Source

Early life

Samuel Herbert Thompson, the son of Joseph and Mary Thompson nee Brown), was born in Shadwell, England on 28 December 1821. The Thompson family came to Sydney via Hobart from London on the ship the James Harris, landing in Port Jackson on 1 May 1834. The passenger lists recorded that Samuel’s father, Joseph, and his uncle, Samuel, were ‘linen drapers’.

The family settled in Sydney, by 1850 Joseph was listed in the Sydney Directory as resident of North Terrace, Macquarie Street.

Samuel Thompson married Martha Emma Foss, daughter of Ambrose and Louisa Foss nee Freemantle), on 21 January 1852 at the Congregational Church, Pitt Street, Sydney. Martha was born in Sydney on 30 April 1833. Her father, Ambrose, had a business in the city (Pitt St) as a wholesale and retail chemist and druggist.

Samuel and Martha had 12 children between 1855 and 1878: Herbert, Martha, Frederick, Amy, Florence, Edith, Ernest, Marion, Minnie, Ambrose Foss, Nellie and Beatrice.

Working and community life

Samuel’s father Joseph set up a business in King Street as a linen draper, and in 1838 he moved the business to Pitt Street. By 1839 he was operating as Joseph Thompson & Son in partnership with his son Joseph. When Joseph senior retired in 1848 the partnership was dissolved but the business continued to operate under Joseph Thompson & Son. Samuel was also involved in the business and in 1853 a new firm J.W. and S. Thompson was formed operating as ‘importers of, and wholesale dealers in, Manchester, Scotch, and fancy goods’. The retail arm of the drapery business closed in January 1853 and Joseph’s original shop in Pitt Street was sold.

On the retirement of Joseph junior, the partnership between Joseph and Samuel as warehousemen was dissolved, and from 1 January 1864 the firm was continued by Samuel under the name S. Thompson & Co.

By the mid 1870s Samuel had moved from his position as warehouseman and wholesale draper in Pitt Street to that of stock broker with rooms in George Street.

Samuel, like his father, was closely associated with the Congregational Church. According to his obituary he was the first superintendent of the Pitt Street Church and a founder of the Jersey Road Woollahra Church. He also held the position of deacon in the Congregational Church at Homebush for 25 years.

Living in Woollahra

After 1854 land in Woollahra was offered as 99-year leases by the trustees of the Point Piper Estate. Samuel Thompson secured a lease of over 2 acres on the eastern side of Edgecliff Road, opposite Albert Street. Within a few years a stone house with slate roof, known as Maravi, had been built on the site. The house, overlooking Double Bay, had a circular drive with stables, a coach house and terraced gardens.

Samuel’s father, Joseph died at the house on 11 July 1858 aged 80. Samuel continued to live there with his family until 1883. His ‘choice and valuable household furniture’ was offered for sale by auction at the house in September. He then moved to Homebush to the house Rothay (or Rothsay) that he built at 72-76 Abbortsford Road, remaining in that district until his death.

The Thompson’s property at Woollahra was re-subdivided in 1923 and the house, by then known as Castlefield, was converted to residential flats.

Woollahra Council

Samuel Thompson was officially nominated as candidate for councillor of Woollahra Council by John Valentine Gorman, seconded by W. Davis on 21 May 1860. He received 44 of the votes cast on 28 May. Thompson was unanimously elected Council’s second chairman in 1861. On his retirement as chairman he was thanked by the councillors for the ‘very impartial and uniformly courteous manner in which he had discharged the various duties connected with the office of chairman during the past twelve months’.

As a councillor, Thompson served on the finance, assessment, improvement, lighting and water committees. He assisted John Gorman with arranging the lease for the first council chambers building and in acquiring suitable furnishings and fittings. In 1862 he proposed that a committee be formed to ‘secure a better supply of water for the residents of Upper Paddington’. He negotiated a settlement with the trustees of the Point Piper Estate concerning assessments for unoccupied land.

In the elections held in February 1867 Thompson was not re-elected; however he was re-elected the following year. His seat was declared vacant at a council meeting held on 13 June 1871 and at the ensuing election held on 7 July he was replaced by William Teale.

Final years

Martha Thompson died at Homebush on 21 September 1900. Ten years later on 22 February 1910 Samuel Thompson died at his home in Burwood that he named Maravi, aged 88. Samuel and Martha are both buried at Rookwood Cemetery.

Sources

  Ancestry Library Edition
  Broomham, Rosemary, The Coopers of Woollahra: Land dealings on the Point Piper Estate 1820-1920, Woollahra Council, 2001
  Directories: NSW Directory 1839, City of Sydney Directory 1844-45, Sydney Directory 1851, Sands Sydney Directories 1858-1932/3
  NSW Registry of Births Deaths and Marriages
  Sydney Morning Herald, 5 May 1834, p.2; 4 July 1848, p.1; 4 Jan 1853, p.3; 18 Sept 1883, p.10; Obituary 4 Mar 1910, p.6
  Trove, NLA
  Woollahra Council archives – rate and assessment books, valuation lists, minute books, building registers, maps and plans
  Woollahra local history research files and online index to council minutes 1860-1875

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The following are the reminiscences of Samuel Thompson, the fourth son, and eighth child, of Joseph Thompson, and his wife Mary, nee Brown. He was born on 28 December 1921 at Shadwell, London, England, and baptised on 10 March 1822 at St. Paul’s, Shadwell, Middlesex. He sailed with his family from London on 9 October 1833, on board the East Indiaman ship, the “James Harris”, via Hobart Town, Van Dieman’s Land, arriving on 1 May 1834, in Sydney, New South Wales. He married on 21 January 1852, Emma Foss, born 30 April 1833, in Sydney, New South Wales, the second daughter of Ambrose Foss, druggist, and Louisa Freemantle, his wife. Samuel died on 22 February 1910, at Woodside Avenue, Burwood, Sydney, and was buried on 23 February 1910, at Rookwood Cemetery. Emma, his wife, died 21 September 1900, at Homebush, New South Wales, and was buried on 22 September 1900, in the Independent Section of Rookwood Cemetery, Lidcombe, New South Wales.

These reminiscences were kindly loaned to me by (William) Eric Warth, a great grandson of Samuel Thompson, from a copy he held, so that I could re-type and bind them.

E. R. Baker
P.O. Box 599

1st January, 1992

Reminiscences of Samuel THOMPSON 1821-1910

At the special request of my dear girls Edie and Beatie, I commence this record of my life. I have very little hope of it ever being completed seeing I am now in my eighty-fourth year.

LEAVE LONDON

I was born in London and remember Father one day taking the household by surprise in stating that he had resolved upon going to Australia. We boys were delighted at the prospect of going to sea. I don’t know how the girls felt. There was great work in packing as Father was taking all his stock of drapery and furniture. We boys did not forget our kites and such trifles.

JAMES HARRIS

We shipped on board the James Harris, an old West India sugar ship of 600 tons, commanded by Capt. Pearson. We left dock in September 1833 and did not reach Sydney till April 30, 1834. We had cargo for the Cape of Good Hope and Hobart. We enjoyed the stay at these places very much.

SERVANT

We had a very pretty servant maid with us and she kindly took me on shore at the Cape. We went to the house of a dark man who I think was catering for the ship and whilst she was flirting with him I was enjoying myself eating delicious apricots, etc.

COW

We had a fine quiet cow on board ship and one day I got into the longboat with her and commenced milking. The Captain happened to see me and soon the report went about one of the Thompsons was sucking the cows teat. I did not care, I enjoyed the luscious milk. At Hobart we enjoyed ourselves and went to some friends of Mothers.

HEAVY GALE

On leaving Hobart we met a severe gale and were battened down for fourteen days. The foolish Captain said he would not give a half crown for the lot. This was a great fright for the passengers. I went to lie down and bid farewell to Father, Mother and sisters and brothers, not forgetting the pretty servant and old Uncle Samuel who was with us.

SYDNEY

It took us six months to reach Sydney. We were met on board by some of the Wilshires, and I believe James Wilshire then resolved in securing my sister Elizabeth as his wife, in which he finally succeeded.

KING STREET

A house had been secured for us and we had pretty hard work to find room for all as well as shop for foods. It was in King Street, where the entrance to the theatre now is.

SCHOOL

I was sent to school to Timothy Cape opposite St. James Church.

THOS. SMITH THREE YEARS

On leaving school I was engaged by Mr. Thomas Smith (an importing merchant) for three years which I faithfully served and was rewarded by a receipt of £29, £30, and £40. Amongst other things was a quantity of Jewellery and one of the customers dealt in that. I had been in the store a little over two years when this man asked me if I knew a lad of my age that would serve behind his counter. I promised to enquire and had to tell him I had not been successful. Then he said will you come, I will give you £150 the first year and an interest in the business after. He asked me how long I had been in my present place. I told him and that I had some months to do to complete. He asked if there was any written agreement? No - then it don’t matter, you can leave when you like. I promised to think over it and let him know. I was lodging on the premises and at evening went home and put the case before Father. All he said was - how long was your arrangement with Mr. Smith for? Three years. Well, have you completed it? No. Then I have nothing more to say. A day or two after Mr. I. called for his answer. I told him it was not possible as I had yet some time to serve where I was. He was disappointed and vexed and would argue the case, but I was positive and that ended the matter.

WOOLCOTT & JOSEPHSON

During my time of service I had two very nice friends who used to occasionally come and spend the evening with me. One, somehow, developed a bad habit of swearing which two of us much objected to. It fell to my lot to reprove him and I quietly said, &lqduo;Charley, it is not agreeable to hear you repeat such oaths and we ask you not to repeat it. Although we are so friendly we will not associate with you if you persist in it.” Alright, he said, and all went well for a short time. Then he broke out again and I said, “Charley, let our friendship remain, but we cannot meet again until you finally renounce that bad habit.” We have often met since, but no swearing.

THEATRE

My other friend Manny, I was frequently with. His parents frequented the theatre, the only one then in Sydney, where the Royal Hotel in George Street now is. Being all alone he asked me to go as there was a vacant seat. Mr. & Mrs. T. who boarded me were both out - I said, “How can I go.” We will be back before they come home. I went and took not the door key with me. Never thought of the back door. The Performance was a great treat as I had never before been to a theatre and was so absorbed in it, never thought of leaving till all was over. Very innocently I knocked at the front door when Mr. T. opened it. And then I got it. He told me afterwards that after knocking for a long time, thinking I must be asleep, he, with a constable, went to the back and found it all open and then they feared I was murdered and the place robbed.

MEN HANG

I will mention another incident during that three years. There had been a terrible affair in the north of the murder of a tribe of natives and the Attorney General Plunkett determined to prosecute the murderers, eight stockmen. The first trial miscarried, but the second they were all found guilty and sentenced to be hanged. Such an unusual circumstance could hardly be allowed to pass, and I and my fellow clerk resolved to see it. The execution was fixed for 8 a.m. so we agreed we could easily see it over and return in time to open office before Mr. Smith came to town. In this however we were doomed to disappointment as we were unable to get back in time. When we arrived at the office door there was the boss and Clerk Tugwell waiting to get in. There was no help for it, we had to confess and received a well-deserved lecture.

SYDNEY HARBOUR

When we arrived in the harbour we were all charmed with the views, admiring the islands all rocky but covered with verdure. Pinchgut, right in the very middle of the traffic, was a charming picture. There is a special incident connected with it as related to us. Sydney was a penal settlement and the convicts were assigned on special conditions to the resident applicants’ housekeepers and tradesmen and of course were all used by the Government. One, a baker, I suppose, having a grudge against some, poisoned a batch of bread. It was fortunately discovered before any evil resulted and as punishment for his wicked deed was put on this island with the bread for his food. The Sydney Cove as it was called had one landing place on a line with present Pitt Street known as the King’s Wharf. The Tank Stream was a little to the east, the further east was a pretty white sandy beach, but no landing place, only on the sand. High docks were on the further point and there was a very nice place for a jump into deep water where we used to go to swim.

Collin’s Wharf was near the stream where a wrecked vessel lay. We boys used to fish there before breakfast and often took home a net of fish. We used rod and line with two or three hooks and often caught two at a time, good Mullet, Whiting, Black Bream, etc. Campbell’s Wharf on the west side was the chief shipping place. Their chief residence a beautiful cottage, was adjoining and a fine garden walled in, abutted on George Street. Dawe’s Point and Battery was the west point. Pitt Street did not exist north of Hunter Street and between King and Market Streets was only a few slab huts. Macquarie Place did not extend beyond Bridge Street and Brother Joe who came as a sailor after our arrival about a twelve month, rowed in a boat up the Tank Stream as far as Bridge Street. I remember walking with a party one Sunday as far as the Brisbane Distillery near the turn off to Newtown and wondering if anyone would ever build beyond.

WOOLLOOMOOLOO

To get to Woolloomooloo we had to climb up the rocks or go around by South Head Road. There were two windmills on the heights and another near Waverley and also at Miller’s Point. There were a few houses about and a Mr. Potts had a claim at the point called after him. We used to gather Five Corners all over this part.

SOUTH HEAD ROAD

The new South Head Road was soon after made with convict labour and I think Dan Cooper contributed something towards the expense as it took the road right through his grant.

TUGWELL

Whilst at Thos. Smith, the chief clerk, Tugwell, received a fee for my board. My bed was in a room where was a large portion of consigned goods and during the whole time I was there the room was never once to my recollection even swept. Mrs. T. was an exceedingly pretty woman and used to wear a pretty cap. At that time it was customary for all married ladies (and she considered herself one) to wear caps. She had a decent Irish servant and used to send her out to do a little shopping occasionally. D. Jones & Co. lived opposite and she was sent there to buy the materials for a new cap. The cap was duly made and a very pretty one it was. A week after the servant came into the room with a perfect copy. The look of astonishment on the face of Mrs. T. was a caution. You good for nothing hussey what do you mean by wearing a cap like mine, was the first assault and then the battery! Off went the cap torn into bits in a moment and if you dare do such a thing again it will be the worse for you.

