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- I
i
3
1
[ .> .^ ^ ^LL1_ ^
9 BSQUBST OF E
a Elizabbth Lewis 1
Bequest of
Xlizabbth Lewh
RECORDS OF THE CAPE COLONY.
EEOOEDS
OF THE
CAPE COLONY
From JANUARY 1820 to JUNE 1821.
COPIED FOR THE CAPE GOVERNMENT, PROM THE
MANUSCRIPT DOCUMENTS IN THE PUBLIC
RECORD OFFICE, LONDON,
BY
GEORGE M^CALL THEAL, D.Lit., LL.D.,
OOLONIAL HI8T0BI00BAPHEIU
VOL. XIII,
PRINTED FOR
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE CAPE COLONY.
1902.
lovdoh:
nuxtkd bt william clow0 avd 80v8, umttsd,
ditkb stksrr, 8tamvobo stkkbt, 8.ft., amd obbat wikomill 8trrbt,
• * * •
"^-^--t^-f-iKir
CONTENTS.
■Ot
DATB
1820
20 Jan.
21 Jan.
22 Jan.
23 Jan.
25 Jan.
27 Jan.
28 Jan.
31 Jan.
IFeb.
4 Feb.
6 Feb.
7 Feb.
10 Feb.
11 Feb.
n
12 Feb.
16 Feb.
PAQB
17 Feb.
10 Feb.
25 Feb.
Letter from Mr. Riohard Watson to Earl Bathurst • ,
Letter Arom J. Potter Maoqueen, Esqre., to Henry Qoulburn,
Esqre ' . . . •
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Henry Gtoulbum, Esqre
i>
>»
»
Eoclosure : Rules for Mr. Parker's party of Settlers
Letter from Mr. William Wait to Henry Qoulbum, Esqre.
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
Proclamation by Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin . •
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Proclamation by Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin • «
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Major Holloway to Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin
Letter from Mr. C. T. Thornhill to Henry Gtoulbum, Esqre,
Letter from Mr. T. P. Courtenay to Henry Goulbum, Esqre,
Enclosures concerning the Printing Department •
Letter from Mr. John Stanley to Henry Gbulbum, Esqre.
Advertisement concerning the opening of a Roman Catholic
Chapel •
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Mr. Benjamin Moodie to Lieutenant Colonel
Bird
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Enclosure : Memorial of the Widow Baumgardt •
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
n
f>
91
» n 91
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset •
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Bird to the Landdrost of
Uitenhage
28 Feb. Letter from Joseph Plantaf, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn,
Esqre
Eoclosure : Concerning proposed settlers from Embden
1 March. Report upon KafTraria by Lieutenant Ives Stocker
2
3
4
5
9
10
11
12
14
16
16
17
17
18
19
20
21
21
23
23
25
26
28
29
29
31
31
32
VI
Contents.
DATE
1820
2 March.
4 March.
7 March.
8 March.
9 March.
20 March.
21 March.
22 March.
23 March.
w
26 March.
27 March.
28 March.
>f
30 March.
31 March.
1 ApriL
2ApriL
3 April.
n
6AprU.
12 ApriL
17 ApriL
18 ApriL
20 ApriL
24 ApriL
26 ApriL
26 ApriL
28 ApriL
29 ApriL
4 May,
Letter from Military Secretary GT. J. Rogers to Assistant
Gommissary General Balph Eogerson.
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Letter from Land Smrveyor Knobel to the Landdrost of
Uitenhage
Letter from Mr. Henry Nourse to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Sir Bufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Henry Gbulbum, Esqro., to' Lord Charles
Somerset
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset .
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Landdrost of
Uitenhage .......
Distribution of Land to Settlers by the Chapman and
Nautilus .....••
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst .
Letter from Rear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre.
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Mr. Neil Macniell to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Return of Troops on the Frontier ....
Letter from the Military Secretary to the Assistant Com
missary General ......
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Captain Moresby .
Letter from Mr. Thomas Woodhouse to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset ........
Lett^ from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
19
n
99
Letter from Inspector G. T. Rogers to the Colonial Secretary
Letter from the Reverend William Wright to Henry
Goulburn, Esqre.
Letter from Thomas Lack, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
If i» II •
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst .
Letter from the Earl of Clanwilliam to Henry Goulburn,
Esqre.
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst .
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Major Rogers
PAGE
81
82
83
84
85
85
86
86
87
91
91
92
92
94
95
96
96
97
98
98
103
103
104
106
107
108
109
110
110
111
111
114
115
115
116
116
117
Contents,
wi
1820
5 May.
»
9 May.
10 May.
12 May.
14 May.
15 May.
16 May.
17 May.
ft
18 May.
19 May.
20 May.
»
21 May.
22 May.
9»
23 May.
24 May.
n
»f
27 May.
28 May.
29 May.
30 May.
»9
31 May.
6 June.
8 June.
9 June.
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord CSharles Somerset •
Letter to the Landdrosts of the Cape, StellenboBch, and
Tulbagh .......
Letter from P. S^ Buissinne, Esqre., to the Colonial Secretary
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Mr. Thomas Seton
Letter from Mr. Thomas Seton to the Colonial Secretary
Proclamation by Sir Bufane Doiikin.
Circular to the British Settlers in the District of Albany
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin •
Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Qoulbum
Esqre.
Return of Settlers to be located at Clanwilliam .
Letter from several British Settlers to Earl Bathurst .
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst .
Enclosure : Memorial of Mrs. Alexander
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Lord Bathurst
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Colonial Secretary
Observations upon the District of Clanwilliam • •
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to Captain Trappes
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. William Parker
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Colonial Secretary
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Bird to Earl Bathurst ..
Letter fix)m the Deputy Colonial Secretary to the Heads
Parties of British Settlers
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. William Parker
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Colonial Secretary
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Deputy Landdrost
of Clanwilliam
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Bird to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin .
Letter from the Reverend Wilham Wright to Henry Qoul
bum, Esqre
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Lieutenant Stocker to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
Letter from the Landdrost of Uitenhage to Land Survey
Enobel
Letter from George Harrison, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn
Esqre
Letter from Captain Walter Synnot to his brother
List of Locations. — Second .....
PAOB
118
119
119
124
124
12Q
127
128
129
129
132
133
134
135
135
136
137
138
138
141
142
' 144
146
147
148
149
150
150
152
153
154
154
155
155
156
157
158
159
viii Contents.
DATE PAGE
1820
13 June. Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst . . 163
17 Jmie. Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Sir Rufane Donkin . 164
21 June. Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset • 164
„ Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 166
22 June. Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy Landdrost of
Clanwilliam • # 165
„ Letter from the Deputy Landdrost of Clanwilliam to Mr.
William Parker 166
23 June. Case of Landdrost Stockenstrom versua Officers of the Cape
Corps 166
24 June. Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin . • 167
„ Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to T. P. Courtenay,
Esqre. 168
25 June. Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin . • 169
26 June. Letter from the Landdrost of XJitenhage to Land Surveyor
Knobel 169
M Letter from R. H. Crewe, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 173
27 June. Letter from the Reverend J. Brownlee to the Colonial
Secretary 173
30 June. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst • • 174
„ Letter from Mr. T. P. Courtenay to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 174
Enclosure concerning Printing Materials • . • 175
„ Letter from Mr. Anthony Hamilton to Earl Bathurst • • 175
1 July. Letter from the Landdrost of XJitenhage to Land Surveyor
Knobel 176
6 July. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. • 177
Enclosure : Memorial of George Martinson . * • 177
„ Letter from Mr. T. P. Courtenay to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 178
„ Letter from Rear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre. 179
„ Letter from Captain J. Grant to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. • 180
11 July. Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset ••••«••• 180
„ Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset 181
12 July. Order in Council 181
13 Julyt Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 184
14 July. Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst * 185
Enclosure : Captain Moresby's description of the Coast • 186
16 July. Letter from Mr. Robert Woodcock to the Colonial Secretary . 193
20 July. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst • • 194
21 July. Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. 196
Enclosure concerning Accounts paid • • • • 197
n
99
GonterUs* iK
DATE PAOB
1820
22 July. Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin « . 199
„ . Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 199
Enclosure: Memorial of Committee of the Commercial
Room 200
„ . Memorial of Mr. William Parker 201
24 July. Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 201
Enclosure concerning an Oheenratory at the Cape. • 202
25July« Letter from Henry Goulhum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset 202
Letter from R. Lushington, Esqre., to Henry Qoulbum,
Esqre. 203
Enclosure : List of the Fixed Civil Establishment . 204
Circular to Heads of certain Parties of Settlers • . • 218
26 July. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 220
WW w w • • 220
M Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. . 221
27 July. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 221
30 July. Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to the Reverend William
Boardman 222
31 July. Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset . • 223
„ Letter from Messrs. Whitley & Co. to Earl Bathurst . . 223
Return of Lands occupied in Albany before 1820 . . 224
1 Aug. Return of Troops on the Frontier 225
6 Aug. Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy Colonial
Secretary 225
9 Aug. Letter from Lieutenant Church to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 228
18 Aug. Letter from Rear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre. 229
19 Aug. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 229
Enclosures : Memorials of John Braithwait and Chris-
topher Adcock 230
20 Aus:. Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin . . 231
21 Aug. „ „ „ . . 231
„ Letter from Mr. William Russell to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 232
23 Aug. Letter from Deputy Assistant Commissary Gtoeral Johnstone
to Captain Trappes 232
24 Aug. Letter from Mr. William Moore to Viscount Sidmouth • 233
Enclosure : Letter from Bartholomew Gunning . • 233
26 Aug. Letter from Captain Trappes to Deputy Assistant Com-
missary G^eral Johnstone 234
„ Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . • 235
27 Aug. Letter from Deputy Assistant Commissary G^eral John-
stone to Assistant Commissary Gtoeral Rogerson. • 238
28 Aug. Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. . 239
30 Aug. Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Sir Rufane Donkin 239
Distribution of Land to Settlers per Sir George Osborne • 240
4 Sept. Letter from the Reverend C. L Latrobe to Earl Bathurst . 240
»9
99
X Contents.
DATE PAGE
1820
4 Sept. Nate from the Reverend C. I. Latrobe to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 241
8 Sept. Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Captain Trappes . 241
9 Sept. Letter from Rear Admiral Plampin to J. W. Croker, Esqre. 242
„ Letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton to Sir Hufane Donkin • 243
10 Sept. Letter from the Reverend William Boardman to his Son . 245
11 Sept.. Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Sir Rufaiie Donkin. 249
15 Sept. Letter from J. W. Croker, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. . 249
„ Proclamation by Sir Bufane Donkin . . . . 249
„ „ „ «... ^uu
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Landdrost of
Uitenhage ........ 256
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Captain Trappes « . 258
20 Sept. Letter from Henry Ellis, Esqre., to Sir Jahleel Brenton . 259
21 Sept. Letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton to the Commissioners of the
Navy 260
24 Sept Letter from Mr. William Parker to John P. Watney, Esqre. 261
26 Sept. Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy Colonial
Secretary 262
27 Sept Letter from the Reverend William Wright to Henry
Goulbum, Esqre 264
„ Letter from Major ^olloway to Lieutenant T. White . . 264
29 Sept Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to Mr. William
Parker. 265
„ Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst . . 267
29 Sept Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputv Landdrost of
Clanwilliam 279
„ Petition of Messrs. Charles and Valentine Griffith . . 280
.30 Sept. Letter from Mr. William Russell to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 282
2 Oct. Queries and Replies concerning Mr. William Parker • . 283
3 Oct. Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy Colonial
Secretary 283
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy Colonial
Secretary 284
Letter from Mr. A. V. Bergh to the Colonial Secretary • 287
4 Oct Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to Mr. William
Parker 288
5 Oct Letter from the Reverend William Wright to Henry
Goulbum, Esqre 289
6 Oct. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 289
Enclosure: Memorandum concerning Mr. W. Parker . 290
10 Oct Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Groulbum, Esqre. 294
„ Letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton to Mr. William Parker . 294
11 Oct Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to Mr. William
Parker . 295
n
»»
dnUcnis,
XI
DATE
1820
13 Oct.
UOct.
17 Oct.
18 Oct.
20 Oct.
21 Oct.
22 Oct.
2iOct.
25 Oct.
29 Oct.
30 Oct.
ft
2 Nov.
9 Nov.
13 Nov.
14 Nov.
17 Nov.
18 Nov.
20 Nov.
23 Nov.
24 Nov.
29 Nov.
2Dec
5Dec
n
11 Dec.
FnocbnutioD by Sir BnlaDe Donkia « • •
Letter £ram Sir Bufane Donkin to Earl Bathont
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Cvoalbnm, Eaqre^
Letter £nom Mr. William Pa^er to the Deputy Cokmial
Letter £ram Henry Gonlbonky EaqroL, to Sir BnfioM Donkin
Letter from T. P. ConrtflBDay, Eeqiei, to Henry Goolbuin,
Eaqr&
Encloeure concerning engaging a Printer •
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathnrat
Letter from the D«^ty LanddroBt of Clanwilliam to the
Colonial Secretary
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. Wilfiam Parker
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Deputy Landdrost
of Clanwilliam
Letter from Lord Bathorst to Sir Bu&ne Donkin
w
Letter from Sir Bufane Donkin to Earl Bathuist
Letter from Lord Charles Scmerset to the Beverend Mr,
Owen
Letter from Henry Goulbum, Eaqre., to Sir Bufane Donkin
Letter from the Deputy Cokmial Secretary to the Landdrost
of Uitenhage. ..••..•
Letter from the Beverend Francis McCleland to Earl
Bathurst
Letter from Sir Herbert Taylor to Henry Groulbum, Esqre. •
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Sir Herbert Taylor .
Letter from the Deputy Landdrost of Clanwilliam to the
Colonial Secretary
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Earl Harrowby
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry Qoulbum,
Esqre.
Letter from the Landdrost of Uitenhage to Mr. C. Gumey •
Letter from the Beverend John Owen to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre
Memorial of John and Thomas Smith ....
Letter from Sir Herbert Taylor to Henry Gioulbum, Esqre. •
Letter from Captain Trappes to Sir Jahleel Brenton •
Memorandum of Sir Jahleel Brenton . . • •
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Bufane Donkin • •
n
n
Letter from F. Freeling, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
Letter from the Beverend George Thorn to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre.
Letter from Mr. John Carter to Earl Bathurst ,
rAGK
296
297
296
298
300
300
301
301
302
303
304
306
307
30B
308
310
311
311
312
314
315
315
316
318
319
319
320
321
322
322
329
331
331
332
333
i
xu
Contents,
DATE
1820
12 Dec.
14 Dec.
16 Dec.
21 Dec.
28 Dec.
30 Dec.
31 Dec.
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to various Magistrates
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Frontier Magistrates
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Heads of Parties of
Settlers .......
Letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton to L. McLean, Esqre.
Letter from Lieutenant Mudge to the Commissioners of the
JN a vy •••»..•,
Enclosures : Lists of those saved and lost in the Aheona
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Census of Enon Mission Station ....
Pension List of the Cape Colony in 1820 .
Imports and Exports of Cape Wine into and from Great
Britain. ..•.,..
Revenue and Expenditure of the Cape Colony in 1820
Census Returns for 1820
Agricultural Returns for 1820 ....
FAoe
334
334
335
336
337
339
340
344
345
346
347
348
360
351
354
354
1821
1 Jan.
n
4 Jan.
6 Jan.
8 Jan.
9 Jan.
15 Jan.
17 Jan.
18 Jan.
19 Jan.
20 Jan.
n
Letter from Major George Pigot to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 356
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst . . 357
Letter from the Right Reverend Dr. Slater to Lord Charles
Somerset 358
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to the Right
Reverend Dr. Slater 359
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. 359
Letter from the Reverend George Thom to Lord Charles
Somerset 360
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 361
Memorial of the Glasgow Missionary Society . . . 363
Petition of the Churchwardens of the Roman Catholic
congregation in Capetown to Sir Rufane Donkin . . 364
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin • . 365
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to the Officials of
the Roman Catholic Church 365
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Assistant Commissary
General Ralph Rogerson 366
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Officials in Albany . 367
Letter from the Reverend Mr. Brownlee to the Colonial
Secretary 369
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 370
Letter from the High Court of Justice to Sir Rufane Donkin 371
ConteTds, xiii
DATS PAOK
1821
20 Jan« Letter from Mr. D. F. Francis to Colonel J. H. Strati . . 375
22 Jan. Warrant issued by Sir Bufane Donkin . • • • 377
M Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Collector of Customs,
Simonstown 378
„ Letter from Mr. William Farker to Earl Bathurst . . 379
23 Jan* Letter from the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court to Sir
Bufane Donkin 379
26 Jan. Letter from Sir Bufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 380
y, Letter from William Jones, Esqre., to Bichard Penn, Esqre. . 384
„ Letter from the Beverend George Thom to Lord Charles
Somerset 386
„ Memorial of Messrs. McLaren, McLean, and dark to Earl
Bathurst 389
30 Jan. Account of Expense incurred by the Navy and Victualling
Boards for British Settlers 390
3 Feb. Letter from the Beverend George Thom to Lord Charles
Somerset 390
4 Feb. Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to T. P. Courtenay, Esqre. 393
5 Feb. Letter from T. F. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry Gk)ulbum,
Esqre 394
8 Feb. Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 394
n » n »» 395
w »» »> w 39o
10 Feb. Letter from Mr. William Parker to Balph Bogerson, Esqre. . 397
13 Feb. Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset . . 398
,9 Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Bufane Donkin . . 398
„ Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Mr. William Farker 400
y. Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst . . 402
14 Feb. Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 402
»» f» »» >» 40o
15 Feb. Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset . . 404
16 Feb. Letter from the Beverend George Thom to Lord Charles
Somerset * . 404
19 Feb. Letter from Mr. William Parker to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 405
20 Feb. Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst . . 405
„ Letter from Mr. William Parker to Lieutenant Colonel Bird . 406
21 Feb. Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 408
„ Letter from George Harrison, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 408
28 Feb. Letter from the Beverend George Thom to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 409
1 March. Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to Earl Bathurst . . 409
4 March. Letter from Captain J. W. Boberts to Bear Admiral Lambert 412
Letter from the Beverend T. D. Whitaker to Colonel
Claughton, M.P. .,...,. 415
xiv Contents.
DATE Page
1821
5 March. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 416
Letter from Rear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre. 416
Letter from Colonel Claughton, M.P., to Earl Bathurst . 417
Letter frdm R. Lushington, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum, Esqre. 417
Letter from Joseph Luson, Esqre., to the Secretary to the
East India Company . . . . . . 418
6 March. Letter ftom Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset ........ 419
„ Letter from the Reverend George Thom to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 420
„ Letter from the Acting Collector and the Comptroller of
Customs to Sir Rufane Donkin ..... 421
7 March. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 421
„ Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to the Comptroller of
Customs . . . . . . . . 424
„ Mandate of the Vice Admiralty Court . . . . 425
„ Letter from the Fiscal to the Custom House OflBcers . . 426
Letter from the Custom House Officers to the Fiscal . . 427
Letter from the Fiscal to the Colonial Secretary . . 427
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Fiscal . . . 428
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Acting Deputy
Landdrost of Albany ...... 429
8 March. Memorial of the Fiscal to the Court of Justice . . . 429
10 March. Memorial of the Agent of the East India Company . . 432
12 March. Letter from R. Lushington, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. ......... 434
13 March. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to J. Luson, Esqre. . . 434
Memorial of the Comptroller of Customs .... 435
14 March. Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst . . 437
15 March. Letter from Mr. William Parker to J. W. Stoll, Esqre. . 439
17 March. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 441
„ Letter from Messrs. Claringbould and Darby to Earl
Bathurst 442
„ Letter from Captain Hugh Pigot to Earl Bathurst . . 443
21 March. Letter from the Reverend George Thom to Henry Goulburn,
Esqre. ......... 444
„ Letter from the Reverend W. R, Thomson to Henry
Goulbum, Esqre. . . . . , . .445
23 March. Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin . . 445
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to C. Griffith, Esqre. . 446
Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset ........ 446
26 March. Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 447
30 March. Memorial of Messrs. Claringbould and Darby . . . 448
„ Proclamation by Sir Rufane Donkin .... 449
31 March. Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles Somerset 450
99
99
Contents,
XV
DATE
1821
3 April.
5 April.
n
6 April.
7 ApriU
10 April.
99
»»
11 April,
12 April.
13 April.
»f
w
14 April.
>»
»»
19 April.
21 April,
»>
»
22 April.
>»
25 April.
26 April.
28 April.,
2 May.
6 May.
7 May.
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
Letter from the Court of Justice to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from the Reverend George Thom to Henry Goulbum
J!iB(^r6. ....... •
Petition of John Quin ......
Warrant of Arrest of two of the East India Company's ships
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset .......
Letter from the Reverend Mr. Scully to the Burgher
Senate ........
Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Sir Rufane Donkin
Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Major Pigot .
Letter from the Directors of the Roman Catholic Church in
Capetown to the Burgher Senate
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulburn
Esqre. ........
Enclosure : Articles needed for the Kaffir mission
L^ter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Sir Rufane Donkin
»
»
n
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. ........
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
n
99
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. Thomas Willson
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Resolution of the Burgher Senate ....
Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from Mr. Thomas Pringle to the Colonial Secretary
Letter from Henry Goulbum, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset ......./
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst
Letter from the Reverend M. Pennington to Earl Bathurst .
Letter from the Commissioner of the Roman Catholic Church
in Capetown to the Burgher Senate ....
Letter from the Officials of the Roman Catholic Church in
Capetown to the Burgher Senate ....
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. . .
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. .........
Letter from Major George Pigot to Henry Goulbum, Esqre.
Letter from Rear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker,
Esqre
PAQE
450
451
454
454
455
456
457
457
458
458
459
459
460
461
461
462
464
464
465
465
466
466
467
469
470
474
474
475
476
476
477
477
478
480
XVI
Contents.
DATE
1821
15 May.
21 May.
M
n
23 May.
n
24 May.
28 May.
30 May.
n
31 May.
yi
99
1 June.
n
>»
99
3 June.
4 June.
5 June.
99
7 June.
99
8 June.
PAGE
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Military Secretary 481
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. .481
Letter from the Commissioner of the Boman Catholic Church
in Capetown to the Burgher Senate .... 482
Besolution passed by the Burgher Senate. • • • 482
Letter* from Earl Bathurst to the Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty 483
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. . • • • . * . • . • 483
Goieral Orders concerning the Boyal African Corps . . 484
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin • • 485
99 99 99 486
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to T. P. Courtenay,
Esqre 487
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Donkin , . 488
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Groulbum,
Esqre. ......... 489
Memorandum by Sir Rufane Donkin . .* . 490
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre 491
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
.Esqre. 492
Proclamation by Sir Rufane Donkin .... 492
Letter from the East India Company to Earl Bathurst . 494
Address to Sir Rufane Donkin 495
Letter from Lieut. Col. Willshire to Captain M. J. Sparks . 497
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Captain Trappes . . 498
Letter from Sir Rufane Donkin to Earl Bathurst . . 498
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulbum,
Esqre. ......... 502
Letter from the Transport Office to the Commissioners of the
Navy 502
Instractions for Mr. Knobel 503
Letter from the Fiscal Denyssen to Sir Rufane Donkin . 503
RECORDS OF THE CAPE COLONY.
•«o*-
[OrigiiiaL]
Letter from Mr. Bichabd Watsov to Eabl Bathubst.
Wmletav Mimum Horn, 77 HATtcm Oabdbv«
Jammaqf 20tk 1820*
My LofiD^ — I am directed hy the Committee of the Wesleyan
Missionary Society, to represent to Yonr Lordship, that they are
about to send out an additional married Missionary among the
Little Namacqua Hottentots, on the North West border of the
Cape Colony, where three of their Missionaries under the sanction
and encouragement of Lord Charles Somerset have been for some
time settled, and have introduced agriculture and the useful arts
among the people of those txibes.
The Committee had prepared to send out the new Missionary
to the Namacquas, and his wife (Mr. and Mrs. Kay,) by a private
vessel ; but understanding that a company of the settlers, chiefly
members of the Methodist Society, are going out in the BriUiant,
Transport, who will have no minister among them during their
voyage (their own Minister being on board the Awara,) they take
the liberty to solicit from Tour Lordship that Mr. and Mrs. Kay
may be allowed to proceed to the Cape in the BriUiomt, in order
that the Settlers who are going out in this vessel, may not be
without a person regolarly to perform divine service during the
voyage. The Committee being anxious that as these persons are
members of the same religious body with themselves, and many
of them young persons, that they should be kept under the
influence of religious sentiments, and go with an unspotted
character into the new Colony. I have &c.
•• (Signed) Bichabd Watsoit, Secretary.
XUL B
Becords of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from J. Potter Macqueen, Esqbe., to
Heney Goulbuen, Esqbe.
BiETZEMOHT HousB, January 2l8t 1820.
Mt deab Sib, — In consequence of the last conversation I had
the honor of holding with you in Downing Street I take the liberty
of communicating the result of my inquiries in Scotland upon
the subject of Emigration. Along the shores of Argyle, Boss^
Inverness, and throughout the whole of the Western Islands a
great degree of distress has prevailed^ occasioned by various causes.
The population greatly exceeds the demand for labour, and an
anxiety consequently prevails to quit a Country where no adequate
subsistence can be procured. Agents from Bussia, America, and
Canada are now in these Counties, but the success of their
exertions must depend on the measures Lord Bathurst may be
pleased to adopt. The natives of the Highlands are naturally
suspicious. Slow in attaching themselves, but where an attach-
ment once takes place, devoted to the object. I have received
assurances from several gentlemen of property that were I going
out, they would send either a son or a brother with capital
sufBcient to settle their own distressed clansmen without any
expense to Government, and, from the most moderate computa-
tion, I am convinced tiiat not less than 4000 souls would follow
me. An honest laborious educated and attached Population
would then be formed, and the men would, under their respective
leaders, readily enter into a Fencible Corps capable of defending
the colony and enabling Government to dispense with the costs of
a large military establishment.
I took the liberty of addressing a few lines to Lord Bathurst
respecting a Petition, which most likely you have seen.
The state of this part of the Country is truly deplorable. I
yesterday presided at a Bench of Magistrates at Ampthill, and
it was heartrending to witness the clamorous entreaties of tho
Paupers on one side, and on the other, the loud remonstrances
of the Farmers, who declare their utter inability to provide em-
ployment aud support for the People, when they get about 6/6
per bushel for their com. At this moment we have nearly 2000
Records of the Cape Colony, 3
young men between 16 and 25 years of age who are actually
existing upon 4/ per week. Of course where there is misery there
is seldom morality, early and improvident marriages are constantly
taking place without mutual regard, but with the view to obtain
a laiger rate of relief from the Parish. This is one of the leading
causes of the encrease of Population. In this Parish alone our
numbers have encreased from 705 in 1811 to 1085 in 1819, our
funerals average 7 yearly. On my arrival in Town I shal^ be
happy to consult with you upon the probable extent and objects
of the Parliamentary Motions, and as I believe you have no other
member equally conversant in the affairs of the Colony, I shall
willingly arrange with you to take my share in the debates which
may ensue.
This weather has completely destroyed our sporting. The
pheasants are distressed not so much from hunger as they axe
well supplied, but from want of shelter. I had expected a large
party for the last week, but I have now no hopes of them.
Let me beg of you to excuse the trouble I am constantly giving
you and to believe the sincerity with which I remain &c.
(Signed) J. Potteb Macqueen.
[Original.]
Letter from Mb. William Parker to Henry Goulburn, Esqre-
Ship JB%ut IndAoin^ Gotb of Cork, 22im2 Jaimary 1820.
Sir, — With reference to my letter of the 3rd Inst, to which I
have not as yet been favoured with an answer, I take leave
to inform you that the extreme severity of the weather prevented
a few of the Settlers joining this Ship here until yesterday,
and that from deaths, marriages, and various other circumstances
that have occurred among the Individuals who were to proceed
with me to the Cape of Good Hope, I was obliged to make a few
more alterations in the list of Settlers.
I have now the honour to transmit to you three fair copies
of the number actually on board, who have been mustered
by Lieut. Wolrige, R.N., agent of Transports, and also transmit
4 Records of the Cape Colony.
to lieut. Lewis the Besident Agent here a fair copy of the
same.
On a consultation with Bear Adml. Sir Josias Eowley and
Lt. Louis it has been deemed most expedient to prevent delay
and expense that the East Indian should proceed to Sea, although
I have not received a dispatch for General Lord Charles Somerset,
but which I take leave to solicit may be sent by the first ship to
His Excellency.
I am to crave your reference to my letter of the 25th Ulto.
wherein the cause of the number of able bodied men being seventy-
six instead of seventy-five is fully explained. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Pakkeb.
[Original]
Letter from Mb. William Paekbr to Henbt Goulbubn, Esqke.
Seip Ead Indiany Goes Habboitb, 23rd January, 1820.
Mr. Wm. Parker presents his compliments to Mr. Goulbum,
takes leave to send him three copies of the Bules, which with
the very kind assistance of Mr. -Wilberforce and several other
distinguished and benevolent characters, he has framed for the
management of the Settlers proceeding under his direction to the
Cape Qf Good Hope.
The wind has unfortunately come round to the Southward, and
it almost blows a hurricane.
Mr. Parker does not intend sleeping on shore, that no farther
alteration shoidd take place in the list of his Settlers. He requests
that Mr. Groulbum will have the kindness to forward the inclosed
to Lord Ennismore and Mr. Macaulay.
Records of the Cape Colony.
[Enclosure.]
RvZes for the mainteTiance of Order, Morality and Chod Conduct,
arrumg the Settlers proceeding to the Cape of Oood Hope, under
the direction of William Parker.
BuLES.
I. That as the belief of the Principles and obedience to the
Precepts of Christianity form the basis of social order and
happiness, the undersigned pledge themselves to a reverence of
the Holy Scriptures, — a strict attention to moral and religious
duties, — the due observance of the Lord's Day, — a regular attend-
ance on public worship, — and the religious education of their
children.
II. That each of the undersigned who shall be convicted before
the Committee hereinafter mentioned, on the testimony of any two
Settlers, of blasphemous, profane or indecent language, or behaviour,
— of drunkenness, gaming, notorious neglect of public worship, or
profanation of the Lord's Day, shall, for every offence, forfeit and
pay as follows, viz.
Being an articled Servant . • . One rix dollar,
Not being an articled Servant . • . Two rix dollars.
III. That as sobriety is the best auxiliary to health, industry
and happiness, no houses for the sale of spirituous, vinous or malt
liquors, either wholesale or by retail, or in the way of drams; shall,
on any account, be permitted in the Settlement ; save and except
at any inn or tavern for the accommodation of travellers, for which
Uquors are to be procured from a public store to be established in
the Settlement, for the general supply thereof. From this store,
each of the undersigned engages to take whatever quantity of
liquors he or she may require, and carry it home and enjoy it in
the society of his or her family and friends : as, by adopting this
course, much of the evils will be avoided which have caused the
numerous misfortunes and degradation of those classes of society
in Europe, whose labour and industry are their chief support.
And each of the undersigned, who shall be convicted, as in manner
specified, of selling, or retailing, or buying, or causing to be
6 Records of the Cape Colony.
bought any wine, or spirituous or malt liquors, except as aforesaid,
shall, for every such offence, forfeit and pay as follows.
Being an articled servant .... One rix dollar.
Not being an articled servant . . . Two rix dollars.
rV. That the said William Parker hereby consents to execute
such article, or deed, as the Colonial Government may approve of,
vesting any profit that may arise from the sale of all liquors, by
retail or in smaller quantities than quarter casks, in the hands
of the Committee, to be elected as herein-after mentioned, and to
be appropriated by them to some works of public and general
utility to the Settlers, — such as the encouragement of industry and
improvement of the useful arts, or such other good purposes as
may be approved of by the said Committee.
y . That any of the undersigned being convicted, in the manner
specified in the second rule, of drunkenness, or other disorderly
conduct, shall not be permitted to draw any liquors &om the store,
and shall have his conduct represented to His Excellency the
Governor, who shall be petitioned to expel the said offender from
the Settlement.
y I. That a Committee of nine of the most respectable Settlers
(any five of whom shall have power to act), shall be annually
elected by the subscribers at large, for enforcing, under the
sanction and authority of His Excellency the Governor, the
several Bides now by them subscribed, and that the first Meeting
for such election shall take place on board the ship JEast Indian,
the first working day after the said ship crosses the Equinoctial
Line, and each year afterwards on the Wednesday preceding the
Anniversary of the Nativity of our Saviour. The said Committee
to commence their duty on the first day of every New Year.
yiL That the said Committee shall superintend the provision
of liquors, and shall have power to fix and alter the prices thereof.
yill. That all payments, penalties and forfeitures which shall
become due, or be incurred, as herein-before-mentioned, shall be
demanded, levied and carried into effect under the direction of
the Committee, sanctioned by His Excellency the Governor, and
the Committee shall have power to mitigate any penalty, to not
less than one-half of the amount, if they see occasion.
IX. That every articled Settler who shall be convicted in any
penalty, or become subject to any payment as aforesaid, shall be
JRecords of the Cape Colony. 7
liable to the deduction thereof out of his wages, as well as to such
other methods of recovery thereof as the Committee shall direct.
X. That as it is manifestly of the highest importance to the
interests of individuals and of society, that the means of education
and intellectual improvement should be afforded to the children
of the Settlers, it is hereby mutually agreed, by and between the
several parties subscribers hereto, that each head of a family shall
subscribe a fair quota, towards the establishment and maintenance
of a proper School or Schools for the above purpose ; and that the
fund to be so raised, shall be placed at the disposal of the Com-
mittee, which shall also be empowered to enact such rules, orders,
or regulations, as from time to time may be deemed necessary for
the government of such School or Schools, and to applet the quota,
or rate, that may be necessary for its establishment and maintenance
on the Settlers, whom they may compel to pay the same by distress
or otherwise, under the sanction and authority of the Governor.
XI. That as proper medical and surgical assistance is indispen-
sably requisite to the well being of the Settlement, it is hereby
mutually agreed, by and between the subscribers hereto, that each
of them shall contribute annually, the sum of Five Eix Dollars,
to be placed at the disposal of the Committee of the Settlement,
for said purpose.
XII. That Slavery being contrary to the principles and
repugnant to the feelings of Christians, it is hereby mutually
resolved, to abstain from any participation in the Slave Trade;
but at the same time, cautiously to avoid the public expression of
any sentiments on this unhappy subject, tending to create uneasi-*
ness in the minds of the original Colonists, or to excite a mutinous
disposition among their dependents. It being the fixed deter-
mination of all the parties to these presents, so to conduct them-
selves, as to deserve the character of loyal, peaceable, and
industrious Settlers, who feel no disposition to interfere with the
customs, manners, or prejudices of the original Colonists, however
differing jfrom their own.
XIII. That as it is necessary to establish an efficient system
of Watch and Ward in the Settlement for the protection of the
Subscribers, their families and property, it is therefore mutually
agreed, by and between all the parties to these presents, that the
able-bodied male Settlers, be for that purpose, divided by the
Director of the Settlement, into companies, or tithings of ten
8 Records of the Cape Colony.
families in eacL That a master be appointed by the said Director
for the first year, out of each company or tithing, for the govern-
ment thereof; but afterwards, said master shall be elected by
annual ballot, of the company or tithing, to which he respectively
belongs. That each company or tithing, be subdivided into three
Watches, and that each Watch have its own superior appointed
by the Master of that particular company or tithing ; and lastly,
that all and every the said companies or tithings, shall be required
to keep such Watch and Ward in their proper turn, as may by the
Director of the Settlement, or the Committee, be deemed necessary
for the protection and safety of the Settlers and their property,
as well by night as by day, and without fee or reward.
XIV. That the Fathers of families who subscribe to these
Bules, pledge themselves, they will use their endeavours, that all
their Sons on attaining the age of eighteen years, shall sign the
book of the Settlement in which these Eules are entered. In
case of any individual on attaining such age, refusing to sign
or conform to them, a complaint thereof shall be made to His
Excellency the Governor, who shall be petitioned to remove such
non-conforming person from the Settlement.
XV. That all new Settlers arriving in the Settlement under
the direction of the said Wm. Parker, are expected to sign and
conform to these the fundamental Bules of the District allotted
to him; or their refusal to be reported to His Excellency the
Governor, and their removal requested.
XVI. That the Settlers who have subscribed their names to
these presents, being anxiously desirous of preventing as much
as possible a disposition to unnecessary litigation among neigh-
bours, it is therefore hereby agreed, by and between aU the said
parties, that every cause of difference shall be submitted to the
arbitration of two of their fellow Settlers, Masters of Tithings, not
interested in the case, as arbitrators, who shall be empowered to
call in a third person, a Master of Tithing, as Umpire, if necessary,
whose award shall be final and conclusive.
XVII. That the subscribers being anxiously desirous to pre-
serve peace and good neighbourhood with the original Colonists,
the aboriginal Natives, and others in their vicinage, of whatever
class or description, — it is therefore unanimously agreed, by and
between the parties Subscribers hereto, that in case of any matter
or occasion of dispute at any time unhappily arising, between one
9
Itecords of the Cape Colony.
Or more of the Subscribers and their Neighbour or Neighbours of
whatever description, their own fellow Settlers not included;
then, and in every such case, the said party or parties, shall
immediately lay a fair and impartial statement thereof in writing,
before the said Committee, and in all respects conform to that just,
moderate, and Christian line of conduct in the Settlement of the
dispute in question, which may, by the said Committee, on mature
consideration, be approved and recommended.
XVIII. That all penalties and forfeitures received shall be
paid to the Secretary, who shall be nominated and be removable
by the Committee, and shall be registered in a book, and the
monies by him received shall be by l^im deposited in a chest, to
be called the Public Chest, with three locks and keys ; one key
to be kept by the said WiUiam Parker, another by the Clergyman,
and the third by the Secretary : and the funds contained in the
said Public Chest, shall be applied by the Committee in such
manner as by Kule IV is prescribed for the disposal of the profits
arising from the sale of liquors.
XIX. That in case the majority of the undersigned shall
agree upon any addition to, or alteration of the foregoing Eules,
such additions or alterations shall be binding on all the under-
signed, provided they do not alter or repeal the fundamental
principles contained in the two first Eules; and any dispute or
diflerence arising on the Bules, or on the alteration thereof, shall
be determined by the Governor, or some Magistrate acting under
his authority.
XX. That no person may plead ignorance of these Articles,
either printed or written copies shaU be given to each person as
he subscribes his name, or affixes his mark.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Wait to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Obanoe Coffeb Hoube, January 25th 1820.
Sir, — ^As directed I send herewith a list of the Settlers who I
believe are actually on board the Zoroaster under my direction.
There are at present also some others that for my personal
10 Seeords of the Cape Colony.
Bafety and the comfort of all on board I should wish were it
possible might be excluded ; altho' put on board originally as
entered on my list ; their namea are
Wm. Brooks with his fomily
Philip Camm (Thomhill'e nephew)
Thos. Bruton
Geo, Annandale
Gilfillan, pat in by Thomhill in his list.
From Wm. Brooks and Philip Camm I should consider my life
in danger, shonld they go out in the same ship with myself.
On going on board last night I received the grossest and most
vile insults and abuse from Mrs. Thomhill and the four first
iudividnals. I never spoke one word in reply, and trust to
your kind protection. These are the only persons on board
whom Thomhill has been able with all his art to induce to join
bim. Within these two days he oEfered all the men ^ lb. Tobacco
each, also new clothing for each; all except the three afore-
mentioned rejected his offer and aaid to a man they would sooner
go out with myself without a shirt rather Uian receive his offer, and
actually last night of their own accord the moment I came on
board presented me with a list of their names declaratory of the
same. Mr. Diason told me that Mr. ThomhiU had used great
exertions to prevail on him and the rest of his party to sign
a paper to the injury of Mrs. Wait, bat he assured me they
rejected it with indignation, and that they esteemed her very
highly. I have Ac.
(Signed) Wm. Wait.
[Or^inaL]
Zetter from the Navy JJoard to HlNET GoiTLBUBH, EsQRE.
Navt Omoi, 27a Jatutar]/ 1820.
Sir, — It appearing by a letter dated the 27th instant, from
Cajitain Young, Agent for Transports at Deptford, that Mr.
Ntiwcome John Alcock, who had been appointed to take Medical
charge as Surgeon to the Party of Settlers to proceed in the
Becorde of the Cape Colony. 11
Zoroaster^ had been on board accordingly, but had since left the'
ship, we request to be informed if you can direct any medical
gentleman that may have applied to you for permission to proceed
to the Cape of Good Hope to join the Zoroaster immediately, and
if you cannot, whether Earl Bathurst will authorize us to appoint
an Assistant Surgeon of the Navy to this Ship. We request an
immediate answer on this subject, as both the BeUe Alliance and
the Zoroaster are detained at Gravesend till a Surgeon be appointed
to the latter ship, they being intended to sail in charge of the
same Agent for Transports. We are &c.
(Signed) J. Thomson,
FlTZ MiDDLBTON,
J. BOWEN.
[Copy.]
Proclamation by Si« EuFANE Shawe DONKIN.
Whereas it has been reported to me by the magistrate of the
frontier district that certain of the inhabitants of that district
have taken into their service wandering Kaffers and Ghonaquas ;
and whereas experience has shewn that this sort of communication
with the tribes of Kaflfers gives them a pretext for wandering into
the colony, under the plea of visiting their friends and relatives
who are in the service of the inhabitants, and the opportunity of
committing depredations, generally with the connivance of those
who are so employed ; in pursuance therefore of the system which
has directed the intercourse with the Kaffers to be confined to the
supply of their wants by barter at Graham's Town, I have judged
proper most strictly to prohibit, as by these presents I do prohibit,
all and every of the inhabitants of the frontier districts of Tulbctgh,
Graaff-Beinet, and Uitenhage, taking into service, or harbouring
any male Kaffer or Ghonaqua Hottentot, belonging to the Kaffer
Kraals ; and 1 hereby direct the magistrates of the frontier districts
to call upon the several field-comets of their respective divisions
to make this order known to each householder therein, as no plea
of ignorance will be admitted in extenuation of any contravention
hereof; and I hereby further direct and order the several field-
12 Hecords of the Cape Colony.
comets aforesaid to arrest any Kaffers or Ghonaquas belonging to
Kafifer Kraals, whom they may discover within the boundaries of
their respective divisions, and to conduct them to Graham's Town,
there to bo delivered to the oificer commanding His Majesty's
troops, for the purpose of their being dealt with according to such
instructions as the military commander shall have received from
me on this head.
And in order to enforce a prompt and due compliance with this
necessary regulation, I hereby order the respective courts of
Landdrost and Heemraden of the aforesaid districts of Tulbagh,
Graaflf-Eeinet, and Uitenhage, to take cognizance of the circum-
stances hereby prohibited, and to decide therein, affixing a fine
not exceeding 300 rixdoUars to a first offence against this
ordinance, and empowering the aforesaid courts to banish from
their district any person who shall bo proved to have been
guilty of a second offence.
And that no person may plead ignorance hereof, this shall be
published and afi^ed as usuaL
God save the King !
Given under my hand and seal at the Cape of Good Hope, this
28th day of January 1820.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original]
Letter from SiB Eufane Shawb Donkin to Earl Bathuest.
GOTEBNMENT HOUSB,
Oafs Town, January Blst 1820.
My Lord, — It is with much concern that I have to acquaint
your Lordship that intelligence has been received here, through
the Isle de Bourbon, of an epidemic having broken out in the
Mauritius, which has carried off, in a short space of time, about
4000 persons. White and Black.
Mr. Mylius, the Governor of Bourbon, has sent to the French
Consul here his Proclamations and the several orders he has
judged it necessary to issue to prevent the introduction of the
disease into that Island, with a request that they may be com-
Records of the Cape Colony. 13
municated to this Government, and by them he has placed all
ships approaching the Isle de Bourbon in strict Quarantine, and
indeed forbid their anchoring until examined.
It seems not to be quite ascertsdned whether the infection has
been carried to the Mauritius from Madagascar, or from India ; if
&om India, there may be reason to fear that it is the Cholera
Morbus, which fatal disease has for three years past, or more, been
gradually travelling Westward.
Under these circumstances I have judged it necessary to order
that all vessels coming from the Eastward shall be put in
Quarantine, till examined and reported on. Should this exclusion
of ships from India and other places in the East be of any duration,
it will be disadvantageous to this Colony ; but, I trust, that Your
Lordship will approve of my having established the Quarantine as
a measure of precaution against a still greater evil.
It will not be carried beyond what may be absolutely necessary
for our own safety, and, as one report says the disease in Mauritius
has abated, (which report has been brought from Bourbon by
H. M. Ship Hardy^ which vessel also brought the French
Governor's Dispatch) I am in hopes that the restraint imposed
here will not be of long duration.
Vessels direct from China, or from any of the three Presidencies
of India, which have not touched at the Mauritius or communicated
with any vessels at Sea, will of course be immediately released
from Quarantine, after being visited, so that no inconvenience will
result to them, nor their progress homeward be retarded.
It will be highly satisfactory to me if this first Public Act of my
administration here should not be disapproved of by your Lordship.
I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin,
P.S. I have the honor of enclosing to your Lordship a copy of
a Proclamation I have issued.
Hecords of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Proclajnation hy SiE Eotane Shawb Donkin, Knight Comirumder
of the Most Honorable and Military Order of the Bath, Acting
Governor and Commanding in Ckitf Sis Majeaty'a Forces
at the Gape of Good Sope, &e., &c., &e.
Whereas imdonbted information has been communicated to me
of a malignant Diaorder having broken out in the Island of
Mauritius, which is said already to have carried off (after a few
hours illness only) vast numbers of the unfortunate Inhabitants ;
and it becomes in consequence necessary to take the most rigid
precautions for preventing, with the help of Divine Providence,
BO dreadful a Calamity from reaching these Shores. Fortunately,
the communicationB between the two Settlements are not frequent,
and thus it will be less difficult to enforce the Begulations, which
are essential for obviating the consequences which might follow
rashness or imprudence. It is accordingly hereby ordered and
directed, that upon the arrival of any Vessel from the Mauritius
direct, or having touched at the Mauritius, or its Dependencies,
or at the Island of Madagascar, the Port Captain (if the arrival
be in this Table Bay or in Simon's Bay) shall order the Vessel
into strict Quarantine, directing her to anchor in the outward
£oad, and forbidding her from having any communication what-
ever with the Shore, or with any of the Vessels in the said Bays
respectively.
Such Vessel shall hoist a Yellow Jack at the Fore Top-Mast
Head, and will receive such refreshments as she may absolutely
stand in need of, by the Harbour Master's Boats only.
And whereas it is at present uncertain, whether the Malady in
question was communicated to the said Island of Mauritius from
tht Island of Madagascar, or 'whether it may not have readied the
Sfitldment by Vessels from the East Indies, where the Cholera
Morhiis has raged in a most virulent degree for some time past;
it tliiTcfore is incumbent on me, to take the greatest precautions
mth respect to Vessels coming from the East Indies, or any part
of the Eastern Seas ; and I, therefore, likewise direct, that all
VessL-ls coming from any part of the East Indies, or from the
China Seas, or from Ceylon, shall be put into Quarantine, and
Becards of the Cape Colony. 15
boist a Yellow Jack at the Fore Top*Mast Head as aforesaid,
until such time as it shall be completely ascertained, that no
instance of Cholera or Dysentery has manifested itself on board
such Vessels on the Passage.
And whereas it frequently happens that Vessels entering into
these Bays are irregularly and illegally boarded by Fishing Boats,
which practice, if it should take place under present circumstances
might endanger the safety of the good Inhabitants of this Colony ;
it is therefore hereby further directed and ordered, that the
Fishing Boats, so long as the present Begulations shall be in force,
shall confine themselves to fishing within the Bays only, and by
no means proceed either to Bobben Island, or beyond it ; such
Fishing Boats, or other Shore Boats, shall likewise be haided up
at night at the Bogge Bay, if belonging to this Harbour, or at the
usual place of security, if belonging to Simon's Town ; Boats of
a larger description are to be moored every night opposite to the
Port OfEices, and not to unmoor until after the firing of the
Morning Gun.
With respect to the several Bays on the Coast, viz. Algoa Bay,
Plettenberg's Bay, Mossel Bay, and the Harbour of the Knysna,
the respective Government Besidents at the three former, are
hereby required, to take the strictest precautions for preventing
any communication whatsoever, between any Vessels which may
arrive in the said Bays, from the Eastward, and the Shore ; should
any such Vessels put into the said Bays, in want of Water, such
Water is to be supplied under the usual and strictest precautions,
and the Vessel warned to put to Sea as soon as possible.
The respective Landdrosts of the several Districts bordering on
the Coast, are likewise hereby directed, to give notice to the Field
Comets of the Coast Divisions, not to admit any communication
with Vessels which may chance to come to anchor on any part
of the Coast ; while the Pilot at the Knysna is positively ordered,
not to conduct or admit any Vessel from the East into that
Harbour.
And it is hereby made known, that, according to the general
Law of all Civilized Nations, any infringement of the necessary
Quarantine Begulations, renders the Offender liable to the
punishment of Death, without any form of Trial.
And in order to give the utmost publicity to this Proclamation,
it is hereby ordered, that a Copy thereof shall be furnished to
16 Records of the Cape Colony,
every Vessel coming into any of the Bays or Harbours of this
Settlement, and that the Proclamation itself, shall be made known,
published, and affixed, in the usual manner.
God save the King !
Given under my Hand and Seal, at the Cape of G^od Hope,
this 1st day x)f February 1820.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawb Donkin to Eael Bathurst.
Gk)YERNMENT HOUSB,
Cafe Town, February 4<^ 1820.
My Loed, — ^I have the honor of acquainting Your Lordship that
I have this day caused to be shipped on boaxd the Loyal Briton,
Transport, Eobert Plunket Master, fifty aums of Constantia Wine,
directed to Your Lordship and marked from No. 1 to 50. I enclose
the Master's receipt for the same, and have the honor to be.
My Lord &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin. j
[Copy.]
Letter from Major W. C. Holloway to Sir Eufane
Shawb Donkin.
BoTAL EyaiNEEB Omen,
Cafb of Good Hops, ^h Februairy 1820.
Sir,— I have the honor to transmit, agreeably to your Excellency's
commands^ an Estimate of the probable expense of building by
military working parties at Graham's Town, Barracks to contain
400 men, together with the complement of Officers, &^, and the
JRecords of the Cape Colony. 17
various storehouses, offices, &c., which are required by the several
Military Departments at the Head Quarters of the Frontier.
A list of the accommodation provided accompanies the Estimate,
and the amount of the expense is £3,198 Sterling. I-have &c.
(Signed) W. C. Holloway,
Major commanding E. Engineers.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr, C. T. Thoenhill to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Ship ZoroaUer, Downs, 5ih February 1820.
Sir, — I beg leave to acquaint you that a man by name Puzey,
his wife, and three children having left the ship at Deptford, I have
procured another in the room of him by name John Stokes, and
wife. The Agent Lieut. Williams of the Ship Belle Alliance,
objects to allow him rations, because his name is not in the
original list I have to request Lord Bathurst will do me the
favour to order the Agent to issue his rations with the rest of my
settlers, otherwise the Captain means to send him on shore, which
will be attended with great loss to me, and much distress to the
man and his wife, who have been a great burden to the parish.
As our detention here may admit of a letter irom his Lordship, I
would humbly request that favor, and have &c.
(Signed) C. T. Thornhill.
[Original.]
letter from Mr. T. P. Courtenay to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gannon Row, 7th February 1^20.
Sir, — I have received from Lord Charles Somerset the accom-
panying letter and enclosures directing me to forward to the Cape
certain articles for the use of the Colony ; and I have to request
xiu. c
18 Records of the Cape Colony.
that yon will move Lord Bathnrst to cause me to be informed
whether the expenses incurred in complying with this requisition
will be allowed in the accoimt which according to your letter of
the 11th of May last, I am to render to the Commissioners of
Colonial Audit.
In consequence of the arrangement to which your last mentioned
letter refers, I think it necessary to make this previous application
to Lord Bathurst, even upon requisitions from the Cape Grovem-
ment of small extent, a compliance wherewith appears to be the
ordinary course of my duty as its Agent ; but I am desirous of
being informed whether it is Lord Bathurst's intention that I
should apply for a particular sanction in each case ; or whether I
may presume that the expence of complying with requisitions of
this description will be allowed to the Colonial Government in like
manner with those ordinary Military payments which were the
subject of your letter of the 20th of August 1818. I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Pkb. Coubtenay.
[Enclosure A in the above.]
Gafi or Good Hon, lOft NimmAer 1819.
Sib, — I request you will have the goodness to purchase on
account of the Colonial Government, for the use of the Printing
Department at this place, four Jiundred reams of Printing Demy
(viz. 200 Beams of each as per accompanying samples) together
with the printing articles specified in the enclosed copy of a letter
from Mr. Boss, and cause the same to be directed to the Colonial
Secretary, Cape of (jood Hope, and transmitted hither by the
earliest opportunity. I have &c.
(Signed) Chables Henby Somebset.
[Enclosure B in the above*]
PBonnro DBPABnaarr, SA Novemher 1819.
Sm, — I beg leave to report to you that the printing paper, of a
large dimension, ^hich was ordered out and received from England,
under the idea of answering the new improved presses written for.
Records of the Cape Colony, 19
has now been commenced upon. It will consequently be advise-
able to have another supply ordered, of two hundred reams of each
of the accompanying samples of Printing Demy, together with the
undermentioned articles of printing, by the first vessel bound from
England to this Settlement Besides the two casks of Printing
ink, 12 dozen each, already ordered,
150 large sized skins for balls
100 pounds quotations and testifiers
60 dozen Beglet, sorted
6 ,» 2 lines English do.
6 „ Great Primer do*
24 Pair Points
12 Mallets
12 Mahogany Plainers
50 Shooting Sticks
40 doz. foot and side sticks
3 Saws and 6 Blocks
6000 Quoins
50 Bodkins
1 Cask Potash
I have &c.
(Signed) Geo. Eoas.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. John Stanley to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Ft7N0HAL, February 7th 1820.
Sm, — I beg leave to inform you the John arrived here on the
2nd and the Stentor yesterday, after a stormy and tedio^us passage,
during which Lt. Church and the oificers of the ship John have
paid every attention to our health and comfort ; indeed Lt. Church
is a man in ten thousand, his kindness and watchful attentions to
every person on board is beyond all praise, he has behaved like a
father to us all, which if contioued during the voyage must in-
fallibly make our long voyage to the Cape a very pleasant one.
The government has laid us under everlasting obligations in
c 2
20 Records of the Cape Colony.
fitting out the ships in so superior a manner, eveiy necessary
provision is made that can be expected at sea, and the people have
ample provisions, grog, &c., that ever their hearts can wish for, and
a very great proportion are infinitely better provided for on board
a ship than they could possibly expect in their late homes of Old
England.
As regards myself and party I return my sincere thanks, as the
individuals going with me will have an opportunity of doing well
if they conduct themselves with moderation and propriety.
Staying here a few days cannot fail to be productive of great
good, at all events it has proved so to Mrs. Stanley and myself,
who have never before been more at sea than across the Mersey at
LiverpooL
With many thanks for past favours permit me &c.
