat. 3 22". 9 p.m.- Becalmed and tremendous rain.
10th APRIL FRIDAY 6 a.m. Becalmed. 8 p.m.- Squally with
tremendous pours of water. 11 p.m.- becalmed. At noon today, we were in
North Lat. 3 1811.
11th APRIL SATURDAY 6 a.m. Becalmed. 12 NOON- in North Lat. 3
go'. Communicated by signals with a Schooner from LONDON called
the WATER LILLY, bound for SYDNEY, out 28 days. 4 p.m.- A light breeze
from NE.
12th APRIL SABBATH 6 a.m. Wind variable and heavy falls of
rain. 7 p.m.- No alteration.
13th APRIL MONDAY 6 a.m. Wind from NE and several sails in
sight. NOON - Becalmed.
14th APRIL TUESDAY 6 a.m. Wind from E but very light. Ship
going SSW. NOON - In North Lat. 1 22". The heat has been excessive for
the last eight days. 9 p.m.- Nearly becalmed.
15th APRIL WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Light breeze from E. Ships course
SSW. NOON - In North Lat. 0 2911, West Long. 19 50". 6 p.m.- Fresh
breeze from SSW, ship going SW. 11 p.m.- Was as near as we can account
by our dead reckoning, we are now on the IDEAL LINE in West Long. 20.
One of the sailors dressed as NEPTUNE and came upon deck and some of the
superstitious phrases a going through but owing to the unhappy feeling
that still exists between the Captain and his crew, the ceremony of
shaving is dispensed with.
16th APRIL THURSDAY ( 60 days out ) 6 a.m. Strong breeze from
SSE, ship going SW, 5 knots an hour. 8 a.m.- Communicated with a
Brig called the FLA from AMSTERDAM for the CAPE OF GOOD HOPE. 12 NOON-
In South Lat. 1 5" , West Long. 20 30". 9 p.m.- Wind and course as
before.
17th APRIL FRIDAY 6 a.m. Wind SSE, ships course SW. NOON- In
South Lat. 3 111. 9 p. m, - No alteration.
18th APRIL SATURDAY 6 a.m.- Light breeze from SSE, ship
steering SW.
19th APRIL SUNDAY 5 a.m.- Wind and course as before. 12 NOON-
Divine service performed by the Doctor on the quarter deck. We are in
South Lat. 5 43".
20th APRIL MONDAY 6 a.m.- Strong breeze from SE, ships course
SW. 12 NOON - In South Lat. 7 46" West Long. 25 15". 9 p.m.- Blowing
hard from SE, ship going SW 5 knots an hour. Today, we are about half
way between the ISLAND of ASCENSION and PERNANABRAN.
21st APRIL TUESDAY 6 a.m.- Wind and course as before, running
about 6 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In South Lat. 9 26". 9 p.m.- Blowing
hard from SSE.
22d APRIL WEDNESDAY 6 a.m.- Blowing fresh from SSE, ship going
SW. 9 p.m. A young man, the son of MAJOR BINGALLY of the Army was
intending to follow a sea-faring life by going out in the DAUNTLESS, an
experimental voyage, fell overboard while in the act of stepping over
the bows of the vessel going to ease himself, cried out for help several
times. While the vessel was passing him, a hen coop was thrown overboard
to him and the vessel laid to on the wind and the boat lowered and
manned with all expedition to go search for him. Several lights were
burned on the ship. The bell was rung and every exersion that was
possible was made but the night being very dark, the boat returned after
the elapse of half an hour after a fruitless search. They did not even
find the hen coop. There were three live geese in it. Whether he had got
hold of it or not, we could not say owing to the darkness of the night
and the rapid rate the ship was running at the time. 10 p.m. - Ship
under way again. Everyone in the vessel is concerned about poor BINGALLY.
He was a very engaging young man, about 18 years of age. I was talking
with him for the space of an hour this night and had just left him about
fifteen minutes before the fatal accident happened.
23d APRIL THURSDAY 6 a.m. Blowing very hard from SSE, ship
going SSW. 12 NOON- In South Lat. 13 4511 West Long. 28.
24th APRIL FRIDAY 5 a.m. Wind E by S, ship's course S. 12
NOON- In South Lat. 15 13", West Long. 28 201'. 9 p.m. Blowing hard from
ESE.
25th APRIL SATURDAY 6 a.m. Light wind from E by S. Squally
with rain. 9 p.m. Nearly becalmed.