CHURCH PITT STREET

The family used to attend the Congregational Church in Pitt Street where the School of Arts now is under the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Jarrett. I had a fairly good voice and was chosen for the choir, a Mr. Davis of the firm of Dodds & Davis (Millers) being the conductor. He used to have us at his house occasionally for practice. It was to the south of Liverpool Street below Sussex Street and the mill close by abutting on the wharf which was the furthest up Cockle Bay at the head of Darling Harbour. Mr. Davis (1) had two daughters who were being taught the piano by Mr. Josephson who was some time after a judge of the Supreme Court. He married the eldest girl, I was a favourite of the youngest. We used to correspond and exchanged letters on Sunday night when leaving church. Mr. D. happened to get hold of one of mine and told Father, asking him to put a stop to it. I got a lecture, but wrote all the same and used to put my letters under a stone at the end of the wharf and if no boat was handy a good swim had to be made to reach the stone. Jack Robinson (2) who afterwards became Premier used sometime, to come to church and he picked upon my sweetheart. He was much older than I and evidently meant business. I was jealous, but could do nothing and soon had to leave for Camden. Jack eventually married her but not before I had written her a letter, a very naughty one, I blush now to think of it, even now.
(1) Davies ???
(2) (John Robertson later Sir John???)

WEDDING DINNER

The day my sister Betsey was married to James Wilshire there was a nicely laid out dinner upstairs for the wedding party. It so happened somebody’s pretty little dog was there and took the liberty of helping himself off one of the dishes. I was near the front door with a little stick in my hand when I heard a call, “Look out, Sam, hit that dog, he has spoiled one dish.” Just as the little brute was leaving the door I hit him on the head and killed him. My Mother was by and saw it and called out You Brute, I will never forgive you. She was so shocked. I did not intend killing the dog, but the incident spoiled the day for two at least and I was one of them. Northwithstanding, I believe I have been forgiven.

OLD UNCLE

Old Uncle Samuel was an Upholsterer and had charge of that department of Father’s business. John & Harry were both employed in some way either amongst the Feather, Hair, Flax or Seaweed all used in making mattresses and when I came home from school I was made to help also. I rebelled, wanting to join my mates in a game. Uncle wouldn’t have it and told Father, the result, a good thrashing and no game. There were no parcel delivery vans in those days and I have had to wheel a barrow load of goods down George Street to Queen Wharf as well as some of the others. I don’t think I am any the worse for it. There were not so many people in Sydney then and when I first went to Thos. Smith’s I could know almost everyone who passed the door.

BARRACKS

The military barracks were just opposite our warehouse - i.e. T. S. & Co. extending along George Street to opposite Hunter Street and back to Clarence Street. Every night at 8 o’clock the band used to discourse sweet music. There was a fine grass lawn inside the walls for the whole was well enclosed, and across one part from the main entrance people were used to go to the Scotch Church and Flag Staff at top of Jamieson Street. One of the Colonel of the Regiment resolved to stop it and gave orders to the guard to prevent anybody going that way. One day the Colonel’s lady came and proceeded to cross. The guard challenged her and informed her of the order but she said I am the Colonel’s wife. Can’t help it Madam, you must not go that way even if you were the Colonel’s cow!!

FAMINE

Somewhere about this time there was a famine in the land. A bucket of water was sold for a shilling on the Rocks where some of the best people lived. Dr. Nicholson who came in the ship with us lived there and many good people. Flour was one hundred pounds a ton. One of the chief Millers viz. Barker & Hallen made heavy contracts and were ruined. Mr. Hallen was so distressed that he lost his head and leaving Sydney by vessel he loaded his pockets and jumped overboard never to be seen again. Bread was fifteen pence a two pounds loaf and Father said we should each have but one slice as a meal and make up the rest with rice.

ISAAC LEVY

That reminds me of Isaac Levy who speculated in the purchase of two cargoes of rice and made a good pile. Other cargoes came and he thought to protect himself by buying them also and then the reaction came with more cargoes and he failed. John Thomas Wilson was the best Auctioneer in Sydney and was well patronised. My brother Harry had just finished his engagement with Barker as a Miller and was now helping Rees Jones in his grocery business. Flour, being so very scarce and dear, Rees Jones hired a water mill at Botany and employed Harry to manufacture flour out of sundry ingredients as oatmeal for a pretty large quantity. Half was sold as fine flour to Barker & H. at £80 per ton, the other half J. T. Wilson sold at auction for same price. It was thought a good spec. but alas J. T. W. forgot to pay: instead he left in one of his chartered steamers taking with him a keg of prodigious weight. On leaving the wharf he gave his horse, a real beauty, to a man to hold until he returned, needless to say he has not yet turned up. This same Wilson used to keep company with a Mrs. Taylor, a noted play actor in those days. Dr. Lang edited a paper known as the Colonist. Wilson formerly kept an Ironmongers shop.

DR. LANG

In the Colonist one day there appeared an article beginning - John Thomas was a Shropshire man en eke a worthy mailer. His flame, she was a noted one, her name was Madam Taylor & etc. This caused Mr. Wilson to call upon Dr. Lang with a good horse whip which dusted the doctor’s shoulders and led to an action at law resulting in damages a hundred pounds per stroke. I do not doubt the Doctor would have taken a good many more at the same price. It was supposed Mrs. Taylor accompanied him in his sea voyage. Rees Jones never got his money for the flour, so that spec. did not turn out very well after all.

BRICKFIELD HILL

Brickfield Hill was very steep and was cut down about twenty feet between Bathurst and Goulburn Street. It was fine fun for us boys to see both men and women trying to get up the sides after a shower, the slippery clay afforded but a poor foothold and they often came to grief with pretty muddy garments. I used often to sleep at the Wilshires, their residence was where the present buildings known as Wilshire Place now are, and then the tannery was at the rear, with frontage to Pitt and Liverpool Street.

HARRY TO NEW ZEALAND

Brother Harry went on account of Rees Jones to New Zealand with ‘a cargo and cattle’ I believe to commence a business at Kiapara, but it so happened that in entering the harbour the ship became a total wreck. Only one cow was saved and Harry was nearly drowned through tying what gold he had about him round his neck.

GOVERNMENT GARDENS

In the Government gardens there were a great many fruit trees grown and all were of especially good soils. On one occasion one of the Miss Wilshires and I amused ourselves by testing the qualities of some of them and all together we brought away a few dozen Nectarines, Apples, etc. Of course, this was a theft but boys did not mind that. On another occasion I was fairly caught by one of the attendants who threatened to take me to the Superintendent. I put on a very serious look and said, “Fellow, do you know who you are addressing”. No, sir. “Well, do you know E. Deus Thomson, the Colonial Secretary?” Yes, Sir. “Well, my name is Thompson and you will do well to know whom you address in future.” I soon made tracks towards home.

HORDERNS

Anthony Hordern and family formerly lived in King Street just below our house. Mrs. Hordern kept a small draper’s shop and Mr. H. used to clean the windows and now and then wash out the shop. We always thought he was a convict assigned to his wife and at some time after that we found out our mistake. I don’t remember much of the boys - those now in business are the grandchildren.

MELBOURNE

When the first allotments were sold in Melbourne Mrs. H. called on Father and advised him to buy some allotments believing it would some day, soon, be a thriving town. Father thanked her but said I have a large family and depend upon my business for their support, I cannot afford to speculate in land. She was a pretty large purchaser and we know made a large fortune through it. Her sons started in business, one the corner of George St. & Church Hill, Anthony at the Hay Market and another Brickfield Hill. Brother Joe went one evening to see Anthony and was invited upstairs to the best room. There were a few chairs and for a table an empty case, no carpet and no ornaments about or pictures on walls. He asked Joe to have a drop of grog - what shall it be? Oh, a little brandy. He called his man, gave him money and said go over the way and get some brandy. Hold on, says Joe, none of that if you please, I never drink public house grog and would rather not take any. Hordern was known as a ’skin flint’ and perhaps this proves it. At that time he must have been a pretty rich man for his parents left each of the children a fortune.

LAND HAYMARKET

Brother Joe had the faculty of looking but a little way ahead and thought he would like a small stake in the city. He heard of an allotment near the Hay Market on George Street for sale and employed me to interview the owner a Mr. Mace, a chemist in King St. I had no difficulty in arranging the matter and finally the land was bought, I forget the price but it was cheap. Joe resolved to build and in excavating for foundations the men came upon the top rail of an old fence and had to go down a great depth for the solid. The fence was five feet high and the posts sunk at least eighteen inches showing how great a filling up had taken place. In heavy rains that part of the town has been severely flooded.

POTTS POINT

I made another bargain for brother Joe in the Tor Cottage, Pott’s Point. Mr. Brown, wine merchant, was leaving for England and offered the cottage for sale at £1,000. I advised Joe, take it or if you don’t, I will. He bought it and next day someone offered fifteen hundred for it. Joe improved it and added another story. When he had arranged to go to England he advertised it to let furnished. One of the Horderns took a fancy to it, but would not rent. His brother told Joe and said he has plenty of money stick in to him. A kind brotherly act!!! He met Joe and said I have no idea of renting, I have too many of my own but it is a fancy place and you will want a fancy price, but if you are reasonable we will make a deal. I think Joe said at a word except my plate horse carriage six thousand pounds. At a word then I’ll give £5,500. It was settled there and then.

SYDNEY COLLEGE

The Sydney Grammar School then known as the Sydney College was only partially built and Timothy Cape was appointed headmaster. Almost all the boys he had at King Street went with him, I of course among the number. This is 6 May, 1905 and I think I am if not quite at any rate very nearly the only one remaining. Jimmy Martin (who became Chief Justice) and I were on the same form and he sometimes helped me with my lessons although I beat him at the exam, but he was a long way a better scholar.

WOOLLOOMOOLOO

The whole, or nearly so, of Woolloomooloo was then covered with a thorn bush and any vehicle to reach the heights had to go by Liverpool Street. There was only one house in the hollow which was occupied by Bishop Poulding and all along the sandy beach was a thick scrub.

SURRY HILLS

We used to sometimes take a walk to Surry Hills as far as the Yellow House of octagon shape that stood on the highest part and once was surrounded by an orchard but was going to decay and the house deserted. A good way beyond this a Mr. Baptist had a large vegetable garden and used to supply the Sydney Cemetery market.

BOTANY

On towards Botany there used to be a cemetery among the sand hills and not far away a racecourse where I once went to see the races. I had saved up my money and had a little fortune in eight pennies. On the road was a man with a board on his knees and three thimbles which I watched him play with. He asked me if I could tell which thimble the pea was under. Of course, I could, he then asked me how much money I had. Now put it down there and if you guess this time I will give you double. The result was a good lesson to me as I denounced gambling from that day.

SAM LYONS

Sam Lyons had those fine large houses built in Liverpool Street facing the park. He was an Auctioneer and could only write his own name. I was once at his rooms in George Street opposite Bridge Street at the corner of Church Hill at a sale of stock when he offered some sheep, but could not get a bid per head. Well, they must be sold gentlemen, how much a dozen then. Two shillings and six pence were bid and at that they were sold.

THOS. MORT

The next place up Church Hill was the store and office of Aspenale & Brown (Could be Aspinall & Brown??? The Aspinalls were relatives of the Wilshires) in which was Thomas Mort as a clerk. On the opposite corner north was once the military guard house and that was partly washed away just before we arrived during the storm which drove our ship about as far as New Zealand and made us six weeks from Hobart to Sydney.

T. BARKER

Tom Barker and I were great pals. He was a son of Barker the miller and had a horse to ride. His uncle lived at Woolloomooloo, a fine house and garden called Roslyn Hall. We used to ride out before breakfast and get a good feed of fruit. One day there was no spare horse. The carriage horses alone with his pony were in stables. Not to be disappointed I put the saddle on. Oh! don’t take that one said Tom, not a man in the yard can ride him. I don’t care I said, I’ll try him, he seems quiet enough. Just as I put my foot in the stirrup he made a start and sent me sprawling and bolted. Then there was a row and trouble to catch him. It put a stop to my riding and was forbidden to take a horse again. The Barkers gave frequent parties and I was often there. My sweetheart Maggy was always there, it was nice, such happy times I have been up all night and only had time in the morning to get a bath and breakfast and then to business, but it was jolly (I wish I was a boy again).

AT OFFICE

I don’t know what my dear Father had in view when he placed me with Thos. Smith or what he expected me to learn. I suppose in all such cases the youth has to depend upon himself whether he will learn anything or not, but in my case, there was the keeping of books by double entry! the sale of various goods. In none of these things was I ever shown how to act or perform, only by observation was I able to gather anything. I consider it the duty of a parent to stipulate that instruction should be given in some particular. Had I known how properly to keep books it would have been of immense service to me afterwards.

AT HOME

I completed my term with Thos. Smith and then went home to serve behind the counter. Here I did learn something, how to keep stock in order, how to serve a customer, the different description of goods, etc. One day I had a customer for a mattress and was fortunate in selling one that had been in stock for no end of time. There was of course a private mark for selling price on almost everything and 10 stood for 12/-whilst 14 stood for 10/-. I mistook the first for 10/- and Father made me pay the difference which I thought, too bad, seeing I had sold the most unsaleable article in stock. No doubt it was done as a lesson for the future, and one I never forgot. In those times each salesman was allotted a special department, but was allowed to enter every other if his customer required anything out of his own. In that way we used sometimes to make up a pretty good parcel. There was no check and no responsibility and I believe much speculation occurred, less cash being handed up than had been received by the salesman.

POTTS POINT

The shop was kept open until ten o’clock p.m. except on Saturday, then 12 p.m. We always opened at 8 a.m. I remember one night being roused up by a policeman thundering at our private door. I had to go down and learn that the shop door was not fastened. I suppose I was too tired and too anxious to get to bed and seeing it closed concluded it was locked. When shops began to open in further parts of the town the night trade fell off very rapidly. I took the trouble to calculate the cost of gas consumed for three or four hours and the cash taken and found there was so little margin for profit that it was not worth considering. I then drew up a memo agreeing to close at 8 p.m. and 10 on Saturdays. All in the trade were willing to sign it but one, and in consequence it fell through, but after a time it gradually became general to close at 8. In the meantime, C. Newton & Co. declared they would keep open all night and did so on one occasion and gave the hands a good supper. A countryman storekeeper happened to look in and made a really good purchase of £400.