(Signed) John Stanley.
[Copy.]
AdvertisemeTU.
To the Soman Catholic Inhabitants of this Colony.
The British Government having liberally given its sanction,
and afforded its protection, to the free exercise of all the Bites of
the Catholic Eeligion, in this Country, Notice is hereby given, that
a Store in the Buitenkant, opposite the Barracks, will be opened
as a Chapel, on Sunday the 13th instant, and Divine Service will
be there performed on all Sundayd and Holidays, at eleven
o'clock.
Cape Town, 10th February, 1820.
(Signed) P. Scully, Missionary,
F. DB Lettbb, Commissary of the Church.
Hecards of the Cape Colony: 21
%
[Original.]
Zetter from Sir Bufake Shaws Donkin to Earl. Bathubst:.
GN>TBBIIHENT HOUBB,
Gafb of Good Hops, 11^?^ February 1820.
My Lord, — In reply to your Lordship's dispatch No. 13,
addressed to His Excellency General Lord Charles Somerset,
transmitting a Copy of a Besolution of the. Home of Commons^
which passed during the last Session of Parliament, and in virtue
of which an address was presented to His Boyal Highness the
Prince B^gent, soliciting Beturns of the B^renue and Expenditure:
of this Settlement, with other information as therein expressed, I
have now the honour to transmit to your Lordship a Betum of the;
Civil Officers of this Government, whose Salary and Emoluments
exceed £150 a year, made out according to the printed forms
transmitted by your Lordship, together with Beturns of the Total
Amount of the Bevenue of the Cape of Good Hope for 1817 and
1818 and the total amount of Expenditure for the same periods, so
far in each as the Civil Govermnent is concerned. The Military
Beturns will be furnished to your Lordship separately,
I have &c,
(Signed) E. S, Donkin.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. Benjamin Moodie to IiEUTENANr
CaiiONEL Bird.
Cmwe of GtooD HoFK, February lUh 1S20.
Sir,— I have the honour to submit^ through your medium, to
His Excellency the Governor's consideration the following circum-
stances, trusting that your knowledge of them will enable you to
elucidate the subject, and satisfied that His Excellency wiU give
it the attention he may deem it to merit.
At the period when the Emigration under my direction left
England, His Majesty's Ministers had not decided on giving any^
t
22 Becords of the Cape Colony.
encouragement to Settlers in this Colony ; subsequent however to
the date of a Memorial to which the above was the substance of
the answer received, I was informed that although I could expect
no immediate assistance, my claim would be admitted for such
advantages as Ministers might afterwards be induced to offer to
others.
With a recommendation therefore from Earl Bathurst to Lord
Charles Somerset, and trusting to the liberal views of the Colonial
Government, I engaged in an undertaking the result of which has
been the location of two hundred persons of the most valuable
descriptions in this Colony, The success of the individuals com-
posing this emigration has tended in a great measure to attract to
this quarter the attention of the Public, and the Colony at the
Cape of Good Hope promises, not only to afford an asylum to
many thousands of the distressed at present, but to rival America
as a receptacle for the annual emigration that must take place^
from a Society so far advanced in civilization as that of Great
Britain. Government, having at length turned its attention to
the subject, have held out to those engaging in similar under-
takings, passages for their people free of Expence, to cover which
Parliament have voted £50,000, Government have also held out
certain inducements in this colony to the Persons leading Emigra-
tions to it. To be admitted to a proportional share in these
advantages is the object of my now soliciting the interference of
His Excellency the Governor, by an application on my behalf to
His Majesty's Ministers. As the first who engaged in an under-
taking fraught with so many advantages to the Colony, it may
perhaps also appear to His Excellency that my claims are entitled
to some farther consideration from the Colonial Government than
those of such as may follow in my footsteps, guided by my experi-
ence, particularly as the result will shew that many of my followers
have amassed fortunes and all acquired competencies, my circum-
stances have not been improved by it.
With regard to the difficulties I have had to encounter, notwith-
standing the interest the Colonial Government took in them and
the support it gave me, I shall only say that as no legislative
enactment could be effectual where there is not a sufficient party
to support it in the community, I derived no further advantage
from that securing to Masters the services of their apprentices
than the Public expression of the approbation of Government.
Becards of the Cape Colony. 2S
But it was addressed to a Society whose immediate ioterests as.
Slave Owners were opposed to it.
The expence I incurred for the passage of my people from
Scotland to London and from London to the Cape somewhat
exceeds £20 sterling per Head. I have &c.
(Signed) Benjn. Moodie.
[OriginalJ
ZeUer from Sir Kufane Shawb Donkin ta Earl Bathurst.
GoyXBNMBNT HbUdK,
Oapi of Good Hofb, 12th FAruary 1820:
My Lord, — ^I have the honor to transmit the copy of a MemoriaT,
with its enclosmres, i-eceived from the Widow of the late Mr;
Baumgardt, who held different Civil Situations in this Govern-
ment, and to whom a pension of Two Thousand BixdoUars per
annum was granted, in consideration of hii» services, on the 2nd
April 1814; and having every reason to believe the correctness
of the allegations made in the Memorial, I tafke the liberty of
requesting that Your Lordship may be pleased to sanction the
payment of a moiety of the pension enjoyed by her late husband,
to Mrs. Baumgardt, whose circimistances are such as to require
the favorable consideration of His Majesty's Grovemment.
I have &c.
(Signed) B. S. Donkin.
[Enclosure.]"
To His Excellermj Major General Sir Ettfane Shawe
Donkin, K. C. B., Actvrtg Governor and Commanding in
Chief, &c., &c., &c.
The humble Memorial of Johanna van Reenen, Widow of
J. P. Baumgardt deceased, EespectfuUy Sheweth ^^.
That Memorialist's deceased husband, bom in this Settlem^ .^„
after having passed some years in the East Indies, in the S^
of the Dutch East India Company, returned here i» the ye^ ^^ _
24 Records of the Cape Colony.
when he was hnmediately appointed Member of the Worshipful
Court of Justice.
That in the year 1795, upon the Surrender of this Colony to the
Arms of His Great Britannic Majesty, he continued serving His
Majesty's Government in the same capacity, and was moreover
appointed Keceiver of His Majesty's Land Eevenue ;
That when the intelligence of the Peace of Amiens having been
signed had reached this Colony, the Memorialist's said husband,
supposing that this Settlement would in consequence be given up
to the Batavian Kepublic, repaired to England, before the arrival
of the Dutch Troops here, and was employed by His Majesty's
Government at Demferara, until this Settlement again came in the
Possession of His Majesty ;
That immediately after the Capture of this Colony was known
in England^ the Memorialist's deceased husband returned here,
with such favorable recommendation from Mr. Wm. Windham,
one of His Majesty's Ministers, to General Gray, then lieut.
Governor of this Colony, as will appear from the accompanying
copy of this letter, dated 31st July 1806 ;
That in consequence of this recommendation, the Memorialist's
husband was immediately, upon his arrival, nominated Eece^ver
of Land Revenue, and Inspector of the Forests, which situations
he continued to hold until the year 1814, when, in consequence of
his age, infirmities, and (as the official letter, directed to him,
states) of his strong claims upon the British Government, he
was allowed to retire, preserving his rank, and with an Annual
Pension of Two Thousand Eixdollars ;
That the Memorialist having had the misfortune to lose her
husband a few days ago, has thereby been deprived of her
Principal, if not only, means of subsistence, as in consequence
of the education of nine children, and the wandering life they
have been obliged to lead, during the fatal vicissitude of times,
their property has been gradually so exhausted, that the Memorialist
has no adequate means of subsistence left, without a continuation
of the kind support of His Majesty's (Jovemment ;
That without presuming to claim in any manner such support,
en^she will ever consider the same as a particular mark of kindness
to sufavor, the Memorialist however begs leave to assure Your
from tl°cy that the whole course of life of her deceased husband
than th^antly evinced an unalterable attachment to His Majesty's
Records of the Cape Colony. 2ff
€rovernment, and that he has never fafled, wherever an opportunity
offered, to promote the interests of that Government and contribute
to the comfort and welfare of His Majesty's subjects, as will fully
appear to Your Excellency from the whole tenor of the accom-
panying documents.
Wherefore the Memorialist begs leave humbly to address Your
Excellency praying that it may graciously please Your Excellency
to consider favorably of the Memorialist's circumstances, and
to take such kind dispositions, regarding the same, or otherwise,
to represent them to His Majesty's Government, as Your Excel-
lency may deem meet. And Memorialist as in duty bound will
ever pray, &c.
(Signed) Johanna van Eeenen,
Widow J. P. Baumgardt.
Capb Town, February ith, 1820.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Kufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
Gk>yBRNMBNT H0U8B,
Cafb of Good Hops, February 16th 1820.
My Lord, — Before Lord Charles Somerset left this Colony, he
deemed it necessary that a Barrack should be buUt on the Frontier
for the Troops there.
The necessity of this will have been made known to your
Lordship by Lord Charles Somerset.
I have the honour of enclosing an estimate of the probable
expence, which I directed the Chief Engineer here to draw out,
and, as the Troops must have cover, I have instructed that officer
to proceed on the building without delay, on his arrival on the
Frontier, whither he is immediately going.
It remains for me to request Your Lordship's Commands as to
the source from which this expence is to be defrayed. As it is for
tihe accommodation of His Majesty's Troops, I have some doubt
whether, or no, this expenditure should fall on the Extraordinaries
of the Army.
The Colonial Treasury has had heavy demands on it in con-
26 Becords of the Gape Coltmy.
sequence of the late War with the Kaffers, and other demands ar&^
yet to be made on it for current and other expences.
The Estimate seems to me very moderate, and I am disposed to
think it lower than the expence will be, but I do not imagine it
will exceed four thousand pounds. I have &c. .
(Signed) E. S. Bonkin,
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl" Bathurst.
GOYEBIVMRNT HOUBE,
Gafb of Good Hope, February \Q1h 1820.
My Lord,— I think it my duty to make a particular report to
your liordship on the subject of certain Spanish Vessels which
have put into this Port, freighted with Slaves.
The first, named the Isdbella, from Zanzibar, a Schooner of 208
Tons and carrying 236 Slaves, put in here on the 23rd Ultimo
and applied for assistance and refreshments. As this Vessel was
redlly in distress and had suffered from bad weather, I conceived
myself authorized by Acts of Parliament, as well as by the opinion
of H. M.'s Crown Lawyers, as commanded in a dispatch from your
Lordship, dated 29th August 1818, to grant to the Isdbella certain
reasonable assistance and meaus of repair, (during the supplying
of which she was twice blown out to sea from .having no anchor),
and this being done, she was ordered at once to depart, and she
sailed accordingly on the 31st of January for the Havannah.
A second vessel arrived on the 3rd of February, named the
Caridad, of 210 Tons and having on board 216 Slaves. After due
enquiry and deliberation, I determined also to give to her a
reasonable supply of water and provisions, as her distress was
great and all circumstances considered, she appeared to me to
come within the purview of that part of the Law which admits of
relief being granted. This vessel sailed on the 7th of February.
But when a third Slave Ship, the S. Jose, arrived on the 6th of
February, I began to suspect that this quick succession could not
be-^accidental, and I therefore sent off a Notary with the Health
OflBcei^ (all Slave Ships being immediately put in Quarantine)
\
\
Becarck of the Cape Colony^ 27
yntii directions to examine and question closely the Master as to
his object in coming hither, as well as the immediate cause of his
putting into Table Bay. The result was an admission on the part
of the Master that he had sailed from Zanzibar with the intention of
refreshing at the Cape of Good Hope. As this practice, were it
admitted, would be making this Colony singularly instrumental
in aiding the carrying on of the Slave Trade and would be also
directly in the face of Several Acts of Parliament, as well as of
the legal opinions before alluded to, I had no hesitation in deter-
mining to refuse the supplies and assistance asked for by the
S. JosS, and I directed only 14 days water and provisions to be
given to her, to prevent the unfortunate slaves on board firom
perishing, and, with this supply she will be enabled to make
Tristan d'Acunha, or to return to Zanzibar ; but it will not enable
her to proceed on her voyage direct to the Havannah. The & JosS
was of 262 Tons with 370 Slaves on board.
Having submitted what I have done to your Lordship, I have
now to express my hope that your Lordship will not disapprove of
my proceeding. The Question is one of considerable embarrass-
ment. I am disposed by duty and by inclination to do my utmost
to put down that cruel traffick, the Slave Trade ; but I have great
doubts whether if I had ordered all the above vessels at once to
sea, my doing so would have contributed at all towards that
desireable object, whereas it would most certainly have exposed
the unhappy slaves to the extremes of hunger and thirst, and
probably to death after much suffering.
The object of the several Acts of Parliament, I conceive to be,
to diminish the quantum of human misery, and, had I refused all
supplies, I should have encreased it, without a certainty of any
counterbalancing advantage ; or, in other words, I should have
caused a certain Evil of no small magnitude with a view to a
contingent and barely possible good, the realization of which I
myself saw no reason to expect.
The right of trading in Slaves by the Spanish Nation will now
cease in a very short time, and during the continuation of that
right, I shall act towards other Slave Vessels which may put in
here (of whatever nation) as I have acted towards the S. JosS,
unless particular circumstances should cause or justify a differen^j^
conduct. I have &c. jj^^
(Signed) K S. Don; ^ffici^
/
28* Records of the Cape CoUmjf,
1 Original.]
Letter from SiK Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathukst.
GOYXBRM ENT HOfUSB,
Caps or Good Hope, lllh Febrvary 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor to enclose to your Lordship a copy
of an application which has been made to me by Mr. Benjamin
Moodie, a Gentleman who was recommended to the protection of
the Governor of this Colony by your Lordship's dispatch of the
30th January 1817.
Mr. Moodie, at two different periods, has brought Settlers to
this Colony, who are now located here to the number of 200, and
to the success which many of these Settlers have individually
met with, may in great measure be attributed the attention and
interest which the British Public has lately given to the capabili-
ties of this place. Many of Mr. Moodie's people are established
in respectable trades in Cape Town and throughout the Colony,
and thus Mr. Moodie having really benefitted, by his patient and
laudable exertions, the Community here, it is just that I should
recommend his claims to your Lordship's favorable attention,
provided they shall be found to coincide with the assurances held
out to him previous to his undertaking what has been to him a
most expensive speculation.
Certainly Mr. Moodie proposed to benefit himself by the under-
taking in which he embarked, but it is equally true, that instead of
so doing he has expended a considerable Capital in the speculation,
the want of which has nearly put a stop to those exertions, which
might under more favorable circumstances have been expected
from a person of his talents and activity.
Mr. Moodie has not availed himseK hitherto of the disposition
of the Colonial Government to grant waste land to him, he pre-
ferred purchasing, on account of the locality, in the district of
Swellendam, near the confluence of the Buffeljagt and Breede
Rivers, the principal object therefore which he has in view, in the
enclosed application, is to be allowed to participate in such
■•advantages as are now granted to persons conducting Emigrants
be ihis Settlement. He understands that His Majesty's Govem-
Officer gives to such persons a free passage to this place ; the
Eeeords of the Cape Colony. 29
Mechanics and others whom he has located were brought hither
from Scotland at his own expence, and he estimates that each
person stood him in £20.
If your Lordship views Mr. Moodie's merits in the light I do,
and admits " that it was held out to him that he should participate
in such advantages as should be given to future settlers/' perhaps
you may think Mr. Moodie entitled to a pecuniary aid, amounting
to £10 per man, according to the number he has located, to defray
the expense of their passages to this place, which is the point I
venture to submit to your Lordship's favorable consideration.
I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[QUice Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset.
London, \^th February 1820.
My Lord, — I transmit herewith to your Lordship a Certificate
of the death of Evert van Schoor, a Native of the Cape of Good
Hope, and in compliance with the request of the Dutch Ambassa-
dor at this Court I have to desire that your Lordship will transmit
this document to the family of the deceased. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Copy.]
Letter from Lieut. Colonel Bird to the Landdrost of
TJlTENHAGE.
Colonial Oftioi, 2&th February 1820.
Sir, — Eeferring to my letter of the 12th November last on tl^e
subject of Emigrants who may shortly be expected to arrive in
these Harbours, I am directed by His Excellency the Acting
Governor to acquaint you, that altho' he has no further official
30 Records of the: Cape Colony^
accounts of their intended departure, yet it appearing from the
Public Papers that 9 Transports have been taken up for the
purpose of giving conveyance to the Emigrants for this Place, His
Excellency deems it necessary to apprize you of the circumstance,
and to acquaint you what preparatory measures it is His Excel-
lency's intention to take to obviate the inconveniences to which
these Persons might otherwise be exposed upon their arrival I
am to premise, that it does not appear to be in the contemplation
of His Majesty's Government to incur any expense on account of
the Emigrants, from the moment of their disembai'kation at Algoa
Bay ; from that period it seems to be expected that the Directors,
to whom these Persons have engaged themselves, shall bear all
the Cost, either of Provision or Transport to the places of their
respective locations, tho' His Majesty's Government has directed
all necessaries to be prepared to be furnished them, in case the
Directors shall require them, though at their own Cost and
Charge.
His Excellency is much at a loss with respect to the numbers
to be expected, but he proposes sending by the earliest opportunity
Camp equipage for 1500 Persons to Algoa Bay, to be used as
occasion may require, and he has instructed the Assistant Com-
missary General to be prepared to furnish Bations for One Month
to 2,000 Persons.
His Excellency will be most anxious to have from you some
accoimt of Mr. Knobel's progress in the survey of Land, according
to the Instructions communicated to you on this head, in order to
decide therefrom as to the Spots to be first occupied, according to
the numbers the grounds are calculated to receive, as it is highly
expedient that the parties as they arrive shall be marched without
delay to the places on which they are ultimately to be settled ;
shoiQd His Excellency not be on the spot, this part of the arrange-
ment will necessarily devolve upon you, and it is His Excellency's
particular desire that you should in person superintend the move-
ment of the first parties through your District to the final place of
their location, that the promptest succour may be afforded them
in cases of exigence, and the beneficent views of His Majesty's
Government in their regard seconded in the most efiScient manner.
Meanwhile it is His Excellency's desire that you should ascertain
with as much accuracy as possible what aid the District will want
(if any) for the. supply of an influx of Population calculated at
Records of the Cape Colony. 31
5000 Souls for Six Months ; it will be desireable that you should
communicate with the commissariat and with Mr. Hart on these
points and report the result with the least possible delay.
His Excellency will not fail to give you the earliest intelligence
of the arrival of the Emigrants here ; it is not proposed that they
shall be disembarked here, but that they shall proceed forthwith
to Algoa Bay. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Original.]
Letter from Joseph Plantap, Esqre., to Henry
GOULBOURN, ESQRE.
FoBXEON Offiob, Febrwxry 28<^ 1820.
SiR,-^I am directed by Viscount Castlereagh to transmit to you
the accompanying extract and enclosure of a letter from a Deputy
Consul at Embden, representing that certain inhabitants of that
City are desirous of settling at the Cape of Good Hope, and
requesting to be informed whether His Majesty's Government will
hold out any encouragement to them, and I am to request that
you will lay the same before Earl Bathurst for his Lordship's
consideration.
I am, Sir &c.
(Signed) Joseph Plantap.
[Enclosure.]
JExtract of a Letter fram Mr. Schroder, His Majesty's Deputy
Consul at JEmbden, dated EmMen Ibth Fdmmry 1820.
At present thirty-two Inhabitants have addressed themselves to
me, being desirous to emigrate to the Cape of Good Hope, a list
of whom I enclose. I know not if Government still continues to
allot to such subjects, upon their arrival, grsmts of Land, in pro-
portion to the means and family of each Settler, and therefore beg
to honour me with prolix Instructions respecting this, because the
number can easily increase in a short time from 50 to 60 persons.
rrearin:^ fri'iii the
Mkcn u]p [ill- the
-'. r this FkcK. His
:ii- drciimsi.iiice,
^ :: •= His EmcbIt
:L:-i..vi to whidi
:^-:i irrivaL I
1; ,i.2:em|i!:iti<Hl
-J.; .:. i^aamtof
-ij::.ii a: -Ug(«
-: ■— ■- Iiii-cctois,
- -. Lijn? Gi' their
^ the
: and
-- -----;<: --izvrtimity
— L-i: ;.r Clie iftiith
■- '—i^i. according
Records of the Cage Colony^ 33
The Kaffer herg is of no considerable elevation, the mean height
being from six to seven hundred feet ; its general direction is with
that of the Fish river from KN. West to S.S. East, terminating to
the North near the Eaka bei^ and to the South at the Junction of
the Xoonap with Great Fish Hiver^ embracing in/the whole extent
about sixty miles in length. The slopes towards the river break
off abniptly into deep ravines lined with thick bush, in which the
Specboom * or Elephants tree with different species of Euphorbium
predominate ; the inclination on the opposite side of the range is
uniformly gradual, extending to the Westward in large fertile
plains, and towards the East approximating the junction of the
rivers, breaking in gentle undulations, whose surface is intersected
by the tributary streams of the Sqso and EidoL
SOIIi AND PkODUCTIONS OF Do, &C.
The soil between the Fish and Eoonap rivers is not altogether
uniformly the same. In the deep Kloofs t of the Kafferberg, and
towards the base of the banks of the Fish river it is rich, of a
marly nature, and producing an abundance of sweet grass ; on the
summit of the range it becomes shallow, rock of the quality of
slaty schist being visible on the surface ; the soil continues good,
but grass less luxuriant and of rather sour flavor, ^^proximating
the Koonap it again gradually improves, changes to a loamy
nature, and appears admirably calculated for tillage could the
ground be sufficiently irrigated. The country generally is very
open, particularly in the vicinity of the small stream of the Spso,
being interspersed only with small clumps of evergreen bush.
Between the above stream and Koonap Eiver the Mimosa tree f
abounds and spreads diffusedly over the whole surface. • From the
general character of this part of the Country it might be inferred
that game is abundant,§ and there is good pasturage throusbeSt
for Homed Cattle.
* Boom in the Dutch signifies tree.
t Kloof in the Dutch is applied to deep thickly woodedyavines, rocky chasms,
also narrow passes through mountains.
X The Mimosa is a thorny tree, bushy at the Top, a^ yields the famous Gum
Arabic of Asia.
§ Several of the Antelope Tribe, also Quachas, 9'^triches, and Kaffer crs^es
were observed on the march. /
XIII. / D
82 ^Becards of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
REPORT UPON KAFFRARIA
IN
SOUTHERN AFRICA;
Comprising under four Sections a series of Observations
upon the Nature of the Country, its Soil, and Produce ;
also the Character of the Rivers and Streams; with
General Remarks on the Kafifers, their Persons,
Character, Habits, and Relation with the
Colony of the Cape of Good Hope;
Concluding with a description of the CUmate andr
Natural Resources of Kafifraria :
The above being collected on the spot during the
late campaign, and most respectfully addressed
to His Excellency Lord C. H. Somerset,
by the Author.
Terminated March 1st 1820.
Statistical Report of certain portions of the Country of
Kaffraria,
Section Jfo. 1. Tract of country between De Bruin's drift on
Great Fish river and the Koonap river.
Nature of the Country &c.
Entering the Kafifer territory by the ford near the De Bruin's
Post on the Great Fish river and proceeding in a North Easterly
direction the first prominent feature presented to view is the
extended range of Hills commonly termed the Kafferhergy as
opposed to a similar range in a parallel direction on the opposite
bank of the Fish river called the Fish river herg^ and between
which the said river takes its course.
* Dorg, BignificB JWX or Jtfountotn in the Dutch.
Records of the Cajfe Colony^ 33
The Kaffer berg is of no considerable elevation, the mean height
being from six to seven hundred feet ; its general direction is with
that of the Fish river from KN. West to S.S. East, terminating to
the North near the Eaka bei^ and to the South at the Junction of
the Xoonap with Great Fish Eiver, embracing in the whole extent
about sixty miles in length. The slopes towards the river break
ofif abniptly into deep ravines lined with thick bush, in which the
Specboom * or Elephants tree with dififerent species of Euphorbium
predominate ; the inclination on the opposite side of the range is
uniformly gradual, extending to the Westward in large fertile
plains, and towards the East approximating the junction of the
rivers, breaking in gentle undulations, whose surface is intersected
by the tributary streams of the Soso and Kaka.
Soil and Productions of Do, &c.
^
The soil between the Fish and Koonap rivers is not altogether
uniformly the same. In the deep Kloofs t of the Kafferberg, and
towards the base of the banks of the Fish river it is rich, of a
marly nature, and producing an abundance of sweet grass ; on this
summit of the range it becomes shallow, rock of the quality of
slaty schist being visible on the surface ; the soil continues good,
but grass less luxuriant and of rather sour flavor. At)proximatiDg
the Koonap it again gradually improves, changes to a loamy
nature, and appears admirably calculated for tillage could the
ground be sufficiently irrigated. The country generally is very
open, particularly in the vicinity of the small stream of the Spso,
being interspersed only with small clumps of evergreen bush.
Between the above stream and Koonap Eiver the Mimosa tree f
abounds and spreads diffusedly over the whole surface. » From the
general character of this part of the Country it might be inferred
that game is abundant,§ and there is good pasturage throughout
for Horned Cattle.
t Boom in the Dutch signifies tree.
t Kloof in the Dutch is applied to deep thickly wooded ravines, rocky chasms,
also narrow passes through mountains.
X The Mimosa is a thorny tree, bushy at the Top, and yields the famous Gum
Arabic of Asia.
§ Several of the Antelope Tribe, also Quachas, Ostriches, and Kaffer cranes
were observed on the march.
XIII. D
82 ^Becords of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
EEPORT UPON KAFFRARIA
IN
SOUTHERN AFRICA;
Comprising under four Sections a series of Observations
upon the Nature of the Country, its Soil, and Produce ;
also the Character of the Rivers and Streams; with
General Remarks on the Kaffers, their Persons,
Character, Habits, and Relation with the
Colony of the Cape of Good Hope;
Concluding with a description of the Climate and
Natural Resources of Kaffraria :
The above being collected on the spot during the
late campaign, and most respectfully addressed
to His Excellency Lord C. H. Somerset,
by the Author.
Terminated March 1st 1820.
Statistical Report of certain portions of the Country of
Kaffraria.
Section Jfo. 1. Tract of country between De Bruin's drift on
Great Fish river and the Koonap river.
Nature of the Country &c.
Entering the Kafifer territory by the ford near the De Bruin's
Post on the Great Fish river and proceeding in a North Easterly
direction the first prominent feature presented to view is the
extended range of Hills commonly termed the Kafferherg^ as
opposed to a similar range in a parallel direction on the opposite
bank of the Fish river called the Fish river herg,^ and between
which the said river .takes its course.
* Berg, signifies HiU or Mountain in the Dutch.
Records of the Vajge Cdony^ 33
The Kaffer herg is of no considerable elevation, the mean height
being from six to seven hundred feet ; its general direction is with
that of the Fish river from KN. West to S.S. East, terminating to
the North near the Eoika berg and to the South at the Junction of
the Koonap with Great Fish Eiver, embracing in/the whole extent
about sixty miles in length. The slopes towards the river break
off abruptly into deep ravines lined with thick bush, in which the
Specboom * or Elephants tree with different species of Euphorbium
predominate ; the inclination on the opposite side of the range is
uniformly gradual, extending to the Westward in large fertile
plains, and towards the East approximating the junction of the
rivers, breaking in gentle undulations, whose surface is intersected
by the tributary streams of the Soso and Kaka.
Soil* AND Productions of Do. &c.
The soil between the Fish and Koonap rivers is not altogether
uniformly the same. In the deep Kloofs t of the Kafferberg, and
towards the base of the banks of the Fish river it is rich, of a
marly nature, and producing an abundance of sweet grass ; on the
summit of the range it becomes shallow, rock of the quality of
slaty schist being visible on the surface ; the soil continues good,
but grass less luxuriant and of rather sour flavor, ^^proximating
the Koonap it again gradually improves, changes to a loamy
nature, and appears admirably calculated for tillage could the
ground be sufficiently irrigated. The country generally is very
open, particularly in the vicinity of the small stream of the Spso,
being interspersed only with small clumps of evergreen bush.
Between the above stream and Koonap Eiver the Mimosa tree %
abounds and spreads diffusedly over the whole surface. » From the
general character of this part of the Country it might be inferred
that game is abundant,§ and there is good pasturage throughout
for Horned Cattle.
t Boom in the Dutoh fiignifies tree.
t Kloof in the Dutch is applied to deep thickly wooded ravines, rocky chasms,
also narrow psflses through mountains.
X The Mimosa is a thorny tree, bushy at the Top, and yields the famous Gum
Arahic of Asia.
§ Several of the Antelope Tribe, also Quachas, Ontriches, and Kaffer cruies
were observed on the march.
XIII. D
34 Records of the Cape Colony.
Chakactbr of the Eivers &o.
With respect to the state of the Great Fish Biver, at the post of
De Bruin's drift (ford) it partakes of the general character observ-
able from its source to its confluence with the
^'^dewribeJ'''^'^ Sea. The banks are steep and scarped almost
perpendicularly on each side, the bed is low
and narrow, having to appearance a considerable fall throughout
its course. The stream is consequently rapid, greatly acted
upon by the rains, which encrease the body of water exceed-
ingly ; and which is proportionately diminished in the sections as
the dry season prevails ; the body of running water varies therefore
constantly; in the wet season it might be estimated as high as
from eighty to one hundred yards wide by fifteen or twenty feet
deep aftei* heavy rains ; and the section of the stream * in the dry
season is contracted to the narrow compass of 20 or 30 yards by
2 feet 6 inches and 3 feet. At the time crossed, 28th July, it was
30 yards by 2 feet 8 inches width and depth, which may be con-
sidered a fair medium throughout the year. The course of the
Great Fish river is by no means very determinate ; in the general
direction it runs S.S.K, but the windings are numerous and con-
tinued, and the river shapes its course through a vast extent of
country .f tllie quality of the water is generally good, but of
rather muddy color; the banks in parts are thickly wooded either
with the Sallow or Willow, or else covered for miles with impene-
trable thick forest, whose density and blackness baffle description.
Thd small stream of the Soso, tributary to the Eoonap, merits
little remark ; it n^ght be considered as periodical, the current
being rapid after heavy rains, but in the dry season the water
stands in small pools only, and is of extremely brackish quality.
The bed of tiie river is sandstone rock, rough and uneven, the
l)anks are generally disposed to be low and 15 or 20 yards across ;
but the stream generally is convertible to no possible use. The
Kaka, like the Soso, falls into the Koonap and partakes of the
* By the section of stream is meant the absolute body of water constantly
Tunning ia a unifoim current; at any particular point it will be defined by the
width multiplied by the depth.
t The ground skirting the banks of Great Fish River can in particular parts
(be appropriated to irrigation with advantage.
Records of the Cape Colonjfi 35
same nature with it. The course of this latter is however much
longer, taking its rise near the Kaka berg and mnning into the
Koonap, not far removed from the junction of that river with the
Great Fish. The bed of this stream is very rocky, its width about
20 yards, but section of running water confined to 8 or 10 feet by
2 or 3 inches. The Soso is about 7 or 8 miles of right line from
the Fish River, the Kaka 12*, and between 5 and 5J fix>m the
Koonap river. This last mentioned merits particular regard. Its
rise (if my information be correct) is under the Great Winterbergi
ivhence it shapes its course through a delightful country in a
southerly direction till it empties itself into the Great Fish River
about eight miles below fferr/ianiis Kraal, f For some distance
from the Koonap's source the water can be led in all directions to
irrigate the neighbouring country, whose capabilities of produce
are very great. The stream from its height of source is clear,
rapid, and uniform throughout the year. The bed of the river is
commonly of slaty schist, in parts much contracted. The banks
are rather precipitous and distant from each other about 60 yardsr,
lined with willow and other trees of inconsiderable size. The
fords are numerous, but difficult of access, consequent upon the
nature of the banks, and the water is excellent in quality, pre-
senting a section of running stream varied according to circum-
stances, but following a medium of 40 yards by 2 ft. 6 in. and
3 feot width and depth. Towards the source of the Koonap4
forest trees are said to be produced, and in its sinuosities through
the grand chain of Blue Mountains the finest yellow wood and
other timber may be procured from the different acclivities.
«
General Remarks.
Of the population and cultivation of this tract by the Kaffers,
previous to its annexation to the Colony of the Cap© of Good
Hope, I do not feel competent to digress on from limited observa-
* Soso eight miles, Kaka twtlvie Do. from Great Msh River N.E.
t HermanuB Kraal was f(x>mer)y one of the Military Posts od ibe Fish River,
BOW abandoned. Kraal implies an enclosure for Cattle^ in English signification
Cattle pen.
X From the good quality of the Koonap's water and disposition of ground
contiguous to its banks near the source, this river may be of much importance
in an agricultural point of view.
D 2
86 Becards of the Cap^ CnX^m^^
tion and informatioii. Enno was the principal Chief under King
Gaika, who enjoyed con^derable influence and consideration in
the Country, as much from being formidable in force as ex-
perienced in council. His residence was in the vicinity of the
Kakaberg, and his dependents occupied those fine fertile plains
spoken of as terminating from the Kafferberg to the westward.
The face of this tract is much diversified and highly picturesque^
of uniform verdure aiid sufficiently wooded to promote the wants
of domestic and other purposes.
The route taken by the column to which I was attached was in
tibe general direction K£. by East, the halting places on the Soso
on the 29th and Koonap 30th July on its left bank ; little diffi-
culty occurred in crossing the latter river, the banks being readily
formed into a practicable road, and ford cleared for the transport
of the waggons &c.
Section No. 2. Tract of Country between the Koonap and Gaigai
rivers including the Kat river and Streams.
Natukb of thb Countey &o.
After crossing the Koonap river, and proceeding in an Easterly
and Southerly direction, the country becomes beautifully diversi-
fied with hill and dale. The small stream of the Kookoolan about
two miles from the Koonap, to which it is tributary, intersects a
lovely valley bounded by elevated features of ground, running
nearly perpendicular to the course of the river, which receives the
small stream in question a short distance from the course taken.
Moving onward the trifling stream of the Imphi arrests the atten-
tion, similarly shaping its course through a narrow valley, at the
head of which was discovered its source, and whence a long
elevated ridge of land stretches forth towards the Kat river, from
which long tongues diverge, forming valleys which trend towards
the Koonap river. Independent of the two sla^eams enumerated,
that of the Kroome crosses the course, beyond which towards the
Kat river the country changes its features, abounding with clumps
of evergreen bush and with stony surface, presenting a pleasing
diversity, though less luxuriant appearance. On the opposite bank
of the Kat, the grouAd rises in bold features to considerable height,
Jiecords of the Cape Colottff. 37
'whose surface is clothed with verdure; but occasionally inters
epersed with masses of sandst(me rock of silicious quality. De-
scending the high ground the Kilo (a stream of more note than
the rest) and tributary to the Kat, presents itself, watering a
beautiful valley, more extensive than those mentioned, in the
vicinity of which upon a tonguid of land was situated Botman's
kraal. This valley merits attention, appearing to possess capa-
bilities for cultivation. Other small streams, as Basouka, Shego
&c. intersect the country, receding from the Kat and approaching
the Gktigai, aU tributary to the former. The features of ground
preserve the same character, being formed in extensive ridges
whence proceed long tongues of land. These ridges all terminattf
at the Keiskamma, a river (of which the Gaigai is a branch) broken
by deep ravines, and thickly covered with the mimosa tree : the
terminating points of land towards the river are generally abrupt,
and the ridges take parallel directions, if my opinion conceived of
them be correct.
Soil and Productions of Do. &c.
The nature of the soil between the Koonap and Kroome riven
is uniformly good and produce the same : tiakt in the vallies is a
rich loam and deep, on the high grounds equally good but shallow,
presenting in parts to view masses of sandstone protruding above
the surfiAce. The mimosa grows in great luxuriance and profusion
in the vallies, particularly the first mentioned watered by the
Kookoolon ; it likewise prevails on the hills and with groups of
shrubby trees and plants spreads over the country, which in
general character is nevertheless open. Bulbous roots likewise
predcminate, and are distributed in great variety, the grass is
uniformly sweet and abundant throughout, of a reddish color and
growing to considerable height. Grossing the Kroome river the
bush * peculiar to the country (consisting of the specboom, boor-
bloom, different species of aloe and euphorbium, and a variety of
other succulent plants, together with thorny trees, chiefly of the
mimosa kind, cover the surface, grouped together in large compact
* The description of bush here alluded to forms shelter as well as snstenaBce
to> immense herds of elephants, rhinoceros, and other wild, animals, who derive
nourishment from the succulent plants, &c.
S8 Records of the Cape Colony^
masses, and intercepting the view in every direction. Here the
country and its produce is nearly obscured, but the soil appears
stony and unpromising * On the opposite side of the Kat river
the mimosa tree again prevails over the bush, and extends uninter-
ruptedly to Phoonah's Kraal, growing in a luxuriant soil, but
shallow, which produces an abundance of grass sometimes of sweet,
at others of sourish flavour, as it is more or less nourished (I
should imagine) by the decomposition of vegetable substance from
the withered leaves of the mimosa. Contiguous to the Graigai and
immediately on its banks there is excellent pasturage for horses
and horned cattle ; but in no part have I observed it sufficiently
nutritious for sheep. This part of the Country abounds in game
of the fowl kind, as pows, coran, pea-fowl, &c., and a few of the
antelope tribe are occasionally met with. The distance between
the Kat and Koonap rivers in the direct line of E.S.E. course is
about 18 miles, between the Kat and Gaigai S.E. by S. 14 or 15>
total 32 or 33 miles.
Chabacter of the Eiveks &c.
The small stream of the Kookoolon, already spoken of as
watering the narrow valley through which it runs, would be of
considerable utility, were it of greater magnitude, both for irriga-
tion and domestic purposes: its water is alone of the several
tributary streams free from brackishness ; the banks are low,
presenting in the profile a deep and rich soil ; the bed is rather
muddy, but firm, and section of running water unfortunately too
trifling to merit notice, so much so that it is to be apprehended in
the dry season but a very small portion of water would be found
running in an uniform current. The streams of the Imphi and
Kroome ai« alike inconsiderable, their waters brackish, beds rocky,
and banks generally low, lined with mimosa and other small trees ;
they present no uniform current whatever, and the water is
deposited in the fissures of the rock forming their respective beds.
Approaching the Kat river its numerous windings strike the
attention. The rise of this river appears to be at the foot of the
mountains in the Great Chain denominated the Chumie, out of an
' * Whilst reoonnoitriDg this part of the country I came in contact with a herd
of 300 elephants and saw scTeral quackas with two eUndSi the latter a rare kind
of antelope.
Records of the Cape Colony* 39
extensive marsh, and whence it takes its course, after clearing the
base of the mountains,, through a country capable of cultivation
from the facility of leading out the water for the purposes of
irrigation. The general direction of the Kat from its source to its
conflaence with the Great Fish river six miles west of Fhoonah's
Kraal (at the head of the Gaigai) is nearly South, its character
towards the junction changes by becoming steep and in parts pre-
cipitous, rendering it totally unfit for promoting agriculture. The
banks on either side are lined with wood chiefly of the willow
kind, but none approaching timber. The bed of the river is
exceedingly stony, large masses of silicious sandstone being
universally distributed, and over which the rapid current flows
with great impetuosity. The quality of the water is excellent and
transparent, and stream uniform, presenting a section of 35 or 40
yards by 3 feet width and depth,* the distance between the banks
from 50 to 60 yards. The streams tributary to the Eat (indepen-
dent of the Kroome) are the Kilo, Barouka, &c. The former has
extremely rugged banks and rocky bed, with a section of running
water 12 feet wide by 1 foot 2 inches deep, of brackish quality
and by no means clear ; the nature of its banks are generally low,
and soil rich. The stream of the Barouka is inconsiderable, and
entirely periodical, water being alone observable in small pools
and perfectly stagnant. The Gaigai river now following is a
branch of the Keiskamma rising out of ravines connected with
the great ridges already described ; its course is nearly due East^,
and forms a junction with the Keiskamma f after running six oi^
seven miles. The banks on either side are thickly covered with
the mimosa, and towards the river's rise great capabilities of
produce present themselves could the water be led in sufficient
quantity to promote irrigation. The bed of the Gaigai is very
rocky and uneven, and section of stream confined ta 4 or 5 feet by
4 or 5 inches. The water after heavy rains is tolerably good, but
in the dry season becomes brackish and unfit for domestic uses.
The nature of the banks are gradual towards the source, but
assume an abrupt character at the junction*
* This was the section at the time crossed on the Ist August under the in-»
flueuce of heavy rains.
t At the point of junction of the Gaigai with Keiskamma and on a knoll of
gMNmd almost circumscribed by the two rivers is erecting a New Military Post
to becalled Fort WillshireV
40 Records of the Cape Colony,
General Eemarks.
The country included under the above head was much inhabited
and Kraals were abundant, particularly between the Kat and
Gaigai Eivers* Between the Kat and Koonap also and towards
their sources the country was very populous, being under the
domination of King Oaika. The circumstance of almost the whole
of the habitations having been abandoned for a length of time
prevented the traces of cultivation being observed in any part.
Kaffer and Indian com appeared the principal produce. The
chiefs under Gaika were Kassa, Botman, Phoonah,* and others,
and Gaika's residence was formerly at the foot of the mountain
bearing his name. On the banks of the Kat river and seated in a
most delightful country is the Missionary Institution established
imder the Government of His Excellency Lord C. H. Somerset,
and visited by his Lordship in person in 1817 when holding
conference with King Gaika. The position of Kassa's Kraal is
also a desideratum of natural beauty, combining many excellences
worthy of remark.
The route taken through this tract was from East to S.S.E., the
halting places at the Kat on the 1st and Fhoonah's Kraal on the
Gaigai the 2nd August. The ford across the Kat was so obstructed
by large stones embedded in the river as to oblige a temporary
bridge to be constructed, which was completed in four hours and
passed over by the column and train of 50 waggons in Ij^ hour.
Few other impediments occurred, a second bridge was thrown
across the Kilo with much expedition on the morning of the 2nd
Instant and crossed without accident
Section No. 3. Tract of Country included between the Great
Fish and Keiskamma rivers, bounded by the Sea and Line
supposed from the Gaigai across the Country.
Nature op the Country &c.
This tract embraces the whole extent of Country bounded to the
West by the Great Fish Biver, to the East by the Keiskamma, to
* Eassa and Phoonah were rebels and adherents of Slambie^ the former was
killed in the late war.
Records of the Cape Colony. 41
'the South by the Ocean, and to the North by an imaginary line
drawn from the confluence of the Kat and Fish rivers to the
junction of the Gaigai with Keiskamma, comprehending in the
whole about 5 or 600 square miles. Independent of the Great
Fish and Keiskamma, this country is intersected by the Beka,
Gwollia, and Willshire ; ♦ ihe two former streams of some magni-
tude, the latter merely a rivulet, all of which disembogue them-
selves in the sea. The tributary streams are the Sosi and Agua
to the Great Fish Biver ; to the Keiskamma the Gwanga, Choie,
Gaigai with a variety of small rivulets, whose courses are very
short. The general features of the Country are disposed in
extended ridges following the courses of the two principal rivers,
having long tongues of land diverging from their summits, termi-
nating abruptly on the right bank of the Keiskamma, and left of
the Great Fish. The intermediate part of the country, through
which the Beka bends its course, in nearly a parallel direction to
the above rivers, and not far removed from a central point between
them, is much varied, and intersected on the surface, being a
constant succession of hill and dale, rise and fall in gradual
undulations, and presenting a surface admirably calculated for
the growth of grain were water suflBciently abundant and soil
retentive of moisture. As the banks of the Great Fish Eiver and
Keiskamma are bold, precipitous, and thickly covered with bush,
so on the other hand the B^a and Gwollia banks are proportion-
ally gradual, of long gentle declivity, and thinly scattered with
the mimosa and arboreous shrubs. The most prominent feature
of ground is the long extended ridge commencing near Fhoonah's
Kiaal on the Gaigai, and running towards the sea, the highest
point on which is Somerset Mount, from whence it branches off
towards the Keiskamma, crosses the head of the Beka, and forms
at the same time the right bank of the Gwanga. Other remark-
able points are the two tabular hills near the Beka and the
elevated range of ground running from the Keiskamma, about
six miles distant from and parallel to the Coast. The Countiy
skirting the Great Fish Biver is an uniform black forest of bush
of an average depth of 2^ miles, above which it is open, small
clumps of bushy and shrubby plants being alone interspersed,
prevailing on the summits of the hills and throughout the
* Eaffer name Omleiusa.
42 Mecords of the Cape Colony,
numerous ravines leading therefrom. The mimosa tree likewise
abounds.
Soil and Pboductions of Do. &c.
With little variation, the soil throughout the above tract is
uniform, in general it might be termed light, rather of sandy than
clayey nature, but mixed in a proportion adapted for cultivation
with advantage. This description of soil is from 6 to 8 and 10
inches deep ; beneath which it gives place either to a stratum of
"white or stiff clay, or ehe soil in which asiid greatly predominates.
In no case except in the vallies skirting the banks of the Bivers
does it exceed a depth of 18 or 20 inches, when solid rock appears
throughout, partaking of the nature of indurated clay slate. On
the banks of the Beka and GwoUia the soil is alluvial, capable of
producing grain of every kind, vegetables, tobacco, and probably
vines and fruit, and little irrigation from leading out the rivers
appears necessary. In the high grounds and plains, (if the latter
term be admissible) there is excellent pdsturage for cattle, the
grass being of that quality denominated a mixed pasturage*
growing in the utmost luxuriance, and upon which cattle can
always graze without detriment and will thrive abundantly. To-
wards the Coast the produce is more exuberant : here the Strelitza
Itegina so renowned among the bulbous roots, with various others,
grow in perfection, the Kaffer tree, whose blossom is deep scarlet
and fruit of the bean shape, is peculiarized from appeajdng in
full bloom when perfectly leafless and animation apparently sus-
pended, with the wild coffee or species of papyrus Egyptiacus, also
a numerous tribe of the laurel kind, and other arboreous shrubs
prevail abundantly in the vallies and ravines, together with the
whole family of geraniums and a beautiful species of mimosa
called the boor-bloom. With scarcely one exception traces of
water are found in all the ravines, whose beds are uniformly rocky,
with pools of water standing in various parts ; the abrupt declivity
of these slopes towards the several rivers and streams soon drain
these receptacles, nourished only during the rains ; and it is to be
apprehended they could not be depended on for irrigation or
* Grass partly of sweet and sour flavour growing together is termed mixed
pasturage i the sour is distii^uished from the Hweet by the blade being bearded.
Records of the Cape Colony. 43
domestic purposes, particnlarly since the water is impregnated
with saline bodies. Water again is deposited in ponds* npon
the high ground in different places, which in many instances
could be perfected into tanks for containing water, provided the
soil in such parts be sufficiently deep, and body of water of the
content to resist the effect of constant evaporation and gradual
absorption.
Though Nitre doubtless abounds in the soil, no depositions of it
in beds are observable either on the surface of the ponds when
dried up, or on the banks of the rivers, as common in contiguous
parts of the Colony : this would infer that the brackish quality of
the water (so general in the tributary streams) is not a decided
consequence of its presence, but must rather depend on some other
saline substances contained in the rock and soil forming the beds
and banks of the respective rivers, &c. To enter in detail upon
the extensive bushy forest on the Great Fish River would be a
task as boundless as the species of shrubs &c. of which it is com-
posed ; it will suffice to speak generally to convey an idea of the
same. The Bush commonly so termed contains no forest trees or
wood of any description convertible into timber ; most prominent
in height, and most universally distributed are the different kinds
of aloe, euphorbium and spec-boom (or Elephant's tree) : these are
aU succulent plants of the first order, the latter or specboom
exemplifying a fine specimen of the fleshy leaf; next in suc-
cession follow the boor-bloom and a variety of thorny shrubs
generally producing gums or resins ; to these succeed a numerous
tribe of plants and shrubs either aromatic or medicinal, some
calculated for communicating dyes, particularly a plant bearing
a yellow flower of bell-shape. Among a vast variety of creeping
plants one bearing a purple bell flower is preeminent for beauty,
likewise an ivy geranium of pink blossom and odoriferous scent.
Of bulbous roots, that which is of extraordinary size, having a root
resembling the turnip, most cooling and refreshing to the palate,
is peculiar and eaten with avidity by the Kaffers. The soil in
which this natural phenomenon of forest is produced is a strong
red clay, in which the grass is of fine quality, generally of broad
blade, and shewing itself in luxuriant abundance wherever the
bush has been cleared. The density and black appearance of this
* Termed vleis in the Dutch aud pronounced, flaes.
44 Seeords of the Cape Colony.
forest is uniform, and always preserves its dark green color
throughout the year. From the closeness with which the several
shrubs are interwoven, and their compact arrangements, this
forest may be considered as almost impenetrable.* Human art
may readily effect a passage, but human effort would generally
fail in the attempt to penetrate it Elephants and the rhinoceros
infest the above in vast herds, and by their tracks through it,
passes are establishi^d which might be perfectefl into roads at
pleasure. Quartz is abundant on the surface of the soil and
appears peculiar to the Fish river Forest.
Character of the Eivers &c*
§
The general character of the Great Fish Eiver beii^ already
given in the first section, it remains now only to remark upon its
mouth and several fords intermediate between the De Bruin's drift
and the coast under my observation. The confluence of the Fish
Eiver with the Sea is between 30° and 31° (degrees) of South
Latitude, according to the latest observation 30° 31'. The opening
from the Indian Ocean on the Coast is one mile in breadth, but
shortly contracts to ^ that distance, and again at 4 miles upwards
to 100 or 120 yards. The tide appears to affect the river for 12
pr 14 miles from the sea, at the Trompeter's ford it is certainly
not under its influence, and at that part the section of the stream
does not exceed 60 yards in width by 3 feet depth, which may be
considered as the medium throughout the year. The bed of the
JFish river is here of schistose slate, the banks are bold and
elevated, but gradual and precipitous alternately in different
parts. Bush prevailing on either side. Kot having minutely
reconnoitred the Embouchure, I feel incompetent to more exactly
describing it ; it may suffice to observe, a bank of sand and ledge
of rocks obstruct the entrance, denying all approach to shipping
from without, as well as egress to the sea from the river within.t
* Impenetrable as this Forest appears, and in fact really is by comparison, its
impenetrability has been surmounted by the perseverance of British soldiery
who repeatedly entered and scoured it, availing themselves of the tracks made by
elephants to pierce it in different parte at the imminent risk of their lives during
the campaign.
t The mouth of the Great Fish Biver has been since scientifically surveyed
and soundings determined by Lieutenant Rutherford, Koyal Engineer, and
]ilr. Dymocke, £Jf., and con^rmed to be impracticable to access from the sea.
Records of the Cwpe Colony, 45
The communication across the Fi&h river at the Trompeter's ford
is conducted on either bank through a tremendous thick bush,
-where a practicable waggon road has been lately cleared. Higher
up the Eiver the fords of the Comtize present themselves more
shallow than the Trom<peter's, and every way better, but the
roads of communication leading from the river less accessible
than in the former case, being over an exceedingly steep but
short hill on the Kaffraria aide, and a rugged mountainous country
on the Colonial. Independent of those enumerated, a new ford
across the river at Hermanns Kraa} has been recently discovered,
the communication by which is. both more direct, shorter, and
road more level than the rest, and now substituted for them on
all occasions. Of next note and requiring description is the
Keiskamma river, whose various sinuosities and singular course
are in themselves a peculiar characteristic. The rise of the Keis-^
kamma is at the foot of the Buffalo Mountains in two principal
sources uniting their streams in the neighbourhood of 'T Slambie's
HilL Its first general direction is ]^.£. about 16 miles in gradual
winding ; thence it takes nearly a S.E. course for 13 miles of
direct line making most singular bepda» and oovering a large
extent of ground in its various detours. At this point the river
again changes its general course to a point to the £. of South,
whence it continues to serpentine, widely extending itself, till it
enters the sea about 26 or 27 miles to the East of the Great Fish
Biver. The banks are generally precipitous, in parts of naked
rock terminating perpendicularly to the river. In particular
places however they are very gnulual, and verdant flats, though
narrow, exhibit themselves, producing an abundance of sweet
grass. The character of the Keiskamma's bed is. very stony
throughout, the section of stream, varied, but following a medium
course, it might be estimated at 40 yards by 2 ft 6 in. or 3 feet
width and depth. * The water of the Keiskamma is excellent in
quality, but not particularly transparent. The fords are numerous,
but little practicable, as much from irregularity of bed as elevated
banksl This river, like the 6t. Fish, abounds in deep holes, in
which the Hippopotami are found general ; its current might be
disposed to be strong, but the frequent bondings must break its
force, and except after heavy rains the stream is by no means
* At the time crossed, 11th September, the section was 50 yards by 5 feet
after heavy rains^
46 Records of the Cape Colony.
rapid. In general character the Xeiskamma presents a highly
picturesque appearance; its detours have been detailed as
numerous, and its sweeps are grand, approaching the Mouth
particularly so. The banks are generally well wooded, but with-
out forest trees. Bush in several parts covers the elevated slopes,
sometimes extremely dense, at o^ers scattered and interspersed
in beautiful variety with the Kaffer tree and boor-bloom, * whose
blossoms of deep scarlet form a fine contrast with the dark green
and varied foliage distributed throughout. The Eiver at the part
crossed exemplified the above in great perfection, and the ground
encamped on, on its right bank, was an amphitheatre replete with
varied beauty, t
The mouth of the Keiskamma opens to the sea between two
Headlands about i mile apart ; from the West side a large sand
bank extends for 250 yards across, and from the Eastern pro-
montory a ridge of low flat rocks protrude for 100 or 150 yards,
leaving inteimediate a nairow channel of 40 or 50 yards by which
the water finds egress and ingress, and even this contracted at low
water. This channel enters near the East Headland bearing
N.N.E. within which is formed a cove sufficiently capacious to
contain a number of vessels, did not an accumulation of sand
choke it entirely, save where the narrow channel winds intricately
its course. The East side shelters this cove from the S.E. wind
(the most violent) by terminating the extremity of a range of hills
of no considerable elevation. The Western promontory is merely
a sand hill of low feature and terminating abruptly, immediately
under which the river commences its course, first about I mile to
the westward and thence diverging alternately between the N.E.
and S.E. points in sweeps of | mile, or more. The breadth at the
commencement may be from 100 to 120 yards and depth about
two fathoms (as near as experiment could determine). The
stream however shortly contracts to 50 or 60 yards by 4 or 5
feet, and soon attains its general body defined as the section. The
tide directly at the Embouchure causes the water to rise about
4 ft. 6 in. or 5 feet perpendicularly^ the river is afifected with it
* The Boor-bloom as well as Kaffer tree produces a flower of scarlet hue.
t This spot comprised about three square miles insulated by the river and
lofty hills, the appearance was that of a rich domain in which nature had
anticipated the work of artificial decoration, forming a desideratum of almost
unrivalled beauty.