26th APRIL SUNDAY 6 a.m. Light wind from SSE, ship going SW.
12 NOON- In South Lat. 19 3811, West Long. 28 35". The ISLAND OF
TRINIDADE AN VAIN MARK in sight to the southward.
27th APRIL MONDAY 6 a.m. Strong breeze from the SE. The island
sighted yesterday afternoon bearing eastward. NOON- A gale of wind from
SE with a heavy swell from SW and ship labouring a great deal.
28th APRIL TUESDAY 6 a.m. Squally from SE, ship's course SW by
W. 9 p.m. Blowing very hard from SE.
29th APRIL WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Blowing hard from SE. 7 a.m.-
There is a child belonging to JANES X. WALTERS died just now. 12 NOON-
In South Lat. 23 50", West Long. 32 9". The funeral of the Child took
place at noon. The Captain reading the funeral service according to the
form of the English Church. 9 p.m. Blowing fresh from SE.
30th APRIL THURSDAY 6 a.m. Nearly becalmed. 12 NOON- Wind ESE,
ship going S by W in South Lat. 25 21", West Long. 33 1711
1st MAY FRIDAY ( 75 days out ) 6 a.m. Becalmed. A ship in
sight to north of us, 10 a.m.- A light breeze from the south put the
ship on the other tack. Ship going ESE 2 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In
South Lat 25 55'1 and West Long. 35 4011. A Bark ahead of us going ESE.
2d MAY SATURDAY 6 a.m. Wind S by E, ship going E by N. NOON-
Wind round right ahead to SE, ship put an other tack and going SSW 3
knots an hour. 9 p.m.- Wind from SSE.
3d MAY SUNDAY 6 a.m. Wind very light from SSE, ship's course
SW. NOON- In South Lat. 27 4", West Long. 32. A Bark to windward but too
far off for communicating with by signals. Divine service was performed
by the DOCTOR this forenoon.
4th MAY MONDAY 6 a.m. Wind variable, ship going alternately E
and SW. 9 p.m.- Wind fresh from SE.
5th NAY TUESDAY 6 a.m. Wind E by S, ship going S by E. A sail
in sight to leaward. 12 NOON- In South Lat. 28 21", West Long. 33 0" .
6th MAY WEDNESDAY 7 a.m. Wind fresh from EKE, ship going SE 5
knots an hour. 12 NOON- In South Lat. 29 59", West Long. 31 3211. 4
p.m.- Blowing hard from ENE, ship going SE by E 7 knots an hour.
7th MAY THURSDAY 6 a.m. Blowing fresh from N ship going ESE 7
knots an hour. 9 p.m.- Wind and course as before.
8th MAY FRIDAY 6 a.m. Blowing very hard from NNE, ship going
ESE 8 knots an hour. 10 a.m.- Strong squalls and showers. 12 NOON- In
South Lat. 32 2011, and West Long. 26 12". 4 p.m.- Blowing very hard
from NNE, ship going ESE 8˝ knots an hour.
9th MAY SATURDAY 6 a.m. Blowing a gale from N by E, ship going
EWE 8 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In South Lat. 33 and West Long. 22 15" 9
p.m.- Blowing a severe gale, ship running under close reefed topsails 10
knots an hour.
10th NAY SABBATH 6 a.m. Light breeze from SW. 12 NOON-
becalmed with rain. 9 p.m.- becalmed and clear. The Dr. read the sermon
in the steerage this forenoon.
11th MAY MONDAY 6 a.m. Fresh breeze from NE, ship going ESE.
12 NOON- In South Lat. 34, West Long. 18 2211. Several albatrosses
flying about.
12th MAY TUESDAY 6 a.m. Strong breeze from SE, ship going ENE
9 knots an hour, 9 p.m.- Wind and course as it was in the morning.
13th MAY WEDNESDAY 5 a.m. Wind N, ship going E 8 knots an
hour. 9 p.m. Blowing fresh from N.( I was born 13th MAY 1818 at 11 p.m.)
14th MAY THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind 1, ship going easterly 7 knots
an hour. 12 NOON- In South Lat. 34 40" , West Long. 7˝, Saw a ship since
morning steering by S.
15th MAY FRIDAY 6 a.m. Steering easterly, wind N by W. 4
p.m.Wind SW, ship going E by 1 with a very light breeze.
16th MAY SATURDAY 6 a.m. Wind SE, ship going ESE with a light
breeze. 4 p.m.- Wind increased from SE at noon today. We were in South
Lat. 34 East Long. 0 13".