FAITHFULL & WILSHIRE

There used to be frequent visitors at Pitt Street as all business people lived upon the premises. William Faithfull and James Wilshire, Dr. Ross and others. The two first named, after a conversation upon business matters in general, disputed about the best method of investment. Wilshire thought legitimate trading was the safest and the best. Faithfull who had never been in business except in stations with cattle and sheep whilst Wilshire was a tanner and currier dealing in leather hides and tallow. He had recently shipped thro’ Father’s medium some hides and made a good profit. Each was said to have about ten thousand pounds to invest. Faithful said, I will bet a hundred pounds that at the end of five years I think it was, my money will be more than yours and I will invest it in government securities only. It was agreed between them and the result was a gain for Faithfull. In the meantime, Wilshire had doubled his amount once, but subsequent shipments made heavy losses and he had to let some others engage in the trade, he gave it up.

JIM’S ACCIDENT

Brother Jim (T.J.) was at school and one day as he came home there was a load of feathers in bales being hoisted into the loft. Boy-like he took hold of the rope and began to sing cheerily, men hoist away, when the rope broke and the bale fell on his head. The result was a broken leg in two or three places. All the doctors near were summoned and after a consultation agreed to amputate. Dr. McCrae was (the family doctor I think) the last to arrive and after examining the leg said No! gentlemen, any leg is better than no leg. Fortunately for Jim they left all to him and he saved the limb. Mother was in a terrible way. Jim said, don’t cry Mother dear, and I will bear it like a man. It was during his laying up he learned to play the flute and afterwards the cornet. He was famous on crutches and few could catch him in a race.

MR. WEISS

A family of Weiss lived opposite and I, very sweet on Tilly, used frequently to be there. Mr. Weiss had been a missionary, but was now a draper, was very strict with his children. They dare not laugh when he was in the room and they were all afraid of him. Someone had been reasoning with him and he had changed his ideas and became very lenient, but it was too late, the eldest girl went astray and one of the boys ran away. He said to me one day, Samuel, I have beaten the devil into my children and can never get him out. Tilly married the Rev. Mr. Kelynac. I forget what became of the others. The eye and the voice are better rods than a cane, altho’ a good thrashing is sometimes necessary.

PURCHASE OF COWPASTURE STORE

After being six months in the shop, Father bought a country store at the Cowpastures, seven miles from Campbelltown from a Mr. Pettigrew. He had been acting post master and had got into trouble about a letter and had to leave. There was a paddock of 100 acres and a small cottage with outbuildings. Teams with wool etc. used to carry there and the chief business was done on Sunday. We had to take coach from Sydney to Campbelltown and reached there about ten o’clock p.m., slept there and after breakfast walked to Cowpastures. It was 30th May, 1840 I think and on outside of the coach rather cold. I had on summer clothing and at Liverpool we had supper and Father insisted on my taking a glass of brandy to stave off a cold, a very bad example for a youth of 19 or 20. There was not much stock, but that was soon replenished and Father marked all for selling and stuck it on considerable - a long distance from Sydney my boy.

SUNDAY TRADE

Now, said Father, what about the Sunday trade? I replied, if I can’t get my living on six days a week it will be strange and I’ll never open store or sell on Sunday. That is well said, my Son. Now we will have printed a placard to be posted all over the district viz. Cowpasture Stores. No business will be done at these stores on Sundays, but for the convenience of customers will be opened late on Saturdays and early on Mondays. Mother came up and stayed for some time. She brought a number of tracts and gave them away on Sundays to all who came nearby. It was rather trying to have to refuse when some would say, here is my cheque, I want a lot of things. Can’t I send them to you, you may depend on my doing you justice in the selection. No! I must select them myself and must go to the other store about half a mile away, kept by Skinner a ticket of leave man. Presently might be seen several with good sized parcels going the road just opposite my store, leading to Cobbity, Kirkham, etc. There was some consolation in the fact that the Rev. Thos. Hassall called to thank us for what we had done, and promised to throw all his interest our way. He had a large family, chiefly girls, and then Charles Cowper and I. & W. Macarthur also called and thanked us, promising their support and told us that if Skinner did not close on Sundays they would have his right cancelled and he turned into government. Brother John paid us a visit and whilst he was there Father remained but Mother returned.

BURGLARS

About two o’clock one morning we were all awoke by some knocking at the door. Father called out, don’t open the door Sam but John said they want some goods, let them in. I said, what do you want. We want a lot of things, open the door. Father, No, Sam, No!! I said come at daylight and I’ll serve you. They left. The next morning Skinners had been robbed. Young Skinner pointed his loaded gun at one of them and pulled the trigger, but unfortunately forgot to cock the gun and lost his gun which was taken with a good parcel of goods which were never paid for and nothing more was heard of the robbers.

DEAR SHOP

Father had marked our goods too high and we were undersold by Skinner. I took the first opportunity after Father left to readjust the prices. We had unfortunately gained the name of the Dear Store. Notwithstanding in about a twelve month Skinner left the neighbourhood. We got good prices and made money. When a customer wanted tea or sugar I always asked what have you got to put it in. Haven’t you got paper? No, don’t keep it, you can have a good handkerchief for a shilling and this was often repeated. The fashion was to bring bags and all I had to do was to shoot it in from the scales.

BROTHER HARRY

Brother Harry having returned from New Zealand now joined me. He soon began to deal in outside things. Bought wheat and had it ground at the windmills. Made bread and sold it to teams-men and others, bought fat bullocks and slaughtered them, sold the beef, all of which realized a profit. Sometimes we could not get fat bullocks and often had no beef for months.

BACON AND POTATOES

Once in Sydney, Harry bought a large cask of green bacon. It was splendid, but lasted too long and we all got tired of it. The bill of fare was bacon and potatoes for dinner today and tomorrow potatoes and bacon. At Christmas time we were always busy and no time for meals. Used to have a hunk of bread and cheese handy and take a bite when an occasion happened. One fine day when I was about a batch of bread my sleeves tucked up and flour up to my elbows the store door closed. There came a sound of horses and someone at the door. No less than five ladies on horseback. There was a good laugh when they saw me. Oh! come in ladies and help yourselves for I am in the midst of a batch of bread. To my astonishment they made but very little derangement in trying to find out what they wanted. I have no doubt they enjoyed it quite as much as I did. They were the sisters Hassall.

COBBITY CHURCH

The Rev. T. Hassall used to preach at Cobbity. It is a few miles from the store and I used to ride over on Sunday to service. Joe Bourne was paying us a visit and went with me on one occasion. During the service he touched me on the arm and pointed to a young lady, said, a fashionable bonnet over there the colour of nasty. I looked and could not withhold my laughter, had to stuff my handkerchief in my mouth. Sam, the parson is speaking to you! Young persons should learn to behave themselves when in church, etc. My head was under the book board and I was ashamed to look up. I heard nothing more about it.

JIM AND GOOSE DINNER

On another occasion I think it was Brother Jim and I went to the church and left Harry at home to get dinner. On our return, what have you got for dinner Harry. Well, I’ve just had mine and there is two potatoes a piece for you. Oh! nothing more? No! That is too bad. Never mind Jim, jump on your horse, we will go to Macquarie Grove, we’ll get a dinner there. On reaching the place we saw one or two of the family who clapped their hands and said, Oh, here is Mr. Thompson, we are so glad! There is a big goose for dinner and we don’t know how to carve it. Of course, we told of our reception at home and all had a good laugh.

MARY HASSALL

Mary Hassall had a great liking for me and her Mother now Mrs. Howell (having married her second husband) and I used to correspond. She was one of the salt of the earth. Frequent letters passed between us, but all were of religious subjects or strictly moral. I don’t know how it was, but at this time of my life I never thought of marriage. There were the Hassalls and a very nice family at Bringelly, the Miss Lowes, all these were very familiar at the business premises, but it never occurred to me that any of them were seeking a sweetheart.

PRAYER MEETING

After a time, when business was slack, I used to read in the store and began to study the headings of the Bible to make myself acquainted with as little trouble as possible of its contents. When Brother John was with us we used to walk over to the Camden Farm where some of the ticket of leave men used to meet for prayer. It was a good three mile walk but we heartily enjoyed both the walk and the meeting. It was a pleasure to hear some of those men who had been sentenced to various terms of punishment for various crimes in the old country, expressing themselves in prayer; they were chiefly Wesleyan. After the sale of allotments in the town of Camden we used to meet in Arnold’s workshop and a Sunday service was commenced and finally a small church was built.

MACARTHUR OFFER

One day while Father was there the two Macarthurs, James and William, rode up to the store, quite an event. Their object was to invite us over the river to build a store on their land. At this time they had not sold any of their land, it was left to them by their Father conjointly and both must agree before they could sell. They offered us a 21-year lease at nominal rent. Father said to me, what do you think of it Sam. I replied that I was then not 21 and the idea of putting up a building to be given up when I was 41 was a thing I would never consent to, but if the Macarthur’s would sell us a suitable piece it would be entertained. Just prior to this we were in treaty for an allotment close to the river with the idea of one day building a mill as it was very difficult to get flour from the windmill and Harry being a miller was a great inducement. The Macarthur’s pointed out to us that if we built so near the river we could not get a foundation and the first flood would wash all away. They had known a flood that reached where we were to the top of our verandah and showed us the height on the opposite hills where the furze bush was the indication.

FREEHOLD CAMDEN

After a while they came again and offered us a freehold in Camden of five acres for one hundred pounds on conditions of our building a mill and they would throw all their influence in our behalf. This was accepted and we commenced to build a mill and store with dwelling. They assured us we should be out of reach of floods. At this time there were what was called probation gangs - i.e. prisoners in gangs of about twenty under an overseer, each one responsible for all the others in good conduct. One offending all were turned into government. They were chiefly employed road making. We required a dam for water for the engine and the Macarthurs suggested our having one of these gangs for the purpose. First, they had to do the government work and after that they were allowed to work for us. We gave them so much per rod. I think 1/3 and the work went merrily on. The men took a good deal of their earnings in articles from the store. About four fifths was done when the rain came and we were never able to complete it, but it answered the purpose well. The stone for foundation had to come from Cobbity eight miles away, and just as it was finished the flood waters reached the top, but did not flow over the foundation.

FLOOD

I may state here that at the Cowpasture store the flood reached the top of the counters and our dining table turned a somersault. We fortunately had everything movable piled up above the counters. There was no fear of being washed away as it was all backwater and I used to amuse myself by marking the gradual rise until it took possession of the house. It came a second time before we could get to Camden and was a little higher than the first. It was a scene to watch the river. Stacks of wheat and hay with the roofs of huts were floating down with fowls roosting on some of them and pumpkins and melons in quantity all going towards Windsor and the sea.

TAFFEY

We had a fine little cob who used to do all our carting and was a capital saddle horse, a good jumper. No fence could stay him. He thought nothing of a close paling but if there was good feed the other side he would have some. He swam the river and paid Mr. Cowper’s vineyard a visit, evidently fond of grapes, as we were told he had had a good feed. Harry rode him over to Melbourne and back and we lent him to Rees Jones to go to Bungonia. He rode him sixty miles without a feed and put him into a stock yard. I hope he gave him a feed then but I don’t know. When he went for him in the morning he was not there. Rees supposed he had been stolen but on examining the ground outside the fence he found the marks where he had jumped over. He then wrote to all the pound-keepers on the way to Camden and all had seen him, but he had escaped them all. Ten days after I heard a neigh and recognised the voice. The dear old Taffey was then coming over the bridge and came full swing to his old home, much to our relief and great joy.

SUNDAY TRADE

Before we left the Cowpastures, one Sunday morning Mr. Cowper sent to the store for some oatmeal and I refused to let him have it especially as he was one of the first to commend us for putting a stop to the Sunday trading. He wrote a very nice letter explaining the cause. One of his horse’s was very ill and needed a mesh, so we let him have some.

DRIVE TO T. HASSALLS

The Rev. T. Hassall had driven to Sydney in his gig and hearing I was in town called to see me and asked me to ride home with him. It suited me and I readily accepted a forty-mile ride took all day with one horse and he took me to his house. On the road among other talk he said, I suppose, Samuel, you will someday be thinking of taking a wife to yourself. I don’t know if he had any thought of one of his pretty daughters being suitable, but I must say I never did. I suppose I had no time to think of such a thing for my time was completely absorbed in my business.

EARLY RISING - BURGLARS

I was always up at daylight and frequently midnight before I pulled my stretcher from under the counter where it rested all day. No sooner did I lie down than I was asleep. One night I was awakened, through something striking the door close to my bed. It so startled me that I did not know when I flew out of bed where I was, which was the head or foot. When I shook myself, I seized my Nulla Nulla and threw open the door. Come on, I said holding up my weapon to ward off the first blow, but no one was there and I heard footsteps on the verandah. I rushed for my gun and went for the front door in shop, just opened it and saw a man run past, then it occurred to me there might be two so I put up the chain but it was too late to fire. Harry was sleeping upstairs, I soon awoke him and we proceeded to examine and found the small window in sitting room had been forced open which broke off the knob that fastened the window and was forced against the door opposite and it was that which awoke me. There was a small iron jemmy, a couple of candles wrapped in rag and a tomahawk. I found the Jemmy was made on Macarthur’s station and it was evident one of the men who came down with the teams bringing the wool was the culprit. It was not worthwhile following up the matter as we could not prove who the man was so let it drop. On another occasion we had a parrot in a cage and he slept in the same room. One night he made so much noise that it awoke me and I called out to Joe to be quiet. In the morning Harry asked me if I had fastened the shutters which I never failed to do. Someone had cut away the bottom rail and in lifting the iron catch had made enough noise to frighten Polly and my calling out frightened the burglar.

HONEST NEIGHBOURS

On the whole we had little to fear from robbery. The teams loaded with store goods including cases of spirits were often left for days in the open, and nothing stolen. Yes, I remember a tarpaulin being taken on one occasion. We were very glad to leave the old place for the new, and in comparison was a large place.

WE MUST HAVE A WIFE

I said to Harry, we must have a wife, we can’t manage this without. What do you say? If you want I will, there is Ann Bardwell, I rather like her. This seemed to set Harry thinking and he said, I am going to Sydney tomorrow! and he went!! On his return he informed me he had proposed to Ann Bardwell and in a short time would be married. I was glad for I liked Ann and knew we should get on well. She was an assistant in Father’s shop, her family old acquaintances of Fathers, and she was a good hand behind the counter, consequently would assist me in the store, which she certainly did. They were married in Sydney and came direct to Camden. Several friends were invited and I had to prepare a dinner.