Secords of the Cape Colony. 47
about 7 miles upwards, but at that distance at low water is
scarcely brackish. The banks on each side near the mouth are
commonly low,* but occasionally rise in bold features immediately
from the edge of the river. On the left bank and H miles from
the Sea, a river of some magnitude disembogues itself into the
Keiskamma, winding through a narrow valley, but fertile. From
the opposite bank several small streams branch, the first about
2^ miles distant or less, to which the tide finds access, but the
stream is inconsiderable and confined vrithin abrupt precipices in
its course. The bed of the Keiskamma near the mouth is sandy,
whence it becomes muddy, but soon assumes its general character,
which is stony and irregular. Though the banks near the mouth
are low, the features soon become elevated, and at six miles from
the coast rise bold, breaking into deep ravines (or kloofs) extend-
ing westward from the river for five miles, and in each ravine
a tributary stream is found running over a rocky bed. Following
the course of the Keiskamma the principal branch in this part is
the Gwanga about 18 miles from the Embouchure. Its course is
nearly East by South from the rise near Somerset Mount to its
confluence. The extent of country traversed through may be
nine or ten miles, but the bends of the river are numerous and of
marked character. The nature of the Gwanga's banks are low and
gradual near the source, bold and precipitous at the junction, clear
and open except being thinly scattered with mimosa at the rise,
but thickly clothed with bush where it falls into the Keiskamma.
The bed is rocky and irregular, composed of indurated clay slate ;
the water of brackish quality, particularly in the dry season, and
section of stream confined to 10 or 11 feet by 6 inches in the
medium. The river abounds in holes where water continues
throughout the year» but of very indifferent quality, and these
could generally be formed into reservoirs were it to be desired.
The soil of the Gwanga banks is excellent, the features of ground
much diversified, and tastefully decorated with the mimosa and
arboreous shrabs, among which the wild plum, Kafier trees, and
a vast number of the laurel tribe predominate in the wooded
ravines leading towards the river. Near the Gwanga upwards is
the Choie, a small stream running into the Keiskamma, watering
a narrow valley of short extent, its rise is from the great ridge, and
* Disposed in small flats.
48 Becords of the Cape Colony.
divided into three small sources. The water of the Ghoie when
running is good, the bed rocky, banks gradual and in many parts
cultivable. Above the Choie ifif the Gaigai already spoken of.
Whilst mentioning the rivers tributary to the Keiskamma the
Chumie claims notice (though without the bounds of this section)
as forming not only the greatest branch (pouring into the parent
river near ^ the body of water containedX but determining also
the new line of demarkation between the Colony of Good Hope
and Kaffraria. This river derives its appellation from tailing its
rise from the Chumie Mountains forming part of the Chain of
Blue Mountains; it is much sunken in the bed, which is very
locky, and over which the rapid current flows with a noisy
impetuosity. Next in repute to the Keiskamma is the Beka^
which, considered in common with rivers in Southern Africa,
merits the appellation. The sources of this stream are in several
small branches leading from the high ground through ravines
connected with the great ridges ; they unite about 15 or 16 miles
from the Sea, at which point the river runs in an uniform current,
in continued but small windings, which increase in number as it
enters the ocean about 12 miles west of the Keiskamma mouth.
The mouth of the Beka is exceedingly narrow, and its banks are
precipitous; a bar of sand is extended across the entrance, over
which the surf breaks with great violence. The river within the
Headlands opens into a fine bason of still water of 150 or 180
yards breadth, but no considerable depth, and which preserves its
imposing appearance, winding most intricately for the distance of
two miles and upwards, when it becomes fordable. The general
character of the bed is rather pebbly than stony, though in parts
rock prevails. The banks are generally gradual of long gentle
declivity, and the ravines leading towards the river form so many
vallies. The stream appears constant, clear, and steady, the
section may be 10 or 12 yards by 2 feet in the medium, and the
quality of water is good. Next in order comes the Gwollia as an
independent stream. The rise is near the opening in the Bush
above the Trompeter*s ford, its course is not very determinate, but
it is conjectured to enter the Sea about 3^ miles west of the Beka,
after dividing into two distinct branches. The capabilities of soil
and nature of the banks correspond nearly with those of the Beka,
but its stream is less in body and Embouchure of narrow and
confined extent. To minutely describe the Willshire stream, its
Hecords of the Cape Colony, 49
advantages, extent, and nature of the soil on its banks, I feel
unequal, not having particularly examined it; it may suflfice to
mention it is an independent stream entering the Sea about 1
mile to the East of the Great Fish Biver, and having two sources
which unite in a continued stream about 2^ miles from the coast,
taking a southerly course. Of less consideration than the rivers
enumerated are the Sosi and Agua, tributary to the Great Fish
Siver; the former of these rises in numerous sources near the
Somerset Mount, its course in a continued stream is short,
through a tremendous bushy Kloof, emerging from which it joins
the Agua at the entrance of Trompeter's port, and united they
both enter the Fish river a few miles below Trompeter's ford. The
Agua also takes its rise near the Somerset Mount, but on the
opposite side of the ridge to the Sosi, whence it winds through
the Black Valley called Trompeter's Port, where it meets with the
former river. The beds of both rivers are very rocky, and waters
brackish, and it is to be apprehended though watering a delightful
country they could be turned to little advantage.
General Bemarks.
Of the several tracts of country reported on, this has been of all
the most populated and cultivated. In the neighbourhood of the
Beka Kaffer kraals were so numerous as to occur in every square
mile, and abundantly distributed in number. Cultivation was on
its banks very general, the produce of which yielded Kaffer corn
(or millet), Indian Do. (or maize), water melons, calabash,
pumpkins, tobacco, &c. The habitations formed no system of
regularity, but were scattered at pleasure, whence a difl&culty
arose in estimating the population of the Country. The articles
of Klaffer manufacture are very few and simple; the fabrication
of earthenware (in pots), also baskets and mats, which they evince
great ingenuity in constructing, together with their defensive
weapons (assaygais *), and wooden spades, are alone worthy of
* The Assaygai is a description of spear about six feet long, consisting of a
straight roimd piece of a particular close grained and elastic wood, into which a
blade of iron 7^ inches long sunnounted by a handle of the same metal is
inserted. The blade is sharpened at the point, having the alternate flat edges
grooved and smooth. The handle differs in length according to the poise
required for the weapon, and the purpose to which it is exclusively assigned*
XIII. E
50 Records of the Cape Colony.
mention. Not only the Beka and Gwollia banks, but those of
the Gwanga, Keiskamma with intermediate country to the Msh
river and Gaigai have been alike inhabited and cultivated in
different parts. The residence of the chiefs of the Country was
on the coast. Congo up to the GwoUia's source, Lynx on the
Beka and Gwanga, Phoonah in the vicinity of the Gaigai, Krater
and Urbana, on the confines of the Fish Eiver Forest, and
'TSlambie indiscriminately in every part during certain portions
of the year, usurping sovereignty. It was in this tract more
immediately that active operations were lately pursued by the
force to which 1 was attached, against 'TSlambie and his adherents
holding their fastnesses in the Fish Eiver Forest, the expelling the
Kaffers from which occasioned many retrograde movements facili-
tating the making observations in detail. It is this tract, that at
the present moment forms so large a portion of the newly-acquired
territory ceded to the Colony and determining its future limits ;
and lastly it is a tract of Country that presents to view a diversity
of surface and capabiHties of produce, at once gratifying to the
admirer and student of nature as well as worthy the attention of
the agriculturist and geologist. The extent of Country comprised
under tlie three sections enumerated is now wholly ceded to the
Colony of Good Hope, embracing about 4,000 square miles* of
either pasturable or arable land, intersected by rivers and nume-
rous streams, unfortunately much sunken in their beds generally,
but in many instances abundantly irrigating a soil uniformly
exuberant in produce. The close of these sections (or country
comprehended therein) formed the most considerable portion of
King Gaika's dominions, defined by the line of the Buffalo river,
which separated him from Hinza, Upper from Lower Kaflfraria.
It will be my endeavour in this place therefore to have a cursory
reference to Gaika's Kaffers, their persons, manners, and habits,
as fax as limited observation will admit o£ The Kaffer inhabitant
The wooden part is made about | inch diameter at the bottom, and terminates
at the top spirally. The iron part is strongly bomid to the wood by a thong
of hide neatly platted on: some of the assaygais have the iron handle carved
with much ingenuity. The Kaflfers hurl this weapon with great precision 45 or
50 yards, so as to be sure of their object. They use much gesticulation and
display great muscular power in throwing it.
• Or 2,560,000 acres.
Records of the Cape Colony, 51
of Lower Kaffraxia is in person tall, well shaped, athletic, and
agile ; of a glossy black complexion, with woolly tufted hair and
a remarkable fine countenance, the features of which are rather of
mild than ferocious expression, ever beaming with animation and
descriptive of a lively imagination stimulating the mind to action.
The symmetry of form in the Kafifer is by no means perfect : the
shoulders are narrow, the arms want that nervous strength so
remarkable in the thighs and legs, and which characterizes the
race, as pre-eminent for fleetness. In the general contour of
figure liowever the Kafifer is of noble deportment, moves with
much grace and firmness of step denoting a sound constitution,
and displaying a consciousness of superiority in physical powers.
The women like the men are well formed in the general outline,
but with the same failing of apparent weakness in the upper part
of the body ; their countenances are highly animated and pleasing,
but with little regularity of feature, and their staturQ is compara-
tively very low to that of the men. * The Kaffer costume is in
the men simply a skin of bullock or other wild animal, carefully
and diligently dressed to be impervious to the rain and inclement
weather, and attached round the neck, from whence it descends to
the feet, covering at pleasure the whole of the body or only in
part. This skin cloak they call a Eaross, which at once shields
them from cold and serves for night covering as well as for
penetrating the thick bush, their constant resort in danger, and
point cCappui for attack and defense. The women independent of
the Kaross wear an under skin garment tied under the arms and
compressing the breasts, which though evincing great delicacy of
conduct, deprives nature of the beauties of feminine contour by
destroying the bosom's form. A distinguishing mark, (and alone
so at a distance) in the women is their head-dress composed of
skins, generally of the antelope tribe, tastefully coiled round the
head like a turban, and terminating in plaited folds, assuming
various forms. Of skins, the lion's and panther's are mostly
prized, and worn exclusively by the Chiefs ; others, as bullocks'
and antelopes' are adapted to all purposes of clothing indiscrimi-
nately among women and men, which they dress with extreme
care and wear with the fur side inwards. Of ornamental ap-
* The men are commonly from 5 feet 9 inches to 5 feet 11 inches, rarely 6
feet. The women seldom exceed in height 4, feet 8 or 4 feet 9 inches.
E 2
52 JRecords of the Cape Colony,
pendages, (which the Kaffers consider indispensable to their dress),
buttons of the bell shape and solid are pre-eminent in value. A
copper or brass zone of wire encircling the waist is also considered
highly decorative, and is by no means unbecoming the figure.
Ivory rings made from the teeth of elephants, rhinoceros, and
hippopotami, are in great request also, worn round the wrists and
ankles, and a distinguishing mark of royal favor, being presented
by the King as a reward of valor in war or expertness in the
chase. Teetii extracted from the fangs of serpents or jaws of
animals and fish are likewise observable, depending from the neck
and ears, and with the men a part of the body which decency
should better conceal is decorated with an ornamental bag. In
warm weather, and when not armed for the chase or otherwise,
the KafiPer men usually dispense with the Kaross and appear
naked, nor do they seem sensible of the slightest indelicacy in
so doing. In their social intercourse the women and men form
generally in separate groups, sitting in circles of four or six each,
and the former variously employed in making baskets, dressing
skins, or bruising their com in the vicinity of the kraal. The
attention of the male to the female is a rhapsodical fondness,
delicate though free from tenderness, and evincing little of con-
jugal affection. The conduct of the women to the men is implicit
obedience and subservience, putting in force at the same time in
every act, look, and gesture tJieir feminine wiles, to captivate and
attract attention. From observing their habits in social life, a
conclusion favorable to the Kaffer disposition and approximation to
civilization (as far as their present savage and uninformed life
admits) may be drawn. It is truly admirable to contemplate
their national attachment * and the spirit of generosity uniformly
existing, to divide whatever they get amongst each other, be it
ever so trifling. The attachment of both women and men to their
children is carried to great length with the Eaffers, nor does the
Kaffer ever forget an injury to his offspring until satiated with
revenge. The pursuits of the women and men differ materially.
Whilst the latter are tending the cattle herds, engaged in the
chase, or defending the cause of their Chief, the former are
studiously employed at home tilling the ground, secreting the
* By natioiial attachment is meant the unanimity subsisting in the seyeral
tribes.
Becords of the Cape Colony. S3
grain of last yearns produce, making baskets, mats, and even con-
structing the habitations when required; in fact, the women
perform all the domestic drudgery, and unless when in pursuit
of a particular object, the men lead inactive and unprofitable
lives. No code of Laws* except such as Nature and accident
have established exists with the Elaffer nation, nor do the people
conform to any religious worship that augurs a dependence on
a Supreme Being. Superstitious in the extreme in the agency
of preternatural causes, the Elaffers listen with avidity to the
prophecies of some or other of their Chiefs, whose arts of cunning
duplicity render their imaginations prolific in predictions of the
most extraordinary nature. Although their laws for political
government are imperfect and unstable, they adhere implicitly
to a civil code in the regulation of their families and societies,
to swerve from which is almost certain death and disgrace. In
the tuition of youth the parents are indefatigable, encouraging
them in early years first to domestic studious habits, in fabricating
baskets, mats, &c., next athletic exercises, and towards manhood
the father instructs his son with a persevering attention in
wielding the assaygai, hurling the keerie, and in aU the sports
of the field, the sphere of his future action. At the age of
puberty the young Kafifer undergoes the process- of circumcision,
which is not performed without much ritual form, after which he
becomes efiective in his tribe and receives defensive weapons
either from his chief or father for his future protection. Having
thus far detailed upon the person and habits of the Kaffers, I shall
now describe the construction of their habitations. The figure of
the dwellings is that of a cone flattened at the vertex, about 10 or
12 feet in height and having a diameter of 14 or 16 feet. These
are of the largest size, and are often constructed with an interior
cone, admitting of a passage or communication about 2 feet 6 ul
or 3 feet entirely round the habitation, in which the younger
branches of the community were said to sleep. The opening to
the dwelling is generally three feet high and 2 feet 4 inches wide,
which serves for egress of people and smoke at the same time, and
this is occasionally shut by a wicker-work door. The general
construction of the Kaffer huts is uniform : pliant sticks about
* By the laws established by Nature and accident are understood those of
supremacy by birt^^right, priority of rank by descent, affluence, giving the great
influence over the poor.
54 Records of the Cape Colony.
f inch diameter are placed in a circle comprising the interior
circumference at equal distances ; these are compressed at the
top to a central point, and thus formed, twigs of sallow are wattled
round the same till the shell (as it might be expressed) of the hut
be completed. To this wattling a composition of clay and cow-
dung is attached about 2 inches thick, both within and without,
and the exterior is finally thatched with strong reeds procured
from the banks of the rivers and streams. A small trench is
generally cut round the dwelling to carry ofif the water, and often
defended by a hedge (or abattis) of mimosa bush. A Kraal com-
prises &om six to eight and a dozen or more of these huts, and if
a permanent one, has generally a chief or a Captain presiding as
the head.
They form no system of regularity (as before observed) and are
invariably seated on the declivity of a tongue of land contiguous to
water and wood. The Kaffers make their gardens in recesses of
the wood and bottoms of raviues, and enclose them with mimosa
bush to keep out the cattle. The women are ever their agri-
culturists, the men tend their cattle and hunt. It is this last
mentioned amusement that the KafiTers pursue with the greatest
interest, nor is their ingenuity less to be admired than their skill
and agility. A Eaffer hunt is thus conducted : several of a tribe
collect together, eith^ in their own or by invitation in their
neighbour's territory, snares (formed of mimosa bush extending
over a vast space of ground, and ing^ously connected to the
different clumps of bush, having occasional openings to receive
the traps) are established; towards these the Kaffers drive the
Antelope tribe, widely extending themselves in a circle till the
animals either fall into the snare and are thus taken, or else press
towards a particular point, when the dexterous marksman sends
with unerring aim and quivering force the fatal assaygai * to the
heart of the imhappy beast. Sometimes the Kaffers merely
encircle their game, and approach gradually till the animals make
a desperate bound to escape, and so perish in the attempt. The
merit of an individual Kaffer is highly enhanced in the eyes of
* The substitute for a forge for making the Assa^gais is one of those large
ant hills (so common) formed by aggregated particles of earthy and stony
substances, which the Kaffers ezcayate and cut a hole in one side, this is fonnd
to resist the heat of the furnace and to answer every purpose of a forge. For
further particulars consult Alberti, who enters in detail on the subject.
Records of the Cape Colony. 56
his Chief by his dexterity in taking the game, particularly the
elephant, lion, or rhinoceros, for whose destruction they dig deep
pits. Smaller animals, as the panther, wolf, &c., &c., they con-
stantly strike down with the Keerie (a short straight stick with
a club at the end). The value set upon the animals the Kaffers
kill is rated rather according to the description of skin than
quality of flesh possessed, the former affording them clothing, the
latter not being indispensable to their sustenance, since they
chiefly live upon com and coagulated milk, &c., without requiring
much animal food. The method by which the Eaffers preserve
and secrete their com is worthy of remark. It is effected by
simply digging a capacious hole in the Kraal appropriated for
their Cattle, which contains a considerable depth of manure ; in
this cavity they lay a range of small twigs fov a basO) upon which
the com previously deposited in spherical baskets) is laid ; abova
the baskets another frame of twigs is placed, and a thick super-
stratum of the manure, generally about 20 inches deep, completes
the process. In this manner the com is preserved to aknos^ an
indefinite period and best insured from plunder from their neigh-
bours. Assiduous as are ever the Kaffer women in prosecuting
the domestic affairs of the Kraal, the men are no less so in
tending their cattle and providing for their security, which they
evince great judgment in conducting. The Kaffer cattle, though
small, are fine beasts, and from the attention and attachment of
the Kaffers to them are always in good condition and tractable tp
a proverb. A half dozen Kaffer men will drive a herd of five or
six thousand with the utmost ease, and keep the cattle in a
compact body for any distance, occasionally whistling to and
encouraging them forward. In speaking of their habitations I
had omitted to observe that every Kraal contains, generally itv
the centre, an enclosure formed of mimosa bush for the cattle at
night, and which in truth denominates the character of the
establishment. These cattle kraals are guarded by dogs, whom
the Kaffers set much value on, and are greatly attached to. It iJ^
by the number of cattle possessed the Kaffer is considered affluent,
and in their marriage contracts cattle in different proportions is
the dowry bestowed. It has been from the insatiable desire of the
Kaffers to amass wealth in the article of cattle, that all the differ-
ences between them and the colonists of the Cape have existed.
No system hitherto enforced has been able effectually to prevent
56 Records of the Cape Colony.
their depredations for stealing; and their extreme dexterity in
driving vast herds of these beasts has both ensured them success
and given them courage to persevere, even if occasionally baffled.
The qtdckness of perception (in the organ of sight) in the Kaffer
is singularly great, and emblematical of the active and intelligent
mind ever busy, when once stimulated to action. As a con-
sequence of the above their movements are prompt and decisive ;
but if checked in the progress of their undertaking the Kaffers
want soul, and dependence on their physical strength, to sustain
the conflict. The effect of civilization in the expauBion of the
human mind here shows itself, and however redoubted the
individual Kaffer, he is stUl a savage, limited in the extreme in
his ideas. These then are the leading features of the Kaffer
character, the habits and customs of the nation under Gaika's
domination. I shall have subsequent reference to them in a
political point of view, in which many qualities now unnoticed
will develop themselves. The above is rather their civil portrait,
it remains to delineate their military picture at the close of the
next section, which embraces an extent of country principally
under the rule of Hinza, King of Upper Kaf&aria, and kinsman of
Gaika, to the confines of whose territories the force to which I was
attached proceeded, and which will be entered on in describing
accordingly.
Section No. 4. Tract of Country between the Keiskamma and
Kai Bivers, including the Sources of the Buffalo.
Nature of the Country &c.
This tract comprehends a vast extent of Country, which being
traversed through in only one particular line of march to and
from, cannot be so minutely detailed upon. Crossing the Keis-
kamma river the country rises abruptly from the left bank, forms
itself at an elevation of 300 feet into an extensive open plain, and
spreads over a considerable space. This plain breaks gradually
into vallies running N.W. and S.E., whose terminations probably
lead to the Buffalo river on one side and Keiskamma on the other.
Beyond this plain another elevated feature of ground presents
itself, imposing in appearance, as much from extended range as
Records of the Cape Colony. 57
trora forming (as it were) a step to the Grand Chain of Blue
Mountains situated in the rear. This range embraces the
TSIambie's Hill and ridge of land contiguous thereto, sweeps along
in a parallel direction to the Keiskamma, and terminates in
gradual undulations towards the Sea: deep ravines lined. with
thick bush break the uniformity of slope on the Keiskamma side,
the inclination towards the Mountains and Buffalo Biver on the
opposite is very gradual, but the feature of ground entirely
changea From the summit of this range, which is marshy and
covered with small holes of singular character without the vestige
of a tree or shrub, the country suddenly becomes obscured on the
surface from the prevalence of the mimosa, which is so abundantly
distributed as to check the travellers' progress: independent of
this singularity the surface from being level, except where the
holes prevail, as quickly undergoes alteration, becoming intersected
by deep furrows presenting a confused jumble of constant rise and
falL With little variation this description of ground continues to
near the sources of the Buffalo, occasionally broken by the crossing
of smalL streams, between which an open flat now and then inters
venes. Succeeding next in order are the Buffalo Mountains.
They commence near the TSIambie's Hill, to which they are
connected by a long neck of elevated land, extending themselves
North and South, East and West, in a solid mass about 15 miles
each way, and their Eastern termination forms the extremity of
the Grand Chain of Blue Mountains : from these the three great
sources of the Buffalo river emeige through deeply wooded ravines.
It is these mountains that likewise give rise to one principal branch
of the Keiskamma and also of the ELabousie river. The surface
of the Country terminating these mountainous features is disposed
in an extended ridge of semicircular form of 16 or 17 miles in
length, ending rather abruptly and having gradual slopes ; at the
foot of one of which the Kabousie shapes its course, and on the
opposite side glides a stream of less magnitude. The three sources
of the Buffalo river soon unite after leaving their dark recesses
and form a regular stream, taking a S.S.K course towards the
Embouchure. The character of ground on the left bank differs
totally to that on the right : the surface in the former is formed
in gradual undulations, intersected by small streams tributary to
the Bu£&lo. In particular parts fine rich plains present themselves,
covered with verdure, and except being interspersed with an
58 Records of the Cape Colony,
occasional clump of bush are entirely open. In the vicinity of the
Nahoona river, (in a course E.S.E. i East about 15 miles firom
the Buffalo river ford), the country becomes less interesting and
productive ravines cross it in all directions, without any marked
feature of ground being observable, and large blocks of granite,
into whose composition a proportion of iron and schorl enters,
protrude above the surface : some parts of this ground are marshy,
particularly in the hollows. Crossing the Nahoona the features
again begin to rise, soon assume an imposing aspect; towards the
Genouba extend to elevated hills, and thence to the Kai swell
almost to mountains. The surface is uniformly verdant, but much
intersected with deep ravines, in the recesses of which wood is
very abundant, and on the banks of many of the rivers forest trees
of large size prevail. It is a peculiar diaracteristic of this tract
of country, that the spec-boom is never seen, and the aloe with
euphorbium so general in other parts are rarely met with : these
give place to a variety of shrubby plants &c. This country is
generally well watered, but the beds of the rivers are much
sunken. The general appearance of the Kai river is grand,
approaching the sublime: near the Buffalo the country is
pleasing and interesting, but by no means so impressive on the
attention.
Soil and Productions of Do. &c.
Under this head a variety presents itself to view as diversified
as the face of the country itself, and claims particular mention in
consequence. The general character of the Keiskamma with
produce of its banks being already detailed at length, the elevated
plain obtrudes itseK next on the attention, the produce of which
is fine sweet grass occasionally mixed with wild clover and herbs.
The most prominent feature ascending this plain is the Noonga
hill, deserving notice in this place from the difference of produce
of its two slopes : the one being of long gentle declivity and free
from bush, the other of abrupt slope, extremely deep, and covered
with wood peculiar to the Fish Eiver Forest. At the foot of this
latter the Noonga stream glides and enters the Keiskamma after
a short course, on the opposite side the Chouchou winds its
limited stream, till it falls into the same channel. The soil of
this plain and hill is a rich marl, but shallow, yielding the finest
Records of the Gape Colony, 59
pasturage during the rainy season ; in the dry however, it is to be
apprehended the surface would become much parched and withered.
Approaching the elevated ground contiguous to the mountains,
the ground becomes much scattered with blocks of sandstone on
the surface, the soil appears less rich, and on the summit large
holes with marshy land prevail.* These holes bear the appearance
of having originally large masses of stone imbedded which now
give place to water, and at the bottom of which is found a rocky
substance, composed of aggregated spherical particles of earthy
and stony substance, the cementing body of which appears to be
of an ochreous nature. To account for this phenomenon on so
elevated a country appears hazardous. If it be allowed to con-
jecture, water appears to have been the primitive agent, and by
its action must have deposited the several substances &om the
mountains, the particles of which in a decomposed state were
disposed to unite. The formation of the holes and substances
seem diluvian, but why partially distributed, and over this
particular tract (which is but limited in extent) I am at a loss
to conceive. In the immediate vicinity of the Buffalo mountains
these holes are so numerous as to prevent a vehicle from passing
over the Country. The soil appears of a sandy nature on the
surface, below which a stratum of indurated clay generally
prevails, denominating the marshy character of the country.
Leaving this singular tract, and advancing towards the Buffalo
mountains, the soil changes its marshy nature, becomes uniformly
of a coarse black sand compactly arranged, but presenting a most
confused irregularity of surface ; in this soil is produced grass in
great abundance, growing very high and of a reddish color. The
mimosa tree and other thorny shrubs are here most universally
distributed, so much so as to check the progress, and a large black
worm is pecuKar to this part, who turns up the ground similar
to the mole, but in smaller heaps. The produce of the Buffalo
mountains is timber of luxuriant growth, principally yellow wood,
with trees growing to considerable height and perfectly straight.
The component parts of the mountains is granite into which a
large proportion of iron and schorl enters. Grass grows abundantly
on the parts cleared of forest, and the naked rock is seldom visible.
The country skirting the left bank of the Buffalo has been already
* Singular phenomenon in the character of the ground on the surface.
60 Records of the Gape Colony,
observed to differ materially &om that on the right, in the former
the soil is very rich and of a loamy nature, changmg together
with the features of ground, which to the intersected, and thickly
scattered with mimosa, is succeeded by a beautifully diversified
scenery, with hill and dale, wood and water interspersed, in some
parts formed in gradual undulations, in others extending into
fertile plains, whilst an occasional small brook or narrow valley
intervening broke the uniformity. The ravines are prettily studded
with shrubby plants of odoriferous smell, but the general character
of the ground is very open. In the vicinity of the Nahoona the
soil becomes again (in parts) marshy, less productive, with heavy
blocks of granite (much perforated on the surface) protruding
above ground. In this part wood is less abimdant, and the
country loses its interesting appearance. From the Nahoona to
the Kai little change in the soil or productions occurs: the
features becoming elevated, the rivers and ravines are in pro-
portion more deeply seated in their beds, and wood once mare
abounds; various shrubs are met with novel in appearance,
different descriptions of laurel predominate. The Kaffer tree
with wild plum grow large and general, aromatic plants prevail,
diffusing a fine odour in every group and through each wooded
ravine, and several vegetables, as wild asparagus, mint, &c., are
observable. A Fruit resembling very much the pine in conforma-
tion was discovered in a particular ravine, growing from a thick
succulent stem, at the foot of which large branched leaves like
those of the palm emerged, and crowning the plant was the fruit
in question of a deep Yellow color 10 or 12 inches long and
terminating spirally. Immediately contiguous to the Eai river
the country becomes very abrupt, every slope forms almost a
precipice ; the aloe which had not been observed since leaving the
Buffalo river again prevailed, as likewise the Euphorbium, but
in small proportion; the white mimosa* is in this part moBt
abundant, and forest trees are general, lining the banks of the
rivulets &c. Blocks of impure granite, much impregnated with
iron, are universally distributed, emerging from the surface, and
this metallic substance likewise pervades the soil, whose produce
is consequentiy rich, and grass luxuriant. The general character
of this tract as described infers that it is well calculated for
* The common mimosa bears a yellow flower.
Records of the Cape Colony, 61
pasturage, bnt not tillage. In the neighbourhood of the Buffalo
river grain might be grown with much advantage, and it may not
be here unnecessary to draw a conclusive remark that water
appears abundant and of good quality in all the ravines and
rivulets, but not permanently established.
Chabacter of the ErvERS &c.
«
Upon this head I feel incompetent to digress on at such length
as in the preceding section from limited observation and informa-
tion. The BuflTalo river and tributary streams merit first regard,
and will be entered on accordingly. The sources of this river are
in three distinct streams springing from the hoUow cavities of the
mountains bearing the name, they follow varied courses on first
leaving their dark recesses, but soon unite into a continued stream
denoting the character of the river. The Buffalo's course is very
indeterminate in the general direction : it must be between the
South and East points, and the river's embouchure is about
12 miles to the East of the Keiskamma mouth on the coast, the
country intermediate is however little kno¥m, if ever explored
by Europeans. The banks of the Buffalo (at the part crossed*)
near the sources are something abrupt, but little elevated, gener-
ally disposed to be rocky and of naked character, though in parts
lined with sallow or willow trees : the section of the stream was
12 yards by 1ft lOin. and 2ft., the nature of bed stony, quality
of water excellent, running in a clear uniform current. Several
streams tributary to the above were crossed, all of inconsiderable
magnitude in a N.NJE. course from the Keiskamma,t of uniformly
gradual approach to their banks, the beds stony and water
tolerably good. The opposite or left bank is also broken by small
brooks generally taking S.W. courses with good water, stony beds,
but with sections of streams too trifling to merit report on. From
the Buffalo in a direction E.S.E. of direct line 18 miles, the
Nahoona, a river of some magnitude, arrests the attention. Its
banks on either side are very steep and difficult of access £rom
presenting either rocky precipices or abrupt declivities. The bed
of the Eiver is exceedingly rocky and uneven, its water of good
quality, and section of stream about 16 yards by 2ft. 6in., but the
* 14ih September, 1819. f Bearing easterly.
62 Records of the Cape Colony.
current is much broken and irregular. The Nahoona appears to
wind in bold sweeps through the Country. The Kaflfers state the
source to be in the neighbourhood of the Buffalo mountains and it
enters the Sea about six miles above the Buffalo mouth on the coast.
At a short distance in the direction E.N.E. from the last mentioned,
is the G^nouba, a river of considerable size, having banks of abrupt
declivity, very rocky in parts, but in particular places covered with
wood of various kinds, some approaching timber, and in such the
descent to the river is more gradual. Its water is very transparent
and of good quality, with a section of stream avera^ng 16 yards
by 2 ft. 4 in., gliding with a gentle and unbroken current. The
features of ground skirting the Glenouba banks are extremely bold
and elevated, and in some parts very precipitous towards the river,
in other places long tongues of land extend from the summits
of the hills, at the foot of which the river shapes its course,
making various detours. For information respecting the rise and
embouchure of the Genouba I am at a loss; it must suffice
to notice with justice to it, that of all rivers this, to my view, was
most interesting and picturesque. Continuing an E.N.E. course
for about eight miles, and passing a small stream, the Kalieka
presented itseK to view, a river of no less note than those
enumerated, but differing in character. The banks are generally
low and narrow, the bed sometimes rocky, at others stony, and
throughout shallow, the section of stream about 15 yards by
8 inches, and water by no means clear, but tolerably good. The
windings of this river are numerous, and in occasional parts the
banks break abruptly. Little wood grows in the vicinity of the
Kalieka, and the soil appears shallow. From this last to the Kai
(as near as the irregular course taken enables me to judge) about
20 miles, the country rises in bold but irregular features. Several
streams tributary to the Eai are crossed on near approach furnished
with excellent water, and their banks commonly lined with forest
trees of elevated growth. The banks of the Eai form on either
side almost perpendicular precipices, the hills behind swell even to
Mountains of 600 or 700 feet elevation. Large blocks of granite
protrude J&om the surface interspersed with trees and plants
growing from a luxuriant soil, and the to^t presents altogether
a scene at once grand and imposing to an admirer of Nature.
The right bank of the Kai rises to the height of 400 or 450 feet
above the level of its bed, which is in parts sandy approaching
Records of the Cape Colony. 63
pebbly, in othe|s crossed by ledges of rock, and sometimes having
large masses of sand stone embedded, the latter prevailmg at the
sides. The quality of the water is excellent, but not particularly
clear. The section of stream, confined in the extreme compared
with the breadth of the river's bed, not exceeding 15 or 20 yards
by 10 or 12 inches. This is a peculiar characteristic of the rivers
in Southern Africa, but in no case so exemplified as to fact as in
the Klai. To prove this assertion I have the advantage of ocular
demonstration. At a part of the river to which a party of us
repaired (to shoot hippopotami*) the breadth across could not
have been less than 100 or 120 yards, and depth of water
contained about 7 feet ; higher up its course (for IJ mile) the body
of water suddenly contr£U5ted to the narrow compass defined as the
section of running water, whence the river swelled beyond,
dividing into two channels, which formed an Island in the inter-
mediate space, and rejoining again assumed an uniform body.
Below my station, as above, a similar phenomenon presented itself,
the bed of the river was crossed by a ledge of rocks, over which
but a very confined stream rippled on a pebbly bed, so shallow
as to admit of Hinza's Kaffers crossing to us with scarcely wet
feet. This strange difference of level in the bed of the river
sanctions (I should imagine) the conjecture that a large proportion
of the water must find vent beneath the bed and doubtless in
many cases enters the Ocean without even showing itself above
the surface. This being admitted, quick sands would prevail as
a consequence at the mouths of the rivers in Southern Africa,
which is found almost invariably to be the case. From the steep
declivity of ground on both banks of the Kai, and numerous deep
ravines verging towards the river, it must accumulate a vast body
of water after heavy rains, but in the driest season I should
suppose the Kai would scarcely present an uniform running
stream, whence it becomes difficult to class it as a river of
considerable magnitude or otherwise. The general course of the
Kai is very indeterminate ; it appears however to run about S.S.E.,
and as far as local observation (on a confined scale) could determine
its sinuosities are numerous and intricate. Of the river's em-
bouchure nothing is known to be depended on. From a distant
* The party saw eight hippopotami, and killed three with wounding severely
two others.
64 Records of the Cape Colony.
view which I obtained of its opening on the cgpst the month
appears free from obstruction of sand or rocks. The course of the
river takes a Northerly direction for some miles in nearly a
parallel direction to the coast, favouring the supposition that
from non-exposure to the S. East winds, no bar of sand exists.
The country contiguous to the Kai is admirably calculated for
pasturage, but too precipitous for tillage, the soil appears much
impregnated with iron, consequently productive. This metal also
shows itself in an oxidated state on the surface of the rock.
Opaque columnar quartz was observed in several parts near the
Kai, but the most marked object throughout is the white mimosa.
General Remarks.
The tract of country last detailed upon is neither so much
inhabited or cultivated as that contained in the preceding section
compared with its extent. Raffer kraals are thinly scattered on
the left bank of the Reiskamma and 'Tslambie's permanent
residence is in the neighbourhood of the hill bearing his name.
With the above exceptions, the whole country is little inhabited
till you arrive in the vicinity of the Blai, the territory of the
Kaflfer Chief Bookoo (brother of Hinza). In this part kraals are
abundantly distributed, and generally pleasantly situated in
verdant romantic spots, fietween the Buffalo and Genouba
rivers, the Country appears exclusively appropriated for grazing ;
and snares to catch the antelope tribe are everywhere observable.
The Ejiffers under Hinza's domination are not so tall as Gaika's
followers, seldom exceeding 5 ft. 9 in. in height, but more com-
pactly formed, and equally athletic and nimble. Their counten-
ances are open, intelligent and pleasing; and being farther
removed from the Europeans than Gaika's Eiiffers, are seen more
in the native purity of their lives, and with their habits uncon-
taminated by that predilection for spirituous liquors in excess
so objectionable in the character of Gaika's followers, and a
consequence of the proximity of the latter to the Colony. This
was evinced to ocular demonstration when near the Kai every
endeavour to make Hinza's followers drink spirits proved un-
availing, and they looked upon the beguiling fluid with repugnance
if not abhorrence. The sight and effect of firearms astonished
them much, but little intimidated their personal courage ; several.
Eecords of the Cape Colony. 65
on being offered fowling piecjes to fire oflF, unhesitatingly took
them^ but instead of resting the butt against the shoulder held
the piece at arm's length on firing it, upon which the shock
resulting rather than alarming greatly amused them. Hinza's
Kaffers are clothed similarly to Gaika's, but less profusely
decorated with ornaments, to make up for which they smear
their bodies abundantly with a red ochre and grease, a custom not
uncommon even with the Kaffers immediately adjoining the
Colony. As at the close of the preceding section I entered in
detailed description of the persons and habits of the Kaffers
generally, without reference to their character and disposition, it
is therefore in this place (and in the purity of their conduct) I
shall endeavour to pourtray these innate qualities. Bom the
child of nature, and educated in her pristine laws, ordained for a
wandering course of life, and gifted with powers of body and mind
to surmount the greatest difficulties and privations, &c., the desires
and wishes of the native Kaffer are limited in the extreme beyond
what his physical strength can attain. . Endued with abilities to
effect the object of his wants at all times, he is never at a loss to
adopt the readiest means, and where force little avails, the energies
of his mind, strengthened by its 8W5tivity, are ever fertile in inven-
tion for his subterfuge. To a natural cunning, inherent to the
Kaffer &om hja birth, his mental qualities give him a pre-eminent
command of stratagem, which in his savage state he constantly
practises to entrap the wild animals, anticipate his enemy, and to
promote his domestic wants. The fabrication of their assaygais,
earthenware, spades, &c., however simple, display great ingenuity^
and the resources of a civilized nation in the material for manu-
factories. The Kaffer abundantly supplies (as far as his wants
require) by his genius in searching for the means Nature and her
works unfold to appropriate the same to his purposes. I instance
the substitute for a forge (the ant hill) as an illustration sufficient.
Small as is the sphere of his mental action, in the qualities of
disposition he may be studied in detail. In his social habits the
Kaffer is generous, frank, sincere, and hospitable ; ever ready to
devote himself for his kinsman when injured, and unrivalled in
parental affection. In his general conduct his duplicity is more
to be reprobated than his magnanimity admired: his privation
under difficulty, pain and misfortune, is rather the effect of a high,
vindictive and determined hardihood consequent upon a strong
XIII. F
66 Becords of th-e Cape Colony.
constitution and elevated spirit than strength of mind to rise
superior to the ills of life, and his insatiable rapacity for plunder
is not so much, arising from an avaricious turn of disposition as a
wanton desire to gratify his ambition for accumulating consequence
and consideration in the estimation of his Chief and nation.
Though magnanimous in his actions generally, the Eafier displays
great pusillanimity in his extreme anxiety and implicit faith in
superstitious predictions, the result of which he awaits with fear-
ful apprehension and infatuated zeal. In his moral conduct the
Kaffer is equitable, open-hearted, and impartial; but vindictive,
and never satisfied until glutted with revenge. His disposition on
the whole is rather animated and lively than phlegmatic, and his
character composed of a mixture of good and bad qualities, in
which the former may be said to predominate. The territory of
Hinza King of Upper Kaffraria comprises the whole country
included between the Buflfalo, Kai, and extending to the Tam-
boukies, a nation of which scarcely anything is known. He is
supposed more powerful than Gaika, and possesses greater energies
of mind and more decision of conduct in his character. As a
warlike nation the Eaffers are redoubted, their policy though
unstable is far above that prevailing in the darker ages of
Christianity ; their judgment in tactical skill is acute, consequent
upon their talent for stratagem, and their movements are decisive
and prompt, but want system and conduct in executing. As a
body they are very weak, in detached parties, and when acting in
concert very redoubtable. To take their enemies by surprise is
their fort, and secrecy and caution their plan on all occasions.
As marksmen they are unerring with the assaygai, and provident
in the extreme of their weapons in attack as well as. defence.
Tenacious as is the Kaffer of life, he is by no means lavish in
exposing himself, and unless with a preponderating force will
never commence hostilities, or stand the charge of bayonet or
firearms. In the hour of death the Kaffer evinces his disregard
for pain, and seems only bent on transfixing his conquering foe
in his last gasp if within reach. Sincere as are the Kaffers in
their friendly attachments to each other, in all transactions with
Europeans no dependence can be placed on their professions.
Experience, the mode by which truth is best confirmed, has
sanctioned the above inference, and it may be considered as a
general rule : " that in all proceedings with Nations wholly un-
Jiecords of the Cape Colony. . 67
civilized, it should be kept in view, that the refined rules by
which civilized society is governed are not appreciated or observed
through the same focus by people whom the impulse of distrust
and self interest ever actuates, and impels even to overstep
Nature's bounds."
With respect to the establishment of the Raffers in the country
they inhabit, it is not necessary here to have reference to their
origin, or to enter into argumental disquisition how far they are
or not aborigines of Kaffraria. It suffices that by physical force
they have possessed, and by political influence maintained that
supremacy over a large tract of Southern Africa, which has in-
timidated their neighbours the Bosjesmen Hottentots (probably
the rightful heks), and evinced by harassing experience to the
Colony of the Cape of Good Hope the truth of the received maxim
"that when civilized and savage nations are continuous, it is in
proportion to the uncultivated or unformed mind of the savage
and his advancement to civilization, that he is kept in subjection
to the civilized power." To effect this by precept and example
should therefore be the object of the former, whilst the adoption of
coercive measures, though attaining a temporary advantage, would
eventually give strength and stimulate to perseverance the efforts
of the latter ; hence is drawn a conclusion how desirable it is in all
colonies to organise civilization on the frontiers, to ensure per*
nianent tranquillity.
Relation between the Kaffers and Colony of the Cape.
It appears that predatory incursions had long been made into
the colony by the Kaflfers for the purposes of stealing cattle, in
the course of which they committed many cruelties and excesses,
and it would seem from Mr. Barrow's comments on the character
of the frontier Boors, that in all cases the Colonists retorted upon
them with the utmost severity. These incursions had eurived to
such a daring height, and the Kaffers had become so successful,
that they had taken possession of the whole of that beautiful
country called the Zuurveld, which extends from the Sunday's
to the Great Fish Eiver, including the Kowie, Bosjesman, and
Earieka rivers. This tract of the Zuurveld appeared upon an
investigation instituted in 1809 to have been possessed bj'' a
Hottentot named Euiter for the space of a century back, and had
f 2
68 Becords of the Cape Colony.
been the object of attainment (from its fertility) both to the Kaffers
and Colonists, who however fruitlessly attempted the subjecting
the country during Buiter's life. It was in this state of affairs
that in 1811 a representation was made to the Colonial Grovem-
ment of the necessity of repelling these marauders systematically,
and a large portion of the mounted Burgher force was called
forth accordingly, associated with a considerable body of Military,
and placed under the command of Colonel Thomas (sic) Graham
(then Lieutenant Colonel of the Cape Eegiment), who also was
vested with a civil commission placing at once in his hands the
superior joint Civil and Military authority in that quarter. Col. G.
commenced his operations in December 1811, and conducted them
with such energy and judgment that in the course of 8 or 9 months
the Kaffers were driven beyond the Great Fish Eiver, peace
restored, and the above river established as the boundary between
the Colony and Kaffraria ; upon whose line Military Posts were
stationed in different points for the future protection of the
Frontier. As however this Eiver diverges greatly, and its line of
defense is extremely prolonged and objectionable from forming on
our side the arc to a chord at almost every large sweep, indepen-
dent of its banks in many parts being clothed with impenetrable
thick bush so favorable to the mischievous intentions of the
treacherous Kaffers : these evils rendered insurmountable by such
localities. The depredations of the Kaffers shortly recommenced,
and complaints being fix)m time to time forwarded of the sufferings
of the inhabitants from their savage neighbours, the feelings of the
Colonists on the Borders (and I believe it may be aflSrmed of
the resident magistrates also) were to destroy indiscriminately
these formidable invaders whenever an opportunity might offer.
The cruelties and murders committed by them might well create
such disposition in the minds of persons on the spot, but exclusive
of the great inconvenience to the Colonial Government, the being
involved in a war on the Interior Border of its Settlement, when
the parent country was making such important struggles in
Europe, it appeared to the Governor Lord Charles Somerset that
conciliatory measures and an attempt at civilization were more
likely to prove efficacious in establishing tranquillity on a per-
manent basis with savages than coercion by sword, musket, and
bayonet could effect. With this intent His Lordship repaired in
March 1817 to Kaffraria for the purpose of conferring with the
Becords of the Cape Colony. 69
principal chiefs of the country. The conference took place on the
Kat river, about 3 days journey from the Colony, and was attended
by nearly all the Kaflfer Chiefs of any note. The result (as might
have been expected) was extremely favourable. Gaika was estab-
lished and acknowledged undisputably as Supreme Chief of the
Kafifers residing on this side the Buffalo river, the dependent
chiefs also bound themselves to adhere faithfuUy to the Treaty
agreed upon between the Governor of the Colony and Gaika,
which was " that restitution should be made to the Colonists of
all the Colonial cattle and horses plundered as far as could be
traced ; that no Kaffer should on any account pass to the Colonial
side of the Fish river, unless furnished with a badge (a brass
Gorget with Gaika written on it), which he was to present to the
Officer commanding at a particular post (De Bruin's drift), the
only entrance to the Colony permitted; that if any depredation
should be committed by the Kaffers an armed force from the
Colony should follow such to the first Kaffer Kraal and demand
restitution, which, if not made, the force in question should take
from that Kraal Kaffer cattle to the amount stolen." It was
also agreed "that the Kafifers should (under Gaika's authority)
come to Graham's Town, at two fixed periods in every year, with
ivory, skins, baskets and such other articles they had for barter,
and receive in exchange iron, copper, copper and brass wire,
tobacco, tinder boxes, with other articles most desired by them.'*
Gaika's earnest solicitation for a Missionary to be sent to instruct
him was likewise acceded to, and the several chiefs (particularly
Gaika) parted with the Governor with expressions of the warmest
gratitude and assurances of amity and goodwill. This Treaty was
kept inviolably for some time on both sides, and Gaika sent into
the Colony large numbers of cattle and horses captured at different
periods from the Colonists. On His Lordship's return into the
Colony the result of his observations confirmed his opinion that
the Kaffers could alone be effectually opposed and their depreda-
tions checked by Cavalry. He accordingly made a new disposition
of the posts ; ordered a strong reinforcement of Cavalry from Cape
Town ; and took measures to establish a front and rear line of
signal Posts, by which detachments of Cavalry could communicate
and with that facility prevent cattle or plunder taken from the
Colony by the Kaffers being carried off. Unfortunately however
the great retrenchments and reductions which the Government at
70 ^Records of the Cape Colony,
Home were soUcitious to make . deprived the Colony of its
regiments of Cavalry, and the Eaffers soon discovering the
absence of that most useful arm, once more returned to their
predatory habits, with the exception of Gaika, who still continued
faithful to the Treaty made by him with the Governor, and kept up
a friendly and constant intercourse with the Military Posts and
Magistrates at Graham's Town. Matters went on in this manner
until the beginning of 1818, when Gaika sent to the Officer com-
manding on the Frontiers to inform him that Tslambie* with
many other defective Chiefs were about to attack him in
consequence of his maintaining a good understanding with the
Colony ; and to meet such conspiracy he earnestly entreated aid
from the Governor. No time was lost in directing the required
succour being afforded this Chief; but before His Lordship's
orders could reach the Frontiers, Guika was attacked and defeated
in a pitched Battle t with immense slaughter and the loss of 6000
head of cattle ; after which he retreated with the remnant of his
force towards the Colony, establishing his residence for a time at
the foot of the Kaka Berg as a place of security. Shortly suc-
ceeding these events a strong force under Lieutenant Colonel
Brereton, Boyal African Corps, entered Kafi&aria and cooperated
with Gaika and 5,000 armed Kaffers for the purpose of chastising
the rebel Tslambie ; but the Lieutenant Colonel returned to the
Colony without being able to effect more than the bringing away
with him vast herds of cattle to the amount of 25,000 head, with
a portion of which Gaika was remunerated for his losses and (as
far as clearing the country from rebels) for the time being re-
established in the fuU possession of his lawful dominions. From
this moment 'Tslambie and his adherents sought revenge, and
several valuable lives were lost, by the Kaffers surprising and
surrounding small parties, amongst others Captain Bobert Gethin,
72nd Begiment, and Ensign Hunt, Boyal African Corps, fell
victims to their savage brutality, whom the service must deplore,
as bereft of two gallant and promising Officers. Hostilities on
the part of the Kaffers encreased so rapidly, and their predatory
attacks were marked ¥dth so many cruelties and enormities (both
* Uncle of Gaika and r^ent (during his minority) of the country.
t The action between Gaika and Tslambie took place near the residence of
the latter, in the vicinity of the Buffalo mountains, on a spot mutually agreed
upon for settling their disputes.
Records of the Cape Colony. 71
in inhuiuanly butchering all who fell into their power and burning
and ravaging the smaller posts in detail) that to suppress such
diabolical conduct His Excellency Lord Charles Somerset deter-
mined on adopting a system of rigid severity hitherto not exerted.
To effect His Lordship's object to the extent desired (and indis*
pensably necessary in the then precarious state of affairs) the
whole of the mounted Burgher force of the Colony was called
forth, which, united to a lai^e disposable military strength, were to
strike into the heart of Kaffraria, as a nation, a blow at once
decisive and impressive. Ever vigilant and watchful, 'Tslambie
either foresaw, or anticipated, the browing storm. Naturally
endued with strong abilities and possessing almost unrivalled
artifice, he, by flattering the hopes of his adherents and inspiring
them with revenge for past grievances, accumulated a vast force of
10,000 fighting men, with which he thought either to annihilate
the small British force then opposed to him on the Fish Biver, or
counteract by a prompt diversion in the Colony the measures
concerting for his downfall. To the above end, and by a masterly
disposition, doubtless directed by the counsels of a set of deserters
from the British army, he concentrated his force within 5 or 6
nules of Graham's Town (the military Depdt of the Frontiers) with
the view to attack and carry it by a coup de main. Confident in
his physical strength, and flushed with the success of his well
planned project hitherto, 'Tslambie on the 22nd April 1819 pressed
forward with his overwhelming force to the attack of the town,
defended only, together with the detached barracks, by a band of
250 British Troops under Lieutenant Colonel Willshire, 38th
Begiment, then commanding the Frontiers. The Kaflers showed
themselves first on an elevated tabular ridge about 2 miles in
advance of Graham's Town, deploying in large columns to the
view of the astonished inhabitants, having previously surprised
and driven in a patrole of Cavalry (Colonial) whom they pursued
with that indefat^ble perseverance as scarcely to admit of the
British forming on the defensive for their reception. Of the
attack of the Kaffers in two principal columns directed upon
the Barracks and town, with the welcome they met with from the
Spartan like band and hero opposed to them, also their final
retreat and loss sustained in the urgent conflict, a better and more
able pen has already described ; it suiBRces to illustrate by a remark-
able instance their panic and disgrace at the day's issue. In their
72 Mecords of the Cape Colony.
retreat they fell in with a Lieutenant and 20 rank and file of the
Boyal African Corps, who on seeing their number with a hope
truly forlorn determined on selling their lives as dearly as possible.
The Kaflfef s eyeing askance the little handful of men whom fate
appeared to destine as their victims of vengeance, ranged them-
selves on either side, and in place of annihilating the little band
allowed the OflScer deliberately to face his men and file off towards
Graham's Town unassailed and uninjured. With their defeat at
Graham's Town the hopes of the Kaffers were alike disappointed, a
feeble effort on their part with about 2000 men to carry the Post of
Upper Kaffer Drift was made, and relinquished with increased
disgrace, and thus closed offensive operations on their side. That
such diversion as the above was not checked e'er proceeded into
such an extent requires but few words to explain. The collection
of the Buigher force from the remote districts was not the work of
a day or even months. The horse sickness, which at that time
prevailed to a most alarming degree, carried off hundreds of horses,
materially impediug the progress of concentration ; and the great
distance from which the resources in troops and military stores
were to be drawn, with the diflSculties attending their transport
from Cape Town to Algoa Bay (500 miles) are causes of delay as
unequivocal as insurmountable. To the inadequacy of force for
the protection of the Frontiers and the want of Cavalry to follow
up the Kaffer depredations, are alone to be ascribed the consequences
which have resulted, and emboldened the Kaffers to profit by a
favorable moment. As firm, collected, and as persevering, as were
tlie Troops under Lieutenant Colonel Willshire in the hour of
danger, equally so were the subsequent measures and dispositions
for reprisal, on the part of His Excellency Lord Charles Somerset,
decisive, cool, and determined. An insult had been offered to the
British Crown by a horde of savages upon whom its representative
had conferred repeated marks of regard and clemency. To season-
able advice and tendered friendship 'TSlambie and his adherents
had put in force all their arts of duplicity and prevarication ; and
the Frontiers of the colony, if not a considerable portion of the
Settlement, had been put at stake by the die cast on the 22nd
April. The due meed of praise can scarcely, be expressed for the
wise measures adopted at this particular juncture. Engineers were
immediately sent from Cape Town to put the different Military
Posts in a state of defence. Grahams Town, the emporium of this
Records of the Cape Colony^ 73
part of the Colony, was fortified ; and the mass of armed Burghers
levied and concentrated preparatory to commencing our part in
the tragedy representing the business being matured, towards
the close of the month of July, by the disposable force for defence
being distributed at the several fortified posts, and the offensive
army headed by Lieutenant Colonel Willshire ready to enter
Eafiraria in three separate columns* of near 1,000 men each,
agreeably with a plan laid down by His Excellency the Governor.
The 28th of the month witnessed the departure of the Centre
column t from Grahams town ; the right being directed to foUow
the centre, to pierce by the Bushy Forest on the Fish Eiver, at the
Upper Kaffer Drift, under Major Frazer, with the view to scour
the forest and clear the coast from Kaffers. The left column
imder Landdrost Stockenstrom entering previously at a remote
point near the Tarka Berg with the object of taking 'TSlambie and
his force in the rear; whilst Colonel Willshire maintaining a strong
central position % should, together with Major Frazer, oppose the
rebel in front and flank at the same time. The operations of this
army it is not my province to detail at length. The extreme
wetness of the weather having enabled the active TSlambie to
attain his old position in the Bushy fastnesses of the Fish river
before the several columns could unite to prevent him ; and the
unfortunate continuance of heavy rain, when co-operating, pre-
cluding the wise disposition made for surrounding the Kaffers in
their dark and almost impenetrable retreat from taking the full
effect. These unforeseen circumstances necessarily prolonged the
course of operations. 'TSlambie, finding his position untenable,
effected his retreat under cover of the rain at night from the Fish
river forest; and with his cattle took a route across the Keiskamma
and Buffalo rivers, thence we believe to the Kai, to all of which
points Colonel Willshire pursued him in three distinct columns,
leaving a reserve under Major Frazer. In the course of the march
of these columns various skirmishes ensued, terminating always
in favor of the British force, and to the prejudice of the Kaffers in-
* The columns to the right and left were composed entirely of the Cape Corps
and Burghers (mounted).
t The centre column was formed of infantry and artillery strengthened by the
Colonial Troop of Cavalry, and conducted the supplies.