17th MAY SUNDAY 6 a.m. Wind continuing right ahead from SE,
ship going EWE. 11 a.m.Passed close by a Brig beating to windward. 12
NOON- In South Lat. 33, East Long. 1 2511. Put the ship about on the
other tack and now goes SW by S.
18th MAY MONDAY 7 a.m. Wind still from SE, ship going SSW. 12
NOON- In South Lat. 34˝" , East Long. 0. 7 p.m. Ship going S by E from
that day Monday till 23d becalmed and head winds.
23d MAY SATURDAY 6 a.m. Nothing particular occured till this
day. Wind SE, ship going SW. Spoke a Bark called the REBECCA of LONDON
bound for SYDNEY out 75 days. We are out 96 days. A great many
albatrosses flying about. One of the cabin passengers shot one of them.
The Captain ordered the boat to be lowered and they brought the bird on
deck. It measured 9 feet 8 inches from wing to wing and 3 feet from head
to tail. 12 NOON- We are in South Lat 36 V, East Long 5˝".
24th MAY SUNDAY 6 a.m. Wind ESE, ship going S by W 4 knots an
hour. 12 NOON- Becalmed.
25th MAY MONDAY 6 a.m. Still becalmed. A light breeze sprung
up about noon ESE, steering S by W. 9 p.m.- Fresh breeze from SSE.
26th MAY TUESDAY 7 a.m. Becalmed. Spoke a Bark from LONDON
bound for SYDNEY. We lost our signal book this day and has not another
on board. I do not think we can speak another vessel for the want of it.
We sent our boat on board the other vessel for a signal book but they
had none. She was named the POTTER from LONDON sailed the same day as us
but had called in at MADEIRA and lay there two weeks. We sent away our
boat about 2 o'clock and it did not return till seven. We are now about
250 miles from the CAPE of GOOD HOPE.
27th MAY WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Still becalmed. The same vessel
lying close to us. She sent her boat to our ship with Chief Mate Steward
and four sailors. The Captain being unwell, they wanted our Doctor on
board to see him. The most of our sailors got drunk and one of then
knocked the Captain and threatened to throw him overboard.
28th MAY THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind from E, ship going SE 4 knots an
hour. The same vessel still with us. We sent some of our cabin
passengers to the other vessel with their boat. They sent one cabin
passenger and Captain to dine on board the DAUNTLESS. 6 p.m.- They
separated with cheers and guns, pistols and cannons firing. Today we are
in East Long. 15 VC', South Lat 35 28" about 120 miles from the CAPE.
29th MAY FRIDAY 6 a.m. Wind NE, ship going for course SE by E
half E. 4 p.m.- Blowing hard from NE.
30th MAY SATURDAY 0 a.m. This day we are passing the CAPE with
fair wind. The sea running very high and the ship rolling about
dreadfully with lightning and thunder.
31st MAY SUNDAY 6 a.m. Nearly becalmed. Ship rolling very much
with the heavy swell of the sea. 11 a.m.- Divine service performed by
the Doctor between decks.
1st JUNE MONDAY 6 a.m. Fresh breeze from 1, ship running her
direct course SE by E ˝E. 12 NOON- In East Long. 22 16" .
2d JUNE TUESDAY 6 a.m. Light breeze from NE, ship going SE by
E. 8 p.m.- No alteration.
3d JUNE WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Wind from NE and sailing very little.
Saw a vessel to leaward, the POTTER still astern of us.
4th JUNE THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind nearly ahead from East. Ship
steering S by E, 6˝ knots an hour. 5 p.m.- The POTTER is now along side
and communications by signals passed between our ship and the POTTER.
FRIDAY 5 JUNE 6 a.m. Wind still from E, ship running SSE about
6 knots an hour. 12 NOON- The wind a little more favourable. In East
Long. 29 32". 4 p.m. Strong breeze from N, ship going her course. 9
p.m.- Blowing very hard.
6th JUNE SATURDAY 7 a.m. Wind right astern from WNW. Saw the
POTTER to leaward. 12 NOON- In East Long. 34 15" . Ship rolling very
much, running about 8 knots an hour.
7th JUNE SUNDAY 5 a.m. Wind still favourable. Ship running
about 7 knots an hour under close reefed topsails. 12 NOON- Divine
service performed by the Doctor in the steerage.