WEDDING BOILED TURKEY

I hadn’t much time for I was busy in shop. A good turkey was got ready, but the cook said there was nothing to stuff it with. Oh well, I said, there is sage and onions, use them and she did. I assure you it was pronounced excellent by our Sydney friends. I found time to make the pies as I was afraid to trust the woman cook and I was first rate at making good crust - they were also pronounced first rate. Such an occasion as a marriage of the leading man of the village caused some diversion and tin pots and kettles were the order of the evening. It was no use telling a lot of young fellows to go away so I prepared a treat for them, a large dish filled with plums for a snap dragon, into which I put a lot of jollop. It was fine fun to see them enjoying it and when finished all went home and never forgot the pleasant evening.

T. & J. HASSALL

Thomas and James Hassall, two sons of Mrs. Howell by her first husband, about my age were frequently at the store and we used occasionally amuse ourselves with a game of draughts. Their eldest sister lived at Tumut where her husband was super on a station. They were going to visit her and asked me to accompany them. As all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, I arranged to go. I had a good horse and saddle and we rode all the way. It was fortunately fine weather and a most enjoyable time. I am trying to recall the particulars of the road, but at present it won’t come. I remember crossing the Murray or Murrumbidgee at least half a dozen times and staying at Gundagai one night. I went first to Arkstone the station of Mr. Howell where the family were residing. It was a small station with a few thousand sheep and some cattle. It was from here we started for Tumut, it was a glorious ride through some fine country. We passed through one of Howes stations and saw the men milking the cows in the open, a very fine breed, I think Durham.

TUMUT

Arriving at Tumut we had a bathe in the river which is the most rapid in the colony, a great enjoyment. At night there was hot grog which all partook. I have often thought what a pity it was to offer we young folks to take it. Most unfortunately two of that party if not three had much cause to regret it. Mr. Howell took up a station on his own account, but altho’ a first-class manager for his employer, he was not able to manage his own, too fond of the glass. Thomas unfortunately followed in the same ruck. One place we called at there was a family of twelve daughters and James was smitten with one who became his wife and the mother of a large family.

BUSHRANGERS & MRS HOWELL

There were bushrangers about in those days and at this station Mrs. Howell one morning saw a gang of five coming all mounted to the house. Mr. Howell happened to be over at the barn. Mrs. H. sent her little boy Theo to tell him to stay there as she could manage them better without him. He was a short-tempered man and she was afraid he might cause a row. The station supplies had only just been received and among them was a small cask of spirits and another of wine. It so happened that there had been no clothes washed for some time and a heap was on the floor. These she threw over the two casks after rolling them to the middle of the floor and what money she had she hid among the bed clothes, only left some silver in the drawer where she used to keep her money. As they drew up at the door she saluted them and said, I suppose you want some breakfast. Yes, we would like some, but what firearms have you. Only the gun over the fireplace. This they took and then Mrs. H. said, so soon as they declare themselves I have a request to make. My daughters are upstairs and you will promise me you will not molest them. All right, Mrs. Howell, to one of his men, you take your place at the foot of the stairs and don’t allow any one up or down. He then began to search the house and the first place he went to was where she kept her money and grumbled because there was no more. He began to shift the clothes on the floor. Those are all dirty clothes for the wash, nothing of any use to you, and they were left. After their breakfast they thanked her and said there will be another gang this way soon and we will let them know not to disturb you. We want another horse and must have Beverly. Oh, don’t take her, she is the only one I can ride and I can’t do without her. We can’t help it, but as soon as we can get another that will suit we will let her go and she will be sure to make for home. They told her they were going to the township, but not to mention it to anyone. Not very long after there came the mounted police in pursuit who followed them to the town where they had made a good haul, but had not left. Then there was a war, both sides using fire arms, one of the bushrangers was shot dead, another wounded and the rest taken. This state of things was too much for Mr. Howell with a family so it was resolved to leave for more civilised quarters and they returned to Macquarie Grove.

REES JONES YASS STORE

Rees Jones had failed and father bought a business at Yass from Isaac Levy and I was deputed to take it over. This kept me some time at Yass taking stock. Levy had given the option of purchase for a small sum for the premises which I regret to say father declined.

MELBOURNE

When I had completed my work, I determined to go to Melbourne by coach. I thought I might see a young lady who resided there. I had met her once when she was at school with my cousins in Macquarie Street. I found her at her parent’s house, but I saw it would not be any use for me to remain as there was no prospect of my suit being entertained.

PASSAGE TO SYDNEY

I took passage in a small schooner for Sydney and to get on board had to jump off the jetty into a small boat at risk of a ducking. I did it alright however, and had a good passage to Botany of three days. Then we met a black north easter and it was three more days before we got inside the heads. I tried to pursuade the Captain to put me ashore at Botany Heads and offered him good pay, but it was no use. He was wiser than I and knew more of the weather than I did. He might have lost his boat and the crew also.

MENANGLE MAN KILLED

On one occasion I had to go to Menangle and took young Boyd to show me the way and carry a gun. We had to go through the Camden Estate and pass the Bredolbin Ponds, a favourite place for ducks, but no one was allowed to shoot there, an order having been issued by the Macarthurs to that effect, but I determined to risk it. It was a very hot day and altho’ we saw ducks they were too far off for a shot. It was a pleasant and pretty ride, but a thunderstorm threatened and before we could reach shelter it was upon us. Boyd refused to carry the gun and I had to take it. I had no fear believing the lightning would not go out of its course to strike us altho’ with a gun. On our way we passed a man in a hollow tree cutting tobacco for a smoke. We saluted him saying, a bad place in a storm, but we had scarcely passed when he was killed by the lightning.

CAMDEN WINE

There had been much talk about Macarthur’s wine and James Wilshire and Joseph were paying us a visit. It was suggested we should try this said wine which it was said would not intoxicate. I have never been in the habit of tasting wine let along drinking it, not so however with my visitors. We went to the hotel kept by Sackman and the wine was ordered. We drank freely. I don’t know how many bottles, but a good many and walked home as steady as any sober man. It had no unpleasant effect upon any of us, either then or when we got up in the morning.

LUCERNE

When I was at Arkstone, Mr. Howell’s station, he was growing a paddock of lucerne. I persuaded him to let it seed, which he did and I had the pleasure of selling it in Sydney to Mr. Ferris who liberally gave two shillings and six pence a pound for it.

PARTY

There was a very nice party one day at Macquarie Grove to which I was invited, an afternoon affair. There were present the Misses Lowe, Hassalls, the Parsons daughters, Miss Thomson and others besides the family. The only gentlemen besides myself were the two young Hassalls. We had plenty of fun and hide and seek. In thinking about it afterwards, I wondered how it happened that I was constantly coming in contact with Mary Hassall and she did not mind falling down as I was pursuing so that I had the pleasure of lifting her up. What a delightful thing it is to be innocent or under such circumstances to be unimpressionable.

LETTER

It was certainly of if not a combination of those young ladies who shortly after the party sent me an extraordinary letter commencing with the “dearest of all to me on earth” and couched with most endearing words accompanied with a lock of hair as a souvenir. It certainly was not Mary H. altho’ the hair was similar to hers, but who of the others I could only guess. Most of them were at the stores during the week and my quiet observations led me to think one of the Lowes. I took care never to allude to the matter and chiefly because I had previously denounced in no measured terms all anonymous communications.

MILL

Everything was now going on swimmingly. Mill and store both busy and doing well. At first we could not sleep for the noise caused by the mill engine, but after a while it acted as a lullaby and when it stopped we awoke to enquire what was the matter. The business at the mill was so pressing that it was necessary to keep going night and day.

DISTRICT COUNCIL

There had been an Act passed by the legislation for the formation of district councils and Camden was to form one. The Government was to nominate part and the electorate the others. I don’t remember how many, but John Wild Esq. of The Oaks was one and I another, without being consulted which I suppose might be considered a great honour. A Poll was taken and I was elected against Wild. I never asked a soul to vote for me and indeed I did not want the position. At the same time, I was pleased that I was appreciated by the people of the district. It turned out however, that the Act was defeated in so much that whilst it gave power to levy a rate there was no penalty and no arrangement for forcing payment, consequently if any person objected to pay he could not be made and the Act was unworkable. The Council never met.

CHURCH AND SCHOOL

At this time the Wesleyans had managed to get a small building erected for school and church and it was not long before I was solicited to take a class. I very much objected as I had never attempted such a thing and did not think myself at all competent. The deputation would not listen to such an objection and thought they knew better. Well, I said, if I do it must be the lowest class. Having consented they went away very much pleased. The first time I went I was appointed to the first class of boys, about half a dozen. One of them asked me a question which I could not answer so not to let them know how very ignorant I was I said that requires some little consideration and I will tell you about it this afternoon. It was pretty evident I had not read my Bible as I should have done, so I gave my best attention to look up the subject and satisfied the class in the afternoon. After this I had to give all my spare time to the preparation of Sunday School work and that was not much, but I had no trouble afterwards. I preferred to worship with them to attending the Episcopal Church, altho’ there were times when one of the locals had to take the service when one might have preferred being elsewhere. Of course, when any of our friends visited us I took them there at any rate, once for the day and generally in the evening. Visiting the English church in the morning. On one occasion it was very hard work to suppress a laugh and my friends had to stuff the handkerchiefs into their mouths to prevent an outburst. The preacher was an elderly man who frequently occupied the pulpit and gave us some really sood sermons. This time he was attempting to describe our Lord’s temptations and when he came to the pinnacle of the temple he was stuck up for want of a simile. At last he said it was so high, so high - - - that he could not look down. This was too much for my friends.

SUNDAY

Sunday was always a hard day’s work for me. I used to go for the prayer meeting before breakfast, Sunday School directly after, then the usual service. After dinner, school and a prayer meeting after, then tea, before which I used to give as much time as I could to study as well as after, then church, and after that a final prayer meeting before leaving. There was a very nice man appointed to the church and district, a Mr. Pickering who was blessed with a very good wife. She used occasionally visit us and take tea. The subject of extempore prayer came up and I strongly supported it.

FAMILY PRAYER

We used to have family prayer, but I only read the book. She prolonged her stay until it was the usual time for our service. I was in a fix, how could I manage, I had never once prayed before other people, but now I must either do so or renounce my previously expressed opinions. I shall never forget that evening. I prayed aloud, but what I said I never remember. I was so dreadfully nervous. At any rate it was the beginning and I never regretted it afterwards.

FIRST ELECTION

One of the best Lawyers of the colony, William Wentworth, had drawn up a constitution for the colony and under its provisions the first election of members took place. Mr. James Macarthur was waited upon by some of the townspeople who wished him to represent Camden as he had so large a stake in it. He said he considered it a greater honour to represent the metropolitan county and had arranged to stand for Cumberland. He was then asked who he proposed for Camden, he replied Roger Therry the Attorney General, at which we were not only surprised, but very much annoyed. He was a rigid Roman Catholic. We proposed Charles Cowper, but it was not to be and the voting time came Macarthur had gone to a great trouble in arranging for information from the different polling places, and a great contest was going on. It resulted in Therry being returned by a very narrow majority. We only heard the final result on Saturday night. On Sunday morning I, with several others, waited upon Mr. Cowper to ask him to stand for Cumberland in opposition to Macarthur. He told us he had just received letters from Sydney urging him to do so. If you consent, we said, we would work hard to put him in and we believed it would be done. He gave his consent and we went to work right heartily, chiefly because we were so vexed with Macarthur. There was great rejoicing over the result when it was known Cowper was returned head of the poll and Macarthur rejected. It was not long after this that we had to feel some of the effects of our doing.

MACARTHUR

When Macarthur induced us to build the mill on their land he gave us full permission to take firewood from their estate. We now received a letter from them withdrawing the permission and also informing us that in future their custom would be withheld from both mill and store. This was rather a big blow, but we never resented it nor ever reproached them with it. We got plenty of wood from the settlers who were clearing their farms and were able to keep the mill going night and day and did very well without their custom for a year or more before they came back.

CAMDEN PARK

Camden Park, the estate of the Macarthurs, comprised over forty thousand acres, very little of which was inferior, was bounded by the Cowpasture River on the East and North and the razorback ranges on the West, extending to Menangle on the South. The greater part was a grant to the original Macarthur who was the first to introduce the merino sheep. The river overflowed in flood time a large portion. It was originally well timbered, a part had been cleared and cultivated and was rich in product. A vineyard of over twenty acres produced fine wine which was made under the residence, a fine handsome building with immense vats built of stone in the basement and when I went thro’ with Mr. Williams there was a large quantity in cask as well as the vats. There was a beautiful garden, well-stocked with fruit trees and flowers. They not only had the finest woolled sheep but were also breeders of cattle and horses. The sheep however, did not thrive, the country too flat, not suited for them. They had stations on the Murrumbidgee for both cattle and sheep. They had a large number of assigned servants and it did not cost much for labour. They imported a good many Germans as vine dressers and growers, also winemakers. After we had built the mill he rented off portions for farms, the first and second years free and then five shillings an acre for the cleared portions, for other portion of the lease after that five shillings an acre during the remaining time. It was a very pretty ride through the estate towards Menangle passing thro’ the cultivated portion and seeing the fine horses all thoroughbred, such beauties. Harry rented the river paddock adjoining the mill and grew wheat, as much as forty bushels to the acre.

REV. MR McKENNY

The Rev. Mr. McKenny, a Wesleyan Missionary, sometimes came to Camden to take the services and it was our pleasure to accommodate him. He once preached in the barn at Macquarie Grove, that was before the church was built, and I was there to hear his sermon from the text 12 Romans 1st verse. It caused me to think of not only my duty, but my salvation, and I believe was the main cause of my conversion, for ever since I have tried to serve the Lord and presented my body a living sacrifice, I trust, acceptable to God.

RIDE TO THE OAKS

When I first went to the Cowpasture store the man Pettigrew from whom Father bought the place agreed to introduce me to the customers. We started one morning and made a good round and when we stayed for a snack I found I was very stiff and sore and could hardly get off my horse. This was the first long ride I had ever taken and it had to be done. So we started again and went as far as The Oaks to a customer. I was glad indeed but could not get off my horse and had to be lifted down. We, or at least I, had a comfortable bed and on undressing found I had lost much. I was recommended to apply common soap which gave me great relief. My fear was the morrow’s ride, another forty miles. Nothing daunted, I started after being lifted into the saddle and being considerably chafed, but the soap did its work and I did not experience any further trouble, but was ready for another day’s ride.