X Foonah's Kraal on the Gaigai was fixed on, for the fortified position from
which the right and left columns were to draw their supplies.
i7i Records of the Cape Colony.
the loss of some hundreds, and vast herds of cattle, with the
demolition of their habitations and produce. The Kaffers at length
taught a dreadful lesson, that prudence might long before have
dictated to them, harassed by pursuit, deprived of their families,
their sustenance, their Country, and finally persuaded of their
weakness to contend against a regularly organised force, finding
flight only estranged them farther from their homes, which seeking
to return in small bodies they found themselves intercepted by
the vigilance of Major Frazer and the Cape Corps in reserve, sought
at length, by yielding in detail to British clemency, that repose
and security denied them so long from their ob6(tinacy and in-
credulity. The defective chiefs. Lynx, Congo, Kmter, Urbana,
and others, having surrendered unconditionally with their people,
acknowledged subserviency to King Gaika (who accompanied the
expedition with his dependent chiefs and a body guard of 150
noble Kaffers); and 'TSlambie wi£h his remnant of adherents
being dispersed and outlawed from their native land, Hinza King
of Upper Ka£&aria with Bookoo his brother and dependent Chiefs
being also found well disposed to the British and reconciled by
their mediation to their kinsman Graika ; to conclude the campaign
with the brilliancy and ulterior benefit desired nothing was wanting
but the immediate presence of His Excellency the Governor, whose
approach in an unlocked for moment was signified. Lord Charles
Somerset accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Bird, Colonial Secre-
tary, and suite arrived at the Camp near Somerset Mount towards
the middle of October 1819, and a conference ensued between his
Lordship and the Kaffer King embracing subjects of no less
moment than the extension of the Frontiers of the Colonv from
the Great Fish Eiver, to the more advantageous defensible line.
The original and ill-defined line marked by the courses of the
Keiskamma and Chumie waters, bounded by the Ocean and Chain
of Blue mountains. The advantages the newly acquired territory
(intermediate) presents are obvious on consulting the chart accom-
panying, and the benefits unfolded in local and general acquire-
ments (it is hoped) are abundantly set forth in the report of
statistical information of which this digression forms the sequel.
The result of the conference between the respective noble person-
ages ended amicably. The sable monarch ceded the country treated
for, and courteously withdrew with his chiefs to occupy tlie country
allotted him ; and His Lordship having traversed the line of the
Meeords of the Cape Colony, 75
Keiskamma to the oonfticieiice with the Chumie, fixed along this
new boundary two sites for fortified posts to be immediately
erected ; completing which tour His Excellency returned into the
Colony, leaving still a strong military force to occupy the new
line of demarkation and cover the operation of erecting Forts
Willshire and Holloway. These forts are to be constructed in
masonry of a pentagonal figure, and as far as the ground will
admit according to the rules of fortification for the construction of
a fortified pentagon : the scarp is to be from 12 to 14 feet high
without ditch or coimterscarp in front : within the area barracks,
stabling, storehouses, &c. are to be erected for a garrison of 200 or
250 men. Infantry and Cavalry, and in fact every provision is
allowed for maintaining at these posts a strong military position
either for attack or defence. Operations against the Kaffers (when
indispensable) are to be conducted exclusively by cavahy, to com-
mand an effective force of which arm at all times, a reserve of
horses, to mount the infantry of the Cape Corps, is provided. It
is an object desirable for these posts to communicate with each
other, and severally with the Bushy Forest on the Fish Biver,
which has been kept in view in their arrangement accordingly.
Taking up the thread of the subject concluding this Section, the
general direction of Che force^ to which I was attached was
KJN'.E. firom the Keiskamma to the Kai, distant 65 or 70 miles ;
but from the various difficulties encountered in traversing a
country hitherto unexplored and unknown to Europeans, much
impediment occurred. Every obstruction the face of a country
can offer was met with, and few circumstances tended to facilitate
the progress. A military sketch was conducted imder the com-
manding Boyal Engineer.
Climate and Natural Besoubges of Eaffearia.
The climate of this portion of Southern Afidca as far as general
report and the constant experience of four months enables me to
judge, appears uniformly mild and congenial, the atmosphere is
clear and unclouded for many months in the year; the air pure
^ The centre column consisted of 350 or 400 regular troops with an artillerj
taiA engineer brigade and a train of 40 waggons to which I had the honor of
acting in. the capacity of Quarter Master General.
76 Becords of the Cape Colony,
and invigoratiDg. The seasons are by no means so marked and
regular as at the Cape, and although the N.W. and S.E. winds
prevail, they neither blow with so much violence or so decidedly
regulate the winter and summer solstices. As the months of
June, July and August particularly characterize the rainy season
at the Cape, so those of September, October and November mark
the same in Raf&aria ; but the latter not so determinately as the
former, rain being common at the early as well as late period of
the year, as the season is advanced or slow. It might be inferred
therefore as a general rule (governing the climate of this Country
in the above particular) that although there are two decided seasons,
the wet and dry (the latter greatly predominating), they vary in
the prevailing periods every year. With regard to the tempera-
ture of the atmosphere, in the aggregate it follows a medium
course : the Mercury seldom descends below 40° in the depth of
winter, and in the summer rarely rises above 90° in the shade at
noon ; but the Thermometer ranges widely from the sun's rise to
its zenith, as wiU be hereafter shown. The altitude of position
on the Chain of Blue Mountains doubtless occasions a marked
diiference in the thermometer to the atmosphere prevailing on
the Coast, and the winds are likewise locally affected by the same
circumstance in due proportion. The winds from the sea blow
from the S.E. and S.W. points, both of which indicate rain in the
wet season. To the prevalence of these winds is ascribed the cool
refreshing breeze and pure atmosphere after mid-day this country-
enjoys even removed 20 or 30 miles from the coast. The S. East
wind in particular is remarkable for the production of cold, but
never attended with deleterious properties. On the other hand
the winds between the North and West points neither blow with
so much violence, nor are productive of such suffocating heat as
similar winds prevailing on the other side the Great Fish Kiver.
These probably owe their amelioration to the intervention of the
Grand Chain of Mountains, as well as verdant soil they pass
over ; the one checking their progress, the other purifying rather
than conducing to the deleterious properties these winds imbibe
from passing over the karoo plains in the Colony and sandy soil
uniformly prevailing. Other winds are very variable ; East seldom.
West oftener occurring. Towards the Ocean dews are abundant,
promoting greatly the productions of the earth in this otherwise-
parched clime. In the neighbourhood of the mountains they have
Seeords of the Cape Colony.
77
little influence apparently ; but vapour is condensed upon them in
large proportion, taken in solution from marine evaporation and
carried thence, where the rarification of atmosphere here causes
rain to be more abundant.
Tcible shewing the range of the Thermometer during the months
of August and September 1819 ; vnih the state of the Weather
in that period.
Range of
Thenoaumeter.
MonkhB.
SttJS.
Stete of Atmoqihere.
V
TA.]f.
Noan.'8 p.m.
o
o
o
August
l8t
52
61
58
Wind E. heavy rain in squalls.
9f
2nd
49
60
53
,, S. and £. „
19
3rd
44
62
60
„ S.E. clear fine weather.
M
4th
56
78
72
99 N. W.
9»
5th
58
72
68
N
99 ■*'^ • 99
9»
6th
60
71
57
„ N.VV. cloudy weather.
79
7th
99
99
99
„ S.S.E. „
r%
8th
62
71
57
„ N. W . clear and moderate.
9»
9th
62
80
62
99 . " • 99
99
lOth
64
86
67
99 99 99
99
11th
63
86
60
„ E. find day^ rain at night.
79
12th
54
70
63
„ E.S.E. calm, threatening rain.
99
13th
99
99
99
^ N.W. constant rain.
99
14th
72
86
74
„ N.W. very hot
99
16th
54
75
64
„ S.E. continual rain.
99
17th
52
60
54
„ S.W. cloudy with rain.
99
18th
53
62
59
„ „ clear and moderate.
99
19th
)9
99
99
„ „ fine weather.
99
20th
61
66
59
99 ^ 99
W
2l8t
47
78
51
„ N.W. blowing strong with thick fog.
99
22Dd
61
76
60
„ N.E. clear, light breeze.
99
23rd
99
99
99
„ S.E. fine moderate weather.
99
24th
59
86
99
„ „ thick fog.
99
25th
59
70
• 99
„ S.W. threatening rain.
99
26th
52
62
99
„ S.E. tremendous rain with thunder.
99
27th
58
62
99
„ N.W. thick and cloudy.
99
28th
56
67
99
„ S.E. constant heavy rain.
9>
29th
60
67
99
„ S.E. and N.E. variable but clearing.
99
dOth
58
70
57
„ N.W. clear, with strong breeze.
99
3l8t
46
76
60
„ E. moderate.
SepL
Ist
58
75
67
„ N.W. fine weather
99
2nd
56
69
59
99 99 99
99
3rd
58
81
58
„ Cloudy but moderate.
99
4th
56
70
57
„ S.E. heavy rain.
99
5th
61
79
57
99 99 99
99
6th
56
71
57
„ Showery.
99
7th
55
61
56
99 99
99
8th
47
56
57
„ Moderate.
78
Beo
ord^
of the Cape Colony..
Range of
Thermometer.
Monthfi.
Days.
8Uto of Atmoepbeie.
w
1
7 A.M. 'Noon.
1
8 P.M.
•
o
,o
o
Sept
9th
46
78
64
Clear fine weather.
99
10th
43
96
68
,9 Hot.
1
9>|
11th
99
99
99
GI^ and moderate.
»
12th
99
99
99
99 99
))
13th
66
64
62
99 99
99
14th
42
70
47
99 99
99
15th
46
62
99
Cloudy and threatening rain.
99
16th
44
69
99
Moderate.
99
17th
46
68
51
Fine weather*
99
18th
68
74
68
99 99
99
19th
68
76
61
99 99
«
99
20th
62
80
66
99 99
99
2l8t
60
82
99
Fine clear weather.
-
99
22nd
67
76
68
99 99 -99
99
23rd
68
79
60
99 99 99
99
24 th
62
86
70
99 99 ' 99
99
26th
60
82
69
99 99 99
99
26th
67
64
58
99 99 99
99
27th
66
72
60
99 99 99
99
28th
61
76
69
99 99 99
99
29th
64
79
60
99 99 99
99
30th
57
77
61
99 99 99
KB. The above Table merely shows the range of the thermo-
meter as taken at the times of the day specified, without any
reference to the altitude of position, which might have had some
effect in raising or diminishing the degrees of temperature.
P.S. The thermometer was observed under the shade of a
Haiquee doubly lined.
Natural Besources.
It is much to be lamented that a Country possessing such real
resources as its surface uniformly presents should on examination
prove them almost ideal. This is a consequence of two marked
circumstances locally affecting it: the one the deep seated
character of the beds of all the rivers preventing in most
instances irrigation to the soil, the second the extreme shallow-
ness of the soil* and its nature precluding the absorption of
* From the general shallowness of the soil is also deduced the total deficiency
of Forest trees over the face of the country.
Becards of the Cape Colony, 79
sufficient moisture necessary to producing the fruits of the earth,
in all cases except skirting the banks of the rivers of gentle
declivity. These are paramount evils, never to be surmounted,
ixrhich cannot be too much deplored in a country whose surface of
soil is so exuberant, and distribution of ground affording such
facilities. As an elucidation of the above it may be desirable to
state my reasons for the above assertion : —
The stratification of Southern Africa in this part appears to
have as a superstratum a fine rich soil, composed of different
proportions of different kinds of sand and clay, sometimes the
latter, at others the former predominating and forming commonly
a light genial soil for the growth of grain ; beneath this is gene-
rally a thin stratum of pipe or stiff clay, but extremely thin ; to
this succeeds rock at the total depth from the surface 20 inches or
2 feet, of uniformly slaty schist or indurated clay slate descending
to considerable depth. This species of rock is probably followed
by sand stone of different qualities, because the beds of the rivers
and ravines abound with it in detached masses. Sand-stone not
being a primitive rock, but a secondary formation, cannot be the
basis^ and must therefore yield to granite or some other primitive
substance as a substratum, probably deeply seated. From hence
I draw my conclusions.
1st. The soil being extremely shallow throughout, with a large
j»roportion of sand through which the water filters easily, it next
enters the pipe or stiff clay, which as readily absorbs it, the
property of clay being only to receive water till saturated with
moisture, and not to impart the same with facility, the overplus
is consequently forced over the surface as the readiest channel,
thence conducted with rapidity into the ravines and beds of the
rivers, which from constant action upon are much sunk below
the general level of the country. It being thus made apparent
that, from the nature of the stratification and properties of the
soil, little water can be retained, and even that subject to
evaporate from the surface, the insufficiency of moisture is hence
deduced.
2nd. Again the beds of the rivers being generally very stony or
rocky with soil occasionally intervening, the vast body of water
accumulated after heavy rains causes in its rapid motion the
looser parts of soil to be carried away, forming the deep holes,
and the water either then finds a subterranean channel or flows
80 Records of the Cape Colony.
with velocity over an inclined plane towards the Ocean. This
renders the character of the Eivers so periodical, and accounts for
the irregularity of bed observable throughout. The Embouchure
of the rivers being so choked with sand is a phenomenon not to be
explained easily, but the prevalence of quick and shifting sands
I attribute to the subterranean water course, as suggested when
speaking of the Kai, and cannot but consider that river strong
support to such theory.
The formation of the Mountains is doubtless Diluvian sand-
stone upon granite, and the latter again as a superstratum charac-
terize them. Iron enters in large proportion into the composition
of the granite, and ochre abounds. It is from these mountains
the sources of the Eivers spring : their stratification favors the
secretion of water, by filtering through the sand stone and lodging
in the recesses of the primitive rock, forming natural reservoirs,
and it is from this cause the streams of the several large rivers are
so inexhaustible, and their waters so pure and free from the
brackishness so general in the tributary streams. That springs
are not otherwise met with over the whole Country, its stratifica-
tion sufficiently explains, where no reservoirs are naturally formed
no springs can arise ; and the extreme depth of the primitive
rock with porous nature of the sandstone super-formations pre-
vents any depositions of water taking place* The brackish quality
of the water so invariable in the dependent streams is probably
owing partly to the absence of lime in the soil, and presence of
saline bodies in the schistose slate over which the streams glide.
The deposition of water in ponds on the high grounds is a con-
sequence deduced from the argument on the insufficiency of
moisture, inasmuch that the surplus of water thrown off upon
the surface is in these cases retained in concavities, and in
quantity proportioned to the extent of the sphere and its vertical
depth. The water so deposited will, if shallow, be soon evapo-
rated ; but if on the other hand of moderate cubical content, such
ponds might be perfected into reservoirs and appropriated to use.
Leaving hypothesis as the above to more scientific investigation
and examination, it will now be my endeavour to draw a con-
clusive remark touching this subject, namely :
That the surface of the Country comprising Ealfraria affords
notwithstanding so many obstacles, great capabilities of cultiva-
tion, particularly in parts along the banks of the Bivers, where
Secards of the Cape Colony. 81
the soil is ever exuberant and the ground will admit of being
adapted to agriculture with advantage. For pasturage for horses
and homed cattle no country can exceed its qualifications, and
for the horticulturist it presents a noble and extended field.
Wood for fuel is ever abundant, and timber for building to any
extent wOl never fail in the recesses of the Blue Mountains,
which is to be procured with little trouble. The soil does not
a£ford good materials for bricks except on the banks of some of
the larger rivers ; but quarry stone of the most durable quality
can always be found in profusion. lime, though sometimes seen
in a friable state, is so rare as not to be depended on ; but the
coast abounds in shells for the manufacture. The Mimosa tree,
by prevailing in such perfection, might possibly be turned to
advantage from extracting its gum, and plants for dyeing are
everywhere to be found abundant. The climate has been already
shown to be congenial to health and produce ; and on the whole
the newly acquired territory is an acquisition to the Colony of no
small moment, in which tracts of land of great extent may be
found applicable to every wished for purpose for the establishment
of settlers.
March 1st 1820.
(S^ned) Ives Stockeb,
1st Lieutenant Corps of Royal Engineers.
[Copy.]
Letter from Military Secretary 6. J. Eggers
to Assistant Commissary General Ealph Eogbrson.
GtovBBNMBNT HousB, Maroh 2nd 1820.
Sm, — A number of Persons being shortly expected from England
whom it is the wish of His Majesty's Government to settle in this
Colony, it has become necessary to take some preparatory Steps
for their subsistence on their arrival. With this view, the Com-
mander of the Forces has directed you already to provide Sixty
thousand Rations at Algoa Bay, for the expense of which some
xm. G
82 Records of the Cape Colony.
future arrangement will be made, and which will be communi-
cated to you.
On the arrival of the Settlers at Algoa Bay, the Landdrost of
the District has been directed to apply to the Ofl&cer of the
Commissariat at Graham's Town for his assistance in the distribu-
tion of Eations and other matters, as will be more particularly
stated to you when the Settlers arrive. In the mean time the
Commander of the Forces desires that you will instruct your
Officer at Graham's Town to lend, himself to the Eequisitions and
applications of the Landdrost, with reference to a letter from the
Colonial Secretary ddted 12th November last addressed to the
Landdrost of Uitenhage. I herewith return the Lettter addressed
by Mr. Johnstone to you on the 18th Ultimo with its several
enclosures. I have &c.
(Signed) G. J. Eogers, Military Secretary.
[Original.]
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Natt Office, \ik March 1820.
Sir, — We request that you will inform Earl Bathurst that it
has been reported to us by Captain Young, the Agent for Trans-
ports at Deptford, that Mr. Combley, the medical man embarked
as a Settler for the Cape of Good Hope in the Sir George OsborTie
Transport, had declined proceeding thither, and that we have in
consequence caused Mr. Thomas Foster, an Assistant Surgeon in
the Eoyal Navy, to be embarked in the vessel to have the medical*
charge of the Settlers on board her during the passage to the
Cape.
We have also to suggest whether, on account of the inconveni-
ence which Mr. Combley has occasioned to the Service by refusing
to proceed in the Sir George Osborne, steps should not be taken to
oblige him to pay for his victualling for the period he was on
board the vesseL We are &c.
(Signed) K. Seppings,
J. Thomson,
J. BOWEN.
Records of the Cape Colony. 83
[Copy.]
Letter from Land Surveyor Knobbl to the
Landdrost of Uitenhage.
UimrHAas, lih Mareh 1820.
Sm, — ^I have the honour herewith to submit to you the plan of
the Survey of the Country between Graham's Town and the Great
Fish Biver as prescribed by Government, the conclusion of which
I regret has been much retarded by rainy weather.
The result of the Survey will be best understood from the
Description of the several Situations on the plan itself, where I
have tried to show by imaginary divisions what extent of Ground
might be conveniently attached to each Situation.
In general it must be observed that all Springs in that part of
the Country are small, not one being found which might serve the
purpose of irrigation to a greater extent than a small Garden.
Beside this they are rarely useful for any considerable length, as
they soon fall into deep Eavines where they are lost to the
purposes of Agriculture and often rendered inaccessible even to
Cattle, so that in proportion to the extent of Ground there are but
few spots fit for habitations, and that dividing the Ground ac-
cording to former Government instructions in such a manner that
no part of Land may be left without a supply of water, a large
portion of Land must come to each Spring or situation.
The number of Families each Spring will be capable of sup-
plying will be best decided on the Spot on the arrival of the
Settlers, however it appears to me that it may be reckoned at
from five to ten Families at the most, as the Springs vary in
strength, and making allowance for such Cattle as they necessarily
will require for their subsistence and Agricultural purposes.
Whether such number of Families will be able to support them-
selves and the most necessary Cattle on the proportion of Land
intended for them, and how the granting of such portions is to be
reconciled to the above mentioned principle, viz. not to grant
Springs with small parts of Land, so as to render the adjacent
Lands imtenable for want of Water, are points which I must
submit to your consideration and better judgment. I have &c.
(Signed) J. Knobel, Sworn Surveyor.
G 2
84 Becords of the Cape Colony.
[OriginaL]
Letter from Mr. Henry Nourse to Earl Bathurst.
37 WiGMOBE Stbeet, Sth March 1820.
My Lord, — Begging to refer your Lordship to the several letters
I have had the honor to address to your Lordship on the subject
of Cape Emigration, but more particularly to that under date of
the 16th August last, in reply to which your Lordship is pleased
to assure me thro' Mr. Goulbum that you should feel no diflSculty
in recommending my proposal of forming a Commercial Establish-
ment in the vicinity of and in connexion with the new settlement
to be formed in that Colony, to the favourable consideration of
His Excellency the Governor, in order that I may receive a grant
of land in a proper situation for the purpose and such other
indulgences as may be consistent with the regulations under which
other Settlers proceed to the Colony.
Not being supported by your Lordship's concurrence in the
further views I at the same time took the liberty to suggest, of
some personal commission or agency calling my immediate presence
to the spot, I have waited to observe the progress of Public
feeling on this interesting subject, having in the mean time
directed my Partner (long since settled in Cape Town) to make
the necessary preparations for extending a branch of our Establish-
ment to the new Settlement, and to inform himself of the best
situation for that purpose.
I am now on the point of proceeding myself to the Colony to
aid in carrying these views into effect; and have therefore to
solicit of your Lordship the recommendation above referred to,
entreating your Lordship will be pleased to extend all the support
and encouragement to my undertaking that may be consistent
with the views of His Majesty's Government. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Nourse.
Becards of the Cape Colony. 85
[OiiginaL]
Letter from SiB SuFANS Shawe Donein to Earl Bathubst.
QoYEamasT Houbb,
Caps or Good Hope, 9ih Manh 1820.
My Lord, — ^Doubts having ansen here as to the l^ality of
transporting or removing slaves for sale or other purposes by sea
from one part of this Colony to another, I beg to submit to Your
Lordship that it would be very satisfactory to the authorities of
this place to have the opinion of His Majesty's Law Officers upon
a point of much importance to the Lihabitant proprietors. Should
Your Lordship coincide with me in thinking that there are legal
doubts on this point, which are not cleared up by the Statute of
the 51 Greo. 3rd. Cap. 23 § 4 or any other regulation by Statute, I
shall feel obliged by your proposing the case to the Attorney and
Solicitor General and favouring me with their opinions hereon.
I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Heney Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord
Charles Somerset.
DowNiNO Street, 20th Mdrdi 1820.
My Lord, — Mr. Henryj Nourse, a merchant of London, has
represented to Earl Bathurst his intention to form a Commercial
Establishment in Algoa Bay as a branch of that which already
exists under his name at Cape Town, and he has expressed his
wish, with Riis view, to receive a grant of land in a convenient
Situation.
TTia Lordship has acquainted Mr. ISTourse in reply that he would
recommend his proposal to Your Lordship's favourable con-
sideration, in order that he may receive such a grant of Land
in a proper situation and such other indulgence as may be con-
sistent with the regulations under which other Settlers have
86 Records of the Cape Colony.
proceeded to the Colony and with the extension to other deserving
persons of similar advantages should they be disposed to embark
in Commercial Speculations of the same nature.
I have therefore received Earl Bathurst's directions to request
your Lordship's favorable consideration to Mr. Nourse's proposal
to the extent which His Lordship has pointed out.
I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulbubn.
[Original?]
Letter from the Navy Boaed to Henry Goxtlburn, Esqrk
Natt Office, 2(Hh March 1820.
Sm, — ^We acquaint you, for the information of Earl Bathurst^
that the Sir George Osborne Transport, having on board the last
of the Parties of Settlers for whom His Lordship has required
conveyance to the Cape of Good Hope, finally sailed from the
Downs^ for that destination^ on the 17th instant. We are &c,
(Signed) J. Thomson,
FrrZ MiDDLETON,
J. BOWEN.
[Oflace Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset.
London, 2ia March 1820.
My Lord, — I have had the honour to receive your Lordship's
dispatch of the 22nd November 1819 transmitting the proceedings
which had taken place in the Case of Jacob Smit who was tried
and convicted of Murder, but whom you have been induced to
recommend to His Majesty's Clemency, and I now enclose to your
Lordship the Pardon which His Majesty has been graciously
pleased to grant to the said Jacob Smit, commuting his Sentence
Records of the Cape Colony.
87
of death to Imprisonment for one year, and I have to signify to
your Lordship His Majesty's Commands that you do take Measures
to enable the Prisoner to receive the benefit of such Pardon
accordingly. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Copy.]
Letter from Lieut. Colonel Bird to the
Landdrost of Uitenhage.
GoLOHiAL Offioe, 22ni March 1820.
Sm, — By last Post I had the honour of informing you that
the Transports Chapman and Nautilus had arrived here with a
proportion of the Settlers whom His Majesty's Government
has determined to locate in the Zuurveld. I am now directed
by His Excellency the Acting Governor to acquaint you that the
Settlers are under seven Directors with whom only this Govern-
ment has communication, and to whom only grants are to be
given; that the Directors will subsequently give titles to such
as may locate in their respective allotments. The names of the
Directors and the number of Persons attached to each are detailed
in the margin.
Names of fhe Dlncton.
No. of
Men.
No. of
Women.
Fenoni
above 14
yean of age.
Children
miderU
yean of age.
Total.
Mr. G. Scott
14
9
4
10
37
Lieutenant Grause ; .
12
9
1
22
44
Mr. T. Eowles . . .
11
11
4
26
52
Mr. T.Owen . . ,
(
10
5
0
12
27
Mr. T. Mandy . . .
11
10
0
23
44
Mr. J. Carlisle . • .
11
0
0
4
15
Mr. J. Bailie . . .
96
63
13
116
288
Grand Total .
. • •
507
88 Records of the Cape Colony.
It has met His Excellency's view and given him much satisfac-
tion to find that you had it in yonr power to forward by last post
Mr. Knobel's first Survey. The receipt of this important and
able document has enabled His Excellency to direct the location
of these parties from hence ; and he conceives that his having had
it in his power so to do will greatly facilitate your arduous duties
at this moment, and it will relieve you from the numberless
remonstrances which might otherwise have poured in upon and
impeded you in your ordinary duties. The enclosed list will
clearly point out to you the situations which the Seven Directors
are to occupy; they are numbered according to Mr. Knobel's
Map, an accurate Copy of which I return to you, retaining the
original here as a necessary document for this oflice, where
the ulterior measure of preparing the grants must be gone
through.
His Excellency has directed the Acting Deputy Quarter Master
General to issue to these Directors such Camp Equipage as the
scanty supply of the Stores will admit to shelter these people in
their arduous march from Algoa Bay to the place of their location ;
a Eeturn of the quantity and description so issued will be sent to
you from the proper Office by this Post. You will be pleased
to apprize the Directors of the necessity they will be under to
attend to the preservation of this Camp Equipage, which should
be returned to you the moment they can dispense with it, in order
to be again used by succeeding parties, but if it be not so returned
then the whole charge thereof will be made against those who
default in the restitution.
With respect to the Waggons to be employed for the use of the
Settlers, it is clearly to be made known to them that they must
pay for them, indeed this has been explicitly done. Such Waggons
as are absolutely necessary for proceedLig with the personal
Baggage of the parties may in the first instance be defrayed by
you, altho' afterwards the amount will be made a charge from this
GroveiTiment against the funds in its hands belonging to the
respective Directors ; but with regard to the large proportion
of Stores which they have, it will be necessary that they provide
for the payment of its transport previous to its leaving Algoa Bay,
where in the meantime it must be stored and secured under the
protection of the Assistant Commissary General and such sentries
as may be requisite. In default of the means of housing these
Beeards of the Cape Colony. 89
Stores it occurs to His Excellency that a tempoiary shedding,
such as is used for Boat Houses, might be thrown over it to
protect it from the Weather while the Packages themselves may
be raised from the ground damp by dunnage.
As the Transport of Gunpowder by the parties (travelling as
they must) would subject them to very imminent danger, His
Excellency has communicated to Lieutenant Cole, the Agent of
Transports, that when the rest of the Baggage and Stores is landed,
he is then to land the Gunpowder and apply to Captain Evatt to
store it in the Magaisine at Fort Frederick; and His Excellency
will give further directions for its gradual removal by small
quantities and safe conveyance, and while you will call upon
Captain Evatt to take an accurate account of the several persons
to whom this ammunition may belong in order that no mistake
may arise as to the Proprietor, you will at the same time acquaint
him that he is not to reissue any proportion of it without an order
in writing from yourself, and His Excellency wiU communicate
further with you on this subject before you will feel authorized to
give an order to this eflfect.
lieutenant Cole has received directions to lose no time in
effecting the landing of the Settlers upon his arrival at Algoa Bay,
and I have written by him to Captain Evatt to desire that the
Grovemment flats may be employed to assist in their debarkation
and in those of the Stores, but to be as cautious as possible that
no accidents happen in the Suri^ and to recommend to Lieutenant
Cole not to proceed in the debarkation when he, Captain Evatt,
from Ids experience of the Bay, apprehends danger.
There being some few cases of Hooping Cough among the
children, you will perhaps deem it prudent not to direct the
march of the Settlers thro' the town of Uitenhage ; and indeed it
appears that it would save much of the distance if they be con-
ducted by the lower Eoad by the Jagers drift to the place of their
location ; this however must depend upon local circumstances
which you only can be aware of. You understand, I believe,
clearly, that from the moment of their coming on shore His
Majesty's Government ceases to be at any charge for the Directors
or their Settlers, yet that notwithstandiug the Commissary
General has received instructions to issue Bations to them should
they require it, the Cost of which will be charged against the Funds
which they have deposited with His Majesty's Secretary of State.
90 jReeords of the Cape Colony.
The Commissary will therefore be instructed to take returns from
each Director and make his issues thereon.
It is His Excellency's firm hope that the Directors and Settlers
will feel that patience, industry, and unanimity are essential,
requisites to their ultimate Success, and that therefore he may
expect from them that order and submission to the Laws which
are necessary to their Welfare. His Excellency desires however
that you will explain to them that the Local Law is that to which
they are now liable, that the Tribunals of this Colony by His
Koyal Highnesses approbation of them are become in every respect
British Tribunals, to which all persons resident here are without
distinction equally subject, and that therefore you will be prepared
to enforce order should it unfortunately be required.
His Excellency desires me to add that he has communicated
with the Officer commanding on the Frontier his directions to
afford you from his command any assistance you may require for
the support of the Civil Authority; you will feel with His
Excellency the delicacy of calling for such assistance without the
most imperative necessity, in such cases however His Excellency
relies upon your usual judgement and vigor.
It is His Excellency's desire that you may be pleased to
prohibit in the strongest manner the selling of any Spirituous
liquors among the Settlers, not only by itinerant Sellers but by
any permanent Canteen.
I beg you will press Mr. Elnobel for the continuation of his
Surveys, which will become daily more necessary to the carrying
these measures of the home Government into execution.
I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bied.
Becords of the Cape Colony.
91
[Copy.]
Form of a Distribution of Land to JSettlers per Chapman and
Nautilus Transports for the guidance of the Landdrost of
TRtenh/ige. The nvmhers refer to Mr. KndbeCs Map,
DireotoTB.
Nmnberof
Settien en-
titled to
Land.
Number of
Acres
entitled to.
Land to be
granted.
Nnmbera in Mr. Knobel's Map.
Mr. J. Bailie .
Mr. Crause . •
Mr. Owen . ,
Mr. T. Bowles .
Mr. Mandy . .
Mr. Scott . .
Mr. CSarlisle. .
96
12
11
10
11
14
11
9600
1200
1100
1000
1100
1400
1100
10,000
1,600
1 2,300
1 2,800
1,200
10, 11, 16, and 16
12, to be equally divided
13, to be equally divided
14
iOut of No. 1, adjoining Mr.
( Hart's Lands.
Colonial Office, Cape of Good Hope, 22nd Marcsh 1820.
By Command of His Excellency the Acting Governor.
(Signed) C. Bied, Colonial Secretary.
[OriginaL]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst.
H.M.S. Sappho,
Sfithead, March 23r(i 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor to inform your Lordship that
availing myself of His Majesty's most gracious permission to
return to England I sailed from the Cape of Good Hope in His
Majesty's Sloop Sappho on the 13th of January, and arrived here
this day, having on my departure from the Cape made over the
Government and the command of the Troops to Major General
Sir Kufane Donkin, K.C.B., who took the necessary oaths in my
/
92 Secords of the Cape Colony.
presence accordingly. I shall proceed to London at the earliest
moment in my power in order to have the honor of paying my
duty to His Majesty, but am precluded from doing so at present
by family circumstances of a distressing nature. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from Eear Admiral Lambert to John
William Groker, Esqre.
Vigo AT Sfithead, 2Srd March 1820.
Sm, — I have to acknowledge the receipt of their Lordships'
instructions dated the 21st Instant for my guidance as Commander
in Chief of His Majesty's ships and vessels employed and to be
employed at the Cape of Good Hope and the seas adjacent. Also
of your letter of the 21st Instant acquainting me with their
Lordships' desire and intention that I should reside constantly at
the Island of St. Helena during the continuance of my command ;
and that during my residence on the Island the sum of £2 5s.
per diem will be granted in addition to my other allowances.
I am Sir &c.
(Signed) Eobt. Lambert.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GoTEBNMXNT HouBE, Gapb Town, Match 26^A 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honour of acquainting your Lordship
that the NaviUus and Chapman Transports, with Settlers for this
Colony, arrived here on the 17th instant, and sailed again this
day for Algoa Bay.
It would be premature in me to enter into any details on this
subject just now, I shall therefore only take the liberty of saying to
Becards of the Cape CoUyny. 93
your Lordship that whatever difficulties the Settlers will have at
first to encoTmter, (and they will have many), I feel a conviction
that the measure of colonizing South Africa will ultimately succeed,
and produce great and favorable results, both in regard to this
Colony, and England ; and this conviction strengthens as I consider
the subject, presuming as I do, from the information I have been
able to collect, that the numbers at first will not be too great.
Every preliminary arrangement within my power for the recep-
tion of the Settlers at Algoa Bay, and for forwarding them to the
place of location, has been made. The Landdrost of the District
has received detailed instructions and orders to superintend the
operations, and to put them in possession of their allotments of
Land, which I have fixed on for this party (being the first which
has arrived) in the angle formed by the last twelve miles of the
Bight Bank of the Great Fish Eiver and the Sea.
The NavMus and Chapman on their arrival here were put into
Quarantine (as all ships at present are, in consequence of the
fatal Epidemic at Mauritius and the Small Fox at Bourbon)
and would have been released, as all ships coming firom the
Westward immediately are, had not the Hooping Cough pre-
vailed in the above-named two Transports; but as that disease
has been very fatal here, and is exceedingly dreaded, the
Quarantine has been continued in regard to the NautUus and
Chapman. This has given rise to many complaints on the part
of the Settlers, some of which may possibly reach your Lordship.
I therefore have thought it right to state the circumstance, as
it is, that your Lordship may be aware that the application of
the Quarantine to the two Transports was unavoidable and the
natural consequence of a general regulation already established.
The Directors however, and some others, under precautions, have
been allowed to land here and make their arrangements.
The Garland, a private hired ship with Settlers, arrived here
on the 22nd instant. I shall dispose of them in the best manner
I can, after the arrival of their Director, who is said to be in the
Amphitrite, which is daily expected. I think a number of these
detached and independent Settlers may be able to find employment
in and about Cape Town.
I hope to be able to proceed myself to the Frontier by the
middle of next Month, to superintend the location of the Settlers,
the Majority of whom will, I hope, have arrived and gone on from
94 Records of the Cape Colony.
this place by that time, and when I shall probabfy be enabled
to fonn a tolerable judgment as to the numbers of Settlers to be
expected in all.
I must not omit mentioning to your Lordship that Captain
Moresby of H. M. Ship Menai has in the handsomest manner
offered to accompany these Settlers to Algoa Bay, there to super-
intend their landing, and to employ his carpenters and people
generally in the construction of Sheds and other Cover for their
inmediate accommodation, and to facilitate the landing of stores
and other matters. I have expressed my thanks to Captain
Moresby and accepted his offer. I have, &c.
(Signed) R. S. Donkin.
P. S. While closing this dispatch, the Northampton with stores
for the Settlers has arrived, but most unfortunatly has had the
Small Pox on board, of which five persons have died. This will
probably render a strict quarantine at this place necessary, but
I hope to be able to send her on immediately to Algoa Bay,
and that no evil may arise from landing the Stores and Settlers
there, which shall be done under due precaution.
[Original.]
Letter from Mb. Neil Macniell to Henby Goulbuen, Esqbe.
Glasgow, March 27tft 1820.
Sm, — I now have the honor of transmitting you the lists of the
emigrants proposing to accompany me to the Cape of Good Hope,
being in all sixty eight families including my own, the whole
number being two hundred and sixteen persons. I have to ask
Earl Bathurst's indulgence in not forwarding those documents
sooner, as it is no easy matter to fix the minds of individuals
upon so weighty a consideration as that of emigrating to such
a distance ; the number is now about what I formerly mentioned,
and I have every hope that the Government will not be dis-
appointed in the people and that when their deposits may be
required the money will be immediately paid. I formerly stated
to you the propriety of the embarkation taking place early in the
Records of the Cape Colony. 95
«
summer, Yonr last letters to me have suggested that this period
of the year may be imfavourable, and I having put them under
the consideration of the settlers they unanimously wish to get
to the Colony as soon as possible. I mentioned the distress which
many of the intended colonists would sufifer from quitting their
possessions at the ensuing term, and they are now in consequence
of your last letter disposing of their efifects, have relinquished
their possessions and are ready to proceed when the Government
are pleased to signify the time and place of embarkation. I annex
a certificate from the Lord Provost of this City stating the consent
of the Settlers in this part, as also a Medical certificate. Tou
will observe there are several persons from the Highlands included
in the lists. It is not in my power until I go there to send the
necessary documents regarding them, but I intend to proceed
immediately thither and the documents will be forwarded without
delay. I hope Earl Bathurst will excuse me in not conforming
to the suggestions contained in your two last letters, but the
settlers having maturely considered their difficulties in this country
and the Settlers who may already be in the Colony, are bent upon
proceeding as early as possible.
May I therefore request to be informed in course when the
Government will be pleased to appoint a ship from the Clyde.
And allow me to suggest that the Government can be accom-
modated with a transport in the Clyde.
I hope to hear from you in course as I shall await your answer
in Glasgow. I have, &c.
(Signed) Neil Macniell.
P. S. I trust I may be excused in repeating the anxious wish
of the emigrants to embark early in May. N". McN.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir E. S. Donkin.
London, 2Sth Mareh 1820.
Sir, — I have had the honour to receive your letter of the 12th
January last, stating that you have received the charge of the
96 Records of the Cape Colony.
(Jovemment of the Cape of Good Hope, on the embarkation of
Lord Charles Somerset for this Country ; and I take this early
opportunity of acquainting you that you cannot more satLsfactorily
execute the Trust which His Majesty has been pleased to confide
to you than by continuing to administer the Government of the
Colony upon the principles upon which it has been conducted by
Lord Charles Somerset. I have, &c.
(Signed) Bathtjrst.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOTERNMENT HoUSE,
Cafe Town, March 2Mk 1820.
My Lord, — Since closing the accompanying Dispatch, I have
received such a report from the Health OflScer, relative to the
N(yrthamptony as has enabled me to relax the Quarantine, and
to permit the heads of parties, the Captain and a few other
persons, to land here, under certain precautions, and I am in
expectation that the Nfirthampton will be able to proceed im-
mediately to Algoa Bay with her Stores, and land them and the
Settlers there, without danger of infection to this Colony.
I have, &c.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Apmtralty Office, 30(^ March 1820.
SiR^ — I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty to request you will acquaint Earl Bathurst that
Captain Plumridge of His Majesty's Sloop Sappho having drawn
a Bill for £350 upon the Treasurer of His Majesty's Navy, on
account of the passage granted in that vessel to Lord Charles
BetordB of the Cape Colony. 97;
Somerset from the Cape of Grood Hope to England, under an
order given to the Captain by Eear Admiral Plampin, my Lords
have directed that this Bill should be paid, in order to prevent
the inconvenience to public credit of protesting an officer's bill ;
but that it has been charged to Admiral Plampin, out of whose
pay it will be repaid to the public.
As it appears, however, by the correspondence which has
passed on the subject, that the Admiral exceeded his authority
in granting this passage, and thus subjected hiiiiself to this
expence, entirely at the urgent request of Lord Charles Somerset,
my Lords think it right to suggest whether Earl Bathurst will
not take steps with this officer to repay the sum to the Treasurer
of the Navy, in order to relieve the Admiral from this private
expence which has fallen upon him entirely on account of his
wish to oblige Lord Charles. I am, &c.
(Signed) Jno. Barrow.
[Original.]
Letter from SiR EuFANE Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
Gaps of Good Hope, Slat March 1820.
My Lord, — I beg leave to acquaint your Lordship that I have
granted leave of absence for the term of six months from the
period of his embarkation from hence, to Mr. George Boss, Super-
intendant of the Printing Department, to return to Europe on his
private afGEiirs.
I have directed Mr. Boss to report himself to your Lordship
on his arrival in England, and to apply to you for any further
extension of leave, and I have furnished him with the Certificate
required by your Lordship's Dispatch No. 9 dated 21st April 1818.
I have, &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
XIII. H
98
Beeordt of (he Cape Colony,
[Copy.]
Betwm of Troops on the Frontier on the Id of April 1820.
Corps.
Sergeants.
Drnmners
or Buglers.
Banksnd
FUe.
Total*
Boyal Artillery . • . .
1
•»
28
29
Royal Engineers . . • .
1
1
24
26
38th Regiment ....
13
1
316
330
54th Regiment ....
10
3
241
254
72nd Regiment ....
15
2
298
315
Royal African Corps
32
11
546
589
Gape Cavalry ....
10
2
129
141
Cape Infantry . . • .
18
4
297
319
2003
(Signed) A. A. OHeillt, Brigade Major.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Military Secretary to the Assistant
Commissary General.
QoYEBNiixMT Housi, 2ful AprU 1820,
Sir, — I am directed by Hb Excellency the Commander of the
Forces to acquaint you that in pursuance of Instructiona from His
Majesty's Government it will become necessary for you to take
charge of and superintend various details connected with the
Establishment of the New Settlers now arriving from England.
You hare already received orders to establish a Dep6t of Sixty
thousand Eations at Algoa Bay to be sold to the Settlers ai prime
cost, should they apply for them. His Excellency directs that you
will lose no time in adding Forty thousand Bations more to the
above Depot, making in all One hundred Thousand Bations. And
these are meant to meet the immediate wants of the Settlers on
Records of the Cape Colony. 99
landiHg and on their proceeding to the place of Location, which
may be estimated at least Ten days' March from Algoa Bay.
When th^ have reached the place of their Location, which will
be between the right Bank of the Great Fish Biver and Graham's
Town, their supplies had best be furnished from the latter place.
From the best information that has reached the Commander of
the Forces, he has reason to suppose that the amount of wheat
which can be furnished from Graham's Town and vicinity will Ml
short by about Four thousand Muids of the supply which will be
wanted between this and the next Harvest for the support of the
Settlers, and altho' it is not the intention of His Majesty's Govern-
ment to throw the duty of supplying them for a long time upon
the Commissariat, the period named being only for Six Months,
it is necessary nevertheless to guard by every proper prospective
means against famine, or anything approaching to it, while the'
Settlers are waiting for the first Crop, and I am therefore directed
to desire that you will keep in view the probable demand which
may be made on the Commissariat, to a supply equal to about
Four thousand Muids of Com or some farinaceous equivalent^
which must be sent from Cape Town. A part of this may be
Bice and a part Biscuit, and in making your arrangements for
the collection of this supply it is desirable that you should pro*^
ceed gradually so as not to ruin the Market It may be right
here to acquaint you that the Mills in the neighbourhood of
Graham's Town are wholly inadequate to the grinding of the
quantity of Grain required for the consumption of this increased
population, consequently it will be necessary for you to send a
considerable portion of your wheaten supply to Algoa Bay in
Flour, which may be ground near Cape Town to any amount.
The Officer of your Depart^nent already ordered to Algoa Bay
must be careful in the issue of Eations, so as not to give too large
a supply to one party which may have more ample means to
purchase than another, so as to leave the poor parties without a
sufficiency. It is not possible to give him precise or specific
instructions in such matters of detail, but the Commander of the
Forces supposes that if each Head of Party on landing wa:e to
get one Month's provisions for himself and people it ought to be
sufficient for any short delay at Algoa Bay, for the period of his
March, and for the time which may elapse before he can get a
supply from Graham's Town. Supposing then Two thousand
H 2
100 Records of the Cape Colony.
Individuals to land during the first two or three Weeks at Algoa
Bay, and Thirty days' Bations to be issued to each, that would
amount to a demand of sixty thousand, the number first ordered ;
that supply is now to be increased Forty thousand more, and as
the new Settlers arrive in this Colony, an account of their number
will be furnished to you by the Colonial Secretary, so that you
shall not only know how many are to be supplied at Algoa Bay,
but also what ulterior demands are likewise to be made on you
for their subsistence.
It has been suggested that live oxen would be better for the
animal part of the Bation on the March than Sheep, as they would
be less injured by driving. On this you will of course communicate
with your Officer on the spot.
I have now to communicate to you the Instructions of the
Commander of the Forces relative to the issue and receipt of
Money connected with the location of the new Settlers.
The leading principle of the Begulations of His Majesty's
Grov^nmient is that after landing the new Settlers are to be of
no expense to the Mother Country. Whatever they receive they
must pay for. They must hire the Waggons for their transport
from Algoa Bay. They must pay for the Eations they draw, and
they must purchase whatever articles they require out of a large
and various assortment which has been sent out from England for
their use and Comfort, but everything is to be sold to them at
prime Cost, and His Majesty's Government is desirous of affording
such facilities to the Settlers as to payment, as can be granted
consistently with the ensuring of the ultimate liquidation.
You are already aware that a certain deposit of Money has been
made by each Head of Family in England, and that this deposit
is to be repaid by you in three instalments. In making these
payments it will be necessary that you should instruct your
Officer who makes them that, should the Settlers desire, he is
to give some part of the amount in Bations and some other part
of the amount in articles sent from England for the use of the
Settlers, and which are placed in charge of a person sent from
the Storekeeper's Office here, and with whom the Commissariat
Officer must be in communication in order that he may debit the
Heads of Parties with the amount of Articles delivered by the
Storekeeper.
A part of the first instalment may also possibly be applicable
Records of the Gape Colony* 101
^to the hire of the Waggons for the conveyance of the Settlers and
Baggage, altho' the Commander of the Forces is disposed to delay
the deduction nntU the second instalment is issued on the place
of Location, on which subject your Officer must communicate with
the Landdrost^ the Government Agent at Algoa Bay, or with such
superior Officer or Superintendant as may be hereafter sent to
Algoa Bay for the general direction of the whole operation, altho'
the first instalment can hardly be expect(^ to meet the expence of
Waggon hire, in addition to other pressing demands.
After the issue of Bations, Croods, &c., on account of the first
instalment, you will give to your Officer orders to pay the
Balance in Money to the Heads of the Parties entitled to it,
taking the necessary Receipts ; and as some of these persons are
in possession of Capital, and may wish to purchase largely of the
Supplies sent out from England, you will instruct your Officer how
he is to dispose of such Sums when received, and which probably
had best be applied to payments and purchases made on the spot,
and will thus save to you the risk and difficulty of sending the
Money hither.
Enclosed is a Copy of the answer given by the Secretary of
State to the several applicants for Settlements in this Colony, and
which contains several points of information which will be useful
to you. I also enclose Extracts from Earl Bathurst's Despatch
of flie 20th July 1819 to the Governor, for your information and
guidemce.
In regard to that part which relates to the Sale of Agricultural
Implements, the only way of obtaining security (where ready
Money cannot be paid by the Heads of Parties) appears to be
the taking of Bonds for the amount of Articles delivered, and
these Bonds can be drawn up by the Secretary of the District,
to whom orders will be sent by the Colonial Government as to
their tenor and form.
You will observe by the Extracts from Lord Bathurst's letter,
that Seed Com may be supplied to the Settlers on the same terms
as the Bations, that is at prime cost, and that it is also proposed
to send up and issue to them in like manner a number of retail
articles, an assortment of which the Commander of the Forces
authorizes and directs you to purchase in the cheapest way
possible, and which you will ship on board one of the Transports
proceeding to Algoa Bay, consigning the same to the Commissariat
102 Records of the Cape Chlony*
Officer and directing him to retail them at prime cost He should
also be instructed by you to send to you as soon as possible a list
of such Articles as the new Colonists chiefly ask after, in order to
your sending him a further supply for sale ; and in the mean time
it is the opinion of the Commander of the Forces that the Articles
specified in the enclosed list may be purchased by you and sent
to Algoa Bay to the Amount of £500 Sterling ; and His Excellency
leaves it to yoii to add any articles to the list which to you may
appear obviously necessary, taking care only not to exceed in the
first Investment the Sum of £500.
In conclusion I have to convey to you His Excellency's opinion
that you should not issue any portion of the Deposit Money to the
Heads of Parties here or any where else, until they arrive at the
place of debarkation.
Mr. Ellis, Deputy Colonial Secretary, has been desired to pro-
ceed to Algoa Bay for the purpose of superintending generally the
whole of the details of this operation, and the Commander of the
Forces recommends it to you to instruct the Commissariat Officer
there to pay attention to the suggestions of Mr. Ellis, and to ask
his opinion in all matters of difficulty. I have &c.
(Signed) G. J. Eogerb, Military Secretary.
P.S. — In case any doubt should arise in your mind as to the
Security of Bonds which the Settlers may offer in payment for
Articles to be issued by your Department you are not to consider
yourself as required by this letter to accept of such Bonds ; the
accepting them, or not, must be left to your discretion, and
probably some real Security would be more desirable. Never-
theless it is to be wished that all possible facility should be
afforded to the Settlers in providing themselves with necessaries
on their first Establishment.
(Signed) G. J. E.
JRecords of tha Cape Colony^ 103
fCopy.}
Letter from Sir Eufank Shawe Donkin to
Captain Moeesby, of the Menai,
Gotebnmhit Hoitbb, 3 AptU 1820.
Sib, — I have found it necessary to direct Henry Ellis, Esqre.,
Deputy Colonial Secretary, and Captain Cloete, Acting Deputy
Quarter-Master General, to proceed to Algoa Bay on duty ; and
as it is material that they should arrive thera with as little delay
as possible^ I beg leave to ask if you can be so good as to favor
them with a passage on board the Menai, in doing which you will
forward materially the public service of this Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) B. S. Donkin.
[Copy.J
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to
Captain Moeesby, of the MenaL
QoTEBimiiiT House, S ApvU 182(X>
Sir, — Having found it necessary to order Deputy Assistant
Commissary General Head to Algoa Bay to assist in the general
arrangements relative to the new settlers over which Mr. Ellis is
to preside, it is of consequence that Mr. Head should arrive there
as speedily as possible ; under these circumstances if you can be
so good as to allow Mr. Head to take his passage on board the
Menai, I consider that the service would be much benefitted.
I have &c*
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
10^ ' Records of the Gape Colony^
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. Thomas Wooxkhousk to Earl Bathurst.
No. 3 Cheltenham Place, Westminster Road, April 3rd 1820.
My Lord, — The late grant of fifty thousand pounds for the
encoui-agement of emigration to the Cape of Good Hope, has
induced me with great submission to suggest to your Lordship the
advantage which may accruo to the settlers, and the Nation, by
the encouragement in that Colony, of the growth of the kinds of
Tobacco, which we now obtain from the United States, and for
which we pay such immense sums to that country, the yearly
consumption of this kingdom being about fifteen thousand hogs-
heads, at an average price of thirty-five pounds per hogshead.
England having been, in consequence of the late general war,
the only part of Europe to which the Americans for many years
past, could safely consign their Tobaccos, there was My Lord
accumulated in this country when the late war broke out with
America a stock, consisting of between forty and fifty thousand
hogsheads, by far the greater part of which was the property of
the American shipper, and which previous to that war, were selling
at an average of thirty pounds per hogshead, but during that
period Tobacco advanced to three hundred pounds per hogshead,
which immense difference in price my Lord, we^t chiefly into the
pockets of the owners iu America, and tho' the war continued but
two years and a half, aud tho' we had considerable, supplies from
captures made by the Army and Navy, and the exportation of
Tobacco much less than it now is, yet My Lord we had at the
peace, but one thousand hogsheads left in the kingdom, and those
of the most inferior description^
As My Lord great part of the Continent is now supplied direct
from America, the present stock of Tobacco in this Fort after a
five years' peace with that country consists of only twelve thousand
hogsheads, which is less than one year's consumption for the
manufactures of the kingdom, and the average delivery of Tobacco
for home consumption, and exportation from the Tobacco ware-
house here, for the last three years has been above ten thousand
hogsheads, and should any interruption of that trade take place at
any future time between this country and the United States,
Records of the Cape Colony, 105
•while we are dependant on the latter for our supplies of Tobacco j
there is no doubt My Lord, our manufacturers having seen the
article advance more than nine hundred per Centum during the late
w^y but it would obtain such a price (to the immense profit of the
American shipper) as with the present duty would it is to be
feared almost prohibit the use of it, in fact My Lord was the
consumption to continue as usual, and the interruption of the
import from America to extend beyond one year, the demand for
our home consumption and for exportation would leave us without
a single hogshead for our manufacturers to use, or for the duty to
be collected upon, to the great injury of the revenue, the amount
of duty being about three hundred pounds per hogshead.
I beg leave to submit to your Lordship, that by the cultivation
of Tobacco, which could be begun immediately on the arrival of
the settlers, if they leave this country in the ensuing months of
June and July, as they would then arrive out at the commence*
ment of spring in the Colony, the season for preparing the ground
for sowing Tobacco seed, they would be enabled in the course of
even the first year to ship for this country, a sufficient quantity to
procure for themselves in return, a supply of the necessaries and
comforts they might stand in need of, and if my Lord the excellent
regulations which are acted upon in Vkginia, (by which every
hogshead of Tobacco intended for exportation is inspected, and
none but sound, healthy well cured Tobaccos allowed to be exported)
are at first introduced intolthe Colony, there is little doubt My Lord
but the Settlers would be able to produce Tobacco of equal quality
to the best American, and in a few years a quantity sufficient to
supply great part of the consumption of this country. Though
there is no doubt My Lord but the cultivation of Tobacco would
succeed on a great proportion of the land in the Colony, yet the
soil in the vicinity of Saldanha Bay being known to be similar to
that of Virginia in America, from whence we obtain Tobacco best
calculated for the consumption of this country, I beg leave to
submit to your Lordship that a trial made in that part of the
Colony would have every chance of immediate success from the
known quality of the soil, and from the advantage the Tobacco
planter would have, in being enabled safely to ship at the Bay
the hogsheads of Tobacco, which in general weigh from twelve to
fourteen hundred weight each, without the risk of damage from salt
water, which damage must frequently occur in sending the hogsheads
106 Records of the Cape Colony.
jont in boatB< to the ships lying off any part of the sonih coast of
the Colony.