8th JUNE MONDAY 6 a.m. Wind still the same, blowing hard. 11
p.m.- Very heavy rain with thunder and lightning. The Captain came out
of bed and ordered the sailors down out of the rigging. He was afraid of
the lightning. I never heard or saw such heavy rain in SCOTLAND.
9th JUNE TUESDAY 6 a.m. Blowing a little easier and the reefs
let out of the topsails and set more sail with foretopmast studding sail
and lower stunsail. 12 NOON- In East Long. 47 10". 6 p.m.- Ship running
about 8 knots an hour. 10 p.m.- Running about 10 knots an hour. Blowing
very hard and shortening sail.
10th JUNE WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Blowing very hard and running under
reefed topsails, 8˝ knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 51 20" and
south Lat. 35 3". 10 p.m.- Blowing very hard, running about 9 knots an
hour. We saw the South Pole for the first time.
11th JUNE THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind still favourable and ship
running 8 knots an hour. Saw a vessel to leaward today, tossing about
very much, shipping a good many seas. 12 NOON- In East Long. 55 3".
Blowing very hard. 12 MIDNIGHT- Very squaly.
12th JUNE FRIDAY 6 a.m. Nearly becalmed. 9 a.m.- Set sail, all
reefs out and a fresh breeze sprung up. Going about 6 knots an hour. 12
NOON- In East Long. 58 20". At 10 p.m., running about 9˝ knots an hour.
12 MIDNIGHT Blowing very hard and squally. Under close reefed topsails
again.
13th JUNE SATURDAY 4 a.m. Blowing a whole gale from SW and
ship rolling very much. 8 p.m.- Set sail again and ship running about 8
knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 62 5", South Lat. 37 4", 9 p.m.-
Running about 7˝ knots an hour.
14th JUNE SUNDAY 6 a.m. A light breeze from SW and rainy.
Running about 6 knots an hour. 12 NOON- IN East Long. 65 9", wind S. 9
p.m.- Nearly becalmed. It has been very cold this two days.
15th JUNE MONDAY 6 a.m. Wind round again to SW and a great
many birds flying about. 9 a.m.- A fresh breeze sprung up. Ship running
about 7˝ knots an hour. 12 NOON- IN East Long. 68 1511. 7 p.m.- In the
'exe', Steward and Carpenter was a supper. They had quarreled about
something and began to fight. The Steward was a native of NORTH AMERICA,
he is black. He took up the tin which his tea was in and struck the
Carpenter above the eye and cut him with it. The Carpenter went after
him into the Cook Galley and was pulling him out. In the scuffel, some
way or other, the Steward got hold of the Carpenter's thumb in his teeth
and cut it severely. The Steward then ran and the Carpenter then after
him. They chased other round the ship. At last the Steward went up the
fore rigging for safety and the Mate after him. He then went down the
fore top gallant stay and the Mate followed him but dreading the Steward
to cut the rope, he ascended again. The Steward then went down on the
martingal stay and stood there a good while. At last, the Carpenter went
out on the jib boom and told him to come in, that he would not lay a
hand on him. The Captain came forward and ordered him in or to let go
the stay and let him drop. The Steward then came in, he was ordered to
the quarter deck. The Captain ordered the Mate to fetch the irons which
was done. The Captain told him that he did not consider his own life
safe with him loose about the ship, that he had threatened several times
to put a knife in the Carpenter and the Cook and the boys in the Cabin.
He was then put in irons. He resuming good courage, only said that they
were not made for cats or dogs, that they were made for men and that he
was willing to wear them. He was then locked up in the Hospital in the
steerage.
16th JUNE TUESDAY 6 a.m. Wind still favourable and ship going
about 7˝ knots an hour. Between 7 & 8 a.m. We saw a very large whale. At
12 NOON- We were in East Long. 70 45", making a due E course. 8 p.m.-
Beginning to blow very hard.
17th JUNE WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Blowing very hard. Running under
single reefed top sails, 8 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 75 V
with a fresh breeze. 8 p.m.- Blowing hard with heavy rain.
18th JUNE THURSDAY 6 a.m. Nearly becalmed. Sails set. 10 a.m.-
We saw St. PAULS or now AMSTERDAM to the southward of us in East Long.
77 43". Breeze freshening up. There was a Cape Pidgeon, caught this day
with a bait on a line. 8 p.m.- Blowing very hard. Running about 8˝ knots
an hour.
19th JUNE FRIDAY 4 a.m. All hands upon deck at reef topsails.
Running 10 knots an hour. At noon today it was so hazy and dull, they
could not take their proper bearings. 9 p.m.- Wind rather abated.