LIDDINGTON & FINE

A Mr. Liddington who had a brewery where now Farmers & Co. shop is in Pitt Street removed with brewery to Bringelly about seven miles from Cowpasture. He waited upon me one day just before harvest time and asked me to sell his beer on commission. I thought it required a licence, No, he said, unless you sell less than two gallons. Surely, I ought to know having kept the brewery in Sydney for years. Well, I consented and soon was supplied with a few hogsheads. I then ordered some five-gallon kegs and was selling it freely in the small quantities. The chief constable who used to deal with us came and we invited him to dine. He tasted the beer asked us if we had sold much. He had not the manliness to tell us we were violating the law. A few days after there were some kegs on show outside when two constables came and asked if we sold beer. I suspected there was something more than usual in their manner as they asked for five gallons. I said we don’t sell less than a hogshead, the price 54/-. They tried to persuade me. I was very busy at the time and told them it was no use. One of them then put a paper into my hands which proved to be a summons for selling beer without a licence. They then demanded a search. We had an octave of about ten gallons of wine which we had for private use and a cask of Champion No. 24 vinegar in the back room. They tasted the wine first and said, this is alright and put the lid on. Then they drew a glass of the vinegar and it looked splendid, down went a mouthfull and it was fun to see him such a splutter and what made it worse for him all who saw it and all my customers were present most heartily enjoyed the fun. They did not put the lid on that. Then outside into the store where there were five hogsheads which they marked. These were taken away next day and I was summonsed to Picton for sly grog selling. I at once went to see Mr. Cowper and told him everything. I said I am not twenty-one, cannot I plead that? He said you might, but I would not advise you. You can’t get out of it, but I will be on the bench and do what I can for you. I thanked him and rode over to Macarthurs. They gave me the same advice and also promised to be on the bench.

AT PICTON

At the day appointed I put in my appearance. My friends Cowper and Macarthur and Major Antill the Chief Magistrate were on the bench. The case was fairly stated by the Chief Constable and I at once pleaded guilty and was allowed to state my case. May it please your honours, I had no intention of breaking the law. I have always been an upholder of the law as is well known to most of you gentlemen. When I undertook the sale of Mr. Liddington’s beer it was more with a view to assisting an old acquaintance than any profit to be derived from the same. The commission I received would not pay for the trouble of receipt and delivery and I believed Mr. Liddington when he told me he knew the law and I could sell any quantity above five gallons.

FINE

The major said, we know all about that, all the sly grog sellers tell a similar tale. You are fined thirty pounds and the beer is confiscated. The other gents said it is a hard case and if you petition the Governor we will recommend a remittance of the fine. The Chief Constable then said, I am entitled to half the fine, but if the government remit their half I will do the same. I thanked all and rode away home. I sent word to Sydney and the petition was drawn and duly signed by the magistrates, sent to the government, and in due course considered the result a remittance of the fine.

LIDDINGTON

The constable lost no time in visiting Bringelly and seized the whole plant of Liddington. What he was fined I never knew. One day when riding in that direction I met him. He was very much put out and angry, demanding payment for the beer. I accused him of misleading me and referred him to the government for payment. He then threatened to sue me and said he was a good mind to give me a good thrashing. At this I looked at his horse and saw mine was better so said goodbye and put spurs to mine and was soon out of his way. I never heard any more about it. I had almost forgotten that Liddington had issued a writ against me which I went to my Solicitor, a Mr. Yarnton and gave him full particulars of the case. He termed a shabby case and requested me to make affidavit of my age and leave the matter in his hands which of course I did. I found afterwards that he allowed the plaintiff to go to the full length of expense and on the last day filed my affidavit which put him out of court. That was his chief reason for threatening me.

NEEDLE

The business at Camden kept on increasing, both in the store and mill and Harry engaged a Miller and I an assistant, Lovejoy by name. The Miller’s name was Clancy. My man was very handy with his needle and during slack times used to do a little tailoring and even went so far as to take measurements for clothing. There was a row outside one day when two men fought. One was thrown down and had his ear nearly cut off: he came to the store for aid and when I saw what was the matter called Lovejoy to bring his needle and thread and sew on the ear. This done, I dosed it with Fryer’s Balsam and how he jumped. It was an effectual cure.

GRAPES

Before I got my help I used to employ nearly all my leisure time in my garden. I first made a sketch on paper and then proceeded to edge the paths with bricks. I planted fruit trees and vines and grew a few vegetables. I got the German from Macarthurs to plant the vines only a small piece about half a rod, and the second year or most likely the third it was a picture on view. All the neighbourhood came to see it. It was one of the best crop of grapes ever seen some said. I ought to have had some of the bunches weighed but never thought of it. There must have been some three or four pounds each. The season was one of the best and I never got anything like it afterwards.

GARDEN

Often I have left the store for the garden and then I used to place a placard on the door “Please call over the garden fence”.

APPLE

I entered into competition with Tom Bardwell, he at Holborn near Tarcutta in the growth of apples. He had great advantages in climate if not also in soil and produced a fine sample, I think sixteen ounces, mine did not exceed fourteen oz.

NO BANK

There was no bank nearer than Sydney and the postage was 6d. per 1/2 oz. and as we took a great many cheques they were usually kept until one of us went to Sydney.

KENNY’S HILL

Between the Cowpastures and Campbelltown there was a hill known as Kenny’s Hill about half way between the two places and there was no house within coo-ee. I used to say that it was a good place for bushrangers and if I was ever robbed there it was easy for the robbers to make an escape. I left the store one day to go to Sydney of course to walk to Campbelltown for the evening coach. I had over three hundred pounds in notes and cheques in a belt round my body. Just as I got to Kenny’s Hill I met three men in the middle of the road, but my thoughts being busy planning my operations in town I gave no thought of my money until I had just passed the men and then I could not put one leg before another for I thought of bushrangers. I called myself a fool and passed on.

PIGS BACON 2d. per lb

Nothing came amiss to Brother Harry and having plenty of offal at the mill he soon had a few stys put up and filled with pigs. In the winter season of course, there was killing and bacon making in this latter I was quote, willing to lend a hand, and must have everything done properly so I ordered sugar to be used as well as salt and saltpetre and we took no end of pains to turn out a first-class article. All together we had over two tons weight. At this time, we were not acquainted with the ways of Sydney markets and sent it all down to the Pitt Street house for them to find a buyer. They knew no more about such business than we did and could not find a buyer. The usual market men rejected it knowing full well that there was no other buyer for it and by waiting they would certainly get it at their own price. It was eventually sold to them at two pence per lb. This was a poser and not much more than paid for the sugar. I was so vexed that I made a vow I would never make a pound more bacon while I lived and I don’t think I have. As there is always a seed time before a harvest this extraordinary sale was the prelude to a very splendid harvest. Those families who bought this bacon at the markets naturally enquired for more and wanted to know where it came from and always enquired for Camden bacon. Having plenty of pigs, Harry continued to make bacon and built a house for smoking it. The result was no need to send it to Sydney because the dealers came to Camden to buy. The tables were now turned and Harry was just as wide awake as the dealers had been and refused to sell. They were pressed by their customers who were willing to give almost any price and there was no difficulty in getting from ten pence to one shilling per pound on the premises. Of course, we had to deliver in Sydney. Nothwithstanding this I never broke my vow. The distance to Sydney was forty miles and it was not possible to do the journey with loaded teams more than once a week. We had a great deal of flour as well as other produce such as hay, poultry etc., and unless we hired teams could not get away fast enough.

SUNDAY TRAVELLING - FANNY WYATT

Harry drove a team to Sydney to know how it was possible to improve matters and finally determined to arrange for the teams to return home on Sunday. To this I greatly objected, but he persisted and it was one of the reasons why I left Camden. But it was perhaps not the chief. On my frequent visits to Sydney I usually contrived to spend my evenings amongst my friends. I had taken a desperate fancy to Fanny Wyatt and used to sometimes send her a letter, in one of which I described my surroundings and said I only wanted such an one as she to make me happy. My return to that was not to my liking. She was one of the very pretty girls of Sydney, but not pure merino, and my connections would greatly object to such an alliance. It was some time after that I was always made welcome by Mr. & Mrs. I. Fairfax who from what I had heard would gladly welcome me as a son-in-law. I went there pretty often, but somehow never could make any impression on Emily. Refused by Fanny and unable to advance with Emily I gave up the thought of marrying for the present.

DEALERS

Harry was about the best bargain maker in the district. I remember some dealers from Sydney travelling all over the district in search of poultry and declaring it was no use as Mr. Thompson had a lien upon all the poultry round about. It was customary to buy ale they brought to town with the eggs, and give goods in exchange. It was no uncommon thing for Harry to make a deal for a stack of hay, a team of bullocks, a cow or two or a horse or two, but unfortunately forget to mention it to me and consequently no entry was made. When any customer came to settle up his account I had always to wait till Harry came and then it was, Oh yes, there was that stack of hay and two lots of flour and that branded bullock and the cockhorn cow. The miller usually saw to anything going out of the mill was duly entered, but it was hopeless to expect Harry to make any entry of any transaction outside.

STOCKTAKING

At the end of the first year at Cowpastures I took stock as a matter of course. The greatest trouble of all was the ironmongery which was all in loose papers and not as now in neat handy boxes. It was a satisfactory result leaving I think it was one thousand and ninety pounds profit after paying ten per cent interest on the purchase. On showing it to Father he said, well done, boys. You can have the ninety pounds the rest belongs to me. I replied, is that so, I thought I was working for myself and now to be told I have laboured hard for twelve months and only earned forty-five pounds as my share is a great disappointment. Father said my son, you have been working for me and I could not do otherwise as it would be unfair to the rest of the family. But Father, you have had ten per cent for the money you advanced and it has all been repaid you and besides I could have earned more in a situation as you know I was offered one hundred and fifty pounds for first year with promise of an interest in the business. Never mine my son, you have done well and it will be better for you in the end.

PROFIT 3RD YEAR

At the end of the third year there was three times as much profit. I took the accounts to Sydney and submitted them to James Wilshire with a full detail of particulars and he gave it as his opinion that it fairly belonged to us. Others said the same. Father was obdurate, he said we were working the business for him. Well, I said, I don’t know if I am worth a penny or a pound. He said you have it all in your hands and can use the profit in any way you please. We were now in the new buildings Camden. Well, I said, to Father, I refuse to return unless there is a definite understanding arrived at I will at once seek a situation in town. You wait till the morning and I will see what can be done.

RIGHT OF PURCHASE

The result of the night’s contemplation resulted in the offer of the premises at six hundred pounds per annum. The payment of the balance over four thousand pounds and when that is paid you are to have the whole stock, lock and barrel. I said it was an enormous rental especially as we had paid for the whole of the buildings and land out of the business, but I said I would accept it and you had better give me a letter to that effect. On seeing Harry on the subject, he said, Oh, very well, I suppose we must be content and go to work and pay it off, but it seems very hard. Yes, I said, but we now know what we have to work for and I would sooner have it thus than the uncertainty we were working under before. I have often thought this a very unjust thing on Father’s behalf, but since writing these memos I have been much inclined to alter my opinion.

FATHER’S STORE

Father bought the store from Pettigrew and gave me the charge, nothing was said about any terms or any arrangement made. I was simply put in to manage and altho’ the trade paid interest and expenses it was still Father’s and up to this point I cannot accuse him of wrong-going, altho’ I think under the circumstances he might have been a good deal more liberal. After this business improved and we gave a good order for crockery, ironmongery, cutlery, etc. to be sent to England and in due course received a pretty large shipment of crates and cases. We made large profits and succeeded in paying the whole of the debt we had undertaken and rent also. Father used to pay us a visit occasionally and seemed to enjoy it very much. One day he said very quietly to me, “Have you got that letter I gave you?” Yes, Father, I have. Will you let me see it? Certainly! and immediately handed it to him. Just before he was leaving for Sydney I asked him for it. Oh, my boy, I have destroyed it. It would not have been fair to the rest of the family to have allowed it. You may guess my astonishment. It would not have been surprising had an assault been committed, but I reflected, he is my father and with my ideas of duty to parents I did nothing. We were in possession and very happy in our work. What was the use of making a fuss and letting all the neighbours and others hear of a quarrel between father and sons. We continued to prosper and easily made money and did so well that we paid father again the whole sum before he would give up the deeds, and then he made an extraordinary reservation, viz. that he should retain the whole of the household furniture. My estimate of the value was about twenty pounds, but I think he imagined it would give him a hold of the place. On the whole I think he had the best of it. Those were the times of good seasons and we were disappointed if during the summer we did not get rain with thunderstorms nearly every week.

CORN 9d. WHEAT 1/6

The river flats that Harry cultivated would yield forty bushels to the acre and one season both wheat and corn were so plentiful that we had every place crammed with wheat at one shilling and six pence a bushel and corn at nine pence.

GOOD TEAMS

Harry had splendid teams of bullocks and horses and undertook for the farmers to plough and sow on terms all the land they had ready.

DROUGHT

But most unfortunately a change of season had set in and there was not so much gathered from the soil as the seed that was thrown upon it. The result of this was that all these families were in debt to the store and mill and none could pay. It would have been useless to press them and had it not been for Pitt Street house it would have been all up with us. No money coming in, they met our engagements for us.

FARMERS LEAVE

South Australia was just at this time much to the fore and farmers were said to be doing well there. Some of our people had friends there who invited them and a good many took their all and went. We trusted to their honesty to remit us the amount they owed and took no security nor even a promissory note. Our confidence in them was unbounded. We did not then understand human nature as we had to learn it subsequently. One only of the whole was to be deemed honest as he sent us some money but I forget if in whole or only in part.

STOCK TAKEN

At the end of that year I took stock and expected to find a very alarming state of affairs.