I will not trouble your Lordship with the many other advantages
which the nation and the Colony would gain by participating with
the United States in so very considerable a trade as that of supply-
ing this country and the continent with Tobacco, but conclude
with begging to inform your Lordship, that having a perfect
knowledge of the various kinds of Tobacco imported into, and
manufactured in this country, and likewise a knowledge of the
mode of culture, curing, and inspecting of Tobacco in Ameiicay
should your Lordship be pleased to allow a party of Settlers to go
out to Saldanha Bay upon the terms expressed in your Lordship's
circular, for the purpose of cultivating Tobacco there, I beg your
Lordship will do me the favour to grant me permission to take out
a party, when I would do all in my power to forward the success
of the undertaking.
May I beg your Lordship will condescend to direct that I should
be informed whether your Lordship will be pleased to allow a
party to go out to that part of the Colony for the purpose I have
taken the liberty of submitting to your Lordship. I have &c,
(Signed) Thos. Woodhousb.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqrb., to
Lord Charles Sobierset.
DowHoro Stbebt, 6tii April 1820.
Mt Lord, — ^I am directed by Earl Bathurst to transmit to you
the enclosed Copy of a letter addressed to me by the Secretary of
the Admiralty stating the charge which has been made against
Admiral Plampin on account of the expence of your Lordship's
passage in His Majesty's Ship Sappho.
His Lordship does not consider it necessary to make any
observations with reference to the charge beyond informing your
Lordship of what you do not appear to have been aware, that
Becords of the Cape Colony. 107
Governors of Colonies coming home on leave of Absence are not
entitled to a passage at the public expence. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Gk)ULBURN.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gbosvbnob Square, April 12ih 1820.
Sm, — I am not aware that I can so satisfactorily reply to your
letter of the 6th Inst, covering one from the Secretary of the
Admiralty respecting a Bill for £350 drawn by the Captain of
H.M.S. Sappho on the Treasurer of the Navy, as by craving your
attention to a detail of the whole circumstances connected with
my return to Europe in that Sloop.
Earl Bathurst's Dispatch (dated July 19th 1819) conveying to
me His Majesty's gracious acqidescence in my request to return
to England, concludes thus " I trust that by availing yourself with
as little delay.as possible of the Prince Begent's gracious permission
to leave the Colony you will be able to resume the Administration
of its Affairs, at a period sufficiently early to obviate much of the
inconvenience to which the infant establishment of settlers might
be exposed by your prolonged absence from the Colony."
There not being any vessel at the Cape when I received this
Dispatch on my return from Eafi&aria, which could afford me an
early opportunity of proceeding to England, I availed myself of
the contents of the Paragraph alluded to, to apply to Bear Admiral
Plampin for one of the vessels of his Squadron, which I had the
less scruple in doing as I was at that moment enabled to dispense
with the services of a vessel which the Bear Admiral had latterly
been so kind as to place at my disposal in aid of the operations
which had been carried on against the Eaffers.
The Bear Admiral was so good as to attend immediately to my
request by sending the Sappho Sloop of War with directions to
Captain Plumridge to offer her to me. I distinctly stated to
Captain Plumridge that I could not accept the services of the
108 Eecords of the Cape Colony.
Sappho unless he would permit me to bear the whole expence of
his table and of my suite during the voyage and that he would
daily invite two of his Officers to the Table, to which arrangement
he assented. As Bear Admiral Plampin was no party whatever
to this arrangement I trust the injustice (if I may be allowed the
expression) of making any charge against the Bear Admiral's pay
will be apparent, who I am convinced acted only in conformity to
what he considered the regulation of the Service, and I trust I
have said enough to induce Earl Bathurst not to adopt the sugges-
tion contained in the latter part of Mr. Barrow's letter, of requiring
me to repay the sum alluded to to the Treasurer of the Navy, when
no expence has been incurred except by myself. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry
GOULBURN, EsQRE.
Thunday Evening, April llih.
My dear Mr. Goulburn, — I called at your office on Saturday
and saw Mr. Gordon upon the subject of communicating the
King's approbation of the encrease of the Cape Corps to the
Commander in Chief.
In a conversation upon its Establishment yesterday evening
with my brother FitzBoy, he suggested an alteration upon which
I should wish to speak to Lord Bathurst previous to the com-
munication being made to the Horse Guards. If therefore this
letter reaches you in time to prevent that communication being
made I should be very much obliged to you to stay it till I have
the j)leasure of seeing you.
I return to Town the end of the week.
Believe me &c.
(Signed) C. H. Somerset.
Records of the Cape Colony. 109
[Copy.]
Letter from INSPECTOR G. T. EoGERS to Lieutenant
Colonel Bird.
Offiob fob thb Enbegibtremient of Slates,
Gaps Town, AprU VJih 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
comniTinieation of the 1st Instant, with the copy of a letter from
the Bight Honorable the Secretary of State, covering the copy of
an Act of Parliament (not before received in this Colony) relative
to the formation of an office in London for the general enregistra-
tion of all slaves in the several Colonies appertaining to the
British Dominions, and directing me to furnish without delay a
copy of the list of all the slaves enregistered in this office.
I should have done myself the honor to have acknowledged at
a more early period the receipt of your letter, and of informing
you that I shall use every possible diligence in complying with
this Command, but I was desirous of being able by a Calculation
upon our last week's exertions, to name a period by which I hope
to have the lists completed, and which I have ascertained will not
be practicable, with the fixed Establishment of my Office, in less
than fourteen weeks &om the present time consistent with the
accurate performance of the regular duties thereof, which if once
permitted to fall into arrear will be productive of confusion and
consequent serious inconvenience.
I therefore presume to submit the expediency of my being
permitted to engage two Temporary clerks at forty BixdoUars each
per month, with which assistance, I trust, I shall be able to lay
the lists before you in a complete state by the expiration of the
eleventh week. I have &c.
(Signed) G. T. Eogers, Inspector.
110 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend William Wright to Henry
GOULBURN, ESQRE.
Ck>MP8ET GOTTAGB, GaLLAN, Co. KiLKENKT,
Ibelakd, AprU 18tA 1820.
Sir, — The Secretary to the Society for propagating the' Gospel
has 'written to me to say that I have been respectably recom-
mended and that it was agreed to accept of my services provided
my testimonials accompanied by a certificate from my Bishop
were approved of. I therefore applied to the Bishop of Waterford,
in whose diocese I was employed, and received the enclosed certifi-
cate. In consequence of some conversation which I had with the
Bishop, I think it might serve me to have his certificate laid before
Lord Bathurst, by doing which you wUl oblige me very much,
after which I will thank you to have it forwarded to the Society
for propagating the Grospel together with the enclosed letter, which
contains my other testimonials. It seems from the Secretary's
letter that my appointment wiU probably be to Cape Town in the
Southern extremity of Africa, for the instruction of the natives
and the superintendence of the National Schools. The Society
have desired that I would forward my testimonials as soon as
convenient, and I confidently hope that you will not be offended
with me for the trouble which I have been giving you.
I have &c.
(Signed) Willl/im Wright.
{Original.]
Letter from Thomas Lack, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Office of CkniMiTTEB of Pbiyt Cotjkcil fob Tbadb,
Whitehall, 20<A A^ 1820.
SiR^ — The Lords of the Committee of Privy CouncU for Trade
having had under their consideration the copy of a letter from the
Agent of the Cape of Good Hope (transmitted in your letter of the
Bec&rds of the Ca'p^ Colony. Ill
25th August last) submitting the expediency of relaxing f(»r a
time, in regard to that Settlement, some of the restrictions of the
Navigation Law, and the Eegulations of our Colonial System ; I
am directed to acquaint you, for the information of Earl Bathurst,
that the Lords of this Committee think that it would be expedient
to extend to the Cape of Good Hope the same facilities, in respect
to Foreign Trade, as it is in their contemplation to apply to the
Trade of the Mauritius, whenever a renewal of the Act, which is
about to expire, shall enable their Lordships to submit a new
Order to His Majesty iu CounciL I am &c.
(Signed) Thomas Lack,
[Office Copy.]
Leit&r from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Major General
Sir Edfane Donkin,
London, 24^ AprU 1820.
Snt, — ^The bearer of this letter is Margaret Haydon, a female
who accompanied the Countess Montholon to this Country, and
who has received Earl Bathursfs permission to return to this
Country.
She has been provided with a passage to the Cape of Grood Hope
at the public expence, and I have to convey to you his Lordship's
desire that you should provide her with a conveyance to St.
Helena. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOYEBNMENT HoUSE,
Gape Town, Aj^ 24^ 1820.
My Lord, — In my Dispatch of the 26th of March last (No. 10)
I had the honor of acquainting Your Lordship that the first party
of Settlers in the Nautilus and Chapman Transports, had arrived
here.
112 Records of the Cape Colony^
These vessels, as well as the Ocmn^ have since reached Algoa
Bay, and the Settlers began landing there on the 11th of this
month. The Northampton with stores, which left this harbour
about the same time, was hourly looked for at Algoa Bay.
The John, sailed yesterday from this and the Stentor will imme-
diately follow.
This operation having now made a certain progress, I deem it
my duty to put in execution my former intention of going to the
place of location, and I shall leave Cape Town on Saturday the
29th of this month for the Frontier.
The other ships with Settlers will be forwarded, successively, to
Algoa Bay, as they arrive here, in the same manner and under the
same preliminaiy aoqrangements as the preceding ones.
I have the honor to enclose for Your Lordship's information, a
plan of the ground already located on the right bank and vicinity
of the Great Fish Biver.
I now beg leave to state to your Lordship my apprehension,
that if a very great number of Settlers is poured at once into the
Zuureveld, the adjacent Country will not be able to furnish them
with subsistence between this and the Season when they may be
expected to reap their first crops, and a sudden aggregation of
people on one spot will cause other inconveniences, which, as well
as the fear of scarcity may be removed by an occasional and timely
drawing off of parties of Settlers to other districts of this Country,
where they may be located with advantage to the Colony and
themselves.
Such a diversion of the stream of Colonisation I have taken it
on myself to make in the instance of Messrs. Griffiths with a party
from Wales and with whom I intend to place Mr. Campbell, with
Settlers, as I understand, &om the same Country, when he arrives.
The spot I have selected is about 40 miles east of this Town, on
the banks of the Zonder End Biver. The District (which I lately
visited) seems to want only hands to become one of the finest in
this Colony, but at present it is a waste ; and the establishment of
a number of English Settlers there will not only render it pro-
ductive, but will be of great benefit to Cape Town, ultimately, as
well as to the interjacent Country.
In obedience to Your Lordship's Commands, the 400 Scotch
families coming out with Captain Grant will be located separately.
They will most probably be placed on the Baviaan's Biver, where
Records of the Cape Colony. 113
a survey is now making of 40,000 Acres with a view to their
occupying them. This situation will at once be a favorable one
for the Highlanders, and, by placing on it a hardy and active race
of men, an effectual stop will be put to the inroads of Kaffers into
the Graaff Seinet District.
I have it further in contemplation to establish a party on the
Olifants Biver to the Northward of St. Helena Bay, and another,
in Soetendal's Valley, East of this town and near the Southern
Coast
In making these selections of place, as well as in conducting
the general arrangement, I, have been most materially assisted
by Ck)lonel Bird, the Colonial Secretary, whose local infor-
mation and active research after the i^esources applicable to
the occasion, are entitled to my very particular acknowledge^
ments.
I have before ventured to give to Your Lordship my opinion aa
to the ultimate success of this important measure of Colonisation,
and the more I contemplate and become familiarised with it, the
more I am confirmed in my persuasion that it will ultimately
succeed. The agricultural and commercial advantages which will
accrue hereafter are subjects which your Lordship has so well
weighed and anticipated, that it would be presumptuous in me to
dilate upon them; but there is a consideration of a military
nature, which, &om the habits of my life, I may perhaps be
permitted to touch on, which is the security which will be given
to this Colony by our having a body of British Militia in the
Interior, which, in case of invasion, would operate in such a
manner upon the Bear of the invading Force as to ensure either
by cutting off supplies, or by actual attack, the relief of Cape
Town, and thus the whole Military System of defence and tenure
of this Colony will be entirely and most advantageously changed,
for the sovereignty of the Colony would not only not be lost by
the capture of Cape Town and its defences, but that capture itself
would be rendered, if not impossible, at least infinitely more
dif&cult than it has been. Moreover such a Militia as I am
contemplating for some future period would be a saving to the
Mother Country, by rendering a much smaller Garrison necessary
than heretofore in time of War.
I anticipate also by the introduction of British industry and
enterprize the creation of a Coasting Trade, which at present can
xm. I
114 Records of the Cape Colony.
scarcely be said to exist, and to the encouragement of which. I
shall give my best endeavours.
I hope to be able to make to your Lordship a favourable report
of the location in the Zuureveld on my arrival there, but I am
prepared to hear many complaints and to find many diflBculties to
encounter. Such as are removable shall be removed, and I must
say that most of the Heads of Parties I have yet seen seem well
disposed to endure and make the best of such hardships as are
imavoidable in such an operation as is now going on. I have &c
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Sib Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOTBSNMENT HOTTSE,
Gape Town, AprU 25(^ 1820.
My Lord, — I have had the honor of receiving your Lordship's
Circular Letter dated 15th September 1819, covering the Copy of
an Act of Parliament directing the formation of an Office for the
General Enregistration of Slaves in the Several Colonies apper-
taining to the British Dominions, the provisions of which were
to take effect on the 1st Day of the present Year.
I did not receive this Dispatch until the 29th of March, and
was not aware that it was in contemplation to call upon this
Colony for so voluminous a return ; I however immediately called
upon the Colonial Inspector of Slave Eegistry to furnish the
return required, and have the honor to transmit to your Lord-
ship a copy of a letter which I have received from him, by which
Your Lordship will perceive that it will take eleven weeks from
the 17th of this month before the lists can be prepared. They
will then be forwarded without the smallest delay. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
Mecords of the Cape Colony, 115
[Original.]
Letter front, LoRD Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst.
London, April 26tft 1820.
My Lord, — ^I have the honor to enclose to Your Lordship a
letter from Colonel Graham, together with Copies of letters from
Lord Howden to that Officer and to the Earl of livei-pool ; I have
only to add that it would afford me unfeigned gratification to
promote the Literests of Colonel Graham, that he is an Officer of
the highest respectability, and that tho' his Services in the Kaflfer
War of 1812 were at a period previous to the Administration of
the Government of the Cape being placed in my hands, I have
invariably heard them spoken of as highly important and beneficial
to the Colony. He has for a considerable time held the situation
of Commandant at Simon's Town, the duties of which he has per-
formed to my entire satisfaction. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Original]
Letter from the Earl of Clanwilllam to
Henry Goulburn, Esqrb.
Foreign Office, AprU Wh 1820.
Sir, — ^In acknowledging the receipt of your letter to Mr.
Hamilton of the 6th instant, relative to the French Slave Ship
La Sylphe ; I am directed by Viscount Castlereagh to transmit to
you, for the information of Earl Bathurst, the enclosed copy of a
Eeport of His Majesty's Advocate General, stating the measures
which it may be expedient to adopt, with a view to remunerate
the government of the Cape of Good Hope, for the value of the
ship in question. I am &c.
(Signed) Clanwilliam.
I 2
116 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lobb Bathubst to Majob-General
Sib Bufane Donkin.
liONDOV, 29<& Afta 1820.
Sib, — 1 have the honor to acquaint you that His Majesty's
€k)veminent have for some time had under their consideration the
expediency of temporarily relaxing some of the Bestrictions of the
Navigation Act and the Begulations of our Colonial System, so
far as they affect the Cape of Good Hope, and it has heen deter-
mined to extend to that Settlement the same facilities in respect
to Foreign Trade which will be applied to the Mauritius, on the
renewal of the Act of Parliament which shall enable His Majesty
to issue an Order in Council for that purpose. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathubst.
[Original]
Letter front LoBD Chables Somebset to Eabl Bathubst.
Lqnson, AprU 29^ 1820.
Mt Lobd, — ^I have the honor to submit to Your Lordship a
Memorial from a woman named Steyntje, now detained in Slaveiy
at the Cape of Good Hope, in behalf of herself and four children.
As the Boman Law does not allow a slave to possess any property,
the memorialist applied to the Court of Justice to bring her case
before the Court in forma pauperis. The application was acceded
to, and the suit carried on free of expense to the plaintiff ac-
cordingly. The FlaintifF appealed from the sentence of the Court,
and the suit was carried on in the same manner in the Court of
Appeals for Civil Cases. In that Court the sentence of the Court
below was reversed and the freedom of Steyntje and her four
children established. The Bespondent, being a wealthy man,
declared his intention to appeal from the judgment of the Court
of Appeals at the Cape of Good Hope to His Majesty in Council.
The Appellant being destitute of any means has not the power of
Records of the Cape Colowy. 117
meeting the Eespondent (now Appellant) before His Majesty in
Conncil unless your Lordship will have the humanity to intercede,
so that her case (as dear and as just an one as ever was presented
for judgment) may be carried on without expense to her, or (X
believe) to speak more technically " pro Deo."
The Minutes of the whole Case accompany tUs letter, and I
have to add that it is one of vital importance to the Administra-
tion of Justice. I have &c.
(Signed) Chables Henbt Sohsbset.
No papers concerning this case are now to be found among the.
records in London.— G. M. T.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Majqr Booers,
Military Secretary.
Colonial Ovfigb, 4tft May 1820.
My dear Major, — Previous to Sk E. Donkin's departure for
the Frontier he gave me instructions, upon the arrival of the
Transports with Settlers from Cork to take measures for their
location on the West Coast, at the Deputy Drostdy of Clan
William; a survey is therefore actually taking for the future
establishment of these Settlers ; in the meantime the East Indian
and Farmy have arrived in Simon's Bay from Cork, having on
board Settlers, under the directions of Messrs. W. Parker, Ligram,
Synnot, and Butler, to the number of 340 as per enclosed List.
The transports therefore will be directed to proceed to Saldanha
Bay, as soon as they are ready, there to disembark the several
parties, and the object of my communicating with you on this
subject is, that the Commissariat may receive instructions thro'
you to afford these Settlers similar facilities, both with r^ard to
approvisionment, and the supply of camp equipage and stores, as
have been given to the parties of Settlers on the East Coast ; a
communication has been made firom hence to the Magistrates of
the Districts thro' which these Settlers will pass, in order to their
being supplied with the means of conveyance at their own
118 Records of (he Cape Colony,
expence, and I am inclined to think the Commissariat will find
little difficulty in making arrangements for their subsistence
(should the parties require it, Until such time as they can provide
for themselves) by means of the magistrates. I however enclose
a Eetum of the resources of the Country thro' which they will
I^ass, which may be of use, in the consideration of the approvision-
ment. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
^ P. S. It is said that there are stores on board the East Indian,
if so, and they are not of the description required by the Settlers
in those vessels, had they not better be transhipped to some of the
vessels going to Algoa Bay ?
[Office Copy.]
letter from Lord Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset.
DowmNQ Stbut, htU May 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of
your Lordship's letter of the 26th XJltimo, transmitting the
Memorial of Mr. John Pigott Watney, praying for a Grant in
perpetuity, at a more easy Quit Bent, of Uie farm of Elapmuts in
the Drostdy of Stellenbosch.
I entirely concur in your Lordship's opinion as to the importance
of giving encouragement to persons possessing Capital, who have
actually expended it in improving land at the Cape of Good Hope,
and I have therefore no difficulty in authorising your Lordship to
make a grant in perpetuity to Mr. Watney of the farm of Elap-
muts, comprizing 270 Moigen of land, at the Quit Bent now paid
by him of 1200 Bix Dollars per annum {sk). I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
Becm^ds of the Cape Colony. 1-19
[Copy.]
Circvlar Ldter to the Landdrosts of the Cape,
Stellenbosch, and Tulbagh.
Colonial Office, 5^ May 1820.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor to
acquaint you, that the Transports Hast Indian and Fanny, with
Settlers, whose numbers are in the enclosed Return, will early in
the next week proceed from Simon's Bay to Saldanha Bay, where
they will be landed, in order directly to proceed from thence to
Jan Dissel's Valley, and I am to desire that they may be ftimished
with such waggons as they may require for the conveyance of
their women, children and baggage, within your District, they
paying for the same at the regulated prices. You will also be
pleased to furnish them with proper guides to point out the
route to them, and the proper outspan places for their daily halts
and encampment and concert with the Landdrosts of ... as to
the best means of giving efifect to this arrangement. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Copy.]
Letter from P. S. Buissinne, Esqbe., to the Colonial Secretaky.
Clak William, dth May 1820.
Sir, — ^Agreeable to the directions contained in your letter of
the 17 Ultimo I have proceeded to this place and the Mouth
of the Elephant's Eiver, and for the information of His Excellency
the Governor beg to communicate what follows.
The Land at the disposal of the Government at this place
comprehends the great Sea Cow Valley commonly called Jan
Dissels Valley, a full Loan place well provided with water by
the Jan Dissels Eiver. The Klyn Valley another full Loan
place one hour and a half or 2300 Kooden from the former pretty
well watered. The great and little partridge valleys, two valleys
watered by a pretty good stream, and the Taaybosch Kraal another
120 Records of the Cape Colony,
Valley watered by a good stream also, besides a vast deal of other
vacant Land adjoining these spots.
The place Great Sea Cow Valley includes a valley of about 550
Morgen of Arable Land in a very great measure irrigable from the
Jan Dissels Biver.
The Klyn Valley abbut 200 Morgen arable well watered by a
stream &om the adjoining Hills.
The great and little Partridge Valleys about 120 Morgen arable
well watered provided proper care is taken of the water, and
Taaibosch Kraal about the same extent pretty well watered
likewise.
The greater part of the soil of those valleys is sandy, a small
part is Carroo, but it is all of a Hot nature, and consequently
requires a great deal of irrigation, so that common rain is not
sufficient It yields abundantly in rice, giving a return of 200
for one, and is well adapted for Barley, of which grain it gives
a return of 25 for one. Wheat only yields 12 for one, but the
best Soil for that purpose the Carop has never been tried as
the Deputy I^anddrost could not afford the expence of bringing
the water to it, or rather of repairing a water conduit that the
former proprietors of these places constructed. It strikes me that
the Klyn Valley with the great and little partridge valley will
maintain about 30 families, the Taaybosch kraal about 30 and the
lower part of the Jan Dissels Valley about 20, which will leave to
the Deputy Landdrost his Garden, Orchard, Bice plantation and
some Winter pasture pointed out by me to the Sworn Surveyor,
but take from him^ his Com land and Summer pasture. The
Country all about these Valleys is Hill and heavy sand affording
good Winter pasture. Black Cattle thrive uncommonly well here
and so do Horses, but the Horse distemper is very violent.
Breeding Sheep and Goats don't answer at all, the temperature
is very hot in Summer and very cold in Winter surpassing that
of Cape Town by 12 degrees.
This tract of Land is badly off for Timber, the Cedarbergen
which formerly abounded in that article with the exception of
one spot about 35 mUes from this near to a place of a Widow
Botma are all cut clear, but here there is some left, but the access
to it is difficult ; at this place however there is Oak and poplar to
be had, so there is at most of the Farms in the environs but not
to any great exteiott ; and the banks of the Elephant's Biver produce
Records of the Cape Colony. 1^
the Willow fit for the construction of Huts. The position of this
spot in r^ard to the lower part of the Elephant's Biver, the
little Namaqua land, the Hantam and the onder Bokkeveld is
fietvouiable. Very little grain is grown in these parts of the
Ck)untr7, and its Inhabitants have to get their Bread Com from
the Looge Valley, Beig Valley and Piquet Bergen. They have
also to go as far as the neighbourhood of Tulbagh for their waggon
work, carpenters' work, and sole and other leather. All this in
the course of time may be had here, and if once the propagation
of Spanish Sheep is more attended to (which is getting into good
train) the people will find a near Market for their wool. The
places round about are none very productive, indeed they are all
very common farms, some of them have a great deal of Arable
Land but not sufl&cient Water, others have plenty of Water but
not sufficient arable Land. They are all Loan places, generally
with vacant Land between, but of no sort of use, partly from
being all Hill, and partly for want of Water. The only ones
which would be worth, are that of the Widow Botma above
quoted situated in the Cedar Hills about 35 miles to the Eastward
of this, here there is a great deal of arable land, Timber and
Water; that of Gideon van Zyl called the Oliphant's Biver,
that of the said Van Zyl and the Widow Albert Jan van Zyl
the Caroo Vlakte ; that of the said Widow Van Zyl Vrecdensdal,
and that of Ernst Wolfaard de Bakkely plaats, all situated along
the Elephant's Biver from 45 to 55 Miles from this to the
westward, and containing a good deal of Low ground along the
said Biver of the best kind, and all filled with mimosa, the first
mentioned particularly so as there are at least 1000 Acres of that
kind of ground, as it appeals to me all irrigable from the Biver,
and much more subject to inundation than to an impossibility
of irrigation, for part of those low grounds in the natural state
they now are are inundated at times and cultivated when the
waters subside. This however has lately failed for several
Years running and the farmers have not been able to turn this
rich soil to any purpose. Except at these places the Elephant's
Biver is of very little benefit in point of irrigation, higher up and
lower down its banks are high and in many parts rocky ; in point
of navigation however it is more beneficial and would be so if the
entrance were navigable, but this is not the case ; it is a lasting
stream supported by the Waters from the Cold Bokkeveld, those
122 Eecords of the Cape Colony.
of the Cardauw, those of the Ibex Eiver originating in the Cedar
Hill near a farm of the Widow Mouton, those of a strong stream
from the Cedar Hills about 7 miles from this, those of the Jan
Dissels Valley, and those of the Carroo or Doom Eiver in Mr.
Barrow's Map called Zwarte Klip Eiver, all which with the
exception of the last are lasting streams. It is navigable in
a Common Boat from its entrance to about 50 miles up (the same
are about 17 Miles from this spot). It is from 9 to 13 feet deep,
and from 100 to 150 yards wide, but higher up it becomes
narrow and shallow. Towards its entrance it spreads wider and
becomes more like a lake than a Eiver, but close to the entrance
it reassumes its former shape.
The entrance itself is all rock with a very violent surf defying
all the art of navigation. The shore to the northward is rock
with a tremendous Surf breaking at a distance of full 1000 Yards
from the Strand, that to the Southward sand and rock with a less
violent but still very much Surf, so that no Boat can reach a Ship
without very imminent danger, if it can reach it at all. About
4 Miles to the Northward of the entrance of the Eiver, and about
150 yards jfrom the shore there is a rock about 100 Yards long
and 50 yards wide, a refuge for Seals, which is often visited by an
old man of the name of Heter Nielsen, a Swede, for the purpose
of Seal killing, by which he earns a Scanty livelihood, but the
danger of access is so great that no one has ever dared to
accompany him on these perilous expeditions. This man has
informed me that with a proper Establishment from 3 to 4000
Seals may be killed there Annually, he makes his trips on a raft
thro' a narrow passage where the Surf broken by the Eock is
somewhat less tremendous, and has often been in danger of being
drowned.
There are a great many whales seen on this Coast from time to
time, which would make a Whale fishery profitable, but the
impracticability of having any communication with the Shore,
and the unsafety of the anchorage, completely forbids that enter-
prise.
Having thus to the best of my ability complied with the
principal part of your directions, I think it my duty to advert to
some other points, liamely the Magistracy at Clan William which
at present is not on such a footing as the nature of the Situation
requires.
Records of the Cape Colony. 123
The establishment neither in point of functionaries nor in regard
to Buildings is what it ought to be. From the want of a Secretary
no proper preparatory information can be taken on any crime
or misdemeanour perpetrated in this subdivision, every person
complaining or informing or accusing, and all witnesses concerned
must repair to the Drostdy of Tulbagh, first to give their deposi-
tions, and afterwards again to attend the trial which to the
Inhabitants of the Namaqua Country, and the onder Bokkeveld
and Hantam, and the lower part of the Elephant's Eiver is a very
great inconvenience. A Deputy Secretary therefore being placed
at Clan William and the Field Cornetcies of the onder Eoggeveld,
Zandveld, behind the Hquetbergen, Bergvalley and Verloren
valley, which now belong to the Subdivision of Tulbagh, placed
under the Subdivision of Clan William^ the object for which the
Deputy Drostdy has been originally created would be very much
promoted.
There is also not a sufficiency of minor officers of the Police at
this place, nor proper accommodation for them, nor a proper place
for confinement, nor a proper office.
There is only one Constable, one Caffer, a straw Hut for these
to live in, a similar one for a place of confinement, and a very
small apartment in which business is transacted, and it strikes me
that all this requires almost immediate provision..
There is likewise a want of proper communication between the
Landdrost of Tulbagh and his Deputy, all Despatches are sent
from one Field Cornet to another from place to place which is a
very tedious way and generally leaves the Dispatches four and
five days on the Eoad, so that the Weekly papers do not reach
the Deputy Drostdy tiH full a week after they are dispatched
from Cape Town and the Deputy Landdrost is prevented having
that expeditous intercourse with the Landdrost which the nature
of the position of this Deputy Drostdy so very much requires.
I trust herewith to have complied with His Excellency's wish
and have the honor to be &c.
(Signed) P. S. Buissinne.
124 liecords of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mil Wiluam Parker to Mr. Thomas Seton.
Oafb Towv, lOefc May 1820.
Sir, — ^As you have forfeited all the advantages as a Settler under
my direction, through your highly improper conduct on board the
East Indian, I do hereby give you notice, pursuant to my Instruc-
tions fix)m Government, that I shall no longer consider you
attached to my party, and that your agreement with me is null
and void.
I have preferred very serious charges against you, which Colonel
Bird has submitted to the consideration of His Excellency the
Acting Governor, when his pleasure shall be known your Deposits
shall be lodged with the proper official persons to prevent your
becoming a burthen on the Colony. I am &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Copy.]
i Letter from Mr. Thomas Seton to the Colonial Secretary.
ISojA hkdian Trakspobt, Sikon's Bat, 12£^ Maty 1820.
Sir, — I had the honour to receive your letter of the 6th May,
and would transmit through Mr. Parker my present letter, but he
does not point out in the notice I have received from him in what
part of Cape Town a letter would find him.
Your letter not granting the permission of landing solicited on
my part on the 2nd and 4th instant, I delayed till after the
disembarkation of the Settlers for commencing law proceedings
against that individual, for the outrage, violence, and infidelity of
lus conduct and threatened breach of Agreement. Charges have
been submitted to Sir Jahleel Brenton, His Majesty's Com-
missioner of the Navy, against Lieutenant Charles Wolrige, Agent
of Transports.
It would be very ojcc^tcihU to me to be released from any agree-
ment or further intercourse with Mr. Parker, and can assure you,
for the information of His Excellency the Acting Governor^ that
Records of the Cape Colony. 125
nothing contrary to British law, our Constitution, or existing
Grovemment, has taken place in any part of my conduct in the
whole course of my life. Mr. Parker having submitted serious
charges through you, for the consideration of His Excellency,
greatly hurries to prejudge the question by his notice to me of
the 10th Instant, and points out as forfeited at his option what
TTis Excellency the Governor I trust will never decide upon
without first investigating, as the claim of every Free Settler of
this Party would thereby become precarious, uncertain, and at
the despotic will of an Individual void of principle.
Did it meet your approbation, it would be a kindness to Mrs.
Seton, Miss Coyle, and myself to be permitted to land from this
Vessel with my Servants Thomas Hunt, William Norman, William
Page, their Wives and Children, and all our effects ; and that
land should be allotted me in another part of the Colony: and
that my Deposits £37 10s. should be retained in your hands, the
Sum of £12 lOs. being paid to me on permission being granted for
our quitting this Transport. I have &c.
(Signed) Thomas Seton.
[Copy.]
Proclamation by Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
Whereas various Applications have been made to me, by Settlers,
for Colonial Passes, to enable them to set up independently in
different parts of this Colony, for the purpose of following their
respective Trades; but which Settlers have come out under
Articles of Agreement to the Heads of Parties who have con-
ducted them hither, and by whom some of the Settlers, so applying
for Colonial Passes, have stated themselves to be freed from their
said Agreement ; I do hereby give notice to all Persons concerned,
both to the Heads of Parties and to their Followers, that no Colonial
Passes will be granted to Individuals who have come out under
Articles of Agreement, unless Application be made in the fol-
lo¥ring manner : —
The Application must be made by the Head of the Party to which
the Settler, desiring to establish himself independently, may
126 Records of the Cape Colony.
belong, and must be addressed to the Landdrost of the District in
which the Party is located, and must be declaratory, that the
Head of the Party making the Application, absolves the Settler from
his Agreement ; this must be accompanied also by an Application
from the Individual, desiring to separate from the Party, and
which must be declaratory, that such Individual renounces, on his
part, all claim on his Principal, for Land or other advantages
enjoyed or promised. On receipt of such Documents, the Land-
drost is hereby authorised to grant, provisionally, a District Pass
to the Applicant, for the space of three Months, and a weekly
Setum of all such Passes granted by the Landdrost, is to be made
to the Colonial Office, for my final approval or rejection, as the
case may be ; but as such Passes, if granted in great numbers to
Individuals, might leave some of the Heads of Parties in posses-
sion of large Tracts of Land, without an adequate Population to
bring them into Cultivation ; I do hereby give Notice, that in
Cases where, by mutual consent, the Agreement or Indenture by
which the Parties were bound, shall be so cancelled, and the
number of Settlers so established separately, shall amount to, or
exceed the proportion of one-fifth of the number originally
landed, I reserve to the Government the Eight of resuming Lands
in the said proportion of one-fifth, or more, granted to the Head of
the Party from whom his Followers have so separated ; and as the
separation of Individuals from the Parties to which they belong,
would, if permitted indiscriminately, tend to defeat the objects of
His Majesty's Government in Colonizing Southern Africa, and
would, moreover, be productive of much mischief in this Colony,
I do hereby direct all Landdrosts, Field-Comets, and other Civil
Authorities, to arrest, and to put into Prison, any Settlers who
may be found wandering about this Colony, and not having
proper Passes, in order that they may be dealt with according to
the Laws in force here respecting Vagrants; and moreover, to
attend strictly to the tenor of the Proclamation of the 19th
October, 1797, respecting Foreign Persons, not furnished with
satisfactory Passports.
And that no Man may plead ignorance of this my Proclamation,
I hereby direct, that separate Copies thereof shall be forthwith
sent to the several Heads of Parties now located throughout the
Colony, and that a Copy shall be delivered to each Head of Party
who may hereafter arrive ; and the Landdrosts of the Districts in
Records of the Cape Colony, 127
which Settlers are or may be located, are to use their best en-
deavours to cause the contents and provisions of this Eegulation
to be made known amongst the Settlers themselves.
But whereas, there may be Cases in which it may be the mutual
interest and desire of the Heads of Parties and some of their
Followers, to make an arrangement for the hiring out of the latter
to individuals, or for permitting them to work at their tra4es, at
a distance from the place of location, without however annulling
the Agreement by which they have hitherto been bound, I hereby
give Notice, that nothing contained in the former part of this
Proclamation is intended to interfere with or hinder such arrange-
ment between the Parties ; and further, no part of this Proclama-
tion is to be considered as interfering in any way with the Terms
and Conditions as to the Period in which, and under which, the
granted Lands are to be brought into Cultivation, or with any
other matters expressed in the Circular and other Communications
made by his Majesty's Government to the Settlers, before they
left Europe.
God save the King !
Given under my Hand and Seal, at Uitenhage, tMs 14th day of
May, 1820.
(Signed) B. S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Circular to the British Settlers in the District of Albany.
Gbaham*8 Town, liih "Slay 1820,
It being of the utmost importance that every facility should be
given to the obtaining of immediate shelter for the different
families located in the District of Albany, His Excellency the
Acting Governor has been pleased to declare that Wood and
Thatch for purposes of Building are from tMs date for the space
of twelve Calendar Months matters of Common use, and that no
claim of trespass will be entertained against persons acting
according to tMs notice.
His Excellency the Governor also hereby notifies that Water
128 Records of the Cape Colony.
for drinking as well of Man as of Beast is to be nsed in Com-
mon, provided always that the said privilege be exercised without
iDJury to any cultivated ground.
By Command of His Excellency the Gtovemor.
(Signed) H. Ellis.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General Sir
EUFANE DONKIN.
LoNDOK, 15(Jk May 1820.
Sm, — I have had the honour to receive your letter of the 17th
February last, in which you transmit an application addressed to
you by Mr. Benjamin Moodie and at the same time recommend
that a certain pecuniary Compensation should be granted to him
on account of the individuals whom he had conveyed at his own
expense to the Cape of Good Hope ; and I have to acquaint you
in reply that I can, in no degree, consider Mr. Moodie as having
a claim to the payment of the passage money of these Individuals,
no assurance having been given to him to such an effect nor any
other expectation held out to him than that he would receive an
adequate Grant of Lands in the Colony under any conditions
which might kereafter attach to such grants. Mr. Moodie is,
therefore, entitled to this advantage in proportion to the number
of persons whom he may have the means of locating; but I can-
not hold out to him any expectation of a compliance with his
Wishes beyond the extent which I have stated. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
Records of the €ape Colony, 129
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathtjrst to Sir Kufane Donkin.
London, IQth May 1820.
Sir, — I transmit to you enclosed seven Memoranda which have
been put into my hands by the Charge d' Affaires of Wurtemberg
at this Court, respecting several individuals, subjects of that
Country, resident at the Cape of Good Hope, and I have to
instruct you to take the necessary measures for obtaining the
information which has been solicited respecting these individuals.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to Earl Bathtjrst,
Gaps Town, l^h May 1820.
My Lord, — ^With all due feelings of respect and high considera-
tion and a grateful sense of your Lordship's benign views in the
arrangements which have been made on board Za Belle Alliance
Transport for the health and comfort of the Settlers who have
arrived in this Colony under my direction, I cannot proceed
onwards from this port without feeling it to be my duty to
express my best and most grateful acknowledgements.
We have made the passage (without accident) in eleven weeks
from the Downs, and except in the cases of measles and small pox
which was brought on board by some of the settlers' children, we
have had excellent health, and it is my duty to say that in general
the Settlers have not only stated themselves to be well satisfied
but have expressed their gratitude for the excellent accommodation
and provisions which were furnished for them by your Lordship's
direction, and I believe in so large and varied a party it would be
difficult to select an instance wherein greater order has more
generally prevailed, with the exception of two juvenile thieves
who, for example sake, I have found it necessary to have punished,
but careful to avoid the character of severity on the passage, not-
withstanding their repeated depredations, for the sake of example
XIII. K
ISO Records of the Cape Colony.
only, (the Agent being of the same opinion) I have been induced
to deliver them over to His Majesty's Fiscal for punishment. It
is not in my power to do ample justice to the humane character of
Capt. Young of Deptford, whose benevolent views appear to have
anticipated every minute comfort for us (consistent with the
nature of the Service) more particularly for the female Settlers,
who I am very sure will not fail to hold him in grateful re-
membrance, who with myself must ever feel particularly obliged
for his great precaution as to our health and accommodation. We
also owe much to Capt. Eolfe (the Master) for his polite attention,
Singular humanity, and obliging civility to all classes during the
voyage, and to lieut. Williams E.N. the Agent on board, whose
gentlemanly conduct is beyond all praise. I must always feel
myself highly indebted for the dignified, firm, and conciliating
manners with which he has carried the Government regulations
into effect, and whose duty I believe it is to furnish your Lordship
with a return of the births and deaths which have occurred on the
passage.
Arriving at this Port, I have great pleasure and satisfaction in
saying that the most prompt facility and explanation have been
afforded us by Colonel Bird, the Colonial Secretary, as far as is
consistent with his public duty, and I am informed that we are to
be located not far from Graham's Town on the Great Fish Eiver ;
this I very much regret to say has excited a considerable degree
of anxiety and some dissatisfaction and even dismay, from its
being a greater distance from the Coast than the Government
Circular would appear to imply, and as the Settlers were not pre-
pared for this unexpected information of their having to travel
thus far in. to the Interior at their individual expence and
resources, I cannot conceal my fears upon the subject, that it
will greatly distress the party. I am already inundated (upon the
ground of the consuming expence and great distance) with daUy
remonstrances, that it will make beggars of more than one half of
the party before we arrive at the place of our destination ! thus I
feel myself placed in a most hazardous and even dangerous situa-
tion, which I feel the more acutely from the weighty responsibility
which naturally attaches to me as their Leader, and that too with-
out any legal authority to control the disaffected ; otherwise than
by some wholesome covenant to prevent theft and illegal combina-
tions, which I have thought proper to insert and have printed at
Records of the Cape Colony, 13t
this place as part of the conditions of my sub-grants. And I
must pray your Lordship to suggest to His Excellency the
(^vemor for my personal security that he will be pleased to
invest me with some kind of station which will afford me a little
respect and safety as a means of checking the turbulent, otherwise
after all my heavy expences, excessive labour, and severe anxiety
with a desire of promoting the views of Government, by imder-
takin^^ the direction of so large a party in a foreign and remote
Colony, thus easing my Country of part of its redimdant popula-
tion (if I am to believe what I hear) I have to anticipate from
disappointed hope, that I am destined to be the first victim on the
altar of revenge! These feelings of dissatisfaction I am aware
may in some measure arise from the varied contradictory and
prejudiced accounts which daily arrive from the Interior and
from the Settlers who have preceded us ; but confiding always in
the wisdom of the Executive and His Excellency the Governor,
who I understand will receive us personally at Algoa Bay, I hope
I shall be able in a great measure to dissipate the jealousy and
distrust arising from the idle reports which have created so much
alarm, and that I may shortly have it in my power from my own
observation to furnish your Lordship (if such information will be
acceptable) with more satisfactory details than I have been in the
habit of receiving here.
Taking all things into consideration it has occurred to me from
the great influx of population in the district I am to inhabit,
foreseeing that a number of Artificers and persons of mechanical
genius who have entered themselves as farmers, will naturally fall
into their former occupations, and that additional towns and
villages will most probably grow out of such a state of things,
I have suggested a plan for a Town which can be systematically
and progressively acted upon : to express its origin I have given
it the name of Angloville, which name I have also inserted in my
printed forms for sub-grants ; it will in the beginning simply take
the form of a square, which with your Lordship's permiasion, as
a token of my respect and from a grateful sense of duty, I must
beg leave to call Bathurst Square, in the centre of which it is
proposed when our funds will admit of the expence, to erect a
Colossal Monument of our beloved Sovereign King George the
fourth, and as other squares and streets occur in the design, His
Majesty's Ministers will not be omitted in marking our gratitude
K 2
132 Records of the Cape Colony.
for the present epoch of our lives, with the natural feeling and
spirit we must ever have for our native and beloved Country.
But when I reflect upon the probable results of this meet
arduous but interesting enterprise, I must beg leave to throw
myself upon your Lordship's protection and indulgence, as you
must be. aware that I am exposed not only to great danger from
the disaffected, but to every deception, ingratitude, insult, and
misrepresentation! Before I lefb England I felt it incumbent
upon me to dismiss and return the Deposits of several who had
embarked apparently with a view of forming desperate combina-
tions, and I must beg to submit to your Lordship's consideration
in justice to the difficult and arduous enterprise in which I am
engaged upon public grounds, that I may derive some real benefit
for my descendants (for myself it will be impossible), but in return
for all my labour, anxiety, and excessive expence, toil and care
which I must encounter for years to come, that I should be
permitted as a voluntary servant of my Country to hold a Free-
hold Grant for the number of acres to which 1 may be entitled, so
that I may look forward to some real benefit and be enabled to
pursue my views in this Colony with some little hope of profit
and advantage to my family.
Trusting that your Lordship will do me the honor of a com-
munication upon this subject^ and that you will condescend to
recommend me to the protection and support of His Excellency
the Governor, permit me to place my personal services entirely at
your Lordship's disposal, in the hope of some appointment amongst
the number which must arise under our System of Improvement,
and that I may be distinguished by the honor of your Lordship's
remembrance. I have &c.
(Signed) Tho& Willsox.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major-General
Sir Eufaxe Donkin.
Lqhdox, nth Mag 1820.
Sir, — I have received and laid before The King your letter of
the 31st January last respecting the measures of Quarantine which
Records of the Cape Colony, 133
yoTi had adopted with the view of guarding against the introduc-
tion into the Settlement under your Government of the contagious
disease which had broken out at the Mauritius ; and I am com-
manded by His Majesty to signify to you his Approbation of the
precautionary measures to which you had recourse, under the
circumstances which you have stated. But as the Accounts which
have been recently received from the Mauritius afford reasons to
believe that the disorder which had appeared in that Colony had
considerably abated at an early period of its progress, I trust that
there will be no necessity to enforce, for aDy length of time, the
restrictions which you have adopted.
With respect to the Proclamation which you have issued, and of
which a Copy accompanies your letter, I am desirous of calling
your attention to that clause of it which declares that any infringe-
ment of the necessary Quarantine Regulations would subject the
OflFender to death without any form of trial ; and I must express
my hope that this declaration has been made for the sole purpose
of deterring offenders, and not with any idea of giving effect to a
penal enactment of such extreme severity, which however justifi-
able in particular Cases, cannot be applicable to the majority of
instances of infringement of the Quarantine Laws. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charlbs Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Pabk Lakb, May I7th 1820.
Sii^ — ^in reply to your letter enclosing one from the Com-
missioners of His Majesty's Navy relative to the detention of the
Defence Transport at the Cape of Good Hope, I have the honor to
state to you that the Defence arrived at the Cape for refreshment
some time previous to the arrival of the other Transports which
were employed in conveying the 16 th Eegiment of Infantry to
Ceylon.
When the Defence was reported ready to proceed on her voyage
134
Records of the Cape Colony.
Lt. Col. Tolley (the Officer commanding the 16th Eegiment) was-
not sufficiently recovered from an indisposition with which he had
been attacked shortly after his arrival, but it was reported to me
that in two or three days he might embark. Just however as lie
was about to embark he had a relapse, but as his services were of
the utmost importance to the welfare of the 16th Eegiment and
as opportunities for Ceylon very rarely occur at the Cape and the
Defence being a very superior sailer to the Transports in which the
remainder of the Eegiment was embarked, I did not hesitate to
prefer detaining the Defence a few days to permitting the Eegiment
to proceed without its Commanding Officer, particularly a Com-
manding Officer of such well earned reputation as Lt. Col. Tolley.
When the Defence left the Cape the Master of her (it was re-
ported to me) did not entertain a doubt of reaching his destination
previous to the other Transports. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset,
[Copy.]
»
Return of Settlers to he located at Clanwilliam.
Dlxecton.
No. of
Men.
No. of
Women.
No. of
Persons above
14 years.
No. of
Persons under
14 years.
ToUL
Mr. Wm. Parker
„ J. Ingram
„ W. Synnot
„ J. Butler
76
27
11
12
49
12
5
7
11
• •
• •
2
86
28
12
11
222
67
28
32
Grand Total
126
73
13
137
349
mh May, 1820.
Secards of the Cape Colany^ 135
[Origmal.J
Letter from several British Settlers to Earl BATHaRST.
HiB Majistt's Stobs Ship WeymouiQi^
Gapk or Gkx)D Hofb, \$t of May 1820, and
Algoa Bat, 19f& of Ma/y.
My Lord, — ^With respectful submission we beg leave to submit
to your Lordship's attention, the following information : In justice
to Captain Turner, commanding His Majesty's Store Ship Wey-
vunUh, for his goodness and arduous attention to ourselves and
families during our long voyage to these places, we the under-
signed heads of parties on board have unanimously agreed to sign
our best acknowledgements ; and as a further tribute of regard for
his conduct, we have presumed to submit this information for
your Lordship's consideration. With the highest respect &c.
(Signed) Dun. Campbell, Capt i pay EL Marines,
Chas. Gurnet,
Alex. Biggar,
Miles Bowker,
John Parkin,
Edward Ford,
W1LLIA.M Menezes,
Benn. Osler,
Saml. James,
WiLUAM Cock,
Charles Hyman. ?^?
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir Rufane Donkin.
Tjosws, 20(fc May 1820.
Sm, — ^It beii^ of the highest importance to prevent on the one
hand any further introduction of Slaves into the Settlement under
your Government, and on the other to promote the cultivatiou
136 Records of the Cape Colony.
of land by means of £ree labourers, I have to signify to you His
Majesty's Pleasure that in any further grants of land which you
may have occasion to make in the District of Uitenhage, or in any
other Settlements either to the Northward of that District, or
more immediately on the frontiers of Cafierland, You should make
it a special condition of the several grants, that the lands so
granted should be cultivated by free labourers alone, and that any
employment of Slaves upon them should render the lands subject
to forfeiture. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathukst.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Earl Bathurst.
NoBTH Bow, Park Lahe, May 2XHh 1S20.
My Lord, — ^Mrs. Alexander, the widow of the late Henry
Alexander, Esqre., having earnestly solicited me to have the honor
of transmitting the enclosed memorial to your Lordship, I have
felt it my duty to enquire very minutely into the circumstances
stated by Mrs. Alexander of the destitute situation in which both
herself and her children are stated to have been plunged by the
death of Mr. Alexander, and I find with deep concern that their
situation is even worse than Mrs. Alexander is yet aware of.
Under such peculiar circumstances, and having learnt by the
last arrivals from the Cape that the pension list of that Settlement
has been recently relieved by the demise of Mr. Baumgardt (late
Inspector of Government Lands and Woods) who enjoyed a
pension of Bixdols. 2,000 per annimi, and of Mr. Hohne (late
Assistant Secretary to the Government) who had a pension of
1500 Bixdols., I beg leave to recommend the prayer of Mrs.
Alexander's memorial to your Lordship's most favorable considera-
tion, and to submit for your Lordship's approval that a pension
equal to that of the late Mr. Baumgardt, (Bixdols. 2,000 per
annum) be granted at the present moment to Mrs. Alexander, and
that £250 sterling per annum be added to it on the demise of
Mrs. Van Byneveld who receives a pension of JC500 sterling per
annum as widow of the, late Chief Justice. -
Records of the Cape Colony. 137
Of Mr. Alexander I can with truth' assert that no man ever
lived more universally beloved or died more universally regretted.
His talents and acute judgment upon all subjects of political
question were felt by all who served with him, and I am happy
in this opportunity of acknowledging the assistance I have on
various occasions derived from them. I am my Lord, &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Enclosure.]
To the Eight Honorable Earl Bathurst, Principal Secretary of
State for the Colonial Department, the Memorial of Dorothy
Alexander, widow of Henry Alexander, Esqre., late Colonial
Secretary at the Cape of Good Hope, sheweth
That the husband of Memorialist the late Henry Alexander
Esqre. held various situations of honor and trust under the
Governments of England and Ireland, and that finally in the year
1808 he was appointed to the office of Colonial Secretary at the
Cape of Good Hope, where after a faithful and zealous devotion
of his time to the public service he expired on the 6th May 1818.
That Memorialist refers to the testimony of the different
Governors to whom the administration of the Colonial Govern-
ment was entrusted between the years 1808 and 1818 for the
assistance which they severally derived from the experience and
abilities of her late husband.
That the husband of Memorialist during the period of his
residence at the Cape of Good Hope expended not only the salary
he derived from his office but all his private fortune in attempts
to improve the agriculture of the Colony by bringing under
cultivation large tracts of barren land and by the establishment
of a Port from whence the ships in Simon's Bay could receive
supplies.
That these objects, however advantageous to the interests of
the Colony, were in themselves fatally injurious to those of
Memorialist and her family, as it is now ascertained that the
residue of her late husband's property is totally insufficient to pay
his debts.
That Memorialist has long forborne to press her claims upon
138 Records of the Cape Colony,
the notice of your Lordship, hoping that the pecnniary embarrajBS-
ment under which she labours might have been relieved by other
means, but whatever reluctance she felt in adopting the present
course has been overcome by the magnitude of her distress ; and
it only now remains for her earnestly to entreat Your Lordship's
attention to the prayer of her Memorial and to grant to her and
her six children such relief as to your Lordship may appear meet.
(Signed) Doeothy Alexander.
May im 1820.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
London, 21gt May 1820.
Sir, — I have received and laid before The King your letter of
the 16th February last, reporting the measures which you had
taken for the relief of three Spanish Slave Ships which had
successively touched at the Cape of Good Hope ; and in signifying
to you His Majesty's approbation of the line of conduct which
you pursued on these occasions, 1 have only to recommend to you
to continue to adhere, in all similar Cases, to the rule laid down
in the Opinion of the Law Officers of the Crown which I trans-
mitted to Lord Charles Somerset in my dispatch of the 29th of
August 1818. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
Bathubst, May 2Snd 1820.
My Lord, — Last month before I left Cape Town I had the
honor of acquainting your Lordship that I intended to proceed to
the Zuurveld for the purpose of superintending the location of the
\ Becards of the Cape Colony. 139
Settlers; '^nd it is with much satisfaction that I have to state
to your Lordship that this measure is going on entirely as I could
"wish.
Mr. Ellis, Deputy Colonial Secretary, had preceded me to
Algoa Bay to make the first arrangements for, and to give the first
impression to the Settlers on their landing, and I must acknow-
ledge in a very particular manner the able assistance I have
derived from him in every way.
As I have been, and still am very much occupied by a variety
of objects and applications, I shall not attempt to carry on from
my former dispatches a continuous detail of the steps which have
since followed for locating the Settlers on this frontier; but I
shall state, generally, that I am gradually filling up the area of a
large Triangle, the apex of which is at Graham's Town, whose
sides are formed by lines drawn from that place to the mouth of
the Great Fish Eiver and to that of the Kareeka, and whose base
is the Sea. The chief masses of population will be aggregated on
or near the central and lower parts of the Eiver Kowie, which
river divides the Area I have described into two nearly equal
parts.
One of the first wants of the Settlers was obviously a central
point to which they could resort for the administration of Justice
and for procuring articles of the first necessity, and I determined
at once on establishing a Town for these objects ; which I have
accordingly done, and I have given to the Town and Township
the name of Bathurst, in commemoration of the great operation
of colonizing Southern Africa having been accomplished under
your Lordship's auspices.