20th JUNE SATURDAY 6 a.m. A light breeze from NW, sailing
about 4 knots an hour. At noon we were in East Long. 84 1011. 8 p.m.-
Breeze freshening
21st JUNE SUNDAY 6 a.m. Blowing fresh. 12 NOON- Divine worship
was performed by the Doctor in the steerage. 8 p.m.- Blowing hard and
very cold.
22d JUNE MONDAY 6 a.m. A fresh breeze from SE, ship running
about 7 knots an hour. At noon today, we were in East Long. 90, wind
still continued the same all night.
23d JUNE TUESDAY 6 p.m. Nearly becalmed. Going about 2 knots
an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 93 10" . 8 p.m.- A light breeze with
heavy rain.
24th JUNE WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Blowing a fresh breeze, ship
sailing about 7 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 96 5", in south
Lat 36˝" , A light breeze still continuing. 7 p.m.- Wind right ahead
from ESE, ship heading WE by E.
25th JUNE THURSDAY 6 a.m. Wind round again to NW, ship going
her course with a very light breeze. 12 NOON- In East Long. 98 24". The
Captain and passengers quarelling to a great extent about them and
plenty good biscuits on board. He refuses to give them. 9 p.m.- Going
about 5 knots an hour.
26th JUNE FRIDAY 6 a.m. No alteration. At noon today we were
in East Long. 100 911. 9 p.m.- Wind still continuing, going about 7
knots an hour.
27th JUNE SATURDAY 6 a.m. Becalmed. 12 NOON- In East Long. 102
V' with alight breeze. A Cape Pidgeon was caught and a red collar put
about it's neck with the inscription thus, " SHIP DAUNTLESS, BOUND FOR
SYDNEY ", the day of the month and where it was caught. 8 p.m.- A fresh
breeze running about 6 knots an hour.
28th JUNE SUNDAY 6 a.m. A fresh breeze from NNE, running 7
knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 105 4311. 9 p.m.- Running about 9
knots an hour.
29th JUNE MONDAY 6 a.m. Blowing very hard, running about 9
knots an hour under reefed topsails. 12 NOON- In East Long. 109 V. 10
p.m.- Wind greatly abated.
30th JUNE TUESDAY 6 a.m. Blowing fresh from SSW, running about
8 knots an hour. At 12 NOON- In East Long. 113. 8 p.m.- Blowing fresh.
Capt. birthday.
1st JULY WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. Still blowing fresh and all reefs
out, in East Long. 115 21".
2d JULY THURSDAY 6 a.m. Nearly becalmed. 12 NOON- In East
Long. 117 35" with a fresh breeze from N. Ship going E by S, 7˝ knots an
hour. 10 p.m. Blowing fresh, ship running due east.
3d JULY FRIDAY 6 a.m. Blowing fresh. Running about 8 knots an
hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 120 16", South Lat. 36 53". 9 p.m.- nearly
becalmed.
4th JULY SATURDAY 6 a.m. A very light breeze and wind from NW,
going about 3 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 123, South Lat. 36
3611. At 9 p.m., blowing very hard from N.
5 JULY MONDAY 6 a.m. Still blowing hard, running about 9 knots
an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 127 46", in South Lat. 35 50". Running
about 8˝ knots an hour under single reefed topsails. 6 p.m.- Nearly
becalmed.
6 JULY TUESDAY 7 a.m. Becalmed. 10 a.m.- Wind from SW. 12
NOON- In East Long. 129. 3 p.m.- Fresh breeze from SW, ship going about
4 or 5 knots an hour. There was another albatross caught this day and
flags put to it's legs and one round it's neck. We are about 400 miles
from ADELAIDE, 10 p.m.- Wind nearly ahead.
7th JULY WEDNESDAY 6 a.m. A fresh breeze from ENE, ship going
ESE about 5 knots an hour. 12 NOON- In East Long. 131 South Lat. 35
3711, ship going her course about 7 knots an hour. 10 p.m.- Blowing very
hard. The standing Jib gave way, all hands called upon deck, all
topsails close reefed. 1 a.m.- Foresail furled and the ship lay to.
8th JULY THURSDAY 4 a.m. Still laying to and blowing a
dreadful hurricane. 12 NOON- It was so hazy that we could not Set an
observation taken. 3 p.m.- Set sail again, running about 5 knots an
hour, wind taken off a good deal. 10 p.m.- Put the ship by the wind with
fore and main topsail close reefed.