DROUGHT

Harry’s dealings now came in well for being a drought there was no new hay and the old was much sought after and realized the highest prices ever known as much as fifty pounds per ton. For our own use we had to pay twenty-five shillings per bushel for wheat. Captain Waugh had a fine pair of carriage horses and sent his men to the river from Harrington Park where he lived to dig out the roots of the couch grass to keep life in them. When I had finished my stock taking and balanced the books I was rather surprised at the results and thinking some mistake might have crept in I went over the whole to check it, but I found none and then called Harry. Well, what do you think it shows? Oh, don’t name it, I expect a tremendous loss, how can it be otherwise. Yes, it is better by far than I expected. There is just twenty shillings to the good and your turnover must have done it. Hurray, says Harry. Now come up to Lakemans and we will treat ourselves to a bottle of wine on the strength of it. And we did, and were very thankful for the small result which was in fact a wonderful gain to us. During the whole of my stay at Camden we had no such drought again nor any such a bad year for profit. We got good prices and with a steady business made money rapidly. Notwithstanding Harry still went on the old way dealing everywhere, but always omitting to enter. I got annoyed and determined on first favourable opportunity to leave.

FATHER TO JOSEPH

It now appeared that Father had resolved to make over the business to Joseph, that is the Pitt Street business. In settling up there was the Lawyers A/c to square, and as nothing had been paid to Mr. Jas. Norton who always acted in legal matters for the house. Father said there must be a large bill to be paid extending over some years, say fifteen hundred pounds ought to cover it, and that amount was agreed upon. Joseph, knowing Norton a tremendous fellow to talk and very dilatory in business matters, went to see him with the resolve of making a final settlement.

LAW A/C

He took a book with him and sat down in the office and said, now Mr. Norton, I have come for the account you have against us and have brought this book to read whilst you have the A/c made out and do not intend to leave this office until it is all settled. Norton said, I have no account against you. He said, I know better, and mentioned one or two matters he had advised upon. Norton called him all the fools imaginable and still said I have no A/c against you, but if you will be such a fool sit down quickly and write fifty. Joe immediately took his cheque book which he had with him and wrote a cheque for fifty pounds. Norton took it and wrote a receipt in full of all demands and gave it to him. This was one of the best morning’s work Brother Joe had ever had, a clear gain of fourteen hundred and fifty pounds. He was evidently born under a lucky star. A little while after this Father asked me to join Joseph in the business to which I readily consented, but I don’t remember upon what terms.

LEAVE CAMDEN

I had now to settle up with Harry upon the basis of our last balance sheet and this also would be out of my mind. I know there was a few thousand pounds coming to me which it was arranged should extend over a time entirely convenient to Harry. Besides, I retained some horses and a good balance in the bank and an allotment in centre of town. Brother John used to work with old Uncle in the mattress making and became quite an expert with the needle. Brother Harry was doing his time as a miller with Barker & Hallen. Brother Joe used to declare he would never marry unless he could marry a man. I did not know at the time that he was paying his addresses to Eleanor Mann who he brought to the business house at Pitt Street as his wife. I had a snug little room on the first landing. John and I used to regularly attend the prayer meeting in the vestry of Pitt Street church on Sunday morning before breakfast.

PITT STREET SCHOOL

I forget if John attended Sunday School but I took a class under the Superindendence of Mr. Fairfax and had the two eldest sons of David Jones as scholars. After a while I said to the Super, you have given me a very bright youth in Philip and I feel sure he is destined one day to make a mark in the world, now Dr. Sir Philip Sydney Jones.

BUSHBY

Sister Susan had married Noah Bushby and was having a rapid family. It was a match I never approved and I tried my best to dissuade her from it and said I would give her all I possessed if she would give him up. After one Sunday morning prayer meeting John and I called to see how she was, being at the time very ill. We saw her in bed perfectly prostrate and she died that day. I don’t know what became of her children except that they went to Brisbane and some married. They were the recipients of Father’s will in the portion allotted to the mother and also of the residuary.

DR. LANG

Doctor Lang D. D. had brought from England a number of young men he hoped to train for the ministry. Some of them had a little money but not knowing the best way to take it to the colony applied to the doctor. His advice was to hand it over to him and they could get it on their arrival. One of them was employed as a draper by Father and he told me that when he, with the others applied to the doctor for their money, he told them he had used it in providing the ship and necessary things for their accommodation and none of them ever got a penny.

H. REEVE

This Mr. Reeve was a good young fellow and used to study with me for Sunday work. I, for the school, he for outside work. We had not much time for this seeing we did not close shop before eight o’clock and much later on Saturday. We were not then supplied with the splendid lesson books as now and had to trust to commentaries and any kind we could get to help us.

NIGHT SCHOOL

It occurred to me that it would be a good thing if a number of young people could be got together of an evening for the purpose of receiving instruction in the three R’s and with Reeve and any other we could get to help we made the attempt. We hired a room well suited for the purpose in Elizabeth Street once occupied as a school and capable of holding fifty scholars. We made a good beginning and soon had a room pretty full of both boys and girls. We had not much time commencing at eight after business and soon wanted some female help. A friend of Brother Joe’s wife, a Miss Hobson who used to visit at Pitt Street having heard of our doings offered her services which was readily accepted. We all got on very well and the scholars were making fair progress. They were principally employed during the day in various busines premises and all a very decent lot. Miss Hobson lived with her mother in Hunter Street who kept a shop for men’s wear of a first rate quality only and it fell to my lot knowing her to see her home and she made a rule of calling for me as it was on the road to school. We consequently became very friendly and I used sometimes to stay to supper, generally a very pretty and nice one. I don’t recall what was the cause of the break-up of the school but I think it was the premises having been let and no convenient place obtainable. In the meantime my Uncle James (one of Father’s brothers) arrived with his wife and three daughters, two were twins. The girls had received a first-class education and were good linguists. They opened a first-class school and soon made a mark. They were very particular in taking pupils and would not admit any whose parents were sent here. Some offered to greatly increase the fees if they would take their daughters, but it was no use. They did so well that they were able to keep their parents and buy an allotment in Macquarie Street upon which they had a fine building erected for their school and that gave them a standing second to none and they made a fortune.

JOHN RAE - MISS HOBSON

John Rae who was then Town Clerk was a frequent visitor and said they were such splendid young women that he did not know which to decide upon as his wife and finally took the youngest. It was always my pleasure to visit them as often as I could and when they found I was paying great attention to Miss Hobson they remonstrated with me and advised me to be less frequent in Hunter Street. She was a well-educated girl and it was a pleasure to take her for a drive to South Head occasionally. But I must not forget to mention that Mr. Evans who was assisting at Yass Stores had been introduced to her and desired to correspond to which she assented. As, however, he could not be often in Sydney he asked me to shepherd her. This I was doing and found it very pleasant as she made herself very agreeable. So much so that I sat down one evening and began to write a letter avowing my feelings, but did not complete it. I gave it her next time we met just as it was and it very nearly compromised me. I believe it would have been a decided case only for my cousins. Now I had to get out of it somehow so I asked her if she had any regard for me, seeing I was under an obligation to Evans not to speak to me for six months and after that things might be different.

COURTSHIP

She consented and in the meantime I was shown a letter written to a young man by Martha Foss. It took my fancy amazingly and I reasoned that any young lady who could write a letter like that ought to make a good wife. She was then engaged as organist at Pitt Street church and I determined to join the practice. I knew other young men were much afraid of Mr. Foss and did not like to approach for fear of being snubbed. I had no fear of that and it was an opportunity to take Martha home after practice. My dear mother used to invite her with her sisters to Macquarie Street to stay for a time and I had the opportunity of meeting her there. Sister Rebekah was then at the house and had made up her mind that I should have Mary Ann Haigh who had not long arrived from England. She was an old acquaintance who lived next door to us in London and Becky was much put out because I would not listen to her and proceeded to annoy Martha so that she had to go home. I was always welcome at her house. One night I offered to take her to see some dissolving views but she point blank refused and I asked Rhoda her sister to go. She readily consented and we had a pleasant time. Rhoda thought I was courting her and Miss Kirkman who was an elderly lady governess was very vexed with Martha for refusing to go with me. She saw which way the wind blew. I was only allowed to visit one day a week and on Sunday, indeed my other duties did not admit more, I was never a night disengaged. I had now fully made up my mind and on the Queen’s birthday the town was pretty well alive with fireworks and crackers were plentiful in Pitt Street. I took Martha from church practice by Castlereagh Street and it was then I asked her to be my wife. I did not receive her answer then and told her it would be better if she first named it to her parents, but her gentle pressure of my hand was sufficient answer for me. I had no doubt about the opinion of the parents. When the announcement went abroad I heard that more than one was disappointed. My parents were pleased and so were my cousins and so was I. We had a grand wedding. Mr. Foss was not the man to do things by halves and he was much put out when I requested him to invite one of my best friends; as he was no friend of Mr. Foss he declined. Very well, I said, unless you do, I will not be there. That took him quite aback and he sent the invitation that day.

WEDDING

On the day of the wedding I ordered a carriage and pair to take me from Macquarie Street to the church and when he came it was with a young horse that was being broken in. As soon as I saw that I said, do you suppose I will allow my bride to be taken to Parramatta behind a young horse like that. Go back and change it! This took half an hour and all were already waiting at the church wondering of course what could be keeping me. G. A. Lloyd offered to proceed with the ceremony by proxy. When I arrived, the church was pretty full especially the galleries and outside the street was thronged, carriages extending from Park to Bathurst Streets. A good breakfast was provided in the gateway at Mr. Foss’ and all passed off well. We spent a couple of days at Parramatta and had a horse and gig to drive to Richmond. We went across the river for a walk after a heavy thunderstorm and only got back in time before the river rose. We had a fine steady old horse in our gig and made a start for Penrith which we reached about three o’clock and put up at an Inn, the supposed best, but I did not like it and after consulting Martha resolved to drive on as far as Bringelly and put up at my friends Bell. It was a delightful drive, but having occasion to get down my beloved actually drove away and I had to run but just as I got up to her off she went and gave me the pleasure of a good half mile run. I had not calculated the distance and found Bell’s place much further than I expected and it became quite dark. Not being provided with lights I began to get a little uneasy and had to drive very slowly with great care.

BROKEN BRIDGE

All at once the horse stopped, I jumped out to see what was the matter when I found the horse walking on a log with each wheel on another, most fortunately as it happened, as we had reached a completely broken-down bridge. It took me some time after getting Martha out to back the horse on to solid ground. It was so dark that I could not see where to cross the creek. Not far off there was a hut so I made for it and found a cross old woman who was exceedingly uncivil, but I persuaded her to show the way on to the main road which happened to be through her paddock. My way was now clear and we trudged along but did not reach Bells till ten o’clock. They were pleased but greatly surprised to see us not expecting such an arrival and it put them a little about to accommodate us. We stayed a couple of days and then drove to Camden where we were expected. I had a beautiful horse called Sally which I used to ride to Cobbity church and delighted to show her off as she was fond of prancing and to my mind looked splendid and was much admired by the young ladies, but this was before I was married. Martha jumped at the idea of a ride on horseback and Sally was just the horse so away we went and enjoyed ourselves much. I took her one day to see some land I had bought at The Oaks a ride of eight or more miles which she greatly enjoyed. Not so however an interview I had with the man who used to rent the farm I had bought. He was fearfully angry with me as it appeared he wanted to get the place at a less price than I gave and threatened to do me some grievous bodily harm. Dear Martha was greatly put about and much frightened, but it was only his temper got the best of him and I had to appeal to a friend at hand to quiet him whilst we rode away. It was a long ride for Martha but she was none the worse next day, having enjoyed ourselves for a month we returned to Sydney. Joseph had now occupied the cottage at Pott’s Point so we had to take the Pitt Street house.

PITT STREET

A pretty drawing room and sitting room in front, a large dining room and small bedroom at rear and three bedrooms on top floor besides one small one for uncle Samuel. Most of the shop assistants lived on the premises and besides the house rooms there was a large bedroom at the rear over the storeroom and stables. My dear wife had to cater for all and her experience at home was only for six months which I stipulated for on my engagement. She was very bold when I first told her what her duties would be if she married me and entered upon household duties at once. In this of course her parents cheerfully assisted for I must say they were not a little pleased at the engagement.

DINNER

It was not long before a little unpleasantness occurred. There were twenty besides domestics to cater for and one day there was only one whole joint and a madeup dish on the table. As soon as I saw the covers off I said to Martha, who was at the end of the table, is this all? Why this is only enough for the first set. What about the others. She was greatly put out and nearly broke down, but fortunately left the room. I saw I had made a mistake in reproving her before the young men. As soon as they left I found her in the front room and at once begged her pardon as I felt I ought to do. In the meantime she had arranged for a fresh supply and the second lot were well satisfied. It is needless to say it never occurred again. Everything had gone up in price and the amount allowed for housekeeping had not been increased. It therefore became a difficult problem to make both ends meet and my beloved was trying to do so, but as that was not possible on three pounds a week it became necessary to increase the amount. Everything was going on as usual until the gold discovery, but that was before I was married so I must pass over that period. We were very happy and used to enjoy ourselves of an evening with singing and music, two or three nights a week visiting friends, other two and entertaining. On Saturday night I was always studying for my Sunday School class.

DR. JONES

One of my scholars was Master Philip Sydney Jones, now Sir Philip Sydney Jones. Mr. John Fairfax was then superintendent and when he placed this young gentleman in my class I soon had occasion to tell him he had given me a very intelligent youth and one who would certainly some day leave his mark upon the world.

SUNDAY SCHOOL DISMISSAL

Once a month it was the custom of the different social churches to meet. (I mean the Sunday School teachers) for an afternoon prayer meeting. This was always a happy time for me and it was I think for most of the teachers. A short time after Mr. Fairfax resigned the Super. and Mr. Tuting was appointed. I don’t remember the cause of his giving it up, but it fell to my lot to be appointed. All went well with an increase of scholars. It was a difficult matter to keep all in order as some boys were very unruly, but I would not put up with it and determined to make an example. I had to think over and pray hard for wisdom to guide me and finally resolved to dismiss one of the boys. It was a hard task and I nearly broke down as I felt the ultimate consequences to the lad. It caused a great sensation in the school and there was no further trouble, the whole discipline was improved and all went on satisfactorily. The poor boy was evidently much distressed and came with his mother to beg to be taken back. Of course he was duly received and became one of the best boys in the school and turned out a good man.