Bathurst, from which I date this dispatch, is situated about
three miles East from the left Bank of the Kowie, and about
seven miles north from the Sea. The soil adjacent is the finest,
perhaps, in the Zuurveld, and close to the site of the Town are
laige woods of fine Timber, Limestone, abundance of Water, and
materials for thatching. An allotment of 500 Acres of Glebe
Land has been made for the Clergymau, on the appointment of
whom I shall probably have to address your Lordship hereafter,
unless your Lordship should be pleased to take the Town of
Bathurst under your particular protection; and in that case I
should request that your Lordship would be pleased to select
some properly qualified person to take charge of the Church of
140 Records of the Cape Colony,
that place. I neither see nor hear of any Minister who has come
out who appears to me to be fit to fill the important station of
Minister of the Church of England in this growing Metropolis
of a large and increasing population, and where he ought to be
at once a guide and an example to the numerous people whose
eyes will be fixed upon him. Should your Lordship select and
send out a Clergyman to Bathurst, expressly for the service of the
Established Church in Zuurveld, I apprehend that his stipend
should be fixed upon the scale determined for the Stipends of the
Ministers at Cape Town and Simon's Town, the only two in this
Colony; but the actual expense for a Clergyman at Bathurst
would be lessened, as the fine Glebe attached must be taken into
account, and a smaller pecimiary stipend wotild therefore be
granted. I would state the Living, with all its advantages, at
something more than £600 per annum.
It will be satisfactory, no doubt, to your Lordship to be informed
that Algoa Bay, in which so many ships have lately anchored, and
where so many people have landed without accident, proves on a
more intimate knowledge of it to be a very fine Koadstead ; and
I am assured by Captain Moresby, of H.M.S. Menai, that it is as
safe as any other open Bay in which vessels usually anchor, and
preferable in some respects to many Bays constantly resorted to
by shipping on the Coast of Great Britain. This better acquaint-
ance with Algoa Bay will be highly useful in promoting the
Coasting Trade, as well as in encouraging Ships from England
to visit this part of the Colony,
Having mentioned Captain Moresby, I take this opportunity
of acquainting your Lordship that to his useful and active supers
intendence at Algoa Bay, where he still remains, I attribute the
regularity and good order in which the debarkation has taken
place, and it is but justice to that officer thus to express to
His Majesty's Government my obligations to him for his assist-
ance. He has promised me a Survey and report on Algoa Bay,
which, when completed, I shall transmit to your Lordship.
I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
Records of the Cape Colony. 141
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. W. Parker to the Colonial Secretary.
Saldanha Bay, 22nd May 1820.
Sir, — I returned here last night after inspecting the lands in
the neighbourhood of Jan Dissel's Valley, and I take leave to
enclose to you a few observations which I have made thereon for
the information of His Excellency the Acting Governor.
I should be extremely sorry to oppose the arrangements made
by Grovernment, but it would be making me instrumental to the
absolute ruin of the Settlers placed under my directions were
I to consent to their being removed under so many absolute
disadvantages, so far into the interior of the Country as 117
English Miles at least from Saldanha Bay. There is an absolute
scarcity of grain in the neighbourhood of Jan Dissel's Valley, and
as the unarticled Settlers on board the East Indian are I fear
in very wretched circumstances, it would be absolutely dangerous
to risk their removal to a district so unprovided with the neces-
saries of life as the neighbourhood of the Subdrostdy.
Mr. Bergh gave me to understand that Mr. Buissinne's report
agrees in substance with my observations. If this be the case
there can be no question that you will fully approve of the
substance of this communication.
Mr. Bergh and Mr. Melk informed me that there were several
extensive farms near Green Kloof fit for the location of Settlers
in the hands of Government, should you be pleased to favor me
with your orders to view the same, I shall do so without delay*
I also understand from Mr. StoU that there are about 3000 acres
of land belonging to Government near the Post Holder's House
at Saldanha Bay, which some of my Settlers have viewed and
think favourably of; a location near the sea is what I look to, as
I have many seafaring men among my people. Indeed, I was
personally assured by the Eight Hon. Mr. Vansittart that the
Colonial Government would locate me on the Sea Coast and on
the banks of a harbour where I could follow commercial pursuits,
which were the main objects of my proceeding to this Colony.
I have &c.
(Signed) W. Parker.
142 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.J
Observations upon the proposed location of the Settlers by the East
Indian and Fanny at Jan DissePs Valley on the hanks of a
rivulet of tJiat name and of the Oliphant's River.
The Drostdy of Clanwilliam at Jan Dissers Valley is distant
from Cape Town by time about 145 hours, the first 60 miles of
the road through Koeberg, Zwartland, and to the Pont at Beig
Eiver is excellent and may be travelled by carriages of any
description. From thence to Mr. Vanarden's at Long Valley is
through a heavy sand, many miles of which is destitute of f^esh
water. The country is extremely arid except at the foot of the
Piquet Bergen Mountains, and in Summer time the heat must be
excessive, the thermometer at the Drostdy of Clanwilliam being,
as the Deputy Landdrost informed me, frequently in the shade
from 104 to 113 by Fahrenheit's scale.
The Drostdy itself is an extremely pretty place, but its beauties
are perhaps encreased as the eye, before cheered with its view, is
wearied by uninterrupted chains of barren mountains. Descending
from these Mountains we were delighted with the cheerful sight
of the Deputy Landdrost's House and the adjoining houses of his
subordinate ofl&cers. The rivulet Jan Dissel flows in front of
the House, and an extremely fertile and luxuriant garden occupies
a part of the foreground. Opposite to the house across the rivulet
the land is a flat red sand represented to be the best in the neigh-
bourhood. But the whole extent of land fit for cultivation,
including the Drostdy, does not amount to 600 Morgen, or 1200
Acres, as will more fully appear by a return with which Mr. T.
Tulleken the Sworn Land Surveyor favoured me.
Morgen.
Jan Dissers Valley including the Drostdy, to which 300
Morgen are attached ....... 380
Klein or little Valley 100
Great Partridge Valley, to which there is no track for a Waggon 30
Little Partridge Valley 15
Varkens Valley 6
Karroo. I'his is red sand, and if it could be irrigated would
be very productive 50
Morgen 581
or Acres 1162
Records of the Cape Colony. ' 143
In the East Indian 76 heads of families or able bodied men have
arrived, and 50 in the Fanny, requiring by the stipulations of
Grovemment 12,600 acres. The whole of the land fit for cultiva-
tion in the neighbourhood, including the Drostdy, is only 1,162
acres, leaving 11,438 acres deficient. We went a circuit thro'
hill, dale and Elloof of about 17 English miles, which occupied
nearly 4^ hours, encompassing an extent of country of perhaps
20,000 English Acres.
As a place for establishing a village or small town the neigh-
bourhood of the Drostdy affords many inviting inducements, but
the principal one to a reflecting mind that does not wish to lead
a mere boorish life, is that of the pleasure of the society of the
amiable family of Mr. Bergh, the Deputy Landdrost, which seems
sincerely desirous to diffuse happiness and comfort around them.
But the barrenness of the surrounding hills and mountains must
for ever preclude any rational prospect of establishing even a
village in this retired spot. Tradesmen, such as house carpenters,
turners, wheelwrights, smiths, &c. may be placed here, but a few
months residence must prove the impolicy of such a measure,
particularly in a district destitute of timber and where the native
inhabitants have few wants to supply and very limited ambition
to gratify.
Ten families placed in the Neighbourhood of Jan Dissol's Valley
may be a desirable object for the purpose of establishing a place
for the farmers from the more northern regions partaking refresh-
ment on their way to Cape Town and Saldanha Bay, but the
poverty of the adjacent country totally precludes the possibility
of establishing an inland trade. Immediate resources for pro<
curing grain for the Settlers until they are able to raise a supply
for themselves appear very precarious. Mr. Bergh has reported
to me that 50 Muids could not be procured within a compass of
20 MQes. The Settlers therefore must be dependent on the
Commissariat for a supply of wheat for eight months, the quantity
in the above circle not being more than sufl&cient for seed. We
made particular enquiries at the houses of the farmers a6 we
went along, and found to our great regret that they had not more
than a sufficiency for their own use. Eice indeed of very superior
quality has been grown by the Deputy Landdrost, but the quantity
raised was so small as to deserve more the title of experiment than
of agricultural production.
144 Records of the Cape Colony.
LCopy.J
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to
Captain Trappes.
Graham's Town, May 23rd 1820.
Sir, — The personal communication which has already taken
place with His Excellency the 'Acting Governor, rendering any
statement of the motives that have led to your immediate
Despatch on the duties about to be assigned to you unnecessary,
I proceed by command of His Excellency to give such instructions
for your guidance, as the undefined state of the measure in
progress wiU allow.
. The object in view may be generally described as the administra-
tion of the more pressing exigencies of municipal Law among the
English Settlers established in the District of Albany. Your
duties will therefore embrace the preservation of the peace, and as
far as regards civil proceeding, the settlement of disputes which
are likely to arise between Individuals placed in such novel
circumstances of social relation.
Upon this head it is necessary that you should be apprized of
the nature of the engagements subsisting between the Heads and
the Individuals composing the respective Parties. These proceed
upon two principles, the one of joint labour and equality of allot-
ment of Land, and the other of personal service for a certain time
upon fixed conditions.
The ordinary process of Law does not in the event of discussion,
at once reach agreements of the first description, and the course
hitherto adopted has been to induce a Eeturn to union and mutual
assistance by refusing permission to the individuals so circum-
stanced, to quit their locations. The Colonial Law, which
considers all persons travelling without Colonial passes as
Vagrants, affords a ready mode of carrying this object into efifect.
No difficulty presents itself to the arrangement of disputes
.where the Case is that of personal service. The Colonial Law will
compel the performance of the reciprocal duties of Master and
Apprentice; and a reference to the particular agreement will
enable you to decide on whatever case of this nature may be
brought before you.
Admonition will in general be sufficient to enforce good conduct
Mecords of the Cape Colony. 145
on the part of the Master, otherwise the threat of dismissal froin
the Colony may be used, and it is scarcely to be expected that
both will prove ineflfectual.
Similar admonition accompanied by threats of imprisonment,
and in cases of positive refractoriness and violence, imprisonment
itself may be applied to Apprentices. But in general yon will
understand that the exhibition of the power of control and punish-
ment rather than the actual exercise is most within the contempla-
tion of His Excellency the Acting Governor.
The Instnictions received from His Majesty's Secretary of State
provide for the separation of Mechanics and Artificers Irom their
parties, with the consent of the respective heads ; but so much
caprice in this respect has been manifested by the Settlers
generally, that you will not feel yourself for the present authorized
to grant any such permission without a specific authority from the
Colonial Office, it being of the utmost importance with reference
to the views of His Majesty's Government, that positive Establish-
ment should take place on the Lands assigned, the only exception
will be found in the case of Artificers being required for the
Public Works.
Although it is the intention of His Excellency the Acting
Governor that you should ultimately establish yourself in the
Township of Bathurst, you will in the first instance make a Tour
of the several locations, as well for the purpose of fixing the
Boundaries generally of the allotments according to a Memo-
randum which will be furnished to you by Mr. Knobel the District
Surveyor, as of arranging the various petty disputes which may
probably exist among the different parties, transmitting frequent
Reports to the Colonial Ofl&ce of your progress, and of such cases
as may in your judgment require particular consideration and
provision.
The Colonial Law being the standard to which your judicial
proceedings are to be referred, you will, on all legal questions,
avail yourself of the advice of the Landdrost, with whom, as well
as with his Deputy, you will communicate on all points connected
with their respective jurisdictions.
Previous to your departure you will, as far as circumstances
permit, consult the legal Records to be found in the office of
the Deputy Drostdy, to enable you to comply with the recom-
mendation thus conveyed.
XIII. L
146 Hecords of the Cape Colony^
I am further directed by His Excellency to convey to yon his
sense of the difficulty which may possibly arise from the want of
detailed instructions, and to assure you that on every occasion you
may rely upon his actual support, and feel confident that the most
liberal interpretation will be given to your motives and actions.
His Excellency is not prepared at present to communicate the
specific mode of remuneration for the Services which you are
about to perform; but you are authorized generally to charge
every personal expense, as well of maintenance as of conveyance,
to the Colonial Government.
I herewith enclose copies of Circular Letters addressed to the
different parties since their location, which will enable you to
seize the spirit that has hitherto regulated the conduct and
communications of your immediate predecessor. I have &c.
(Signed) H. Ellis, Deputy Colonial Secretary.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. William Parker.
LiBflBBBK COTTAOS, 23rd May 1820.
Sir, — I am just honoured by your letter of yesterday, and not
to detain the Messeuger whose immediate return to the Landdrost
is absolutely necessary, I beg briefly to acquaint you that my
information respecting the lands on which it is intended to locate
the Settlers per East Indian first from the Landdrost of Stellen-
bosch who resided on the spot many years and latterly from
Mr. Buissinne who has just made a written report on the subject
which has been forwarded to Sir Bufane Donkin, differs very
much from the account you have collected and leaves me no room
to doubt that there is sufficient ground to locate the Settlers upon,
according to the intention of His Majesty's Government^ and I
conclude that the beauty of the cultivation you saw is an earnest
of what European industry may effect. However I haye no
authority whatever to alter the destination of the Settlers or
to assign to them lands either at Saldanha Bay or elsewhere.
It is the intention of Sir Bufane Donkin to visit the Settlers at
Clanwilliam as soon as he returns from his present tour to the
Records of the Cape Colony. 147
Settlements to the Eastward, and I have little doubt but that
he will take steps for removing such proportion of the Settlers as
he shall find necessary, should he be of opinion that the spot is
not calculated for their agricultural pursuits. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Copy.]
Lett&r from Mr. William Parker to the Colonial Secretary.
Saldakha Bay, 24^ May 1820.
Sir, — Mr. Stoll has handed to me your letter of yesterday, in
answer to which I beg leave to state that my leg being still
extremely sore and much injured by my late CKCursions into the
interior deprives me of the honour of going to you, which I should
otherwise feel it my duty to do.
Twenty-seven years of agricultural and commercial pursuits
have passed over my head, and as I have viewed myself the lands
in Jan Dissels Valley and as I read my report thereon to the
Deputy Landdrost of Clanwilliam and to the land Surveyor,
which they assured me was perfectly correct, and this I did in
the presence of my companions Mr. Francis and of my nephew,
I am fully determined, with all due deference for the opinion of
others, not to lead my Settlers to what I conceive would be
absolute ruin. In coming to this resolution on my own account
and in behalf of the Settlers who are articled to me along with
several respectable individuals embarked under my direction I
do not presume to influence those who have no desire to be located
under my control. There may be some who may wish to live
remote from me, therefore as I am certain that there is not ground
contiguous to the Sub-Drostdy of Clanwilliam for all I beg leave
to suggest that such of the Settlers on board the East Indian as
may be desirous to go there may be sent up. Under the circum-
stances of the case I further beg leave to suggest that the Settlers
on board the Ea^t Indian may be removed to the Fanny, which
ship will be able to accommodate them, as I shall endeavour to
procure some shelter on shore for a few of the Settlers along with
L 2
148 Records of the Cape Colony.
my family. I wait Mr. Watney's arrival here to try and purchase
some of his land and to get the temporary use of his house.
When you view these suggestions I trust that you will con-
sider me actuated with a strong desire to save Government every
possible expense and to facilitate the ulterior arrangements of His
Excellency the Acting Grovemor, as for my own part I am folly
determined to live on the Sea Coast, and shall look round and
purchase lands that may suit my nautical and commercial pursuits.
In the mean time I shall look forward to experience the liberal
assistance of His Excellency the Acting Governor and of your
good self. I humbly presume that the very strong recommenda-
tion of His present Majesty to the Colonial Department in London
and my own services will entitle me to this favour. I have &c.
(Signed) W. Paeker.
[Original.]
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Bird to Earl Bathurst.
Cafe of Good Hope, 2ith May 1S20.
My Lord, — In the absence of Major General Sir Bufane Shawe
Donkin, who is on the Frontier to superintend the location of the
Settlers, I beg leave to acquaint your Lordship that he has granted
leave of absence for the term of six months from the period of his
embarkation from hence, to Major G. Sack. Eraser, commanding
the Cape Corps, to return to Europe on his private affairs.
Major Eraser has been directed to report himself to your Lord-
ship on his arrival in England, and to apply to you for any further
extension of leave, and he has been furnished with the certificate
required by Your Lordship's Dispatch No. 9, dated 21st April
1818. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird, Colonial Secretary.
Records of the Cape Colony. 149
[Copy.]
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to the
Heads of Parties of British Settlers.
GsAHAM*s Town, May 24e^ 1820.
His Excellency the Acting Grovernor having observed the
capricious manner in which permission to quit the respective
parties and to proceed to Graham's Town has been given to
Individuals, by which the peace of that Town and Military
Cantonment is endangered and the practice of Vagabondising in
direct violation of the Colonial Law much encouraged, has been
pleased to direct that hereafter in the event of any individual
proceeding to Graham's Town for any reasonable occasion, he
must immediately if not a Head of a Party, produce a permission
to quit the Party before the Magistrate, who will exercise his
discretion as to allowing him to remain. The only difference with
respect to the Head of a party is, that he requires no pass for
quitting the location, but he also must obtain a Town Pass.
His Excellency has been further pleased to direct that applica-
tions for permission permanently to quit the party must in the
first«instance be signed by the Head of the party, then transmitted
to the Provisional Magistrate by whom the same will be forwarded
to the Colonial Office, from whence the permanent permission
either for residence in the District or the Colony generally as the
case may be. wiU be issued.
Permissions of separating for a period not exceeding one month
may be granted by the Landdrost for the District at large ; for the
Deputy Drostdy by the Deputy Landdrost at Graham's Town, and
for the Locations in the District of Albany by the Provisional
Magistrate.
By Command of His Excellency the Acting Governor.
(Signed) Henry Ellis, Deputy Colonial Secretary.
150 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. Willum Parker.
Gafb Town, 27t^ May 1820.
Sir, — At a late hour last night I was favoured with your letter
dated the 24th instant. I regret to see the determination you
have come to, which so deeply aflfects the interests of the Settlers
belonging to the East Indian. The landing and locating these
parties, or any portion of them, by Government at Saldanha Bay
is not practicable, there being no unappropriated land in that
quarter ; it may suit your views to purchase lands there, but such
a measure being entirely of a private nature cannot enter into the
arrangements which the Colonial Government has made with
respect to the location generally. Thus situated, there is but
one course to pursue, cus the Navy department cannot permit the
Transports to remain at Saldanha Bay at a very heavy expence
to the public, and that is to order the vessels forthwith to Simon's
Bay to revictual and then to forward the Settlers per East Indian
to the general place of location, the Albany District. Should
your private views not allow you to accompany the vessel which
will sail to Algoa Bay, you must then be considered as having
abandoned the party, and measures must accordingly be taken for
securing their ulterior interests. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
I have transmitted a copy of this communication to the Land-
drost in order that he may communicate to the Settlers on board
the East Indian the measures the Colonial Government is about
to take to secure their permanent welfare.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. W. Parker to the Colonial Secretary.
Saldanha Bat, 27^ May 1820.
Sir, — ^A location in the interior of the Colony would be
absolutely ruinous to me and a laige majority of my Settlers. I
^Records of the Cape Colony. 151
have therefore taken their opinion on their going to Jan DisseVs
Valley or remaining contiguous to the Sea Coast. Be pleased then
to receive two distinct lists of the disposition of the individuals
under m}" direction, one of which contains an abstract of the
numbers, &c., of the Party^
As the Settlers must be considerably divided even in the interior,
a separation of the inflammatory individuals, who are unfortunately
on board the Edst Indian, is indispensably necessary to prevent
future mischief.
Mr. McCleland and Mr. Seton having so outrageously conducted
themselves and continuing to do so, has constrained me to prefer
very serious charges against them, which you informed me you
transmitted to the Acting Governor. I have consequently not
taken their opinion on this subject, as it would be deviating from
the 15th Article of my instructions fix)m Government, to which
I presume that His Excellency will most scrupulovsly attend.
The»e individuals have fomented every mischief they possibly
could among the Settlers, causing to you in your official capacity
unnecessary trouble and to me much imeasiness. I have solicited
&om the Colonial Government through you, both by letter and
personally, the minutest investigation into my conduct, that my
character should appear irreproachable and that I should be con-
sidered a valuable and loyal settler in this Colony. His Excellency
will I have strong hopes order an inquiry to be made before Lieut.
Woolrige and Captn. Hogg leave this Country. They are witnesses
totally free from partiality or prejudice, being independent of me.
Mr. Seton 1 will not hesitate to say is one of those dark
incendiaries whose residence in this peaceable country must prove
dangerous to society, unless he be placed under the immediate
control of proper legal or military authority. I have proposed to
Mr. (Gosling to become tenant to Mr. Colebrook for that part of
the late Mr. Alexander's Estates on the peninsula of the Bay for
the immediate location of some of my Settlers. The unoccupied
buildings near the Post Holder's House would afiford some shelter
to them, and their contiguity to the land now vacant holds out
some additional inducements for my entering into an agreement
with Mr. Gosling, provided the same friendly accommodation of
these buildings be extended to me and that the Colonial Grovem-
ment be pleased to order the necessary and immediate repairs of
these useful asylums.
152 Records of the Cape Colony.
In the mean time, as I possess the necessary materials, I have
commenced employing my people in fishing, and shall make
immediate preparation for agricultural pursuits. Could the Locust
be permitted to call at Cape Town on her passage from Algoa Bay
and bring me round some timber and deals that I have purchased
there, I shall be extremely obliged. At the same time she could
bring the materials required for repairing the Grovemment
Buildings in this Bay. These must get dilapidated unless measures
be taken to repair them.
Anthony Wolmsby, Carpenter, No. 3 on my list of Settlers, is
extremely anxious to proceed to Calcutta with Captain Hogg, and
Mr. Watson, the Carpenter of the Sast Indian, wishes to remain
here as a Settler, as he is under an engagement to marry a young
woman belonging to the party.
James Clarke, a seaman belonging to the ship, who is a complete
Fisherman and netmaker, is also very desirous to remain with me.
I have therefore to request that you will have the goodness to give
the necessary directions hereon, as Captain Hogg has consented to
their doing so. I have &c«
(Signed) Wm. PiLRKBK
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Deputy Landdrost of
ClanwUliam,
LiESBEEK GoTTAGB, 28(A Moy 1820.
Ste, — In reply to your letter of the 24th instant, just received,
I am to inform you, that it never was supposed that allotments of
irrigable land to the extent I had the honor to desire you would
apportion ground to the Parties who are to locate at Clanwilliam,
could be measured out to them, but that if a moderate proportion
of irrigable land were allotted to each party, that party would then
be well off. This is a reasoning which you understand perfectly
well. As however Mr. Parker's party does not go to Clanwilliam,
owing partly to your representations to him of the impossibility
of his being located there, there will be little difficulty in establish*
ing the remainder, particularly as you can allot to Mr. Synnot's
party a larger proportion of what now belongs to the Drostdy,
Records of the Cape Colony, 153
according to what you represent as now attached to it. The
Carroo Land can, I believe, be watered from the Taaybosch Eraal,
if so, it should be attached to Mr. Butler's land, and the Kleyne
Valley be given to Mr. Ingram, in addition to what was directed ;
but this arrangement is only suggested in case you still find
difficulty in acting upon the first instruction.
The fact is, that this land must be given up to this object, and
therefore it is expected that the Servants of Government will aid
the views which it has in this affair, as the best means of
recommending themselves to His Excellency the Governor's favour.
I am much surprised that Mr. Tulleken should have lost his
time at Clanwilliam so long, without having completed the object
for which he was sent to the Deputy Drostdy. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bikd.
[Original.]
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Bird to Henby
GOULBURN, ESQRB.
Cafe of Good Hope, 29tft May 1820.
Sir, — In the absence of Major General Sir Bufane Shawe Donkin,
who is on the Frontier for the purpose of superintending the
location of the Settlers, I do myself the honor of acquainting you,
for the information of Earl Bathurst, that the accounts, with
vouchers, of the Eeceipt and Expenditure of this Government from
the 1st January 1819 to the 13th January 1820 have been sent to
Lord Charles Somerset, by the Nautilus, Transport, with the view
to their being sworn to by his Lordship, according to the Instruc-
tions of My Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury, and
submitted to the Audit Department.
I take this opportumty of transmitting to you copies of the
Accounts Current for the said period, which have been so sent to
Lord Charles Somerset. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
154 Becords of the Cape Cclaiiy.
[Office Copy.]
Ze^^er /row • Lord Bathurst to Major General Sir
EUFANE DONKIN,
LoHDON, aCXft May 1820.
Sir, — Having communicated with His Majesty's Principal
Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs respecting the means which
it might be proper to adopt with a view to remunerate the Govern-
ment of the Settlement confided to your charge, for the value of
the French Schooner SylpJie, I have to inform you that His
Majesty's Proctor will be instructed to use proper means to
reverse the Decree of the Admiralty Court under which that
Vessel was sold; and that the Lords Commissioners of the
Treasury have, in the meantime, been desired to imprest to the
Colonial Agent for the Cape the Amount of the Sum disbursed by
the Colonial Treasury for the purchase of the Vessel I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst«
[Original.]
Zetter from the Eeverend William Wright to Henry
GOULBURN, EsQRE.
GoMFSET CkXTTAOE, Callah, May SOth 1820.
Sir, — ^Very soon after my last letter to you, I received a letter
from Mr. Hamilton, Secretary to the Society for propagating the
Grospel, conveying the resolutions of the Society to appoint me to
Cape Town, as Missionary. I think it right to apologize to you for
the trouble which I gave you by writing ; and I take this oppor-
tunity of again thanking you for your attention to my application
which has so happily terminated. I have &c.
(Signed) William Wright.
Records of the Cape Colony, 166
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General Sm
EUFANE DONKIN.
London, SUt May 1820.
Sm, — I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of the 12th of February last, recommending for favourable
Consideration the Memoiial of Mrs. Baumgardt, who prays to
receive one Moiety of the pension which was enjoyed by her late
husband.
The system of continuing to the Widow or families of pensioners
the allowance enjoyed by the head of the family, has been produc-
tive of so much inconvenience and expence in other Colonies that
I cannot recommend to His Majesty to hold out any encourage-
ment to the Establishment of such a practice at the Cape of Good
Hope. I am therefore under the necessity of declining to sanction
the proposed pension to Mrs. Baumgardt for any period subsequent
to the date of the Arrival of this Communication at the Cape.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from Lieutenant Stocker to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gmr's HoflFTTAL, Gth June 1820.
Sir, — Availing myself of the introduction of Lord C. Somerset
to you when accompanying His Lordship to present a chart and
report upon the Country of Kafi&aria in Southern Africa, I presume
on the liberty of addressing myself by letter to your notice, to
acquaint you that I have just completed a finished map of the
above country on a more extended and detailed scale, annexing
to it a sm^l chart of the whole Colony of the Cape to elucidate
the relative position &c. of the newly acquired territory and line
of frontier with tJie Settlement. The above I have executed
expressly for the Duke of Wellington as Master General of the
Ordnance, and should be most happy, and feel highly flattered
156 Records of the Cape Colony.
by bringing it previous to presentation under the eye of Eaxl
Bathurst through the medium of your interposition for His Lord-
ship's approval. I have been mentioned I believe in favorable
terms to Earl B. and it is my proudest hope His Lordship will (if
consistent with his judgment) condescend to honor me with his
public approbation of the body of statistical information and
desired Chart of that part of the Colony it has been my fortune
to present at the Colonial Office.
My object is directed to obtain some pecuniary remuneration
for the labor incurred in compiling and executing the above
alluded to, and as the subjects are said to be of moment and never
before brought under the view of Government, my submitting
them might fairly entitle me to some distinction. To Earl Bathurst
my best and strongest hopes incline, as the highest testimony my
claims can present to notice, and as an Officer very dependant on
my profession I trust earnestly my wishes will not be defeated or
my liberty deemed intrusive. I have &c.
(Signed) L Stockeb, lieut. Eoyal Engineers.
P. S. I omitted to take off the magnetic Line on my Chart, may
I bo allowed to trace it from the one in your possession.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Landdrost of Uitenhage to Land
SURVEYOE KnOBEL.
UiTiMHAOE, Sth June 1820.
My dear Sir, — His Excellency who left this place this day has
made some alteration with respect to the Location of some of the
Settlers per Zoroaster and Belle Alliance, as you will perceive by
his note on the back of his Distribution Papers herewith enclosed.
His Excellency hopes the Land intended for Mr. Wilson's
party may not be located upon already. The Stream here meant
is that scarcely a mile from where we lay at Piet Campher's
kraal in the direction towards Waayplaats, the stream empties in
the Kleine Mond's Eiver, in fact the ground where the kraal was
is meant in Mr. Wilson's Location ; and Mr. Thomhill to be on
Records of the Cape Colony, 157
the East Side of that same stream, towards the Complaats, Waay-
plaats, &e., &c.
Let me know by express if you can if this Ground is still
vacant, as I wish to know it before the Party set off from the
Bay, where they are now only waiting waggons to take them on.
If that land is already occupied, I am then desired by the Governor
to select one of the best vacant places to locate them on, with
the exception of Joel Smuts' place, which is reserved for Major
Greneral Campbell's party.
Herewith the Diagram of Major Eraser's place. His Excellency
further desires that 1500 acres, a good situation near Bathurst, be
reserved for a person in England, and 500 acres at some convenient
place for Town Major Johnstone. Pray inform me if you can put
such apart, and where it may be. As I have not time to write
Captain Somerset fully by this opportunity, I send this open for
him to read and forward to you. Perhaps you should inform
Captain Trappes about these alterations in the location of these
Settlers, and show him where the 1500 and 500 acres for Sir
Bufane's Mends are. I remain &c.
(Signed) J. G. Cuylee.
P. S. I am sorry to inform you that I can't find the Diagram
of Major Eraser's Farm here. The Governor is anxious to get
your further Sketch.
[Original.]
Letter from George Harrison, Esqre., to Henry
GouLBURN, Esqre.
Tbeasubt Chambvbs, 9th June 1820.
Sir, — Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His
Majesty's Treasury your letter of the 8th ulto, transmitting a
copy of His Majesty's Advocate's Report on the subject of the
sale of the French Slave Schooner La Sylphe detained by H.M.8.
Bechving whilst proceeding to the West Indies with a cargo of
slaves, and carried into Sierra Leone, and requesting that direc-
tions may be given for impresting to the Colonial Agent of the
Cape of Good Hope the sum of Eix Dollars 16,112 5sk8., the
158 Records of the Cape Colony.
amount of disbursements applied to the purchase of the Sylphe, I
am commanded by their Lordships to acquaint you that they have
directed a warrant to be prepared for issuing to Mr. Ck)urtenay,
the Agent for the Cape, the sum of d61432 4s. 5d. being the sterling
value of rix dollars 16,112 5sks. as recommended. I am Sir &c.
(Signed) Geo. Harrison-
LCopy.l
Letter from Captain Walter Synnot to his brother
Marcus Synnot.
Glakwilliax, 9th June 1820.
I deferred writing to you until I had seen the grant of land
allotted me by Government ; it is situated under a vast chain of
mountains as wild and rugged as nsture could form them, in a
narrow valley, of which a very small port can be cultivated ; that
granted to me is a tongue of land formed by the junction of Jan
DysseVs Eiver with the Elephants River, the greater part of it is
an arid mountain composed of rock and sand, covered or rather
intersected with shrubs, which is the universal character of the
country between this and Saldanha Bay. There is a proportion
of level ground which can be cultivated, and water conducted to,
without which everything is burned up in Summer. The hills
are consequently of no use for agricultural purposes. I do not think
the plot of level ground contains more than one hundred acres,
and a very small proportion of that is of a good quality, but on
this spot, which is a mere garden, everything may be produced,
rice, sugar, vines, oranges, com of all kinds, fruits both European
and Tropical. The hills are of no other use than to feed cattle.
The roads in every direction are deep sand for fifty miles from
this, it is impossible for the farmer to send anything to Cape
Town, the distance is 6 or 7 days journey with a waggon, and the
roads wretched. In short there is neither a means of improve-
ment, nor a prospect of advantage, indeed there is nothing to
recommend' this country but the climate. We set out from
Saldanha Bay in 12 waggons on the 26th May, and arrived all
in good health at Clan William on the 1st June* The weather
Records of the Cape Colony. 159
proved favourable beyond our expectations, for this is the rainy
season. If I had been aware of the circumstances of tMs place
I never would have come here, as there is no space for improve-
ment, everything is confined by these rugged mountains, the
habitations are thinly scattered over the wildest country in the
world, and it can never be more thickly inhabited ; every spring
of water has an habitation, these are to be met with at about an
interval of 4 or 5 hours journey from each other. We are erecting
huts on the ground, and as soon as they are completed I shall
sow wheat, plant potatoes, &c., but I cannot reconcile myself to
make this place my residence, it falls infinitely short of my expec-
tations, it is not of suf&cient extent to support my party without
purchasing most of the necessaries of life. I am informed the
English settlers at Algoa Bay have infinitely the advantage as to
the quality of the ground. I am resolved on going to no expence
except that of subsisting my party. The Settlers from the £ast
Indian are coming now ; at first they rebelled, but they have been
constrained to accept the ground allotted them. Every one agrees
that half the people sent out will not have wherewithal to live.
(Signed) Walter Synnot,
[Copy.]
List of Locations. — Seconds
No^ 19. Situation allotted to Mr. George Smith, 2100 acres.
No. 20. Do. to Mr. J. Bichardson, 1100 acres, and Mr. J,
Neaves 1200 acres.
No. 21. Groene fontein, the Eivulet between the place now
occupied by F. Jordaan and the sea, allotted to Mr. Wm. Cock's
party, 4000 acres.
No. 22. 2100 acres on the North Side of the Eiet Eiver.
Mr. Edward Ford 1000 acres and Mr. Charles Hyman 1100 acres.
No. 23. The source of the Eiet Eiver, 1200 acres allotted to
Mr. James.
No. 24. The Spring on the north side of the Thomridge, allotted
to Mr. Bowker 900 aci'es.
160 Records of the Cape Colony.
No. 25. Being a very small spring may perhaps be best kept
with the reserved land for the present.
No 26. The place lately occupied by J. D. Smuts (Captain
Lynch's post) allotted to Mr. Sephton's party (10,000 acres)
having a great extent of Land, but only one stream, and conse-
quently not adapted to be divided for the reception of smaller
parties.
No. 27. Land allotted to Mr. Menezes, 1000 acres on the North
Side of the Kasouga.
No. 28. A small spring to the South East of Bathurst allotted
to Mr. Osier 1100 acres, the* land to extend towards the Kowie.
No. 29. Land allotted to Mr. Dyason 2000 acres on the North
side of the Brak Kiver.
No. 30. Land adjoining the last mentioned on the stream
descending from Mr. Philips' (No. 6) 1000 acres allotted to
Mr. Erith.
No. 31. Land proposed to be granted to Lieutenant E. Biddulph
between the reserved land and the Brak River.
No. 32. The land along the Southern Bank of the Brak River
between the last mentioned and No. 7, 2400 acres; allotted to
Mr. A. Biggar 1300 acres and W. J. Parkins 1100 acres.
Nos. 33, 34. Two small streams probably best adapted for
smaller grants intended to be given to individuals.
No. 35. An abandoned loan place on the Blaauwe Krans River
(a branch of the Kowie) confined between steep rocky Mountains,
having very little Gurden Ground on the river but good land on
the tops of the hills.
No. 36. Do. on the Kowie confined between rocky hills.
No. 37. Do. on the same and of the same description, only fit for
grazing, occupied by H. Woest.
The Kowie River is for the whole remainder of its course very
narrowly confined by steep hills, covered with thicket for the
space 1 to 2 miles from the river on both banks. The elevated
plains on both sides are very good grazing and in many parts good
arable land, but destitute of water.
No. 38. Farm granted to L. Suitsman.
No. 39. A good spring to which any quantity of land remaining
between the places Nos. 38 and 40 may be annexed.
No. 40. An abandoned Loan place, occupied by J. Kuyler,
confined by steep mountains, only fit for grazing.
Records of the Gape Colony. 161
No. 41. Farm of the late Mr. G. Broekkuizen, surrounded by
Becky Mountams and having only a small extent of Garden
Ground and Arable Land.
No. 42. An abandoned Loan Place on the Carriega Eiver,
granted to P. Eetief. Only fit for grazing with very little
exception.
No. 43. An abandoned Loan place at present occupied by
N. Niemand, having only a small stream and garden but no
good land nearer than on and beyond the Assagai Bush River,
where a great extent of good land is to be found, that Eiver
however offering only stagnant water.
No, 44. An extent of 2000 to 3000 acres of good land on the
Carriega below Mr. Eetief s Farm which may be disposed of
either to one or two different parties.
Nos. 45 and 46. Two rivulets falling into the\ Assagai Bush
Eiver, pass through a great extent of good Land, but the state
of the water not suflBciently known.
No. 47. An abandoned Loan place formerly Jobs. Grobler's,
having a small stream unto which any convenient extent of land
may be attached.
No. 48. Do. formerly Theimis Botha's, having a sufficient
quantity of good land but a very small spring.
No. 49. An old place, northerly of Major Fraser's Farm, having
a good stream and to which an extent of about 4000 acres may be
allotted.
The Carriega Eiver is for the greatest part of its course likewise
confined between steep hUls down to the place lately occupied by
John Letter, being No. 50.
No. 50. Which place is only fit for grazing.
Nos. 51 and 52. Immediately below that place however the
descent to the river is more easy and affords situations for Settlers
to an extent of about 2400 acres either in one Or more divisions,
who may have their land chiefly on the plain to the N.E., the right
bank of the Eiver being universally rocky.
From this downwards the Carriega as well as the Assagai Bush
Eiver are both bordered by very steep rocky mountains.
(Signed) J. Knobel.
xm. M
162 Jlecords of the Cape Colmiy.
Additional Remarks.
With regard to the intended arrangements communicated by
letter from Lieut. Colonel Cuyler, dated 8th June last, it must
be stated that all parties of Settlers mentioned in the above
Explanation are actually located on the Spots which the numbers
refer to.
Excepting Mr. Biggar and Mr. Parkins, who by a mistake have
been left at Captain Lynch's Post, and who in consequence will be
moved to the Place No. 49 instead of to 32 by the next waggons
that may arrive there, with part of Mr. Sephton's Party, part of
which are already located at Captn. Lynch's Post. In consequence
of this the land mentioned under No. 32 will be vacant and
adequate to answer the intended reserves of 1500 acres and 500
acres.
With respect to Mr. Wilson's party it would be impossible to
find 10,200 Acres for him in the intended space, even if the Settlers
on the Spring No. 24 on the Map were removed, and taking in all
the woody steep ravines on the different sources of the Western
Kleinemond Kiver.
The same must be remembered with Captain Lynch's Post
(No. 26). General Campbell's party, if rightly understood,
consists of 400 families, and at Captn. Lynch's post no more than
10,000 acres of clear Land can be found, so that the extent of
Land will be far short, even taking in all the woods north of the
place to the Kowie, besides the great inconvenience of moving
Mr. Sephton's party to another spot.
The place intended for Mr. Wait and Mr. Dyason is No. 48 on
the Map. The latter of them however is already located on
No. 29. The only spot occurring as adapted for Mr. Wilson's
Party will be No. 47, the place of Johs. Grobler, which will allow
of great extension.
For General Campbell's Party probably the only situation will
be between the Assagai Bush and Bosjesman's Eiver N.W. of
No. 47, about the Eivulets Nos. 45 and 46, where the Country is
generally plain and open, and the grant may perhaps be also
extended over the Bosjesman's Eiver, and which part of the
country will be the object of the next survey.
(Signed) J. Knobel, Sworn Surveyor.
Gbaham's Town, %ih June 1820.
jRecofds of the Cape CoUmy. 163r
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Chables Somerset t6
Earl Bathubst.
Pabk Lane, Jme ISeft 1820.
My Lord, — I have so frequently trespassed upon your Lord-
ship in stating the smallness of the Military Force on the Gape
Station in comparison with the duties to be performed, that I
have now only to endeavour to impress upon Your Lordship the
necessity of equipping that part of the Force most useful on the
Frontiers (the mounted men of the Cape Corps) in the most
efficient manner possible against the enemy they have to contend
with.
All who have had experience with the Kaffer Tribes concur in
stating that the arm most effective and which alone strikes them
with terror (except where cannon can be brought against them)
is the double barrelled gun. I am so thproughly convinced from
my own knowledge of the correctness of this opinion that I could
wish to recommend that the whole of the mounted men of the
Begiment (amounting to 350 nearly, includiug non-commissioned
Officers) should be so armed, but as objections might be made on
account of the expence I beg in the first instance to solicit your
Lordship to take such measures as you shall deem meet for
sending out with as little delay as possible 140 double barrelled
carbines (as light as they can be made) for the use of the Cape
Cavalry.
I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
M 2
164'^
Becords of ike Capt Colony,
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Major-General
Sir Rufane Donkin.
DownraNO Stbbet, lllh June 1820.
SiR,-r-With reference to the Dispatch addressed to Lord Charles
Somerset on the 4th of January stating that
Major General Campbell had received the
permission of Government to proceed to the
Cape with one hundred Persons, I have received
the directions of Earl Bathurst to acquaint
you that in addition to the nine Persons
therein mentioned whom the M. General pro-
posed to send out in the first instance to the
Colony, the persons named in the Margin,
belonging to the same party, have embarked
for that Settlement. I have &c.
Messrs.
P. Lucas
' W* Lucas
. Fredk. Lucas
C. Campbell
H. Campbell
Tbos. Ansell
H. S. Campbell
H. Leatt
Wm. Ppwer
Maurice Garcia
Ely Mills
W. Fisher.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord
Charles Somerset.
Downing Stbkbt, 21$l June 1820.
My Lord, — 1 have received the directions of Earl Bathurst
to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship's Letter of the
20th Ultimo in favour of Mrs. Alexander, Widow of William
Alexander, Esq., late Colonial Secretary at the Cape of Good
Hope, and I do myself the honour to acquaint your Lordship that
although Lord Bathurst considers it highly objectionable to
establish a Precedent which may lead to a general Expectation on
the part of the Civil Servants at the Cape that their Widows are
to receive Pensions after their Death, yet in consideration of
Mr. Alexander having been for 10 years Secretary of the Colony,
Lord Bathurst is prepared so far to acquiesce in your Lordship's
recommendation as to authorize Mrs. Alexander's receiving from
Records of the Cape Colony. 165
the Colony a Pension at the rate of £300 per Annum to co'tumeuod
from the date of Mr. Alexander's Death. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Origmal.]
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Bird to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Cafe or Good Hope, 2ia June 1820.
Sir, — In the absence of Major General Sir Eufane Shawe
Donkin, who is on the Frontier for the purpose of superintending
the location of the Settlers, I beg leave to acquaint you, for the
information of Earl Bathurst, that he has granted leave of absence
for the term of six months from the period of his embarkation
from hence, to Charles Blair, Esq., Collector of Customs and Port
Captain, to return to Europe on his private affairs.
Mr. Blair has been directed to report himself to His Lordship
on his arrival in England, and to apply to him for any further
extension of leave, and I have furnished him with the Certificate
required by his Lordship's dispatch No. 9, dated the 21st April
1818. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. W. Parker to the Deputy
Landdrost of Clanwilliam.
Eleinb Valley, 22n(2 June 1820.
Sm, — I am happy at being able to inclose to you a copy of my
letter to Colonel Bird of the 22nd Ulto., which I, fortunately
before the original was forwarded, showed to Mr. Stoll. I am so
satisfied at the propriety of my conduct respecting the information
you were so kind as to give me, which I had no reason to think
was confidential, that when His Excellency arrives h^re I shall
fully explain to him what has passed on this occasion. I take this
opportunity to request that you will inform me if you have got
166 - Beeords of the Cape Colony.
instructions to put me in possession of the lands intended for the
occupation of my Settlers. If so, may I request that you will be
pleased to do so as soon as possible. I have &c.
(Signed) William Parker.
[Copy.]
Lettefi! from the Deputy Landdrost of Clanwilliam to
Mr. W. Parker.
CiiAinnLLiAM, 22ficK /«m 1S20.
Sir, — In answer to your letter of this morning I am to inform
you that it is the intention of His Excellency the Acting Governor
to locate your Party at the Kleine Valley with as much land as
will be sufficient to the amount of the quantity of acres allotted
to you. The Kleine Valley having teen surveyed it proved not to
be large enough, containing no more tog^ker with a small spot
flamed the Yarkensfontein, but 3,200 acres of iduch you will be
at liberty to take possession of whenever it will be oouTODiaiit to
you. I shall request Mr. Tulleken the Land Surveyor to-moinnr
to point out to you the boundaries of the said Land, and think it
would be desirable for you to content yourself for the present until
Sis Excelleney the Acting Goverrurr shall have arrived. I have &c.
(Signed) 0. M. Bergh.
Papers in the case of Captain Andries Stockenstrom versus Dr.
Robert Knox and Officers of the Cape Corps in 1820.
These papers are very voluminous, but as they relate only to a
quarrel between military officers on a subject of no public interest,
I do not think it necessary to give more than the finding of the
Court of Enquiry, which assembled at Grahamstown by order of
Lieutenant Colonel Willshire, commanding the Troops on the
Frontier, and closed its sittings on the 23rd of June 1820. —
G. M. T.
** The Court previous to giving their opinion think it necessary
Records of the Cape Colony. 167
to state that they conducted their proceedings in the early part
with closed doors, as in that state of the business it was im-
possible to say who might be called in as evidence, the whole
officers of the Garrison from the publicity of the reports in
question being all likely to be brought before it as witnesses,
" The Court having in obedience to the Order received from the
Lieut. Colonel commanding on the Frontier patiently examined
and investigated every document and paper relative to the affair
between Captain Stockenstrom and the Officers of the Cape Corps,
and having minutely traced as far as lay in their power the origin
of the reports calumniously propagated to the prejudice of Captain
Stockenstrom's character, the Court from all that has come befinre
them do most unequivocally give it as their opinion that Captain
Stockenstrom's conduct appears to them to be nuxs^ highly credit-
able to him as an Officer and a Grentleman, and that he has con-
ducted himself through a most paioful period of calumny and per-
secution with feelings of the highest sense of honor and propriety^
'' The Court cannot help observing the backwardness and diffi-
culty with wfaidi the Officers of the* Cape Corps at first answered
the questions of the Court, which by coming to the point at once
would have tended to have shortened these proceedings, but the
manner in which they at last came fwward thro' their Com-
manding Officer Captain Somerset merits the thanks of the Court
and it is hoped the approbation of the Commandant on the Frontier.
** With regard to Dr. Knox the Court look upon his conduct in
such a light, that they hope they may be excused from giving an
opinion, and refer the Commandant to the above proceedings
relative to the calumnies issuing from him.
(Signed) " John J. Jackson, Major 72nd Eegiment,
•• President."
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathuest to Major Gknkral
Sir Rufane Donkin.
DowNiNO Stbbbt, 24^ June 1820.
Sir, — As it is probable that the system lately adopted by
Grovemment for the Colonization of the Cape of Good Hope will
168 Becords of the Cape Colony.
carry great numbers of British Settlers to that Country, it is
desirable that permanent means of religious Worship and In-
struction should be secured as well as to the original Settlers and
their Descendants as to the Natives who will probably resort to
the new Settlement.
To attain so desirable an object the " Society for the propaga-
tion of the Gospel in Foreign Farts " have signitied to the Govern-
ment their readiness to contribute their assistance and co-operation
as far as the funds of the Society will allow, by providing a
regular supply of Ministers and Schoolmasters, and have suggested
as a means of supporting such an Establishment that the newly
inhabited Districts should be divided into Parishes of moderate
size, and that certain proportions of Land should be set apart in
each for the maintenance of the Besident Clergy.
His Majesty's Government fully concurring in the view which
the Society have taken of the subject, I have conformably to their
Suggestions to instruct you to retain in the Neighbourhood of
every Grant, a certain portion of land, not less than j- of the
Grants made, for the future support of a Frotestant Clergy, and
to reserve it in such situations as may afford a probability of its
encreasing in value in proportion to the Growth and prosperity of
the Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathubst.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Chables Somerset to
T. F. COURTENAY, ESQRE.
NoBTH Bow, Paek Lank, June 2^tk 1820.
Sir, — Several Officers having been appointed to the Cape Corps
who I have reason to suppose have no intention of joining the
Corps, but who will I doubt not apply to you for their Fay, I
have to inform you that as it has been considered essentially
necessary for the well-doing of the Corps to establish a respectable
Regimental Mess (the first formation of which is unavoidably ex-
pensive) there is a subscription due towards the Mess Fund from
each Officer on his first Appointment to the Corps as follows :
Becords of the Cape Colony, '169
From each Captain £50
From each lieutenant £40
From each Ensign £30
which must be paid previous to any Officer drawing any portion
of his pay. This Subscription is due if the Officer should exchange
out or quit the Kegiment without joining it There is also a
Subscription to the Kegimental Band, of the precise amount of
which I am ignorant, but the Colonial Secretary has received my
directions to forward the particulars to- you. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major G!eneral
Sir Kufane Donkin.
Downing Street, 2Uh June 1820.
Sir, — I do myself the honour to acknowledge the receipt of
your Dispatch No. 12 of the 31st March, and at the same time
to acquaint you that I approve of the Leave of Absence for the
term of six Months which you have granted to Mr. George Boss,
Superintendant of the Printing Establishment at the Cape.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Landdrost op Uitenhage to
Land Surveyor Knobel.
UiTENHAOE, 2&th June 1820.
My dear Sir, — Herewith two Memorandums, one about your
locating the Settlers and the other about the diagrams the
governor wants and surveying Bathurst, I send you the Original
Sketch as received from the Governor showing the Outlines of the
170 JRecords of the Cape Colony,
Township of Bathurst, which I think yoil had better copy on the
back of the Memorandum and return to me. I have &c«
(Signed) J. G. Cuyleb.
Memorandum for Mr. Knobel
For his locating the settlers now at the Bay, and removing
those on the Lands intended for others.
Say that the waggons with the Settlers now at the Bay may
probably march on the
4th July Tuesday, to Swartkops River.
5th „ Wednesday, Sondags Kiver.
6th „ Thursday, Eautenbach's Drift.
7th „ Friday, Assagaay Bush.
Here Mr. Knobel will be pleased to meet them and give further
directions to the respective parties being placed on their proper
lands and removing those erroneously placed, agreeably to the
Memorandum herewith.
Major Jones to have his 500 acres adjoining the Township of
Bathurst on its Eastern Line and adjoining the location at a
Mr. Osier on a small stream, a branch of the Jtfmafield ]Kver.
These are the Lauds selected by Mr. ibistm.
And file 1500 Acres for the Governor's friend in England to
replace Mr. James' party at No. 24, who go to No, 20 on the
South Side of Biet river adjoining the place of Sebrits, and where
Mr. Neaves was supposed to be located, who is not come up here
but settled at Biver Zonder End, to join the East Line of Bathurst
and North Line of Major Jones, and watered by the N. W. Branch
of the Eleinemond Biver.
Mr. Erith to be removed to Waay plaats, to take the intended
location of Damant.,
Mr. Wilson to be located at No. 30, where Mr. Erith was,
running up along the same Biver towards Mr. Southey's location.
Mr. Thomhill between Bathurst and Eowie's Mouth, to say on
the West Side of the present Bead from Bathurst to the mouth
of Kowie.
Mr. Sephton's party to be located on the Asst^aai Bush river^
Becords of the Cape Colony. 171
immediately above the place of Schalckwyk, leaving the entire of
Joel Smuts' or Lynch's Old Post for Major General Campbell who
is expected. B. D. Bouwer who is now upon t^e Ground to be
removed. Mr. Menezes now at the Kasouga to be put on No. 51
on the Carri^a immediately above Perkins.
Messrs. E. Ford and Hyman now on Lynch's Post, to be
removed to No. 22, where they were first intended, above Sebrits
on the North Side of the same river.
Mr. Calton to be located on No. 32, which is between Bathurst
and Lemoinplace.
Mr. Barker to go to No. 18, a small stream marked 6 between
Mr. Smith's and Mr. Mahony's Locations.
Mr. Wait to locate No. 48, formerly T. Botha's, road via
Assagaai Bush.
Uitenhage 24th June 1820.
(Signed) J. G. Cuyler, Landdrost
Boute for the Settlers now at the Bay.
Mr. Wilson to go by Assagaai Bush, to cross the Garriega and
Kowie drift, and as far as the cross road coming from Graham's
Town, and from there partly to turn off towards Bathurst, along
Ae load to the first Biver, which is the place where Mr. Erith
was first Jntended to be located, and partly to continue on the
road to Koom plaats or Mr. Pliilip's locatum, until they meet
the same river, and up along that Biver to where it comes out of
the rocky hills westerly of the place where Mr. Southey is now
located.
Mr. Thomhill to proceed by the same Boad, but going on to
Bathurst and from there further on the Boad to the mouth of the
Kowie anywhere between Mr. Osier's location and the mouth of
the Kowie.
That part of Mr. Sephton's party remaining at Algoa Bay, to
go by Assagaai Bush to the place now occupied by Barend D.
Bouwer, and from there along the Assagaai Bush Biver towards
Schalkwyk's,
Mr. Calton's party to go by the same road as above described
by the Garriega and Kowie to the road from Graham's Town to
Bathurst, and on that Boad past Mr. Dyason's Location, through
172 Records of the Cape Colony.
the Brak Biver and turn to the left along that river to join
Mr. Bradshaw'a Location at the Lieman Place.
Mr. Barkei? to go by Graham's Town.
Mr. Wait to go by Assagaai Bush and from there over the plain
to the abandoned place of Johs. Grobler and on the road to Jagers
drift, over the hill to the place of Theunis Botha.
The waggons having carried Mr. Wilson's party to proceed
through the mouth of the Kowie (with the exception of such
number as will be required to remove Mr, James' party to above
the Place of Sebrits and Mr. Erith's to Waayplaats) as also those
having brought Mr. Thomhill's party to Captn. Lynch's post, partly
to remove Messrs. Ford and Hyman to their locations, and partly
to take Mr. Sephton's to their intended location as before described
on the Assagaai Bush Biver, as also Mr. Menezes from the Kasouga
to the Carriega, between the Ford called the Paarde Drift and the
place lately occupied by J. Letter.
Stages :
First day to Swartkops Biver.
Second „ „ Sondags Biver.
Third „ „ Eautenbach's drift.
Fourth „ „ Assagaai Bush.
Fifth „ Somewhere between the Karriega and Kowie, the
latter is preferable.
Sixth day. Generally to their respective locations.
Memorandum for Mr. Knobel.
His Excellency the Acting Governor wishes Mr. Enobel to
make out as soon as possible a sketch of the Town and Township
of Bathurst, fixing the Boundary as the sketch with the outline
just received from His Excellency herewith.
The Lots for the village or town of Bathurst Mr. Enobel will
not survey until he receives His Excellency's further orders, as a
plan from the Engineer Officer is just gone up for His Excellency's
Approval.
Mr. Enobel must also survey the 1500 acres for the Governor's
friend in England and 600 for Major Jones, and send me diagrams
in duplicate.
(^Signed) J. G. Cuyleb.
Becords of the Cape Colony. 173
[Original.]
Zeitler front B. H. Crewe, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
OfFios ov Obdhakoi, 2Gth June 1820.