9th JULY FRIDAY 6 a.m. Set sail again. It blowing very fresh
and about 8 a.m. we saw KANGAROO ISLAND but not clearly on our starboard
bow. About ˝ past 9 a.m. we were running about 4 miles to Northward of
it. It is the beautifuled sight we have seen since we left SCOTLAND. 10
p.m.- A fine sailing breeze. There was a porpoise caught this afternoon.
10th JULY SATURDAY 6 a.m. Sailing about 6 knots an hour and
throwing the lead all night. 10 a.m.- Put the ship about on the other
tack to keep clear of the land. There was a vessel ran into the bay this
morning before us, we saw it about 6 O'clock carrying canvas and a good
deal of other vessels laying at anchor. Put the ship about again for
about half an hour, then we put about again. The PILOT boat came which
eased the Captain's mind a good deal and we came up the river very
pleasantly, having the land on both sides. We are now arrived at the new
port and now lays moored. It appears to be very level country but barren
as far as we see from the ship.
11th JULY SUNDAY. After breakfast, I went ashore with a few
more with me and the scene was very delightful. Nothing particular
occurred but the Government passengers went all ashore on Tuesday and I
accompanied them to the old Fort.
14th JULY WEDNESDAY. I went up to see the town of ADELAIDE. It
appeared like a gentleman's seat. Nothing particular has occurred but
five of the sailors ran away.
7th AUGUST FRIDAY 9 a.m. We began to weigh our anchors and
about 4 p.m. we set sail. 7 p.m.- We dropped one anchor at the paint and
lay there all night.
8th AUGUST SATURDAY 5 a.m. Weighed anchor again and set sail
along with the CALDEE with a fair wind. 10 a.m.- The Pilot left us. 9
p.m.- The CALDEE is leaving us very fast. We shortened sail in case of
danger. We lay to the greater part of the night.
9th AUGUST SABBATH 6 a.m. The ship under way again with a
fresh and a fair breeze, running about 7 knots an hour. 10 a.m.- We
passed GERVIS POINT and about ˝ past 11 a.m., we passed KANGAROO POINT.
12 NOON- A fresh breeze, sailing about 8˝ knots an hour, a S by W
course. 4 p.m.- Course SE.
10th AUGUST MONDAY 6 a.m. A fresh breeze from N, running about
6 knots an hour. It was so hazy and wet, we did not get our bearings
taken. 9 p.m. Course SE by E.
11th AUGUST TUESDAY 6 a.m. Becalmed, the air is very clear. 12
NOON- In South Lat. 39 411. 8 p.m.- It began to blow hard. We put one
reef in our topsails.
12th AUGUST WEDNESDAY 4 a.m. It blew a severe gale. Ship
running under close reefed topsails. 8 a.m.- Ship laying to with a close
reefed main topsail. We lay to for the greater part of the day. The ship
rolling very much.
13th AUGUST THURSDAY 6 a.m. Set sail, wind being a little
abated, being in sight of land. Wind from NNW. 12 NOON- We set our
mainsail and let the reefs out of our topsails. 6 p.m.- We saw we could
not enter the heads tonight, we then put the ship about.
14th AUGUST FRIDAY 6 a.m. We put the ship about every two
hours during the night. We now being in sight of the mouth of the river.
Made for it but the wind being almost fair ahead, we could not make it.
The ship having drifted from the land a considerable distance during the
night, we put about again on the other tack. We saw a BRIG about 7
O'clock at the mouth of the river, bound for LAUNCESTON. "HENRY OF
LAUNCESTON", the Captain spoke her, the HENRY told him if he could make
the inside of the heads, to take anchorage. We put about at 11 a.m. and
made inside of the heads, we dropped our starboard anchor and furled all
our sails. The PILOT came about an hour afterwards. We weighed anchor
about 2 p.m. and set sail again. We came through the Channel with great
difficulty, the wind being right ahead, we boated ship the whole night.
15th AUGUST SATURDAY- OUR TIME BEGINS THIS DAY- 6 a.m. Sailing
under close reefed topsails. 9 a.m.- We came in sight of the anchorage
and it being very squally, we lost sight of them upwards of half an
hour. We arrived in the harbour or bay about 11 a.m. . After dinner, the
Captain and several other Gentlemen, went up to MELBOURNE.
16th AUGUST SUNDAY 7 a.m. We lowered our Pennice. If anyone
wish to go ashore, they might have it on their own account and after
all, the poor Captain was lost in the seas.