REMOVAL TO REDFERN

It now became necessary for me to remove from the business premises and I rented a cottage at Redfern. I continued my position at the Sunday School and used to walk in every Sunday. It was easy to arrange for dinner and Martha and I used to dine usually at her fathers. This becoming inconvenient we got our transfer from Pitt Street to Redfern Church under the pastorate of Rev. Joseph Beazley. Dr. Ross was very jealous of losing any of his members and did not like any other opening near Pitt Street for fear of losing more members.

SUNDAY SCHOOL

The Redfern Church flourished as there was a good opening and the population increasing fast. There was a good Sunday School under the Superintendance of Mr. Pritchard and as he had to remove from the neighbourhood I was asked to take the place. But on examination of the boys I declined feeling sure I could not manage such a rough lot, but suggested a Mr. Richardson who had the senior boys class. I promised to take the senior girls, being afraid of the boys. I soon had a good number of girls and spent a very happy time with them. I always opened my class with prayer and after school persuaded most of the class to remain for prayer. My object was to induce them to pray, so I left them to themselves and after a time they asked me to remain with them. It was a real pleasure to hear some of them and we were a happy company. It was some years after that I was addressed by a very nice-looking young woman in Pitt Street. How do you do Mr. Thompson? Thank you, very well, but you have the advantage of me for I don’t know who you are! Don’t you remember Elizabeth Medway in your class at Redfern Sunday School? Here was one of the number, a member of the church, a mother of children and walking in the fear of the Lord. Most of the other girls I believe were following in the way of righteousness.

EFFECT OF GOLD DISCOVERY

The discovery of gold in payable quantities caused a vast change in the value of property and for a time rents went down and some thought there was a prospect of very bad times. I remember hearing of that eminent Lawyer W. C. Wentworth who was a large station owner and under very large liabilities on A/c of them to the Bank of New South Wales. A friend saw him one day looking very dejected and miserable on his way to the bank to draw his last pound and give up all his property as all his station hands had left and the sheep and cattle had no one to look after them; he said he was literally ruined. His friend said, never mind the bank, come and have dinner with me and we will talk it over. In the meantime if you are hard up and want a few pounds you can have it from me. His idea was that before long there would be a great inrush of people from all over the world and rents would go up and all property increase in value. Labour would be plentiful because many would not succeed in getting gold and your stations will be well manned. It is needless to say this was the correct view of the situation. In a short time, Wentworth was a wealthy man and was able to clear off all his mortgages.

LEAVE REDFERN

I wanted to renew my term for the cottage at Redfern, but my landlord wanted nearly double rent. That I would not pay and gave notice to leave. Father came to my rescue and offered me quarters in Macquarie Street. This was arranged that I should pay part of household expenses and my wife have part management. Father was building on Edgecliff Road a cottage for himself and mother and offered if I would live with them to put an upper floor for me and mine. I consented on condition that Martha should take the duty of management. I don’t think it was all agreeable to dear mother although she consented.

MACQUARIE STREET

In Macquarie Street we occupied the top floor and in summertime it was not rather warm but frightfully hot. Martha was nursing a little baby and it had a raging fever. I proposed a wet bandage and Acconite. She gave the latter but would not apply the bandage. Well, I said, you go down stairs and leave the baby to me. I put on the bandage and waited a short time before I called her and handed over the dear one quite free from fever. It was very hot at night having a westerly aspect, but for this we were very happy and both father and mother were well pleased and happy also. Father let the house to Mr. Watt of Gilchrist & Co. at four hundred a year and afterwards to Mr. John Algan at three hundred I think.

HILLS ORCHARD

Father had bought a fine Landau and a pair of good horses. Father, mother, myself and wife took a drive to Hill’s Orangery on the North Shore. It was a delightful drive on a beautiful fine day which all enjoyed very much. We received a hearty welcome and were delighted with the golden fruit as exhibited on the trees which covered many acres. The fruit looked very tempting but we were not allowed to take any. Mr. Hill apologised and informed us he had sold the entire crop for a thousand pounds to a Melbourne man. All he had to do was to assist in picking and packing. The fruit looked very fine in size, but we were informed had little flavour. This was caused by the treatment the trees received. Mr. Hill was a butcher and had made arrangements to receive the offal from the slaughter yards. This was boiled down on the farm and the fat paid the expenses. The residue was put into a pit and allowed to rot. This was spread round every tree and the result a vigorous growth which put forth large fruit in abundance but destitute of flavour. Dear mother never liked Maravi it took her away from her friends in the city and altho’ she had the carriage at command she longed to be back at Macquarie Street.

FATHER’S DEATH 1858

Father did not long enjoy the change. He was not well for a short time but did not rally so the doctor was sent for. One Sunday morning 11th July, 1858 the doctor came early and after he had seen father I asked him if there was any immediate danger because if so I would not leave. He replied, Oh no, I don’t think so, you may safely go to church, as the carriage was ready and waiting. My dear wife said I won’t go as she did not like father’s looks. Well, I drove off and picked up Brother Jim on the road. I asked him to go back with me after service. When we reached Edgecliff Road we saw Dr. Ross and Mr. Nott coming to meet us with the object of breaking the news of the death at ten minutes past one o’clock. I was driving and the shock caused me to drop the reins which fortunately the coachman gathered up.

CHOICE OF MACQUARIE ST. HOUSE

Before father left Macquarie Street he told me he was making his will and wished me to make choice of Macquarie Street house or the house at Edgecliff road. I at once decided on the former especially as it was freehold and the other leasehold. I cannot understand why father purposely left me out of the residuary. Mr. I. Fairfax, when he read the will, said it was a very just one with two exceptions. I think he referred to this and Sister Sarah. He was very much opposed to her marriage of a deceased wife’s sister.

T. BARDWELL

Thomas Bardwell, brother to Harry’s wife, was formerly a squatter at Tarcutta and on intimate terms. He had sold his station to his brother Charles and wanted a wife. Tried it on with an old friend of mine in Mary Thomson and did not succeed, but blamed me for putting her off altho’ I don’t know how. He became very melancholy and said he would commit suicide and would like to jump off the Rocks at South Head. He had a horse and gig in town and asked me to take a ride one day as far as South Head. I remembered his former conversation and when we got there I called his intention to it and led the way to the edge of the cliff. Now Tom! Here is a nice place, a short leap and all will be over. Come along. As I expected he turned round and declined and we drove home, I think all the better for the trip and putting his courage to the test. He went to Melbourne and met an Irish widow who persuaded him to marry her. She was a clever woman but no beauty. If he had taken her advice she would have saved him from ruin, I mean financially.

CHANGE TO WHOLESALE

Neither Joseph nor myself were brought up to the drapery business. All I knew was what I had picked up (after leaving the merchant’s office) during six months behind the counter at Pitt Street. Joseph was apprenticed to the sea under Mr. Fletcher of Stepney and knew nothing of the business. Under these circumstances it need not be wondered that we both preferred giving up the retail for the wholesale. We ordered freely for goods from England and were very glad to announce to the public our determination. We had done fairly well at the retail and already had a fair lot of customers for the wholesale.

MATE OF ALBURY

Mr. Mate of Albury was one of our very best and it was a pleasure to see the teams loaded with cases for him leaving the premises.

EVANS

Mr. Evans was an assistant with Rees Jones at Yass and having a good offer from Mate arranged with him for a partnership at Albury. The gold discovery at the Ovens gave them an enormous trade, but Evans was very jealous of any opposition and would not even engage more assistance but worked night and day to secure the trade. Melbourne being nearer than Sydney all their remittances were sent there and Mate admitted to the clergyman that there were thousands of pounds to his credit there which he hardly knew how to account for. Evans considered that his share was equal to ten thousand pounds when his term of agreement expired. In his desperate hurry Evans would receive monies from customers and place it behind goods on a shelf, give a receipt but forget to give credit to the customer. Mate found some of these monies and took possession without informing Evans. Instead he proposed a fresh agreement. Having full confidence in Mate and the business so flourishing Evans said anything you please as there is no time to go into figures and it is impossible to take stock now so it was arranged that he should continue at a salary of a thousand a year. In the meantime Mate had found the persons who had paid their accounts and obtained the receipts in Evans name. On the strength of this he issued a summons against Evans for embezzelment, had him tried, convicted and imprisoned!!! Evans was so indifferent that he omitted to take proper advice never believing Mate would do such a thing. The next time Mate came to Sydney for his usual purchases Joseph met him in the shop and told him to leave immediately as he could not look upon him as an honest man and would have no more dealings with him. Mate’s gain in this iniquitous transaction was the amount that fairly belonged to Evans which was forfeited on his conviction.

WOOLLAHRA - SUNDAY SCHOOL

There was no church nearer than Darling Point and no Congregational nearer than Sydney so we used to meet at Mr. Buzacott’s and Dr. Ross would read one of his old sermons. I commenced a prayer meeting in Moncur St. at a cottage belonging to Mr. Kingston and on Wednesday evenings used to have as many as a dozen. There were a good many houses about and I tried to hire a room for a Sunday School, but ten shillings for a room was too much. Application was then made to D. Cooper for a site for a school and church and he very readily gave us the position now occupied by the wooden building for a lease of ninety-nine years. A strenuous effort was then made for money to build and we were not long before we had enough to commence with. It was a small building but large enough for the place. I commenced school and on the first Sunday had eight teachers and four scholars. These soon increased. I used to ask each to bring another next Sunday and in time as the houses increased we had over one hundred. I forget now but I think we eventually reached two hundred.

JOHN WEST

Rev. J. West in conjunction with Dr. Ross took the services. The doctor in the morning and Mr. West in the evening and there was a fair congregation.

THOS. BINNIE

The Rev. Thos. Binnie had arrived from England and had preached at nearly every church of our order to the great delight of overflowing congregations. He was staying with John Fairfax at Guinegulla and in conversation with Mr. F. said why should I not have a quiet Sunday at the little church on the Point Piper Road. I had promised if Mr. Binnie could be persuaded to preach for us to let the people know. It so happened that it was on a Friday that he offered and I received a notice to meet Mr. F. and Dr. R. at the latter’s house on Friday evening. There was no time to let the people know and if it were advertized in the newspapers there would in all probability be a crowd of strangers to the exclusion of our own people. To meet the difficulty, Mr. F. offered to have some placards printed if I would get them posted. This was one to notify that Rev. Thos. Binnie would preach morning and evening. It was a small church and was soon crowded. The vestry was a very small one on the north side and the whole building being of wood, any voice above a whisper could be heard all over it. It unfortunately commenced to rain just as Mr. B. with Mr. F. was near the spot and when he came into the vestry he plumped himself down in a chair. Dr. Ross was there and myself. With panting breath Mr. Binnie said “By whose orders were those posters placed all over the place”. I never said I would preach twice. I wanted a quiet Sunday. I looked at the doctor who bowed his head and looked on the floor. I said to myself I can stand it better than you so I replied, by my orders, sir, and gave my reason. You had no right to do anything of the kind, etc., and in a voice that was heard all over the building. When he entered the desk he called me and requested me to ask a woman with a baby to go outside as it might distract her thoughts. I went to the first woman I saw with a baby and asked her to take a seat in the porch which she did. It so happened however that it was not the woman he referred to, but all is well that ends well and no disturbance occurred. At their dinner Mr. Fairfax told him how it all happened and took his share of the blame. When he came to preach in the evening he said to me, I am very sorry I spoke to you as I did this morning as I find you were not to blame. We certainly had an exposition of one of the Psalms that thrilled every nerve and delighted all who were there and a grand sermon at evening. No wonder he was held in high esteem for his ability and preaching power. He has his eccentricities and made no scruple of placing things to his likings or convenience. He would throw cushions on the floor, order the windows to be opened or shut, etc. The Sunday School was progressing and I had a good many teachers. We were altogether a very happy family and I believe I had gained the affections of both teachers and scholars.

PICNIC

I gave them a picnic to Quarantine grounds and spent a most enjoyable day. We went there in the “Eclipse” yacht, about thirty in all, but all were so engrossed in the pleasures that we did not leave till after sundown, but with the sun, the wind also went down and we could not get further home than Bradley’s Head and it was nearly twelve o’clock. We had a dingy to carry four and they determined to put me ashore at Darling Point. I don’t remember how the others fared but the yacht did not get to the moorings till six a.m.

TEACHER’S MEETING

I used to have the teacher’s meetings at the house ’Maravi’ very frequently and it was always a great pleasure to them as well as ourselves and was the means of strengthening the bonds of good fellowship and love and was always a happy time. It would be a good thing for the present schools if that plan was more in evidence. There seems to be a great want of something to induce more of the young men to take an interest in school and church duties and social meetings of an evening combined with business would be a means for good.

YASS STORE

Father made a purchase from Isaac Levy of a store at Yass with option of purchase of freehold for £600. I was deputed to take possession. The purpose was to assist Sister Ann, wife of Rees Jones. I took stock and saw everything made over in due form. It was summer time and pretty hot. I had made a rose for shower bath and with the lad (who was a help) enjoyed ourselves after work with the water from the well until one day we could not make the pump work and on examination we found to our great disappointment the well was empty. After that the water for domestic purposes had to be drawn from the river.

REES JONES

Rees Jones once had a large business in Sydney as grocer, etc., and added that of chemist engaging a young man to conduct that branch. He did so well that Rees was persuaded to send him to England to purchase goods and gave him money for the purpose. The temptation was too much for the young man and it resulted in his never being heard of again.

HARRY TO NEW ZEALAND

Rees was evidently a speculator and he made arrangements with Brother Harry to go to New Zealand with what ultimate advantage I don’t know. Harry was well provided with a good stock and a number of cattle. Kiapara was the port, but most unfortunately the vessel was wrecked going in and poor Harry had to swim to shore with his cask in gold round his neck and that nearly cost his life. He got ashore and only saved one cow. He did no good and on his return to Sydney joined me at the Cowpasture store.

TO MELBOURNE

Being so far on the road I determined to visit Melbourne and had a delightful ride on mail coach and reached the city without accident. One of my chief reasons for taking this trip was to see a young lady I knew when she was pupil at my cousin’s school. Of course it was very little I knew of her but she seemed a nice and likely one and I wanted to know more of her. She was the eldest daughter of Mr. Williamson, one of the leading drapers of Melbourne. I received a welcome when I called from the parents but the young lady seemed rather distant and gave me no encouragement. I called again but got no further and after a few days took passage in the Hyrondale schooner for Sydney. There were no steamers in those days. When I went to the wharf the ship’s boat was at waiting, but in consequence of the heavy sea could not come alongside. I threw my luggage on board and had to wait while the boat was backed to the wharf and jump.