' Sir, — Having laid before the Master General and Board of
Ordnance your letter of the 17th instant, with its enclosure from
Lord Charles Somerset, urging the expediency of arming the whole
of the mounted men of the Cape Corps with double barrelled
Carbines ; I have the honor, by the command of His Grace and
the Board, to state to you in reply, for Earl Bathurst's information,
that there are no double carbines in store, and that they do not
conceive it would be proper to incur the expence of making a new
^rm. I have &c.
(Signed) B. H. Crewe.
[Copy.J
Extract from a Letter from the Beverend J. Brownlee to
the Colonial Secretary.
Caftbabia, 27 June 1820.
I came here on the 6th and the place that I have chosen to
reside is on a little rivulet called by the Caffers Guallie that runs
into the main stream of the Chumie a little below Gaika's Eraal^
from which place I am about two miles distant.
I have examined the whole of the Country from the junction of
the Chumie and Keiskamma to where these rivers come from the
mountains, but there is no place that I could live near to Gaika
80 conveniently as this. The Chumie has for the most part steep,
high, and uneven Banks, and to lead out the water so as to irrigate
a sufficiency of ground for the people who may come to reside
with me, must be attended with more labour than I am at present
able to accomplish. This place is by no means central, as a great
number of Gaika's people are now gone over the Keiskamma to
occupy the ground from whence they were driven by Tzlambie
and some are gone to the mountains near to the Buffalo Biver.
174 Becords of the Cape Colony.
[Original,]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawb Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
Cafe of Good Hops, SOift Jufte 1820.
My Lord, — I beg leave to acquaint your Lordship that I have
granted leave of absence, for the term of six months fix>m the
period of his embarkation from hence, to the Beverend Gleoige
Thom, Minister at the Sub-Drostdy Caledon, to return to Europe
on his private affairs.
I have directed Mr. Thorn to report himself to your Lordship
on his arrival in England, and to apply to you for any further
extension of leave, and I have furnished him with the Certificate
required by Your Lordship's Dispatch No. 9, dated 21st April,
1818, I have &c.
(Signed) R. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. T. P. Courtenay to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Cannon Bow, 80<^ Jtme 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to inform you that I have received an
urgent requisition &om Sir Bufane Donkin, acting Governor of
the Cape of Good Hope, dated 14th April last, for Printing
Materials required for the use of the Government Printing Office
at the Cape, as specified in the accompanying list : And I have to
request that you will move Lord Bathurst to authorize me to
provide and send out these articles.
I have at the same time received a Bill upon the Treasury for
£5,000 to enable me to defray the present and other Expenses
belonging to the Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Per. Courtenay,
Colonial Agent for the Cape of Good Hope.
JUcards of the Vape Colony. 175
[Enclosure.]
List of Printing Materials required for the use of the
Oovemment Printing Office, Cape of Good Hope.
2000 lbs. Long Primer, No. 6, with a proportion of Signs, Superiors,
2 line Letters, open Letters, half fractions, space Rules, and
a double proportion of the Letters, d, k, n, r, v, y, and z.
1000 lbs. Brevier, No. 4, with a proportion as above.
500 lbs. English, No. 7, as above.
600 lbs. Double Pica, No. 3, as above.
600 lbs. Great Primer, No. 3, as above.
500 lbs. Two line English, No. 3, as above.
2 Stanhope Presses with everything complete.
3000 Ball Nails.
6 Brass Column (^alleys.
12 Mallets.
12 Mahogany Plainers.
150 Shooting Sticks.
10 dozen foot and side Sticks.
12 pr. Letter Cases.
1 cask Pot Ash (fine American).
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. Anthony Hamilton to Earl Bathurst.
St. IIabtin's Libbabt, June 30, 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor to transmit to your Lordship the
following resolution of the Society for the Propagation of the
€rospel in Foreign Parts :
That a respectful application be made to Earl Bathurst re-
questing his Lordship would be pleased to recommend to His
Excellency the Grovemor of the Cape of Good Hope, to exert his
influence in procuring the erection of a suitable English Church
in Cape Town, where at present there is no ecclesiastical building
appropriated to the use of the English residents, and in aid of
which object the Society have granted the sum of £500. That
176 Records of the Cape Colony.
his Lordship would be pleased also to recommend to the patronage
of His Excellency and the local authorities in that town the Bev.
William Wright, B.A. of Trinity College Dublin, who has lately
been adopted as a Missionary for the religious instruction of the
Natives and Negroes in that town. I have &c.
(Signed) Anthony Hamilton, Secretary.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Landdrobt of Uitenhage to
Land Surveyor Knobbl.
UiTKErHAOB, Ist Jtdy 1920,
My dear Sir, — Herewith another Memorandum for you when
at Bathurst, about lieut. Biddulph's and Mr. Austin's lands.
Captain Somerset has just informed me that Nicolaas Niemand^
his brother Dirk Niemand, and P. van der Westhuizen will be
waiting at N. Niemand's, where I hope you will find them and
use them as guides. Don't forget to send the waggons which have
taken on Mr. Wait's and Mr. Barker's parties to Theunis Botha's
place, to fetch away Sephton's people. Captain Trappes will of
course have notified Mr. Sephton that he was to remove. In case
he may not have done so I enclose you a letter to Mr. Sephton to
that effect, which send by either Kok or Niekerk, filling in the
name of the person you send. I remain &c.
(Signed) J. G. Cuyler.
P.S. — I enclose two letters for Mr. Sephton, as it may require
two sets of waggons to take up his party.
Records of the Cape Colony. 177
[Original.]
Lettei' from SiB Eufane Shawb Donkin to Henry
GOULBUBN, ESQRE.
Caps or Good Hops, Gfh July 1820.
Sre, — I have the honor to transmit to you, for the pnrpofle of
being submitted to the Sight Honorable the Earl Bathurst, the
enclosed Copy of a Memorial, received from George Martinson,
one of the Settlers lately arrived from England, and to express a
hope that some means may be found for complying with the
prayer of the Memorialist, I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Enclosure.]
To His Excellency Major General Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin,
KC.B., Acting Governor of the Colony of the Cape of
Good Hope, Commander in Chief, &c., &c., &c.
The Memorial of George Martinson Humbly Sheweth,
That Memorialist came to this Colony as a Settler under
the direction of Mr. Crause, that in November last Memorialist
went on board the Nautiltts Transport to provide for and make
arrangements for the comfort of his Family previous to their
Embarkation. The vessel dropt down the Eiver, and proceeding
to Sea, got on the Goodwin Sands, that on the Ship's righting she
finally proceeded to sea without stopping either at the Downs or
at Portsmouth, at one of which places Memorialist had been
assured by Mr. Walton, the Master, the Ship would touch, and
remain at least for a week, and where Memorialist had determined
to embark his Family.
Memorialist therefore humbly hopes your Excellency will be
pleased to forward this or what other statement Your Excellency
may judge requisite, on an occasion of such a nature, to his
Lordship The Earl of Bathurst, Colonial Secretary, recommending
memorialist's case, and memorialist thereby hopes again soon to
feel the enjoyments of life so much to be desired, (that of again
xin. N
V
178 Becords of the Cape Colony,
having his family with him) and trusts that his wife and family
who were so unfortunately left in England will be sent to this
Country.
Any information or direction to his wife how to act will be
gratefully received by being addressed for Sarah Martinson to
,the care of T. Pemberton, Foreign Post OflSice, or to K. Callow,
12 Archer's Street, Hay market.
And Memorialist as in duty bound will ever pray.
(Signed) George Martinson.
Spanish Besd, 5 June 1820.
LOriginal.]
Letter from Mr. T. P. Courtenay to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gannon Bow, J\dy ^k 1820.
Sir, — In conformity with the opinion of Earl Bathurst com-
municated in your letter of the 11th of May 1819, I have for-
warded to the Treasury, for reference to the Auditors of Colonial
Accoimts, my account as Agent to the Government of the Cape of
Gk)od Hope, for the year 1819, including as well the payments
made by me from funds supplied to me by the Governor, and in
consequence of directions received from him, as those which I
have made by Lord Bathurst's authority out of monies received
from the Treasury in England.
I have hence necessarily inserted some charges which though
defrayed by me in pursuance of commands which it was my duty
to obey, have not re9eived the sanction of the Secretary of State,
which sanction the Auditors now require me to produce. Of these
charges I therefore enclose a statement, in the hope that Lord
Bathurst will give the necessary authority to the Auditors for
allowing them in my accounts, provided that they shall appear to
have been properly made by me in the performance of my official
duty. I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Per. Courtenay.
Records of the Cape Colony. 179
[OriginaL]
Letter from Eear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre.
Vigo AT SiA,
Lat. W 45' 8., Lqvo. l^"" 88' £., m My 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to acquaint you for the information of
their Lordships that I left Simon's Bay on the 3rd Instant, and
am now on my way to St. Helena to relieve Bear Admiral Plampin.
In my letter No. 13 by the Brilliant Transport, I reported my
arrival at the Cape of Good Hope on the 16th Jane. During my
stay I used every exertion for carrying into effect the plan recom-
mended by the Victualling Board for stall-feeding the cattle at
Simon's Town previously to their being shipped for St. Helena,
and the arrangements were in a state of forwardness when I came
away.
His Majesty's Ship Tees was struck by lightning on her passage
to the Cape, and obliged to take in a new foremast ; having been
refitted, she sailed on the 3rd Inst, for the Isle of France with
orders to remain there until relieved.
I have given her Captain instructions, agreeably to those of
Their Lotdships to me, for his guidance in that command; and
have further ordered him, should he fall in with His Majesty's
Sloop Leveret, (that vessel having sailed for the Mauritius the day
before I arrived) to take her commander under his orders for one
month, and then send her to join me at St. Helena, calling at the
Cape to complete her provisions and stores. Should she return to
the Gape before the 10th August without having fallen in with
the TeeSf I have desired that she shall proceed again to the Isle of
France, be employed there one month, and then come to me at
St Helena as before directed.
This measure I have judged necessary from the Official Beports
at the Cape of Good Hope of the agitated state of the Island.
His Majesty's Sloop Heron is left with orders to follow me to
St. Helena on the arrival of His Majesty's Ship Menai from Algoa
Bay ; which ship I have ordered round to Simon's Bay, it seeming
to me necessary to have a vessel constantly there for the better
carrying on His Majesty's Service. I have &c.
(Signed) Eobt. Lambert,
Bear Admiral Commander in Chief.
N 2
180 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from Captain J. Grant to Henry Goulburn, Esqee.
No. 22 IJPPKB LifisoN Stbeet,
Paddikoton, 6t^ Jvly 1820.
Sir, — I find I have been made the dupe of a party who induced
me to enter with them in the undertaking of coUecting emigrants
for the Cape &om the Highlands.
The symptoms of uneasiness manifested by the people in being
obliged to leave their Farms, the odiums cast on the proprietors in
the Public Prints, added to the general disturbed state of the
country induced the greatest number of the Heritors to renew the
leases of those who were likely to make the most useful part of
those forming a new settlement, the consequence has been that 1
have been deserted and the whole expense of the undertaking has
fallen on me, not suspecting the purity of intention of those
connected with me I did not use the precaution of binding them
in writing and they now refuse to be at any part of the charge
incurred, by which I find myself under the necessity of selling my
Commission, and I am at a loss to know what to do to support a
wife and family of seven children. I am therefore induced to
apply to you to solicit some small situation in one of our Colonies,
I do not by any means make this request from any supposed claims
on the Colonial Office, but trust your goodness will assist an old
officer (who has spent the prime of his life in the service of his
Country) in rearing and prpviding for a numerous young family,
expecting your favourable answer, I have &c,
(Signed) J. Grant.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord Charles
Somerset.
Downing Street, lllh July 1820.
My liOK^j — i do myself the honour of acquainting Your Lord-
ship by the direction of Earl Bathurst that a Copy of your
J
Recoi'ds of the Cape Colowy. 181
Commnnicatioii of the 13th of June on the subject of arming the
whole of the mounted Men of the Gape Corps with double barrelled
Carbines having been submitted for the Consideration of the
Master General and Board of Ordnance, they have acquainted Earl
Bathurst in reply that there are no double Carbines in Store and
they do not conceive it would be proper to incur the Expence of
making a new arm of this description. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqrb., to Lord Charles
Somerset.
Downing Street, Wih July 1820.
My Xord, — I have received the directions of Earl Bathurst to
refer to your Lordship the accompanying Copy of a Letter from
Mr. Anthony Hamilton, Secretary to the Society for the propagation
of the Gospel in Foreign Parts, suggesting the Propriety of erecting
a suitable English Church at Cape Town : and I have the honour
to request that your Lordship would be pleased to favour me with
any Information in your power as to the Building in which Divine
Service according to the Doctrines of the Church of England is
now celebrated, and with your opinion as to the necessity of
erecting a new one at the Cape. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Copy. J
Order in Council.
At the Court at Carlton-House, the 12th of July 1820.
Present,
The King's Most Excellent Majesty in Council.
Whereas by An Act, passed in the first year of the reign of His
present Majesty, intituled '' An Act to continue until the fifth day
182 Eecords of the Cape Colony.
of July one thousand eight hundred and twenty-five, An Act of
the fifty-seventh year of His late Majesty for regulating the trade
and commerce to and from the Cape of Good Hope, and for
regulating the trade of the Island of Mauritius," His Majesty is
authorised, by and with the advice of His Privy Council, by any
Order or Orders to be issued from time to time, to give such
directions, and to make such regulations touching the trade and
commerce to and from th^ Settlement of the Cape of Good Hope,
and the territories and dependencies thereof, as to His Majesty in
Council shall appear most expedient and salutary, anything
contained in an Act, passed in the twelfth year of the reign of His
Majesty King Charles the Second, intituled "An Act for the
encouraging and increasing of shipping and navigation ; " or in an
Act, passed in the seventh and eighth years of the reign of His
Majesty King William the Third, intituled " An Act for preventing
frj^uds and regulating abuses in the plantation trade," or any
other Act or Acts of Parliament now in force relating to His
Majesty's colonies and plantations, or any other Act or Acts of
Parliament, law, usage, or custom to the contrary, in anywise
notwithstanding ; His Majesty is pleased, by and with the advice
of His Privy Council, to order, and it is hereby ordered, that
from and after the date of this present Order, British vessels
arriving at any port of the settlement of the Cape of Good Hope,
or of the territories and dependencies thereof, from any country in
amity with His Majesty, laden with any articles of the growth,
production, or manufacture of such country (excepting all articles
composed of cotton, iron, steel, or wool of foreign manufacture,)
shall be permitted to enter and land their cargoes, and dispose of
the same in the said ports, subject to such duties as may be there
payable thereon :
And it is further ordered that British vessels arriving as afore-
said shall be permitted to export to any such foreign country in
amity with His Majesty, cargoes consisting of any articles of the
growth, production, or manufacture of the settlement of the Cape
of Good Hope, or of the Territories and dependencies thereof, or of
any other articles which shall have been legally imported there,
on payment of such duties as may be payable thereon :
And it is hereby further ordered, that vessels belonging to the
subjects of any foreign state in amity with His Majesty, which
foreign state shall allow British vessels to carry on trade as afore-
Becom^ds of the Cape Colony^ 183
said between the ports of such state and the settlement of the
Cape of Good Hoi)e, or the territories and dependencies thereof,
shall be permitted, in like manner, to import into the ports of the
said settlements, or of the territories and dependencies thereof,
from any port of the state to which such vessel shall belong, any
articles of the growth, production, or manufacture of such foreign
state (excepting aU articles composed of cotton, iron, steel, or wool,
of foreign manufacture), and to dispose of the same in the ports of
the said settlement, or of the territories and dependencies thereof, on
payment of the same duties as shall be payable on the like articles
when imported from such foreign state in British vessels ; provided,
however, that if higher duties are charged on the export of such
goods from any such foreign state to the settlement of the Cape of
Good Hope, or the territories and dependencies thereof, in British
vessels, than are charged on the export of similar articles to the
said settlement, or the territories and dependencies thereof, in
ships of such foreign state, a countervailing duty, of equal amoimt,
shall be charged on the said articles when imported into the said
settlement, or the territories and dependencies thereof, in vessels
of such foreign state, over aAd above the duties payable on the like
articles when imported from such state in British vessels :
And it is hereby further ordered, that every such foreign vessel
shall be permitted to export a cai-go consisting of any articles of
the growth, production, or manufacture of the settlement of the
Cape of Good Hope, or of the territories and dependencies thereof,
or of any other articles which shall have been legally imported
there, on payment of a duty of eight per cent, ad valorem over and
above the duties charged on the like goods when exported from
the said settlement, or the territories and dependencies thereof, to
such foreign state in a British vessel ; provided, however, that in
eases where satisfactory proof shall be given, that the said articles,
-y^hen imported into such foreign state from the settlement of the
Cape of Good Hope, or the territories and dependencies thereof, in
British vessels, are charged with no higher duties than are charged
on the like articles when imported in vessels of such foreign state,
and that such articles, when imported in British vessels, are
entitled to the same privileges and advantages with respect to
warehousing and internal consumption, or otherwise, as when
imported in vessels of such state, then and in such case no higher
duties shall be charged on the export of such articles from the
184 Records of the Cape Colony.
settlement of the Cape of (Jood Hope, or the territories and
dependencies thereof, in vessels of such foreign state than shall be
charged on the export of the like articles in British vessels to such
foreign state :
It is, however, hereby further ordered and declared, that no
foreign vessel, allowed by the terms of this Order to export a
cargo from the settlement of the Cape of (Jood Hope, or the
territories and dependencies thereof, shall be permitted to export
such cargo to any of His Majesty's possessions, or to any other
place than a port or place belonging to the state or power to which
the vessel itself shall belong.
And the Bight Honourable the Lords Commissioners of His
Majesty's Treasury, and the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty
are to give the necessary directions herein, as to them may respec-
tively appertain,
(Signed) Chetwykd.
[OriginaL]
Letter from Lobd Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqbe.
Pabk Lane, JiOy VSth 1820.
Sir, — ^I have had the honor to receive your letter of the 11th
instant covering one from Mr. A. Hamilton (Secretary for the
Society for the propagation of the GU)spel in foreign Parts) and
requesting me to give any information in my power relative to
the contents of that letter.
With respect to the present place of worship in Cape Town I
have the honor to state to you that the Dutch Clergy are so good
as to place the Calvinistic church entirely at the disposal of the
Colonial Chaplain for aU purposes of divine worship, marriages,
christenings, &c., at such hours as are most convenient to the
Colonial Chaplain and the English Inhabitants. The hour of
divine service is j^ past 11 on all Simdays and other days on
which it is usual to perform divine service throughout the year.
The church is extremely spacious, handsome, and commodious,
and capable of containing at least 3 times the congregation that
on any occasion attends the English service.
Records of the Cape Colony^ 185
At one period the Military attended divine service in the
church, but conceiving that their occupying so large a proportion
of the space in the church tended to prevent a more full attendance
of the English Inhabitants, I fitted up an appropriate vacant
building in the Barracks as a chapel, in which divine service is
performed to the soldiers. I am however concerned to say that it
had not the effect I had hoped for of bringing a larger congregation
to the church. I have only to add that were the attendance at all
in proportion to the very excellent accommodation the church
affords, nothing more could be desired.
Eespecting Mr. Wright's proceeding to Cape Town I must
observe that unless he has a thorough knowledge of the Dutch
language his exertions amongst the natives and negroes would be
entirely futile. The natives have already their own Ministers and
there are schools both for them and the negroes. The talent and
enlightened mind of Dr. Philip aided by the local knowledge he is
now acquiring give in my mind a greater promise of success than
any regulations or suggestions originated here, and feeling as I do
the greatest anxiety for the success of the exertions of this laudable
Society, I cannot but recommend that Dr. Philip's arrangements
(whatever they may be) should not be interfered with mitil they
have had a fair trial. I have &c.
(Signed) Chakles Henry Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GoTBBinaBKT House, Gape Towk, Jidy 14Ah 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor of transmitting to Your Lordship
herewith two copies of a Eeport which has been made to me by
Captn. Moresby, commanding H.M. Ship Menai, respecting Algoa
Bay and the adjacent Coast, which as an interesting and useful
document I have no doubt will be acceptable to Your Lordship.
I have before acknowledged the services of Captain Moresby at
Port Elizabeth, and this report, added to a chart of Algoa Bay,
186 Records of the Cape Colony.
which I have received from him and which shall be forwarded to
your Lordship as soon as a copy is taken of it, gives Captn.
Moresby a fresh claim to my thanks. I have &c.
(Signed) B. S. Donkin.
[Enclosure.]
Remarks on the Rivers and Coast between Cape Recife and the Mouth
of the Keiskahama, with a particular description of Port
Elizabeth, Algoa Bay, Southern Africa.
Cape Eecife is situated in Latitude of 34^ 02' S. Longitude 25° 39 '
E. of Greenwich. It is a low rocky point ; the breakers extend
one mile and a half into the sea. The coast from this point runs
N. 32° W. 4 miles to Beacon or Eocky Point ; off this point lays
a bed of rocks, but sufficient water for ships to pass within a small
dangerous rock, over which the sea breaks in bad weather,, bearing
from Beacon's Point W. f K by compass, and Cape Eecife S.
i W. This rock is a small pinnacle ; we frequently tried to
heave the lead upon the top, but never had less than 20 feet.
Ships of large tonnage should therefore give Beacon's Point a good
berth, in approaching Port Elizabeth.
From Beacon's or Eocky Point, to the landing place at
Markham's Cove, is N.W. by N. by compass, nearly 3 miles ; sand
hills covered with bush. Immediately over Markham's Cove is
Fort Frederick, at present the only land-mark by which a stranger
is guided to the anchorage, and this from many positions is not
easily distinguished; but a Pyramid, about to be erected as a
private memorial, half-a-mile to the South-East of Fort Frederick,
will stand conspicuous to ships approaching the land.
From Markham's Cove to Ferreira's Eiver is K 13° E. by
compass, nearly 4 miles ; between this point and Beacon's Point
may be considered the anchorage of Port Elizabeth; the water
deepens gradually from the shore; the bottom is hard sand, in
which the anchors hold welL Where merchant ships have
generally anchored, the ground is not so clear as further out,
arising from numerous anchors that have been left ; but should
Port Elizabeth ever become a place of commercial consequence.
Records of the Cape Colony. 187
chain moorings, or even anchors of a larger size, with chain cables,
should be laid down for those ships that wish to approach near
the shore, for the purpose of loading or unloading. The expence
would not be very great, and a small tax for such an accommoda-
tion, would be cheerfully paid.
I do not make this remark from the insecurity cf the bay, for I
consider it at all times equal to Table Bay, and for six months very
far its superior.
His Majesty's Ship Menai, lay ofif Port Elizabeth from the 29th
of April, until the 25th of June, 1820 ;— during that period there
were only two days we could not communicate with the shore;-
with, a South-East wind a swell rolled in, but never any high
breaking sea. Ships have, from time to time, rode during the:
whole year in this bay, and some of His Majeety's Ships have
rode out the heaviest South-East gales that have been known.
Had I my choice of trusting my ship for the year round, to
Torbay, in England, Palermo Bay, in Sicily. Table Bay, or Algoa
Bay, I should, without hesitation, prefer the anchorage off Port
Elizabeth, Algoa Bay.
From the 1st of April, to the 1st of September, the wind scarce
ever blows from the South-East; and, calculating upon the average
number of days that ships can communicate, and carry on their
commercial occupations. Port Elizabeth infinitely surpasses Table
Bay.
In proof of what I have said, not a single accident happened in
landing the Settlers from England, (who amounted to 1020 men,'
607 men, and 2032 children,) from the period of their arrival,
in the middle of April, to the day of our departure, the 25th of
June. It is true, that two small coasters were wrecked last year,>
on the same day ; but if their loss is attributed to the right cause,
it will be rather to their want of good tackle, than the force of
wind ; — even from these vessels not a man perished.
No ship should anchor nearer the shore, until the bay is cleared
of anchors, than 6 J fathoms, without they have chain cables ; —
thus, in considering Port Elizabeth a safe anchorage, it may
naturally be looked forward to as a point to where the coasting trade
of the Colony can be carried to an extensive scale. Between Port
Elizabeth and Table Bay, the anchorages are numerous ; and there
are few masters of coasting vessels in England, Holland, or France,
who have not hourly more dangers to encounter, and more diffi*
1
188 Eecords of the Cape Colony.
culties to surmount, than the trade fronr Port Elizabeth to
Table Bay.
As the Export Port to the Isle of France, &c. Port Elizabeth is
admirably situated; and as a place for refreshment during the
winter months, few Seamen would risk their ships in Table Bay,
or encounter the delay in beating up to Simon's Bay with a North-
West wind, when Port Elizabeth affords much easier access, and
articles of refreshment at a more moderate price.
The bay abounds in fish, and this will be soon one of its most
important Exports. Eresh water, there is abundance of; at the
expence of a few hundred Eixdollars, it might be carried to the
beach in a stream, sufficiently strong to water any number of
ships.
The Thermometer, during our stay at Port Elizabeth, at noon,
varied from 66° to 59°. The night-s were cool, the morning air
fresh and invigorating. High water at full and change, 3 h. 40 m.
Tide rises about six feet.
Ferreira's Eiver is closed at the mouth by a bank of sand, except
at spring tides, and is not worth notice ; from thence to the mouth
of the Zwartkops, is KE. by E. i E. ; 2 miles to the shore, sandy
and flat. The surf rolls in much higher with every sort of
weather, than at Port Elizabeth.
The Zwartkops, in Latitude 33° 51' 24" S. Longitude 25° 43' 30'^
E. is a river of the first consequence, if Port Elizabeth should
continue to flourish. From the accompanying survey of it, the
capacity of its water is evident; and I have little doubt, that
when commercial gain shall stimulate the merchant to enterprise,
the Zwartkops will be found capable of admitting ships of
considerable tonnage; in fact, there is now in the river, the
remains of a Dutch ship of 200 tons, and there were but few days,
when boats could not have come over the bar whilst we remained
at Port Elizabeth. Ships may anchor off the Zwartkops to wait
for tide ; but I do not consider it so safe, as the anchorage off Port
Elizabeth.
From the Zwartkops to the Kuga Eiver. situated in Latitude
33° 47' 19" S. Longitude 25° 49' 30" E. is 5 miles. The coast-
sand hills, with a flat sandy beach. The mouth of this river is
closed, and the water peculiarly salt, that flows into a small lake ;
from hence to the Sunday Eiver is East 4° 35' South 9 miles.
The mouth of this river is situated in Latitude 33° 43' 06" S.
Records of the Cape Colony, 189
Longitude 25^ 32' 30" E. of Greenwich. Between tliis Point and
Cape Eecife, may be denominated Algoa Bay.
The Sunday Biver runs into the sea close to a remarkable rock,
which I have- denominated Bead's Monument, in remembrance of
a fine Youth, a Midshipman of the Menai, who perished with
three Seamen, in the execution of their duty whilst surveying the
coast.
On its ITorthern side, the bed of this river is de^p, but the surf
beats with violence over the bar across its mouth; and as here
the coast is exposed to the constant rolling swell, little chance of
its ever being useful to commercial purposes offers. There are
times when boats can enter, or leave Sunday Biver; but from
its mouth commences that wild inhospitable coast, that refuses
shelter to any class of shipping.
The Island of St. Croix, in Latitude 33° 47' 30" S. Longitude
25° 36' 50" E. lays S. 57° 50' East of the mouth of the Kuga, 3J
miles ; and S. 71° 10' W. from the mouth of the Sunday, 6 miles ;
it is about 2J in circumference. Another small rocky Island,
' which I have called Brenton's Isle, lays S. 46° W. of St. Croix,
1 J mile distant^ and about | of a mile in circumference. Off the
mouth of the Kuga, South |rds of a mile, is the Island of Jahleel,
about the same size as Brenton's Isle. Bound these Islands there
is good anchorage; and in the event of necessity, a ship might
find partial shelter near St. Crobc. These Islands are inhabited
by immense numbers of seals, which at times literally cover their
surface.
The coast from the mouth of the Sunday's Biver, runs to the
Eastward towards the Bosjesman's Biver. The mouth of this
river I did not examine ; from reports I received, it did not appear
to merit attention.
From the Bosjesman's Biver, the coast continues the sameness
of appearance, — sand hOls covered with bush.
The Bird Islands are alone visible along the whole line of
coast.
The mouths of the Karega and Kasouka were nearly closed,
a weak stream alone running over a bed of light sand. The
winter torrents, no doubt, will at times fill the beds of these
rivers to a great extent. Further Eastward is the Kowie, a river
that promises fairer than any I have visited (except the Zwart-
kops) at some future time, to admit ships over its bar. Like all
190 Becords of the Cape Colony.
the other rivers I have visited, it receives its inland stream into
an extensive sandy basin, from which it forces its way, through
a narrow channel on its Eastern side, into the sea, not wider at
low water, than 20 yards ; this stream runs in a S.S.E. direction ;
the surf broke across a bar about ^ of a mile from the entrance,
but not violent, and at low tide there must have been several feet
of water. What leads me to expect more from this river than the
others I have visited, is, that the water appears deep close to the
shore, and there are two extensive beds of rocks, which bore by
compass S.E. by S. from the river's mouth about 2 J mUes. If
there is anchorage under those rocks, ships might perhaps be able
to wait the convenience of tide before they attempted to enter the
river.
The next appearance of a river to the Eastward is the Eleine
Monden, which has apparently at times three outlets to the sea ;
but they were all closed when I saw them, and I suspect are only
open at spring tides, or when the mountain waters come down.
From the Kowie to the Great Fish River's mouth, the coast has
a more verdant appearance, the sand hills are covered with
luxuriant bush; but there is not an inlet or curve of any sort
that offers shelter for ships. The surf rolls in high breakers along
the coast.
The country at the mouth of the Fish Eiver, is open, inter-
spersed with picturesque ravines, generally clothed with bush;
when I arrived, the water was at the lowest ebb ; from the S.W.
side a sand bank projects to within 20 yards of the N.E. side ; the
<5urrent was running through this channel slowly into the sea, and
I could trace its stream gradually decreasing in breadth, until
finished in a point, making the mouth of the river form the base
of an equilateral triangle; from this point part of the ebb is
thrown back on the flat beach, runs to the Westward, and finds an
outlet close to the rocks on the western side; at this spot the
water appears deep. At the breadth of 10 yards, the sea did not
break successively, but at times there was an interval of 5
minutes, when a boat could easily have landed; but when it
did break, it was with treble the violence of the constant rolling
surf along the sand before the river's mouth. The entrance of
the river E.S.E. and W.N.W. the stream inclines a little to the
S.W. after passing the extreme point where the sea broke with
violence across.
Records of the Cape Colony. 191
The position of the Pish River may be easily ascertained at sea,
in a fine day, by some distant hills of an undulating form, bearing
N.N.W. per compass; these hills are then between the ravines
through which the river flows.
The Great Fish Biver, at particular seasons, swells to a consider-
able height ; at these times, from the violence of the current, no
ship or vessel could possibly enter; but when the causes have
ceased that filled its bed, the river becomes a mere stream, and
for several months in the year, I much doubt whether the strength
of water would turn a mill. I think the water is sufficiently
deep, to admit ships to anchor off the river's mouth. As the tide
rose the surf encreased, but at dead low water, there must have
been several feet on the bar. Not the least appearance of shifting
sand, or rocks, were observed amongst the breakers. The land, on
the Western bank of the Fish Biver, near its mouth, is most
beautiful, being a rich black earth, with a covering of luxuriant
pasture.
I crossed this river at the first ford from the sea, about six
nules inland; here the stream meanders through a deep and
bushy ravine. "We led our horses down on Friday the 12th of
May, and were near an hour in descending. When we reached
the bank, the tide had not sufficiently receded to admit our
crossing; in an hour it was effected, and when the tide was
perfectly out, there was but a very small fresh water stream.
From hence to the Beeca, we continued in an E.S.E. direction ;
we crossed this river at a ford where the tide reaches at springs,
there was scarcely any water in its bed. From this ford to the
mouth of the Beeca, is about 6 miles. I remained here to witness
the effect, that the ebb and flow of tide had on the bar. The
stream runs S.W. into the sea; is not more at low water than
12 or 14 fathoms across, but deep. This river bids fair to admit
coasting vessels, from the following causes : —
The water clear of the river's mouth, appears deeper ; the mouth
is so narrow, and the river so confined, that the tide is more rapid
than at the Keiskahama, or the Fish Biver ; the breakers are not
more than would be expected at a depth of 8 or 10 feet, and
resembled what is generally seen of rivers' mouths that are known
to be navigable; the coast, however, is still as inhospitable as
what I have hitherto seen. From the mouth of the Beeca to the
Keiskahama, is about 15 miles, in an E.S.E. direction ; there are
192 Records of the Cape Colony.
several small streams, up which the sea flows 6 or 6 miles at
spring tides ; but the sea rolls in high breakers along the coast.
The first view of the Keiskahama, is the most flattering to
those who visit it for the reason I did, viz. : " to ascertain whether
it was open at the mouth for the purpose of commerce." An ex-
tensive basin of water receives the inland stream ; the extreme
points between which the Keiskahama flows when its bed is full,
bear from each other N.E. by E. and S.W. by W. about 1 mile
distant ; but this bed can only be full when the mountain torrents
are the cause. It was nearly high water when I visited it, the
mouth of the river then about 70 or 80 yards across, the stream
running South into the sea, strong and deep. Fart of it is forced
back along the shore, similar to the Fish Eiver, but the greater
part runs close along the low rocky shore, forming the N.E.
point ; its breakers were here, evidently, not so successive, and
I do not despair of there being a channel at high tides, for small
vessels ; but the wildness of the coast, with the flat that reaches
1 J or 2 miles seaward, blight the hope that this river can ever be
constantly open to the most enterprising trader. It is not at
present, nor calculating upon probabilities, can ever be, the resort
of the King's Ships; — the tides are too feeble, and of too little
elevation, to serve any great purpose ; about 7 or 8 feet was the
highest I could decide, by the marks on the shore, that the tides
rose. I remained imtil low water, — the river then did not exceed
40 yards in breadth. The ravine, through which the Keiskahama
serpentines, runs in a N .W. and S.E. direction. The entrance
may be known at sea, in clear weather, by a range of mountains
in the interior ; one standing by itself, rising in a conical shape,
flattened at the top ; and a short distance to the Eastward, another
high mountain, forming three distinct elevations and falls ; when
these mountains bear N.KW. they are on with the Keiskahama.
The N.E. point of land, close to which the river flows into the sea,
is low and rocky, running from a remarkable little green hillock,
detached from the one where the bank begins to rise ; — the S.W.
point is a sandy hillock. Along the coast, the sand is covered
with bush, through which, at dififerent places, it is visible.
Having given an account of the rivers between Cape Eecife and
the Keiskahama, I shall close with this general observation : —
That from the straightness of the coast, few ships will ever venture
to approach them ; that although they are generally called rivers.
Itecords of the Cape Colony. 193
they are mere streamlets, when not filled by mountain torrents or
heavy rains. It is true, that the Fish and Keiskahama Bivers,
close to their mouths, appear magnificent sheets of water ; but as
I crossed the Fish Biver 6 or 7 miles irom its entrance, almost
dry footed, the Beeca, without wetting my shoes; and as I am
told, the Keiskahama has a ford at an equally short distance from
its mouth, they are in themselves but streamlets ; the tide does
not rise sufficiently high to make them, what are called in
England, tide harbours.
If» therefore, trade is ever carried on, it is my opinion, that by
Port Elizabeth, or the Zwartkops alone, it can be effected with
security.
We have, from time to time, heard of lamentable shipwrecks
between Cape TAgulhas and the Keiskahama; — no doubt, the
greater part of these would have been avoided, had a light warned
the mariner of his danger. The expence of erecting a light-house
on Cape Eecife and Cape TAgulhas, would not be very great, and
the expence of lighting them very trivial. How willingly every
navigator to and from India would contribute to the expence of
these buildings, is well known ; and, if but one ship had been
preserved by such a beacon, that has buried her crew and cargo
on the sandy shores of Africa, it would pay for years, (if money
alone is to be considered, and not the life of man,) the expence of
a light-house.
(Signed) Faikfax Moresby,
Captain H.M. Ship Menai,
lih July, 1820.
[Copy]
Extracts from a Letter from Mr. Egbert Woodcock to the
Colonial Secretary.
KiiKiN Vallst, IQth July 1820.
As for myself, Mr. Parker assigned to me by letter 1000 acres
of land, according to his agreement, which I accepted, until I
should know His Excellency's pleasure, tho' most of it is
extremely inferior, and deemed unfit for cultivation, and have
taken possession accordingly, yet Mr. Parker has subsequently
XIII. 0
194 Eecords of the Cape Colony,
attempted to grant part of the same land of the best part over
again to a different person, who has obliged him with advances
of money, and in fact, he has divided all that part of the Grovem-
ment Grant, which admits of irrigation, and profitable cultivation,
amongst 3 or 4 of his partisans and favourites, who have either
lent him money or otherwise purchased his favour, and has
abandoned us to our fate, having gone to Saldanha Bay without
making any provision for those of the Settlers who are yet without
land.
Whilst here the sufferings of the Free Settlers were regarded
by this Gentleman with the most cold blooded indifference, and
contempti and he has proved himself in many respects unworthy
to be considered as Director of the Party.
The honor of a few lines to let us know what our fate is likely
to be, is anxiously hoped for by Sir &c.
(Signed) E. Woodcock.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawb Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GovBBifMKNT HousE, Gapb Town, 20tA July 1820.
My Lord, — ^I have the honor of acquainting your Lordship that
I returned to this place on the 25th of last month from the
Frontier, and I have the satisfaction of reporting to your Lordship
that the business of locating the Settlers was uniformly going on
prosperously.
The area which I described in my separate dispatch, dated fix>ni
Bathurst, is gradually filling up, and the new Colonists are every-
where exerting themselves in building or hutting and in agricul-
ture, as far as their means go ; but it is with much regret that I
have to acquaint your Lordship, that neither ploughs nor wooden
houses, both which I have long expected, have as yet reached this
place. The want of the ploughs will be felt hereafter I fear ; and
the settlers have many of them complained that they have not the
means of turning up the soil, so as to provide for future subsis-
tence. This circumstance may lead to the necessity of issuing
Hecards of the Cape Colony, 195
^Rations to the Settlers for a longer period than was at first
intended.
Some of the parties shew a strong tendency to disunion among
fhemselyes; but this may in almost all cases be traced to the
dishonesty and bad faith of the persons at the head of them, who
have endeavoured in many instances to impose on and oppress
those who have confided themselves to their guidance. I have
done what depended on me to keep these parties together, and I
am anxious that none of them should absolutely disperse at least
for the first year ; that is that they should keep together until by
their tmited labor they shall have produced a sufficiency of Com
for their current subsistence ; after which the dissolution of the
badly composed parties will be attended with no sort of injury to
the general measure of colonization, rather the contrary, for the
laboring class will be gradually withdrawn &om the dominion of
those heads of parties who have neither capital nor character to
attach their followers to them, and they will be employed by the
richer and more respectable heads of parties, while the evil of dis-
persion will fall chiefly on those who most deserve to suffer, that
is on heads of parties without means or honesty.
I hear nothing of the Kaffers, nor do I think it likely they will
materially trouble the new Colonists, at least for a time. The
object of these savage tribes is, as your Lordship is aware, to find
laige quantities of Cattle and few Men looking after them, whereas
in the Zuurveld they would find comparatively few cattle and a
considerable population.
I have lately sent up arms to be distributed, under certain
r^ulations, amongst the Settlers, and shall shortly take measures
for enrolling them in such a manner as to have a Force easily
assembled in case of need.
With a further view of covering effectually that frontier, I have
allotted a District, highly fertile and promising, on the Chumie
and Kat Bivers, for Captain Grant and his 400 families when they
arrive. This spot is in the lately ceded country, and in an inter-
view I had with the Kaffer Chief Gaika he expressed himself
highly satisfied at having English Colonists in large numbers and
under one head near him. This will form the left of the Une of
frontier occupation. The centre will be covered by a fortified
barrack and 260 men on the Biver Keiskamma, and I have it in
contemplation, in case the Boyal African Corps should be ultimately
o 2
196 Records of the Cape Colony.
ordered to be reduced here, to grant Lands to about 150 men and
six or seven officers (who have applied to me for them) on the
Biver Beka, close to the Sea, between the Keiskamnla and the
Fish Elvers. This would form the right of the Frontier line, the
whole extent of which is about 80 miles, and through which,
peopled and watched as it would be, it would be difficult for
Kaflfers to retire with the plunder, even if they succeeded in
advancing into the Colony and collecting it. They are however
an active and artful Bace and no reliance can be placed on
them.
When I saw the Kaffer Chief Gaika, I introduced to him Mr.
Brownlee, a Missionary, who returned with him and who is now
resident on the part of this Government in Gaika's Camp, I have
great hopes in the benefits these tribes will derive from the intro-
duction of Christianity amongst them, and by a Eeport I have
lately received from Mr. Brownlee everything in Kaffiraria is
going on quietly and well. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gannon Bow, 21«t Jui/y 1820.
Sm, — ^In reference to my letter of the 6th Inst. I have now the
honor to enclose a " Schedule of Charges in the Supplementary
Accounts of Thomas Peregrine Courtenay Esq. Agent for the Cape
of Good Hope from November 1813 to 31 December 1818, for
sundry articles provided and forwarded, and for other disburse-
ments incurred, for the service of that Colony upon requisi-
tions from the Colonial Government," and for which the sanction
of His Majesty's Secretary of State is required by the Colonial
Auditors. And I am to solicit Lord Bathursf s sanction for these
charges.
According to the present system my accounts are rendered to
the Auditors in the first instance, and no charge is incurred with-
£ 8.
d.
£ 8. d.
621 16
81 0
14 6
9
6
0
29 3
4
746 6 7
Records of the Cape Colony, 197
out the sanction of the Secretary of State. I trust that this will
be the last application of the nature which it will be my duty to
make. I have &c.
(Signed) Tho. Per. Courtenay.
[Enclosure.]
Schedule of Charges in the Supplementary Accounts of Thomas
Peregrine Courtenay Esqr. Agent for the Cape of Good Hope
bom November 1813 to 31st December 1818, for Sundry
Articles provided and forwarded and for other Disbursements
incurred for the service of that Colony upon requisitions
from the Colonial Government and for which the Sanction of
lEs Majesty's Secretary of State is required.
1813.
Paid Messrs. Nash & Morgsin for biindry articles •
y, Messrs. Motley for Stationery
„ Messrs. Byfield & Son for Newspapers
y, Messrs. Bagshawe & Sons for Newspapers
Gazettes &c. •
1814.
Messrs. Budd & Calkin for a Bible and Prayer
Book 12 4 0
Messrs. Bagshawe & Sons for Newspapers
Gazettes &c. . . ! . . . 27 16 9
Lord Lowther for horses including incidental
and Shipping expenses .... 280 1 0
320 1 9
1815.
Mr. Flower, and Sir Culling Smith, for sheep
including shipping expenses . . . 238 7 2
Mr. Ilbert for Devonshire Cattle including
incidental and shipping expenses • . 94 0 6
Messrs. Beck & Allan for seeds . . . 75 0 6
Messrs. Bagshawe & Sons for Newspapers
Gazettes &c 55 4 6
The General Post Office for Newspapers and
Gazettes 61 2 4
Mr. Strongitharm for an Official Seal . . 9 9 0
Mr. Rennie for additional Waterworks . • 709 12 5
Messrs. Winchester & Sons for Stationery
supplied in 1813 and 1814 including shipping
expenses •••... 880 16 7
2,123 13 0
i I
n
n
M
99
99
99
99
99
99
99
99
198 Records of the Cape Colony.
1816. £ 8. (L £ 8. d.
Paid For Postage of letters for the Gape detained in
England for non payment of Duty . . 85 0 11
^ Mr. Fry for further Types for Printing Press,
induding Shipping Expenses . . . 12 19 0
„ Mr. Fry for Printing Ornaments • . • 4 14 6
^ Messrs. Bagshawe & Sons for Newspapers
Gazettes &c 65 7 8
„ Mr. Meams for Custom-house Charges on a Box
of Models of Water Fountains received
from the Cape 1 17 10
1817.
Mr. Guitard for translating and inserting Ad-
vertisements in foreign Gazettes
Messrs. Budd & Calkin for Books •
Mr. Hawkins for filtering Machines ,
1818.
„ Mr. Walter and Mr. Cook for Printing Presses
and Appurtenances. • . • . • 134 8 0
,, Stationery Office for Stationery . • . 653 6 1
,, Sir I. Sebright Bart for Merino Sheep . • 161 15 0
„ Mr. Causton for Merino Bams . • • 42 0 0
,, Messrs. Stocker & Welch for Shipping Ex-
penses on a Bible and Prayer Book in 1814 2 0 0
„ Mr. Meams for charges on Models of Water
Works received from the Cape • • • 2 4 6
„ Messrs. Bagshaw for Newspapers Gh&zettes &c
in 1816 and 1817 48 3 11
n
29 1
8
119 19 11
15 5
4
4 12
0
48 19 0
1,043 17 6
Colonial Audit Office,
14 July 1820.
£4,402 17 9
G. Panario, Inspector.
Records of the Cape Colony. 199
m
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
DowMiKQ Strbbt, 22r(2 July 1820.
Sir, — I have received with much satisfaction your Dispatch of
the 26th of March announcing the arrival of several Transports
with Emigrants from this Country and detailing the measures
which you had adopted for forwarding them to their ultimate
destination and for placing them on their respective lands.
The Arrangements which have been made appear so well cal-
culated to ensure to the Settlers every reasonable Advantage, that
it is only requisite for me to assure you of their having been
entirely approved, and to request that you would express to
Captain Moresby of His Majesty's Ship Menai, the sense which I
entertain of his zealous co-operation in your views, and especially
of his having accompanied the Settlers to Algoa Bay for the pur-
pose of assisting in their disembarkation and relieving the difficul-
ties necessarily incident to a first establishment in a new Colony.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from SiR RuFANB Shawe Donk!in to Earl Bathurst.
Gafb or QooD Hope, 22tM2 July 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor to transmit, for the information of
Tour Lordship, the enclosed Memorial received &om the merchants
resident in this Town, as well as a letter from the Master of the
Cape Packet on the same subject.
Altho' it may reasonably be supposed, that the xjonveyance by
Merchant Ships of Public Mails from His Msgesty's Colonies to
the Mother Country was in the contemplation of the Legislature,
the Masters of those vessels certainly consider a refusal within
their discretion. I therefore venture to suggest, whether Your
Lordship might not think fit to cause such provision, to be made
200 Records of the Cape Colony.
as may hereafter relieve the public from commercial interests and
the serious inconvenience of losing opportunities of communicating
with England, as has taken place in the instance now brought
under the notice of Your Lordship. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Enclosure A.]
To His Excellency Major General Sir Rufane Shawb Donkin,
Acting Governor and Commander in Chief, &c., &c., cfec.
The Memorial of the undersigned Committee of the Commercial
Boom Most respectfully Sheweth
That the Ship Cape Packet, a regular Trader between England
and this Colony, having taken on board a Cargo of Produce, and
being about to sail for England, a Mail was made up, but John
Babett, the Master, refused to receive it on board, and notwith-
standing every remonstrance sailed without it, to the very serious
inconvenience and disappointment of the merchants and inhabi-
tants who had prepared letters to be forwarded by this con*
veyance.
Whei'efore the undersigned havjB been directed by the General
Meeting to bring this subject to the notice of Your Excellency,
and to request that you wilUbe pleased to take such measures as
may prevent a recurrence of such inconvenience.
And your Memorialists as in duty bound will ever pray.
(Signed) Thos. Sanderson,
Jno. Nisbet,
Chiaphni,
Danl. Dixon,
Alexr. Scott.
Cafb Towk, I5th July 1820.
[Enclosure B.]
Captain Babett's compliments to Mr. Ellis, Deputy Colonial
Secretary, has no objection taking the Post Office Mail, providing
he is allowed One Thousand Bixdollars for the same.
im June 1820.
Records of the Cape Colony.x 201
ICopy.J
MemoiHal of Mr. William Parkee.
Gafb Town, 22nd July 1820.
To His Excellency Sir Rufane Donkin K.C.B., Acting Governor
of the Cape of Good Hope.
The Memorial of William Parker Most respectfully Sheweth,
That your Memorialist arrived in this Colony with a party
of Settlers from London and Cork in the ship Hast Indian,
Among these are several seafaring persons, fishermen, and naval
mechanicks, whose former pursuits require a location on the Sea
Coast, and for whose useful employment he is most anxious to
provide.
That a part of your Memorialist's Agriculturists has been sent
to Clanwilliam, and that he is desirous to obtain from your Excel-
lency a grant of a small part of the land, stores, and the negro
house at Saldanha Bay, where your Memorialist's family, servants
and some atificers remain. The land and stores are contiguous to
the Resident's House, and are apparently quite useless to that
Officer, as they are in a state of dilapidation and ruin.
That your Memorialist is in expectation of procuring a per-
manent residence at Saldanha Bay, and as Schapen and Meeuweu
Islands in that Bay are at present totally useless to Government,
he solicits the temporary accommodation of the same for the
purpose of feeding sheep or raising vegetables. And &c.
[Original.]
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqrb.
Admibaltt Offiox, 2Uh July 1820.
Sir, — I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty to transmit to you herewith an extract of a letter from
Dr. Young, Secretary of the Board of Longitude, on the subject
of erecting an Observatory at the Cape of Good Hope, and to
202 Becords of the Cape Colony.
acquaint you for Earl Bathurst's information that mj Lords
concur with the Board of Longitude in the expediency of
establishing an Observatory at the Cape, and therefore hope that
his Lordship will instruct the Governor of the Cape to allot for
the purpose a suitable piece of ground at the expence of the
Colonial Government, and in such a situation (probably some
miles distance from Cape Town) as the Astronomer whom their
Lordships propose to send out may deem fit and eligible, and to
afford every facility in his power towards carrying this object into
effect. I am &c.
(Signed) Jno. Babeow;.
[Enclosure.]
Eoctrtict of a Letter from, Dr. Young, Secretary to the Board of
Longitude, addressed to John Barrow, Esqre., dated 22 Jidy 1820.
The Board of Longitude having resolved that it would be highly
conducive to the improvement of Practical Astronomy and Naviga-
tion that a permanent Observatory should be established at the
Cape of Good Hope; and that, in their opinion, nothing could
more essentially promote the glory of the British name, than that
this nation should be the foremost inimeh-an undertaking, which
would afiord to the Astronomers of Europe, if properly executed,
a series of comparative observations made under circumstances
the most favorable for correcting the unavoidable imperfections
depending on the instruments employed, and on the materials
surrounding them, by a countervailing tendency to equal and
opposite errors.
[Oflace Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to
Lord Charles Somerset.
DowNiMQ Stbsbt, 25th July 1S20.
My Lord, — By the direction of Earl Bathurst I do myself the
honour to acquaint your Lordship that the King has been pleased
JRecords of the Cape Colony, 203
to signify His pleasure that the Honour of Knighthood should be
conferred by Patent on Mr. Truter in consideration of his long
and'faithful discharge of judicial Duties at the Cape of Good Hope,
and as a testimony of the Sense which His Majesty entertains of
his conduct during the period of his holding the Situation of Chief
Justice at that Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Original.]
Letter from E. Lushington, Esqre., to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Tbbasubt Chaxbebs, 25^ Jtdy 1820.
Sir,— :The Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury
haviag had under their consideration a letter from the Com-
missioners of Colonial Audit of the 4th Instant further on the
subject of the accounts of Lord Charles Somerset as Governor of
the Cape of Good Hope and the mode in which the Audit of them
should proceed and also inclosing a copy of the Schedule of the
Establishment at the Cape of Good Hope, with the Accounts
for 1816 and 1817, 1 have it in command to transmit to you the
said Schedule of the Establishment which has been received with
the accounts for 1816 and 1817 and to desire you will move Lord
Bathurst to inform My Lords whether this Establishment has
received his Lordship's approbation. I am &c.
(Signed) K. Lushington.
204
Records of the Gape Colony*
[Enclosure.]
Schedule of the Mooed Civil UstMishment at the
Cape of Good Hope,
His Excellency the Governor ....
Private Secretary
Aide de Gamp, Gapt. Underwood .
do. Lieut. Somerset ....
Surgeon to the Governor's Household,"^
Dr. Barry /
Gommandant of Simon's Town ....
Colonial Office.
•
Golonial Secretary, H. Alexander, Esq.
Deputy do. G. Bird, Esq.
Asst. do. J. W. van der Biet, Esq
Translator, Mr. C. D'Escury. . .
Head Glerk, Mr. S. V. Gloete . .
Second do. Mr. P. G. Brink . .
Ttirddo. Mr. J. G. Brink . .
Fourth do. Mr. G. W. G. Bergh .
Fifth do. Mr. 0. 1. Truter . .
Sixth do. Mr. G. D. Baumgardt .
Seventh do. Mr. A. de Smidt . .
Eighth do. Mr. G. Reitz . . .
Ninth do. Mr. J. J, R. Gruywagen
Messenger, J. Tier
do. for House Rent .
do. A. Jonker ....
Bookbinder to Government .
£ 8. d.
10,000 0 0
600 0 0
182 10 0
182 10 0
182 10 0
3,500 0 0
1,500 0 0
Auditor of Accounts Office,
The Auditor, W. Bentinck, Esq.
1st Glerk, Mr. A. Lehman .
2nd ^ Mr. J. W. Benn . . <
1,050 0 0
FiscaTs Offiqe.
Fiscal, D. Denyssen, Esq. . .
1 Depy., P. B. Borcherds, Esq. .
2 . do. J. Lind, Esq. . . .
1 Glerk & Translator, Mr. P. Auret
2 do. Mr. F. W. de Wet . .
3 do. Mr. D. S. Schomberg .
4 do. Mr. W. J. Borcherds
Rds. sk. St.
600 0 O
3,000
0
o
1,400
0
o
1,500
0
0
900
0
o
900
0
o
700
0
o
700
0
0
700
0
o
700
0
0
500
0
o
500
0
o
600
0
0
400
0
o
600
0
o
600
0
0
1,200 0 O
700 0 O
10,000 0 O
4,500 0 O
3,000 0 O
1,100 0 O
700 0 O
660 0 0
650 0 0
Buoris 0/ tki Cape OoUmg.
205
1 Under Sheriff, P. StMl «...
do. out of the Fees of the FiKskTB Office
2 do. L. H. Rhead
3 do. W. Stokes
Jailor
80 Gonstablee at 420 each . . . .
4 Executioners at 72 each ....
I
Court of JmatiM.
Chief Justice, J. A. Truter, Esq. .
Ist Member, C. Matthiessen, Esq. .
2nd. do. W. Hiddingh, Esq. •
D. F. Berruige, Esq. •
W. D. Jennings, Esq. .
W. Bentinck, Esq.
J. H. Neethlin& Ksq. .
F. ILBresIer, Esq.. .
8rddo.
4th do.
5th do.
6th do.
7th do.
8th da J. G. Fleck, Eso.
Secretary, G. Beelaerts Tsn Blokland, Fsq
English Assistant, H. Muiphy, Esq. .