TO SYDNEY

We had a fair wind and bowled along at a good pace and were off Botany Heads on the third day when the wind dropped and we were becalmed. I asked the captain to put me ashore as I thought I could easily walk home, but he only laughed at me and I am glad he refused. At that time Botany was very little known and no road formed. I would have got bushed and likely enough would have had to camp out for a night. A black north easter set in and we had a fine time beating against it for four days and was not I glad when we entered Sydney Heads.

PROPERTY MELBOURNE

When in Melbourne I had a good opportunity of purchasing some really good property at a very low price and wrote to Joseph for his consent. The reply I got was you have been quite long enough away, come home at once. As it turned out the purchase would have proved a good one as many thousands were made by the fortunate buyer. The general routine of business followed, but it was not to my liking. I had not been brought up to it and had to cross young men who had and some of whom really understood it.

LATE HOURS

Late hours was another objection having to keep open till ten o’clock and on Saturday till twelve. One night a thundering knocking at the front or side door awoke me. It was a policeman who informed me that the front shop door was open. It was Saturday night and being tired out I suppose I had left without looking as was my duty before going to bed. We made a good overhaul, but no one was found nor anything missed.

VICTORIA GOLD

The discovery of gold at Ballarat aroused the whole population and a simultaneous rush was made to the goldfields. Some fabulous finds of the glittering treasure were reported and a stream of people from overseas soon flooded Melbourne and the diggings. The result caused an immense and altogether unusual demand for goods of every description. As ships arrived the crews deserted for the goldfields and it was with the utmost difficulty that the cargoes could be got ashore and when they were landed they were left upon the beach which became literally strewn with goods of every description and a great quantity got spoiled with rain and salt water. Buildings were not enough to hold the new arrivals and the shores were soon converted into a canvas town and rents were fabulously high. A large packing case that had contained rocking horses was bought for ten pounds and soon was erected in a gateway for a rent of some pounds per week. It was a place for the purchase of gold. Scores were soon returning with their fortunes made and money was never before so plentiful in Melbourne. Large nuggets were found of pure gold weighing many pounds and the excitement was intense. Buildings were erected everywhere notwithstanding the price of labour and material. Bricks were imported from England and iron houses by the score, many of the latter were never removed from the shore.

TRADE WITH MELBOURNE

The Melbourne houses speedily ran short of goods and had obtained unheard of prices for their stocks. They had to look to Sydney for further supplies. One morning as I drove up to office I saw three Melbourne men waiting at the door. No sooner than it was opened they made a rush, one to each floor. I took the manchester and my buyer made an almost complete sweep of the whole department. His eagerness to buy caused me to raise my prices and as each article was named he invariably asked if we had any unopened cases of the same and was willing to take all we had at fifty per cent advance. We had a heavy stock of expensive paisley shawls both long and square. All were taken and our stock throughout was pretty well cleared out. We had great difficulty in getting cases and had to employ a carpenter to secure them when full. Anything useful at the diggings realized extraordinary prices, for instance we had several cases of leather leggings invoiced at five shillings per pair. We kept some for our regular customers and the rest we sent to auction where they sold at fifteen shillings per pair. Another difficulty arose in getting the goods shipped and our carts had to wait a day and night in the road to get their turn to unload. There was a line of drays from the A. S. N. Cos. wharf in Sussex Street extending to Hay Street quite a mile long. The steam boats freight was just what the Co. chose to make it and submission was inevitable, but no objection was made. Our stocks of goods being so reduced with a large display of empty shelves it became a question of replenishing. We had a consultation as to the best method and it was decided to order largely. I did not agree with that as I considered everyone in the trade would probably do the same. In that case a plethora of goods would result, besides people in England would speculate and send goods on spec. and flood our market. The Melbourne people also would have sent their orders and would not become purchasers again. Our orders were however sent. Brother John now in the same business with Mr. Dawson consulted me and having told him our determination his firm resolved to order very sparingly. The result was as I anticipated. We had only our usual customers to supply and goods arriving by every ship, we had to hire a large store to house them as our own premises were chock full. Those who had not ordered had now their chance and could buy in the open market at fifty per cent off invoice. The consequence was we were undersold in almost every line and many of our customers went elsewhere. Notwithstanding our enormous stocks we had to buy in the market to keep our name up and accommodate our customers. It was now that D & T embraced the opportunity and could get all the goods they required under English cost. It was a fortune for them whilst it was all we could do to hold our own. Joseph was in England and employed a Mr. Nash as financial agent. All our remittances were sent to him and he charged a commission on all payments.

WILLIAM THOMPSON

Sometime after this Cousin William Thompson came from London with a shipment of useful goods and an arrangement was made to take him into partnership. He was not a business man but a good accountant and the new firm was I. W. & S. Thompson. William objected to having his name last, but I did not mind it and gave way altho’ my interest was double his. One day I had a good customer and he was looking on whilst I was serving and I had occasion to use the personal pronoun and say I will do so and so if you take so much I will go so and so.. Before we closed he said to me, I don’t like your way of using the personal pronoun, you ought to say we will do so and so. I felt annoyed and said, Oh get out!! What difference can that make. I see nothing wrong in it, but to him it appeared a lowering of his dignity and not being satisfied with my reply went to father and made his complaint to him. Father saw me about it, but I only laughed at it and called William a fool for his pains. I never liked him afterwards, he was quite useless in the business and I was glad when it was arranged for him to leave. He took a situation as accountant in the Bank of N.S.W. and after became manager of a branch in Warwick, Queensland, where he died. As I had done so well at storekeeping at Camden my ideas always tended that way. We had customers in almost every district and in some reposed much confidence and induced us to launch out pretty extensively with one named Richardson and bought the premises in which he was carrying on his business.

RICHARDSON & ARALUEN & BRAIDWOOD

The carriage of goods was very expensive by land and Richardson knowing the district well, suggested the idea of opening a road from the coast, more especially as the trade was opening fast at a place known as Araluen where gold was freely got and the chief business was to be done there. We were getting three hundred a year rent for the property we had purchased and all things seemed to be going well. Richardson was a good customer. He persuaded us to open the road and we advanced the money for the purpose. We tried to get the government to do it, but failed and having no right to the road more than others we soon found our mistake. It became the main road to Araluen and the business at Braidwood fell off so much that the store was shut up and instead of a rental we had to pay a caretaker. Richardson died and we had to put someone in charge. Sent Larcombe & Pepper who never did any good for us and finally gave it up.

LARCOMBE TO NEW ZEALAND

We sent Larcombe to New Zealand to see if he could find an opening for trade. He took a lease of some land for a store at Kiapara, but we declined to complete and it came to nothing. Both Joseph and I thought we knew something of business, but on reflection I now believe we were both very ignorant of it and excessively foolish. Somehow, we were infatuated with this young man and sent him to Brisbane where we bought a retail business and started him in it. He could not make it pay and gave it up. We sent a man we knew little about, a relative of Mr. Pope of Farmer & Co. to manage it. He likewise made a muddle and put me to great expense and a heavy loss. I had a Bill of Sale over all. I used to draw Bills on him to cover the stock of some few thousand pounds and these had to be provided for when due, usually by renewals sometimes they were paid. I forget what brought about the stoppage. Pope came to me and asked what I meant to do and like the fool I was we did not agree as we might have done. Pope had become joint surety for an overdraft at the bank in favour of Haughton the young man in charge, and when he left me telegraphed at once to him to put the estate into the insolvent court.

FIGHT AT BRISBANE

Having the Bill of Sale, which however was not to be found, I under advice of my Solicitor fought the official assignee and instructed my man who I had sent from Sydney to turn out the man the O. F. had put into possession. This was done and a prolonged tussle ensued. Several times either side were put out and many men were engaged on both sides until it had to be given up by me as it was becoming too expensive. I had another Bill of Sale drawn and paid duty of £100 to complete, but it was no good and I finally sold my interest to Mr. Pope for two shillings and six pence in the pound. Sometime after this the original Bill of Sale was found at the bottom of one of the drawers of the safe. I think it would have saved me had it been found at the time. My loss over this was a very heavy one. The business was afterwards repurchased by the original seller who I believe did very well.

TOOWOOMBA LORD’S BUSINESS

We had a good business at Toowoomba. This is a small town on the top of the range commencing with the Darling Downs, a truly magnificent country. A man named Lord carried it on first at Drayton, a few miles nearer the Downs proper but he did not make a success of it and in fact became considerably indebted to us. He was rather a speculator and very anxious to introduce the German emigrant, himself being well able to talk their language. I forget how we became linked in the matter. Anyhow he went to Germany in the hope of getting a shipload of emigrants but returned without any. Whether he induced any to follow I don’t know. In the meantime his wife carried on the business, pretty successfully but his indebtedness was too heavy for our books.

SECURITY

Joseph went up to arrange matters and took as security the house and land at Drayton with more at Toowoomba including several buildings and the store, also a suburban allotment at Brisbane and some houses at Kangaroo Point. When Joseph returned he arranged with the firm to take over all these properties for two thousand pounds. I had no idea of their value at the time but when the allotment adjoining Brisbane was sold it brought more than the two thousand. I was at Brisbane when it was thought a good time to arrange for the sale. I saw Mr. Harris the owner of the adjoining allotment which led down a steep to the river. I wanted him to join in giving half of a new road, but he refused because his land had but a very small portion level before it fell rapidly to the river. The frontage was about fifteen hundred feet. I named a hundred pounds as a fair thing for giving him the frontage out of our land, he would not agree to this.

BRISBANE LAND

I engaged a surveyor to mark out the land and instructed him to reserve three feet along the whole frontage. This was done and in due course plans made and offered for sale. Harris then wrote to say he would give the £100 for a right to the new road. My reply was you are too late the price is now £200. After waiting a month and very indignantly he would give the £200. My reply was again, you must now double that and I want £400. This was too much for him and the matter so far as he was concerned dropped. On my next visit to Brisbane I took my lodgings at the same place with Mr. Forest who had bought one of the chief lots at £400 the acre and in talking over the matter he said I have also bought Harris’ lot leading down to the river. Oh, I said, have you? But how are you to get to it. Why, he said, I shall fence it right down to the river. Then I told him he had no frontage except the river as we held three feet over which he would have to trespass and which I forbid. He was rampant and would see Harris at once. All the satisfaction he got there was I only sold you my land. I had nothing to do with Thompsons, but you ought to have told me!!! Forest said. It was now evident my friend had to make some arrangement with me and we agreed for fifteen shillings per foot which he readily gave and finally the whole was sold for about £1400. Joseph had a great bargain in this as this land gave back the £2000 he gave for the whole. There now remained several good houses on Kangaroo Point and six small ones subject to flood, besides the Toowoomba properties. Not long after this Joseph decided to leave the business and when he told me it took me quite aback and I nearly broke down. I don’t know how I felt excepting that I should not be able to manage it, but that it was my duty to try. No one could have acted more liberally. There was about fifteen thousand pounds to his credit in the books which I was to pay off by degrees and he with Brother John were sureties to the bank for ten thousand pounds. The English debts were considerable, but there was a very large stock and a good business to meet all. To any really good business man it was a fortune. I began at the wrong end and our London agent Mr. Nash was making a large commission of 2 1/2% on all purchases. Our imports were often forty thousand pounds per month and my determination was to get rid of him. It did not take long to do that and I then sent one of my hands named Selby to take his place. This seemed to work well and the plan was continued, the business went steadily on when my brother-in-law Tom Foss turned up. He had joined L. Threlkeld, Auctioneer, in the purchase of a sheep station in North Queensland and went to live there. He knew nothing whatever about the business and soon tired of it and came to Sydney. I employed him in the warehouse out of compassion as he could not get anything to do. Threlkeld asked me to join him in carrying on the station. I always had a desire for an interest in such and after consulting Tom Foss and getting a fairly good account of it accepted Threlkelds offer of £400 cash to take over the liabilities with him. He was too shrewd for me and I soon found myself with the whole liability in Promissory Notes which he got discounted to carry on with. This it appears is the usual method at least he persuaded me so and had good seasons followed perhaps it would have succeeded, but the dry seasons followed and the sheep had to be shifted and additional expenses incurred. Even then we could have held on until better seasons when I believe it would have paid. I went up to the station with a friend and was well pleased with most of all I saw. On returning to Sydney I found things all right at the business, all going on in the usual way. But a rumour was about that Threlkeld was in difficulties. This alarmed me on seeing him I found it too true and induced him to give me some land at Burwood as security. To my astonishment my name soon became attached to Threlkeld and I soon found all the banks were aware of my bills being in Threlkelds hands and my credit was ruined. I retired all the bills except one which I was never asked to pay and I never knew why.

CREDIT

My difficulty now was with the credit at bank for which Joseph & John were responsible. I determined to pay that off and release them in the hope they would assist me afterwards, but they never did altho’ I must give Joseph credit for his offer to return to the business and carry it on, but I thought my difficulties were so great that it would only involve him and refused. Oh, how foolish that was and I have repented of it ever since. I had my English creditors to think of, but to pay off the £10,000 to the bank I pledged the whole of my bulk stock to Sandy Campbell and made a good arrangement to take up any part for stock trade by paying for each package as I wanted it. In this way I kept the business going. In the meantime, not being able to remit to London, my credit there was stopped and the creditors had a meeting to consider what was to be done. The result was the appointment of a Mr. Lyall to act on their behalf. He was an accountant in Melbourne and I had to assign my estate to him. He acted fairly and gentlemanly with me and it was finally arranged that I should have the estate back for ten shillings in the pound. In some way I was made acquainted with a statement made by Ebenezer Vickery that he was very willing to assist me if I made application. This I did and he generously bought back the estate for me. I gave him pro notes for the same and paid him four thousand pounds for himself. I must have stood pretty high in the estimation of my fellow citizens because there was another friend in George Thornton who was also anxious to help me. Well, I started business again and my greatest ambition was to pay back Vickery as soon as possible and this I did!! He very generously offered me the privilige of retaining the greatest portion of his money to carry on my business, but my pride stood in the way with the usual result that I acted foolishly and soon found the bank would not discount for me. Had I been wise I should have sought a good man as partner, the business was well established and could have been made very profitable.

26th April, 1905