Physician & Siugeon, Dr. Lieeching, Jr.
let Head Clerk, Mr. J. J. le Sueur . .
2nd do.
8rddo.
Ordinary do.
do.
do.
do.
Mr. J. T. Jurgens .
Mr. R. van der Riet
Mr. A. G. Muller .
Mr. E. Berch . . .
Mr. W. J. Smuts .. .
Mr. C. C. Bresler . .
Supernumerary do., Mr. A. J. Cruywagen
do. Mr. T. Allman
do. Mr. D. L. Baumgardt
Ist Messenger, C. E. Ziervogel
2nd do. A. Felix . .
8rd do. J. Jacobsen
4tb do. T. R. Walsh .
Depy. do. H. Scheffer. .
Orphan Chamber,
The President, J. A. Truter, Esq. .
Vice do. D. de Waal, Esq. .
Ist Member, A. V. Bergh, Esq. • .
2nd do. A. J. van Breda, Esq.
8id do. G. E. Overbeek, Esq. .
4th do. T. F. Munnik, Esq. .
Secretary, J. P. Faure, Esq. . .
Bookkeeper, G. A. Watermeyer, Esq.
Chief Clerk, Mr. P. E. Faure . .
& d. i Rds. sk. St
S40 0 0
eoo 0 0
000 0 0
580 0 0
540 0 0
12,600 0 0
2d8 0 0
6,000
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
3,250
0
0
6,000
0
0
8,000
0
0
1,000
0
0
2,000
0
0
1,000
0
0
1,000
0
0
700
0
0
700
0
0
550
0
0
550
0
0
500
0
0
260
0
0
200
0
0
760
0
0
760
0
0
750
0
0
760
0
0
250
0
0
4,000
1,500
1.000
1,000
1,000
1,000
5,500
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4.000 0 0
1,000 0 0
206
Records of the Cape Colony.
2nd Clerk, Mr. P. I. Poggenpoel
3rd do. Mr. T. Semirier .
4th do. Mr. J. J. Maynier .
6th do. Mr. EL. N. van Breda
Messenger, Mr. T. N. Bouch
Lombard Bank.
The President, J. Marshall, Esq.
Director, A. V. Bergh, Esq. . .
do. J. W. Stoll, Esq. . .
do. G. H. Maasdorp, Esq. .
Cashier, Mr. W. C. van Kyneveld
Bookkeeper, Mr. H. P. Auret .
Clerk, Mr. A. G. de Smidt . .
The President, E. Bergh, Esq. .
Member, T. F. Semirier, Esq. .
do. C. Nelson, Esq. . .
Secretary, B. J. van der Biet, Esq.
Chief Clerk, Mr. J. A. H. Falck
2nd do. Mr.W.T. Bergh .
3rd do. Mr. P. J. Pereyn . •
4th do. Mr. J. van Oudtshoom
Ist Messenger, J. Blore . . . .
2nd do. S. Salamonse. . .
Discount Bank.
Cashier, Mr. R. Crozier . . .
Accountant, Mr. T. C. Gie, Jnr.
Asst. do. S. V. van Reenen .
Clerk, D. F. Lehman. . . .
Messenger, C. Meyer . . .
Insolvent Estates Chamber.
Receiver OeneraJ^s Office.
Beceiver General, F. Dashwood, Esq.
Depy. do. Mr. C. S. Eckard
do. allowance for stationery . .
£ 8. d.
Colonial Faymaster's Office.
The Colonial Paymaster, T. Macarthy, Esq.
Clerk, Mr. J. W. Benn
•^
1,000 0 0
Bds. sk. St.
650 0 0
650 0 0
600 0 0
600 0 0
1,600 0 0
6,000 0 0
1,600 0 0
1,600 0 0
1,600 0 0
1,600 0 0
2,100 0 0
600 0 0
3,000 0 0
900 0 0
800 0 0
600 0 0
480 0 0
3,000
2,250
2,250
4,000
1,100
750
750
500
1,500
610
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3,000 0 0
1,200 0 0
100 0 0
500 0 0
Becords of the Cape Colony,
207
Office of Land Bevenue.
The Receiver, J. J. L. Smuts, Esq.
Depy. do. Mr. H. Maynier .
Clerk, P. A. RooB ....
MeBsenger, C. Meyer . . .
Collector of Tythes Office,
The CoUector, W. T. Klerck, Esq.
Bookkeeper, Mr. T. Humphreys,
aerk, T. D. Overbeek . .
Collecting do. A. Gkxlier . . -
Assistant, A. Hutchison . .
do. P. T. Kuuhl . .
do. at Simon's Town, A. Baven
Poet Office.
Postmaster, R. Crozier, Esq
Clerk, Mr. M. T. Onkruydt
Post mistress Simon's Town, Mrs. Alcock .
do. at StellenboBch „ Caldwell
do. at the Paarl „ Wranck- \
more /
Post-master Tulbagh, Mr. T. Winterbach .
„ Caledon, Mr. W. Klyne . .
„ Swellendam, Mr. W. Kuys
„ Oeorge, Mr. S. H. du Toit , .
f, Uitenhage, Mr. Lelyveld . .
„ G-raaff Reinet, Mr. P. Stocken-^
Strom ./
„ Graham's Town, Mr. Broek-)
huisen ]
Messenger, A Watson
„ W. Bower
Printing Department.
The Superintendent, Mr. G. Ross
Bookkeeper, Mr. P. G. Brink
Printer, Mr. A. Richert, Sr. •
Compositor, Mr. T. Richert .
do. B. van de Sandt
do. W. Bridekirk, Jr.
do. A. Richert, Jr. .
Apprentice, V. Schomberg, Jr.
Messenger, Hicken
£ B. d.
Rds. bk. St.
2,700 0 0.
1,000 0 0
600 0 0
240 0 0
2,000
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
2,600
0
0
900
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
500
0
0
500
0
0
500
0
0
600
0
0
600 0 0
150 0 0
360 0 0
360 0 0
1,200
0
0
500
0
0
1,200
0
0
840
0
0
720
0
0
720
0
0
720
0
0
144
0
0
240
0
0
208
Becords of the Cape Colony.
Port Office^ Cape Town,
The Port Captain, C. Blair, Esq.
Pepy. do. Mr. W. Bridekirk
1 Coxswain
2 Sailors at 360 Rds. ea. . . .
6 Lascars at 300
Officer of Health
»
99
Port Office^ SimovCs Town,
Harbour Master, T. Gardner, Esq. . .
1 Coxswain
6 Lascars at 300 Bds. ea
Officer of Health, acting at Simon's Town
during the Winter Season at one Spanish |
dollar per diem dX^.^
Custom Hotiae, Cape Town,
The Collector, C. Blair, Esq. .
Comptroller, W. W. Bird, Esq. .
Searcher, E. Maude, Esq
Chief Clerk,
2nd do.
Comptroller's do.
2nd do.
Searcher's do.
Tide Surveyor,
Tide Waiter
do.
do.
do.
do.
do.
Storekeeper
Mr. W. T. Bickwood
T. Murdock .
J. Aspeling .
T. Schultz .
H. Truter. .
W. Bridekirk
T. White . .
P. E. Petrie .
E. MiUer . .
L. Comelissen
J. Taytasar .
W. Proctor .
T. Ord . .
»
99
99
99
99
19
99
99
99
99
Allowance for Porterage .
Messenger, Yan den Berg
Custom House, Simon^s Town,
The Collector, P. J. Truter, Esq. ...
Tide Waiter, C. Robinson
,, „ Mr. T. White, when employed"^
at Simon's Town . . . /
Inspector of Lands and Woods.
The Inspector, C. D'Escury, Esq. . . .
Clerk, J. Johnson
8. d.
600 0 0
1,000 0 0
1,000 0 0
700 0 0
700 0 0
Rds. sk. St.
1,260 0 0
420 0 0
720 0 0
1,800 0 0
600 0 0
2,000 0 0
420 0 0
1,800 0 0
218 1 2
1,200
900
1,200
900
1,200
240
720
720
720
720
720
720
1,800
100
300
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0 0
720 0 0
365 0 0
5,000 0 0
600 0 0
Records of the Cape Cohmy,
209
Overseer of the Timber Store, Mr. Oliver .
Inspector of Buildings and Sworn Surveyor, \
John Melvill, Esq. /
Wine Ihater'B Office.
Wiiie Taster, W. Underwood, Esa. . . .
Oauger and Examiner of casks, Mr. Lolly .
Bookkeeper, Mr. Paton . . • ...
Medical Committee.
The President, Dr. Hussey
Secretary, Mr. T. K. Deane
Vaccine Institutitm,
The Director, Dr. Huss^ • . . .
Yaodnating Surgeon, W. H. Lys, Esq.
do. Dr. Barry
Secretary, Mr. T. 1{. Deane • . . ^ .
Office for the Enregisterment of Slaves.
The Inspector, G. T. Rogers, Esq.
Asst. do. Mr. J. J. Maynier
Ist Clerk, Mr. J. J. F. Boselt
2nd do. Mr. W. Nelson
3rd do. Mr. J. Wrensch
4th do. Mr. H. Home
5th do. Mr. G. Payne.
Temporary do., Jas. Gunn
Messenger, F. Weys . .
Court of Appeals.
The Assessor, H. Alexander, Esq. . . .
„ G. Kekewich, Esq. . . .
Secretary, T. Bowles, Esq
Messenger, C. Velbron
Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court, George V
Kekewich, Esq. • . . . . . ./
Department of the Slave Lodge.
The Director, C. G. Hohne, Escj. .
Surgeon, T. Dempster, Esq.
s. d.
••
150 O 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
480 0 0
..
600 0 0
Bds. sk. St.
360 0 0
5,000 0 0
3,000 0 0
1,600 0 0
700 0 0
500 0 0
1,800 0 0
1,200 0 0
1,200 0 0
500 0 0
6,000
0
0
2,000
0
0
760
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
600
0
0
420
0
0
360
0
0
300 0 a
288 0 0
1,500 0 0
xin.
210
Eecords of the Cape Colony.
Schoolmaster, A% Hogenberg
do. . for House Rent
Porter, T. B. Blom . • . .
Three Overseers at 192 each.
Vendue Office.
Commissary of Yenduep, J. F. Reitz, Fsq. .
Assistant do. Mr. E. A. Buyskes
.Bookkeeper, Mr. T. H. Hofmeyr • . .
Chief Clerk, „ C. F. tennant ....
1st CMrk, R. S. AUeman
2nd do. A. T. ^'esar
3rd do. J. Ley
4th do. R. Mellet
5th do, P. Kersten (Simons Town) . .
6th do. C. Cniywagen
7th do. N. T. Ley
Messenger, F. T. Schouwkerk ....
Colonial Instructor of Midwifery, Dr. Wehr
Waggon Master, L. H. Rhead ....
Crovemmeut Gardener, Cape Town, J. Kraus
Porter to Public OfQces, J. Tier . . .
Commandant of Fort Frederick, Algoa Bay,\
Capt.T. Evatt /
Cape District,
The Landdrost, J. W. Stoll, Esq. .
do. for House Rent
Secretary, Mr. V. A. Schomberg
Ist Clerk, Mr. W. A. Wentzel . .
2nd do. R. S. Grimbeck • . .
3rd Clerk, Mr. P. van Breda . .
Inspector of Roads, Mr. P. Poggenpoel
Messenger, G. F. Geyer ....
3 Constables at Rds. 300 ea. . . .
Undersheriff, T. Redford . . .
£ s. d.
. ■
SteHenhosch,
The Landdrost, D. J. van Kyneveld, Esq.
Siecretary, Mr. P. C. von Blommestein .
do. as functionary to the Department for
the enregisterment of slaves .
Landdrost's Clerk Mr. J. D. Cauvyn
Secretary's Do. J. Lindenberg
Messenger H. van der Horst.
Undersheriff Einniberg . .
6 ConstaUes at Rds. 180 ea..
6 Justice CafPk-es at Rds. 60 ea.
}
Rds. sk. St.
96 0 O
96 0 O
192 0 O
576 0 O
7,000
2,500
700
900
900
800
700
700
480
480
480
150
0 O
0 O
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
0 o
500
0
0
600
0
0
540
0
0
300
0
0
500
0
0
3,500
0
0
600
0
0
2,000
0
0
600
0
0
500
0
0
300
0
0
1,200
0
0
750
0
0
900
0
0
600
0
0
3,500
0
a
1,000
0
0
500
0
0
400
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
360
0-
0
1,080
0
0
360
0
0
J
Records of the Cape Colony.
211
Swdlendam*
The Landdrost P. S. BuisuDne, Esq.
Secretary Mr. T. F. Bam . . .
District Clerk Mr. G-. G. de Neys .
do. as functionary to the Department
enregistermenc of slaves . . .
lianddrost's Clerk Mr. W. C. Kuys .
Secretary's do. Mr. W. de Vries .
Messeneer C. van der Lith • . .
Undersheriff W. Ebertson . . .
6 Constables at Rds. 180 ea. . . .
6 Justice Caffres at Rds. 60 ea. . .
for
)
Post Messengers,
3 Messengers at Rds. 216 ea. • . . •
One do
One do
Two do. at Rds. 162 ea. . . . .
One do
Ctdedofu
The Deputy Landdrost J. H. Frouenfelder,\
Esq /
The Secretary Mr. G-. C. Bergman • . .
Clerk Mr. W. C. Kleyn
Messenger P. Maus
Undersheriff T. G. Wolflf
2 Constables at Rds. 180 ea.. . . . ^
2 Justice Caffres at Rds. 60 ea. . . • ..
Tulbagh.
The Tjinddrost J. H. Fischer, Esq. .
Secretary Mr. T. D. Kuys . • .
District Clerk Mr. T. C. Winterbach
do. as functionary to the Department for
the enregisterment of slaves . . .
Landdrost's Clerk Mr. T. C. Winterbach
Secretary's do. Mr. T. Meiring
Schoolmaster at Hantam, T. Blauw
Messenger F. Mong • . . .
Undersheriff P. de Rook . . .
6 ConsUbles at Rds. 180 each .
6 Justice Caffres at Rds. 60 each
8. d.
}
Rds. sk. st
3,500 0 0
1,000 0 0
900 0 0
500 0 0
400
300
500
360
648
396
324
324
144
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1,080 0 0
360 0 0
0
0
0
0
0
1,500
0
0
600
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
240
0
0
360
0
0
120
0
0
3,500
0
0
1,000
0
0
900
0
0
500
0
0
400
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
360
0
0
1,080
0
0
360
0
0
p 2
212
Secords of the Cape Colony.
Clanwilliam.
The Deputy Landdrost CX M. Bergk, Esq.
Clerk Mr. A. Bergh . •
Schoolmaster G. Wentzel
Messenger G. Eeet •
2 Constables at Rds. 180 ea.
2 Justice Caffres at Rds. 60 ea.
Chuaff BeineL
The Landdrost A. Stock'enstrom, Esq.
Secretary Mr. T. MuUer ....
District Clerk Mr. J. H. Eckard .
do. as functionary to the Department
the enregisterment of slaves .
Landdrosfs Clerk Mr. P. Rtockenstrom
Secretary's do. Mr. T. Muller '.
Second do. Mr. T. B. Wiese .
Messenger T. B. Wiese . . . .
Undersheriff T. B. Londt . . •
6 Constables at Rds. 180 ea.
6 Justice Caffres at Rds. 60 ea. . .
1 Field Conmiandant P. Pretorius •
17 Field Comets at Rds. 200 each .
The Post holder at Zondags River .
do. the Zwarte Ruggens
Cradock.
The Deputy Landdrost- J. van de Graaflf,!
Esq /
ClerkMr. T.N. Muller.. .
Messenger T. T. Schindehutte
2 Constables at Rds. 180 ea. .
2 Justice Caflfres at Rds. 60 ea.
Oeorge,
The Landdrost A. G. van Kervel, Esq.
Secretary Mr. T. C. Bergh . . , ,
District Clerk Mr. D. Coolhaas • « •
do. as functionary to the Department
the enregisterment of slaves . « ^
Laoddrost's Clerk Mr. S, H. du Toit .
Secretary's do. Mr. H.- 0. Aker ,
Messenger H. I. van der Hoevea
UnderBheriflf J. Bodensteiji . . , .
Rds. sk. Bt.
1,500 D 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
360 0 0
120 0 O
3,500
1,000
900
0
0
0
0
0
0
500
0
0
400
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
360
0
0
1,080
360
0
0
0
0
300
0
0
3,400
288
0
0
0
0
360
0
0
1,500 0 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
360 0 O
120 0 0
3,500 0 O
1,000 0 0
900 0 0
500 0 0
400 0 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
360 0 0
Beeords of the Cape Colony*
;2t3
6 Constables at Bds. 180 each .
6 Justice Gaffres at Rds. 60 ea. .
9 Post Messengers at R^s. 298 ea.
2 do. at Bds. 144 ea.
Uitenhige,
The Landdrost J. G. Guyler, Esq. . .
Secretary Mr. G. Allen . . . . ...
District Glerk Mr. J. R. Lange . . .
do. as functionary to the Department for
the enregisterment of slayes .
Landdrost's Glerk Mr. J. H. Lange . .
Secretary's do. Mr. A. de Waal . .
Messenger J. H. Lelyv^ld • . ...
Undersheriff E. O'Donnell ....
6 Constables at Bds. 180 ea. . . . .
6 Justice Gaffres at Bds. 60 ea. . . .
One Field Gonimandant Mr. J. J. Muller
7 Field Gomets at Bds. 200 ea. . . .
3 Post Messengers Capewards at 324 rds. ea.
5 do. towards Graaff Beinet at 266
4 do. do. Graham's Town do,
1 do. do.
s. d.
}
QrahanCs Tovm,
The Deputy Landdrost G. Fraser, Esq.
Glerk Mr. G. Broekhuizen . . . .
Messenger G. Broekhuizen . ., • .
2 Justice Gaffres at Bds. 60 ea. . . ,
3 Field C(Nmets at Bds. 200 ea. . . .
8tmon*8 Town,
The Besident J. H. Brand, Esq.
Clerk Mr. G. M. Lind . . ..
Two Constables at Bds. 420 ea. .
Two Justice Caffires at Bds. 80 ea.
Sfddarihd Bay,
The Superintendent Mr. Kendler .
1 Coxswain
2 Sailors at Bds. 240 ea.
2 Signal Men at Bds. 240 ea. . . .
1 do. at Bds. 240 and 1 assist, do
at 72 Bds. at St. Helena Bay . . .
}
Bds. sk. st.
1,080 0 0
360 0 0
2,592 0 0
288 0 0
3,500
0
0
1,000
0
0
900
0
0
500
0
0
400
0
0
300
0
0
300
0
0
360
0
0
1,080
0
0
360
0
0
300
0
0
1,400
0
0
972
0
0
1,330
0
0
1,008
0
0
216
0
0
1,500 0 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
120 0 0
600 0 0
3,000 0 0
600 0 0
840 0 0
160 0 0
60O
240
480
480
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
312 0 Q
214
Eeeords of the Cape CoUmy,
Mosad Bay.
£ 8. d.
Eds. sk. St.
The Superintendent H. Abue • • . .
1 Orerseer •• •
• •
600 0 0
77 0 0
Flettenherg*8 Bay,
• • ^^ ^^
The Resident Mr. J. Squier
2 Tiftbourers at Bds. 1^ ea.
• •
• •
600 0 0
288 0 0
Ovteni^ua Land,
The Overseer Mr. S. Fend
• •
360 0 0
•
Budi Bay,
The Superintendent and Agent, Mr. W. J.\
Klerk /
Overseer T. Eubee . • • . . « .
• •
• •
500 0 0
600 0 0
Chootvaders Bokh,
The Overseer H. van As
• •
133 4 0
Robben Island,
•
The Overseer H. L. Rhead . ... . • .
2 do. J. Spykerman . ^ . . .
• •
• •
216 0 0
300 0 0
Camps Bay,
The Overseer N. Eddelstone . . ...
*•
360 0 0
Newlands,
The Steward H. Croucher
Overseer H. Gunn at ds. Sterling per diem.
Oardener G. Anderson
Ploiighman Hardcastle ^
• •
m •
• •
600 0 0
660 0 0
144 0 0
Forests at George,
•
^ Overseers at Rds. 240 ca
• •
4
480 0 0
Records of the Cape Colony.
215
•
£ 8. d.
Rds. sk. St.
Somerset Farm.
1
The Superintendent Mr. .R. Hart . . .
V*
2,000 0 0'
1 Assistant do. Mr. .W. Austin . •
• •
700 0 0-
2 do. do. Mr. J. Baird . . .
• •
700 0 0
Agent Mr. T. R. G. Klerck
. •
200 0 0
Bignal Men,
f
At Lion's Rump T. Pyper
• .
240 0 0
do. H. Scnoltz .
300 0 0
do. H. Muir . .
120 0 0
The Castle T. Herald. . . ,
120 0 0
do. M. Hume, • .
60 0 0
King's Blockhouse F. Rhynaart.
240 0 0
do. G. Fozcroft .
60 0 0
New Lands W. Friend . . ,
180 0 0
Wynberg H. Diederick . . .
240 0 0
do, N. Moreenrood . .
Bergs Kraal T. Kiman . • .
240 0 0
120 0 0
do. X Braunt . . .
^
240 0 0
Muizenberg P. Garden . . ,
120 0 0
do. J. Hill . . , ,
120 0 0
Pepermentjes Hoogte D. Dease .
120 0 0
do. J. Dingwal
I '.
120 0 0
Simon's Town J. Art. . . .
1 <
120 0 0
do. A Owens • . .
1 1
•1
120 0 0
The hill above do. G. Kemer
4
1
,
300 0 0
do. do. A. Dauled . ,
» <
•
120 0 0
Clergy.
■
The Political Commissioner for Churchy
Affairs P. J. Truter, Esq. /
1,600 0 0
Church at Cape Town,
The 1st Clergyman the Revd, J. Fleck .
• *
2,600 0 0
2nd do. J. H« von Manger . .
2,300 0 0
8rd do. J. C Berrang^ , . .
. ,
2,300 0 0
Church Clerk Van Schie
616 4 0
do. J. Deters
286 4 0
Organist F. Grundeler
300 0 0
Sexton P. J. Keeve
234 0 0
Chwrch at 8tellenbo8ch
(
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Borcherds .
. •
1,500 0 0
Clerk J. J. Scholtz , . .
•
•
• •
•
•
199 0 0
216
Becords of the Cape Colony.
Church <U the Paarh
The Clergynum the Revd. Mr. G^bhardt
Clerk T. D. Hermans.
Church at Zwartland.
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Scholtz .
Clerk and Schoolmaster W. Louissen .
Church at Jhdbagh.
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Eicherer .
Clerk and Schoolmaster C. de Eock, Senr. .
Church at Swellendam.
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Spyker .
Clerk H. C. Paulsen
Church at Caledon,
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Voe
Clerk M. D. de Vos • . . .
Church at Oraajf Reinet,
The Clergjrman the Revd. Mr. Schutz .
Clerk A. van Lingen . ' . . .
• .. ..
Chwrch at George,
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Herold
Clerk and Schoolmaster B. van Beek
Church at Uiienhage,
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Mol . .
Chwrch at Cradock,
The Clergyman the Revd. Mr. Evans .
• •
6. d.
Rds. sk. st
1,500 0 0
240 0 0
1,600 0 0
400 0 0
1,500 0 0
400 0 0
1,600 0 0
177 6 0
1,500 0 0
177 6 0
1,600 0 0
177 6 0
1,600 0 0
400 0 0
1,600 0 0
1,500 0 0
y
Beoords of the Cape Colony.
217
Lutheran Ohttreh.
Allowance to the Clergjrman the Bevd.)
Mr. Kaufltaian )
English Church at Cape Town,
The Revd. Mr. Hough
Gerk J. McDonald
Organist F. OusmitiouB
English Church SimonU Town.
The Revd. Mr. Dennifl
Clerk N. Norman
Sexton J. Till
Bell ringer J. Casey
Public Schoolmasters,
Mr. Neyhofif
Mr. Deters
Pensioners,
The Revd. J. P. Semirier, Superannuated^
Clergyman /
P. Diemel, Esq., late Member of the Court^
of Justice /
C. G. mhxiA late Chief Asst in the Colonial\
Office /
A. A. Faure, Esq., late Landdrost of Swel-*^
lendam /
J. P. Baumgardt, Esq., late Receiver ot\
Land Revenue /
Mr. J. Stoffberg, late Superintendent of)
SaldanhaBay )
Mr. C. D. Wentzel late Superintendent ofj
Sweetmelks Valley /
Mr. J. Sinkantyn late Officer of Health
Mr. J. Redford late Government Gardener .
Mrs. Van Ryneveld
Mrs. Stockenstrom Widow of the late Land-^
droet of Graaff Reinet /
Mrs. Meeding Widow of the late Superin-'^
tendent at rlettenberg's Bay . . • . /
Mrs. Diemel Widow of the late Member of)
the Court of Justice )
Mrs. Stolls Widow of a Field Commandant
£ s. d.
700 0 0
360 0 0
■ .
* •
a *
500
0 0
Rds. sk. St
180 0 0
200 0 0
100 0 0
160 0 0
160 0 0
100 0 0
240 0 0
240 0 0
1,863 0 0
2,000 0 0
2,000 0 0
1,600 0 0
2,000 0 0
860 0 0
800 0 0
600 0 0
800 0 0
1,200 0 0
800 0 0
300 0 0
300 0 0
218
Records of the Cape Colony.
Mrs. Kel Widow of a Field Commandant ,
Mrs. Hennans Widow of the late Church\
. Clerk at the Paarl /
Mr. Hemmy late Head Gerk in the Collector!
of Tythes Office f
Widows of Clergymen,
Mrs. Van der Spuy
Mr8.J. T.Kuys . .
Mrs. P. Kuys
Mrs. Ballot
Colonial Agent,
T. P. Courtenay, Esq.
£ 6 d.
600 0 0
A true Copy.
(Signed)
Bds. sk. 8t
300 0 0
200 0 0
300 0 0
360 0 0
360 0 0
169 0 0
360 0 0
C. BlBD.
[Copy.]
Circular to Heads of Parties in the District of Ckmwilliam, and,
mutatis mutandis, to Messrs, Campbell, GriffUk, and White,
Heads of Partiek a>t the Zander End River,
COLOHIAL OFITOk, 25«% Jii^ 1820.
His Excellency tHe Acting Governor having received repre-
sentations &om certain heads of. Parties of Settlers located in the
Deputy Drostdy of Clan William, alleging the inadequacy of the
Lands assigned for their maintenance, His Excellency has been
pleased to take the same into Jiis consideration.
His Excellency feels assured that whatever may be the present
dissatisfaction, the Heads of Parties must still do justice to the
n;L0tives which led to their location on the lands in question, by
allowing that the object was generally to place them in the
situation most conducive to the views with which they left
England. Superior in proximity to the great market and behe-
RamtU 4/ ik€ Corpr <V^»jr. 219
fited bjr a wealthy vidnage; it was natmaUy unagined that the
parties settled in tlie Depoty ]>ra8tdy of Clan lHUiam would
SQOoeed at an earlier period than their eoontiymen in the
Zuunreld His EzoeDency is not dbposed to enter into an
examination of the causes that have led to a oontraiy lesalt*
causes originating partly in the inertness produced by the dis-
appointment of exaggerated expectations, and partly in principles
and habits of agricohnre applicable to soil and drcnmstsnces
essentially different fiom those in which the Settlers find them-
selves actually plaoed; his sole design is to give scope for the
exerdse of the indnstiy of these parties in a situation as far as
experience has hitherto proved fSsivourable to their location; he
has therefore been pleased to make arrangements for their im-
mediate iremoval to the Zuurveld, where land of unobjectionable
quality will be assigned according to the numbers of the respective
parties. The expence of transport as well by sea as to the place
of location will be defrayed by the Colonial Crovemment^ and
further as the season for ploughing will before their arrival in
the Zuurveld be ficur advanced, and the consequent provision of
food for the next season rendered uncertain, where such shall be
clearly the case, rations shall be supplied free of charge from
the public Stores during the period required. His Excellency
conceives that by these measures every objection will have been
met, every difficulty removed, and that in them the Heads and
the Individuals composing the parties will recognize that paternal
protection which is never withdrawn by His Migesty's Govern-
ment either at home or abroad from the deserving and industrious.
The Heads of Parties are moreover called upon to signify in
writing the number of persons and the quantity of baggage for
whom means of Transport will be required. Mr. Poggenpoel,
Deputy Beceiver of Land Bevenue, by whom this Circular will
be delivered, will also be the bearer of the lists.
By Command of His Excellency The Acting Governor.
(Signed) Henry Elus, Dep. Col. Sec.
220 Eecords of the Cape Qclony,
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GovEBNMEKT H0U8E, Cape Town, 26^ Jt^y 1820.
My Lord, — Keferring to my Dispatch, marked separate, dated
the 14th Instant; I have now the honour of acquainting your
Lordship, that I have transmitted by H.M. Ship Minden, Captain
Moresby's Chart of Algoa Bay and adjaceut Coast. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
OovEBNHENT HovBE, Gafe Town, 2Gth Jtdy 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor of reporting to your Lordship,
that on the 29th of Apiil last, when the accession of His Most
Gracious Majesty King George the 4th was proclaimed here, I
respited the Hottentot, Jantje Piet, under orders for execution on
that day, for murder; as I did not think it decorous, that an
execution should take place at the time of notifying so important
an event to this Colony, I therefore gladly availed myself of the
opportunity of illustrating the day of His Majesty's Accession
by an act of clemency in His Boyal Name ; but, as my power
extends only to the granting of a respite, I beg leave now, most
dutifully and respectfully to solicit His Majesty's pardon for the
criminal, and that his punishment may be commuted to trans-
portation, for life, to New South Wales* I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
Records of the Cape Colony, 221
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawb Donkin to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gaps of Good Hops, 260k Jyiy 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to state, for the information of the Eight
Honorable Earl Bathurst, that Mr. Thomas Calton, who arrived
in this Colony with a party of Settlers, for whom the requisite
funds were supplied by the subscriptions of certain Koblemen and
Gentlemen, in Nottinghamshire, and who, thro' the agency of the
Trustees, the Eeverend Thomas Becher and Edward Godfrey, Esqr.,
reserved a control over the lands to be granted, died at Algoa Bay
on the 8th Instant; the party has elected Mr. Thos. Draper to
succeed, to the situation of Head, subject, of course, to the approval
or otherwise of the Trustees. I have &c.
(Signed) E, S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GoYEBNMiBNT H0U8E, Oapb Town, 27/A JvXy 1820.
My Lord, — Eeferring to my Dispatch No. 14 under date 25th
April last, I have now the honor of acquainting Your Lordship,
that the Duplicate of the Eegistry of Slaves within this Colony,
called for by Your Lordship's Circular letter of the 15th September
1819, has been sent to England per H.M» Ship Miiiden, directed
to the Colonial Agent Mr. Courtenay, with instructions to him to
place the same in the hands of the Eegistrar of Colonial Slaves.
I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
222 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter froni Mb. Thomas Willson to the Eevbrend
William Boardman.
FoBT EuzABSTH, 30 JuLy 1820,
Dear -Sir, — Having accompanied my party of Settlers to the
place appointed by Government for my location, I feel that I have
discharged an important and most arduous undertaking; by the
plan of allotment which I left with you they will be enabled
readily to enter upon their respective possessions, and they will
now commence a life of activity which I sincerely hope will prove
a source of happiness to themselves and families.
The first Instalment of Deposit Money I have paid to all such
as were entitled, and the second and third Instalments shall be
duly carried to their respective accounts ; so that notwithstanding
all that has occurred to agitate our feelings, we may at length, I
trust, sit down in peace and goodwill towards each other.
I was early taught and impressed with the Christian example of
rendering good for evil; and when I reflect in what manner I
have been requited for my services, I trust that many will bear in
remembrance my patience and forbearance. I feel from this a
conscientious satisfaction : such as have murmured, . and have
sought to ruin my hopes in this Colony, and who doubtless have
prejudiced my interests by their misrepresentations to the
Governor, they will perhaps reap the fruit of their designs ; but I
will thank you to communicate to the whole party my sincere
good wishes for their prosperity, and in taking my present leave of
them I most heartily wish them success in all their undertakings.
It will remain now, with you, to exercise those exemplary
duties which cannot fail to excite veneration for the Government,
and harmony and peace amongst themselves ; and I am sure I
may congratulate the party in having united with them one so
well constituted to administer to their comforts ; hoping soon to
be duly and quietly settled at Angloville, with my best regards for
yourself and family, I am &c.
(Signed) Thos. Willson.
P.S. — I will thank you to read this to the party. For those
who may hereafter be disappointed in their agricultural pursuits.
Records of the Cape Colony. 223
I have in reserve a plan for uniting them in villages where they
may pursue their respective trades with better success.
[Ofl&ce Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathuest to Lord Charles Somerset.
Downing Stbbet, London, %l9t My 1820.
liiY Lord, — The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty having
suggested the expediency of erecting an observatiory at the Cape
of Good Hope, which they consider would be highly conducive
to the improvement of practical astronomy and Navigation, and
concurring with their Lordships in the expediency of such an
Establishment, I have to instruct your Lordship to allot for the
purpose a suitable piece of Ground at the expence of the Colonial
Government, and in such a situation as the astronomer whom
their Lordships propose to send out may deem fit and eligible,
and to afford every assistance in your power towards carrying the
object into effect. I have &c. -
(Signed) Bathurst. .
[Original.]
Letter from Messrs. Whitley & Co. to Earl Bathurst.
LiYKBPooL, July sue 1820.
My Lord, — Since the news of the safe arrival of the Emigrants
who were sent out by us under the direction of our Mr. Hayhurst
in the Ship John, Lieut. Church, in January last, we beg leave to
acquaint your Lordship that numbers of families are making daily
application to us for the purpose of emigrating in like manner,
many of whom are friends and relatives of those already gone to
the Cape.
We beg leave to submit the affair to your Lordship's kind con-
sideration, and should feel extremely obliged would your Lordship
so far condescend to say whether we may be permitted to take
out fix)m 40 to 50 families, the principal part of whom have been
anxiously wailing an opportunity to follow their relatives and
224 Records of the Cape Colony,
Mends. They are the more eager at present, understanding that
your Lordship has been pleased to confer grants to a number of
individuals who are now preparing for their embarkation from
Glasgow.
We in their behalf humbly beg that your Lordship would also
permit these to go out under our directions from this Port agree-
ably to the manner their friends were permitted in January last.
Waiting your Lordship's reply, We remain &c.
(Signed) Mich. Whitley & Ck).
[Copy.]
Beturn of Lands occupied in Albany prior to the Colonial
Secretary's Letter dated Bruintjes Hoogte 29th March 1817,
a^ weU as under the Instructions contained in said Letter
afterwards.
Names of Settlers : G. S. Frazer,' Deputy Landdrost, Comelis
van Schalkwyk, Nicolaas Niemand senior, Nicolaas Niemand
junior, Pieter Eetief, Gerrit Broekhuizen, Jan Potgieter, Jan
Godlieb Welgemoed, Izaak Delport, Pieter Schalk van der Merwe,
Jan Nel senior, Thomas Dreyer senior, Stephanus Nel, Joaquim
Ghristiaan Esbach, Comelis Meyer, Abraham Jacobus Esbach,
Dirk van Rooyen, Lodewyk Zietzman, Jan Dreyer, Eobert Cooper,
Frederik Janse van Eensburg, and Comelis van Eooyen. Grants
confirmed.
To be resumed: P. B. Botha, Louis Ellert, Michiel Daniel
Delport, Joel Daniel Smuts, Hans Janse van Bensburg, Marcus
Jacobus Potgieter, Jan Letter, Hendrik Woest, Barend Daniel
Bouwer, Jerome Josias Bouwer, P. W. Bouwer, Ocker Groosen,
Jacobus Potgieter, Louis Triechard, Gerrit Goosen, and Johannes
Engelbrecht.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
Seeords of the Cape Colony.
225
[Copy.]
Return of Troops on \
the Frontier
on the 1st of Av>gu8t 1820.
Oorpa.
SogMntB.
DrnnunAra or
Bagl«n.
RankiDd
File.
ToUL
Rocket Troop ....
. .
• .
2
2
Boyal Artillery . . .
1
. •
33
34
Royal Engineers. . ,
1
• •
15
16
38th Regiment . . .
13
2
811
326
54th Regiment . . .
10
3
237
250
72nd Regiment . . .
15
2
268
285
Royal African Corps
32
12
642
586
Gape Cavalry . . .
10
3
130
143
Cape Infantry • . .
18
4
289
311
1953
(Signed) A. A. O'Reilly, Brigade Major.
[Copy,]
Letter from Mr. W. Parker to the Deputy
CoLONLAii Secretary.
Saldanha Bat, hik'A^tgmi 1820.
Sir, — In answer to the circular letter of the 25th Ulto. addressed
to cert€u[n heads of Parties in the district of Clanwilliam, I fully
recognize the humane motives which have induced His Excellency
the Acting Governor to extend his paternal solicitude to the
Settlers that were landed in this Bay, Very erroneous opinions
were formed respecting the lands in the District of Glanwilliam,
in which there is apparently no wealthy vicinage, nor that
proximity to the great market which would make it a desirable
place for the location of so many settlers as were landed per the
East Indian and Fanny. At present that District is absolutely
destitute of these advantages and moreover the extent of land
XIII. Q
226 Records of the Cape Colony.
is totally unfit for the location of so many indiyiduals. His
Excellency appears to be fully aware of these facts, which are
so well established, and which could be confirmed by the general
testimony of every agriculturist acquainted with the District.
I now take leave to transmit a list of the Settlers who arrived
in this Colony under my directions and who are willing to accept
His Excellency's offer of being removed to the Zuureveld. I take
leave to state that Wm. Norman, Thos. Hunt, articled Settlers,
and Wm. Page, a lad who arrived in this Colony under Thos.
Seton, were included in the lists transmitted. Mr. Seton is the
individual againidt whom lieut. Woolrige and I submitted very
serious charges to the consideration of His Excellency. It will
also appear by reference to Mr. Bergh that Mr. Seton has
committed a deep crime, which has been proved since his
residence in that district, and which has been the cause of Mr.
Bergh's deciding that the Settlers articled to him were at liberty
to leave him, Mr. Seton, whose conduct I presume His Excellency
will not let pass with impunity. Mr. Seton has I understand
made an application for a grant of land direct to the Government,
knowing full well that he has totally forfeited by his own
criminal conduct every claim that he had on me. Indeed the
excellent instructions issued by the Earl Bathurst for the main-
tenance of good order among the Settlers during the voyage
should have operated not only on Mr. Seton, but on the Eevd.
Francis McCleland, whose conduct has been nearly as reprehen-
sible, when the character of a clergyman was implicated, as Mr.
Seton's. Mr. McCleland's name is not included in the list, nor
is that of John Hare with his articled Settlers Matthew Nelson
and Timothy Leary, as Mr. Hare was absent from Klein Valley
during Mr. Poggenpoel's stay at ClanwiUiam. On my arrival at
Clan William after Mr. Tulleken the land Surveyor showed me the
northern boundaries of a part of my grant, as I was extremely
anxious to locate as many of the Settlers as possible I wrote to
Mr. Eobert Woodcock stating that he should have for himself and
nine other Settlers 1,000 acres of land along the northern
boundaries of the Olifants Eiver. But Mr. Tulleken after my
writing to that effect to Mr. Woodcock informed me that on a
reference to his notes he found that he had made a considerable
error in showing me the bounds and that Mr. Van Wyk's land
extended more to the Southward than he at first told me. I
Records of the Cwpe Colony, 227
communicated this fact to Mr. "Woodcock in Mr. Tulleken's
presence, when he said that he should insist on having the land
agreeably to my letter, notwithstanding the error Mr. Tulleken
had committed. As I had no means of upholding any authority
among the Settlers in consequence of the complaints preferred
against Mr. Seton and Mr. McCleland not being attended to>
I considered it best to wait the arrival of His Excellency at
ClanwiUiam and to abide by his decision, as I did not wish to
have a personal controversy with such a character as Mr. Wood-
cock. However my Nephew Mr. Wm. Parker Junr., who will be
the bearer of this and who will explain any matter His Excellency
may require, informs me that Mr. Woodcock got Mr. Bergh to
send Mr. Tulleken to measure 1,000 acres of land which, in
consequence of his error in the boimds extended over the land
that I had tiUed, inclosed a garden and made considerable progress
in erecting a substantial dwelling house.
Mr. Woodcock it appears took forcible possession of the land
occupied by my articled Settlers and assaulted Mr. James Murray,
a very respectable man, who lodged complaints against him before
Mr. Bergh; although Mr. Murray's statement was borne out
by the testimony of Thos. Clarke who was present when the
assault was committed, Mr. Bergh gave Mr. Murray no kind of
redress. Mr. Woodcock has had the presumption to turn my
oxen and men off the land they were cultivating. They are
consequently unemployed, and my Nephew has very properly
come to inform me of the circumstance. I am by no means
surprized at these lawless acts being committed, when Mr. Seton,
Mr. McCleland, and Mr. Woodcock have been in a great measure
sanctioned to practise them in consequence of no attention being
paid to the serious charges preferred by Lt, Woolrige and myself.
Mr. Seton and Mr. McCleland in the most audacious manner
have been instigating my settlers to every act of insubordination,
attributing to me their not having obtained an eligible location
before. So that in truth neither my Nephew's nor my own life
is safe against the conspiracies which have been threatened
against us and of which we have ample proofs.
Five of Mr. Woodcock's party have volimteered for the Zuure-
veld and I have reason to think that Thos. Grenwell if permitted
will accompany them, as he was only prevented accepting the
offer in consequence of his having cultivated a small spot of land.
Q 2
228 Records of the Cape Colony.
I have now to request that you will be pleased to submit this
document to the prompt consideration of His Excellency and to
solicit him to give directions to Mr. Bergh to oblige Mr. Woodcock
to surrender the lands he has so forcibly taken possession of in
consequence of Mr. Tulleken's error, and that his Excellency will
be further pleased to show his displeasure at the treatment Mr.
Murray has experienced. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parkek.
[Original.]
Letter from Lieutenant Chuech to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
His MAjsgTY's Hired Tbanspobt Johuy
PoBTSMOUTH, August 9(h 1820.
Sir, — Having just arrived from Algoa Bay, Cape of (Jood Hope,
and being I believe, the first vessel back I have thought it may
be some satisfaction to you, my informing you that all the
Settlers, which left London, Liverpool, and Ireland the early part
of this year are landed safe without one accident*, and all located
apparently much to their satisfaction.
As I was some miles up with them I shall be happy if it's in
my power to give you any further information relative to any of
the Parties. I believe all ofi&cial Betums would sail before me,
but this ship having passed so many vessels on the Passage,
I have deemed it prudent to make this communication.
Most respectfully &c.
(Signed) Chas. Church,
Lieutenant Eoyal Navy, Agent for Transports.
P.S. The Hedds of Parties on quitting Algoa Bay wished me
to state in the Public Papers their safe arrival; does that meet
your apprjobation.
Becords of the Cape Colony. 229
[OriginalJ
Letter from Eear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre.
Vigo, St. Helbka, 18^A Augu§t 1820.
Sir, — I request you will acquaint their Lordships that, on my
assuming the command at this Island, I called at Longwood and
signified to Count Monthoulon my desire to pay my personal
respects to General Napoleon Buonaparte, but the offer was
declined.
I receive, daily, a morning and evening Beport by Signal from
Longwood, that " all is well with respect to General Buonaparte
and family." I am &c.
(Signed) Robt. Lambert.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufanb Shawe Donkin to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Gape or Good Hope, 19^ August 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to transmit to you, for the purpose of
being submitted to the Eight Honorable Earl Bathurst, the
enclosed copies of Memorials, received from John Braithwait
and Christopher Adcock, Settlers, lately arrived from England,
the former praying that a passage for his wife and family, who
were left behind in England, may be found to this place, and the
latter, that the necessary implements, for carrying on his Trade
as Tallow Chandler, may be sent to this Colony, free of freight ;
and to express a hope, that some means may be found for com-
plying with the prayers of these Memorials. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
230 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Enclosure A.]
To His Excellency Major General Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin,
K.C.B., Acting Governor and Commander in Chief of the
Colony of the Cape of Good Hope, &ca, &ca, ITie Petition
of John Braithwait most humbly sheweth
That Petitioner came to this Colony as a Settler, that under
peculiar circumstances was obliged to leave his wife and family
behind, she being then quite far gone in a state of pregnancy and
enjoying at the same time a very ill state of health and no Doctor
being on board the vessel in which Petitioner was ordered to
embark, together with her timidity rendered such a separation
absolutely necessary, or Petitioner must ultimately have lost the
chance then offered by Government to emigrate to this Colony ;
under these cases petitioner humbly hopes that Your Excellency
will be pleased to intercede with the Colonial Secretary in
England in order that a passage may be granted free of expence
for Petitioner's wife and family to this Colony, on a grant of
Petitioner's request his wife and family will proceed to Ports-
mouth or any other port directed by a letter directed to her at
Knaresbro' Yorkshire.
And Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.
(Signed) JnO. Beaithwait.
Harewood, 12^ JvX'j 1820.
[Enclosure B.]
To His Excellency Major General Sir E. S. Donkin, K.C.B.,
Acting Governor of the Colony of the Cape of Good Hope,
Commander in Chief, &ca., &ca.
The Petition of Christopher Adcock most humbly Sheweth
That Petitioner intends carrying on the trade of a Tallow
Chandler to some extent, to supply the Settlers of the Colony
with that necessary article of consumption. Candles, but that not
having implements for this purpose. Petitioner humbly hopes,
that Your Excellency will be pleased, to forward his intention
to the Colonial Secretary in England, requesting that the necessary
articles which will be provided by Petitioner's friends may be
sent free of freight to this colony.
Becords of the Cape Colony, 231
Petitioner's brother, who will send out the articles required,
can be consulted, on application to Mr. R H. Adcock, No. 71
Wardour Street Soho.
And Petitioner as in duty bound will ever pray.
(Signed) C. Adcock.
Blub Kbaittz, 14<7i July 1820.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
Downing Stbsst, 20<A Augua 1820.
Sir, — I do myself the honour of transmitting herewith for Your
Information and Guidance a Copy of the opinion which has beei^
submitted to me by His Majesty's Law Officers on the doubts
which have arisen as to the legality of transporting or removing
Slaves by Sea from one part of His Majesty's Settlements at the
Cape of Good Hope to another either for sale or for other purposes.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
PowNiNG Stbsst, 2l9t August 1820.
Sir, — I do myself the honour to transmit to you with reference
to my Letter of the 29th April 1820 for your Information and
guidance a printed Copy of a Letter of His Majesty in Council
dated the 22nd July last, which His Majesty has been pleased to
issue for regulating the Trade of the Cape of Good Hope with
States in Amity with His Majesty under the Authority vested
in him by eua Act passed in the tirst year of His Beign. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
232 Records of the Cape Colony,
[Original.]
Lett^ from Mr. William Eussell to Henry GtOulburn, Esqre.
Glabgow, 2Ut August 1820.
Sir, — I yesterday received a letter from the commissioners of
the Navy stating that the Abeona Transport, 328 tons, will be
ready to leave Deptford about the 26th Instant for the Clyde to
embark myself and Party of Settlers for the Cape of Good Hope.
They likewise state that they are not aware of the particular
Port at the Cape of Good Hope at which the Settlers are to be
landed.
May I therefore request that you will be pleased to advise me
of the particular Port in which we will be landed at the Cape, in
what District of the Colony we will be located, and to what
OflBlcer I must apply to get the money and Grant of Land.
If there be all necessary kinds of agricultural implements
at the store, such as ploughs, &c., and how procured ; as far as I
understand it is a spot of upwards of 3000 acres of unoccupied
Land, and of a good soil in Hout Bay ; as I think that spot would
answer my party I should be happy to have an appointment
to said spot if it does not interfere with the arrangements of
Government. My son John being a teacher, and can shew
respectable certificates as to character and abilities as a Teacher,
I am anxious to know if he will have any chance of a situa-
tion under Government, if my family and myself will be allowed
Cabin Passage as being the head of the Party, and^ I have the
honour &c.
(Signed) William Eussell.
[Copy.]
Letter from Deputy Assistant Commissary General Johnstone
to Captain Tkappes, Provisional Magistrate, Bathurst,
Gbaham'b Towk, 23r(i Augutt 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to state to you for your information that
the first Instalment of Deposit was paid to the Settlers in Money,
Records of the Cape Colony, 233
and that the 2n(i and 3rd are nearly exhausted by the Bations,
Seed Com, Stores, &c. issued by the Commissariat.
The Superintendent being absent to whom in the first instance
I was directed to look for advice and assistance, I beg to request
your directions how to act until I can hear from the Head of my
own Department in the Cape.
In the mean time the Parties have mostly been supplied with
Sations to the end of this month. I have &c.
(Signed) EoBT. Johnstone, D.A.C.G.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Moore to Viscount Sidmouth.
Old Bond Street, 2Mk August 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor to enclose to your Lordship a copy
of a letter which I have received from one of my men, who had
been many years in our employ, and thought proper to exchange it
for a better place in the New World (Cape Expedition).
My only motive is to shew your Lordship a statement of facts,
as I assure you that the utmost confidence is to be placed in this
man, for I know him to be honest, loyal, and tolerably religious.
I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Moorb,
late Bicknell & Moore.
[Enclosure.]
May 4:th 1820.
Dear Sir, — You told me true when you said that I might as
well blow out my brains as come upon this Expedition : indeed I
have totally ruined myself. Govemment is not to blame; they
have done everything for us that we can possibly expect. But
Mr. Bailie, the man who conducted us out, has grossly deceived
us both, in London, respecting the place: he has now got 4000
acres of land for bringing us to this cursed place, and has left us
altogether to shift for ourselves. We were nearly 5 months on
shipboard ; during the time many quarrels ensued, and the people,
or ship's crew, robbed the trunks and boxes : my boxes were
opened, and robbed of many things. Our leader never troubled
234 Records of the Cape Colony,
himself abont it or anything, and the result was that many
respectable families left us the moment we landed. On the
17th March, when we got into Table Bay, not one of us was
suffered to land at Cape Town except our Leader, who gave us all
an infamous character. We were immediately ordered away to
Algoa Bay, and there landed, and sent 150 miles, in waggons,
to the Banks of the Great Fish Eiver, where, after measuring one
acre of land for each person to build his house on, they shot us
down like so much rubbish.
The horror I then felt I cannot describe : I felt that I had used
you ill in leaving, and for what ? a bubble. I am trying t-o get
back to Cape Town, if possible, but have little hope of success.
Lord Charles Somerset is in London, I understand, or I should
petition him to give me a passage home. Although I have no
hope of ever seeing you again, yet, could I ever return, and you
would receive me, I never would leave you. Yours Ever
(Signed) Barthw. Gunning.
P.S. We have not to blame Government, here or at home ;
they have done everything that was promised: but we have
deceived ourselves.
[Copy.]
Letter from Captain Trappes to Deputy Assistant Commissary
General Johnstone.
Bathubst, 26eA ^ugtMt 1820.
Sir, — In reply to your communication of the 23rd Instant I
have the honor to state that I conceive it to be the intention of
His Excellency the Acting Governor that I should act on all
emergencies where the weUbeing of the British Settlers is as
nearly connected as in the case contained in your letter, and
as serious inconveniences might be occasioned to individuals by
stopping the issue of Provisions in so abrupt a manner, I judge
it necessary to direct that you will be pleased to continue the
issue of Provisions, taking receipts or Bonds for the same, until
instructions are received from the Colonial Government or the
Head of your Department on this important subject I have &c.
(Signed) C. Trappes, Provisional Magistrate.
Records of the Cape Colony, 235
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
OOVBBKMENT HonSB,
Cape of Good Hops, Auquti 2Qih 1820.
My Lord, — I beg to be permitted to request your Lordship's
commands on certain points connected with the locating, feeding,
and supplying the Settlers in this Colony with agricultui-al and
other implements.
It is evident from your Lordship's despatch of the 20th of July
1819 and from the printed Circular enclosed in it, that His
Majesty's Government had it not in contemplation to incur any
expense whatever after the landing of the Settlers, but that all their
wants both as to food and other matters should be paid for out of
the three instalments of their original deposit money in accounting
for it here, excepting only agricultural implements, which might
be supplied to them on secfurity given for future payment.
In regard to this latter point, I have found it would be quite
nugatory to ask or to take anything under the name of security
from the greater number of the Heads of Parties, very few of
whom are possessed of any Capital at all, and many of whom have
shewn such a want of good faith towards their followers that
nothing like a common effort on their part can be looked for to
redeem any engagement entered into by their leaders. My
endeavours have been exerted to keep the Settlers together as an
Agricultural Body, and in this I have succeeded, so that the view
of His Majesty's Government shall be accomplished as to the
general measure of colonization ; but in the detail the new Settlers
will have to undergo many changes, both as to their relative ranks
with each other, and in the distribution of their lands, before they
can exist in such a consolidated state of Society as to admit of
their giving to Government anything which may be called a real
security for any advance or issue made. Many of the Heads of
Parties will sink into day labourers from their idleness, profligacy^
or total want of Capital ; and security from such persons would
be asked and accepted in vain. I have therefore caused the
Agricultural Implements which have been issued to be paid for
by deductions out of the first and second instalments.
In the same manner Rations of Provisions have been paid for;
236 Records of the Cape Colony.
and these two items of expense have generally absorbed the whole
of the above mentioned two-thirds of the deposit money.
I have now to submit to your Lordship's consideration the
situation in which the Settlers are in regard to the third instal-
ment.
No provision or regulation has been made in your Lordship's
despatches for an expense incidental and local in its nature, and
with the amount and detail of which it could not be expected that
His Majesty's Government should be acquainted ; nor indeed had
I, who was on the spot, any idea that it would be so serious a one
as it has proved to be, until it was actually incurred. I allude
to the hire of waggons for the transport of the wives, children, and
baggage of the Settlers from the place of debarkation to the places
of location. The distance to many of them was from 90 to 100
miles. Mr. Bailie's party, for instance, had near 100 miles to
travel from Algoa Bay, and the hire of the waggons for that party
amounted to 7142 BixdoUars, a sum approaching to two-thirds
of the whole deposit money, which was in this currency about
13,000 Eixdollars.
Mr. Mandy's expense for the waggon hire of his smaller party
was 841 BixdoUars, which was still nearer to the proportion of
two-thirds of his deposit money, which was in this currency
about 1400 BixdoUars. Thus then, supposing the expenditure for
waggon hire to be generaUy in the same proportion, the result is
that the remaining third instalment is mortgaged to the Govern-
ment for nearly double its amount.
It remains now for me respectfully to submit for your Lordship's
consideration the foUowing observations and arrangement.
It is quite impossible for this Government to look on and see
any of the Settlers perish for want, which must be the case if
they have no means of purchasing rations between this period
and the coming up of their own crops and the increase of the
smaUer animals of their farming stock, such as pigs and poultry,
but their first and second instalments are already absorbed, and
the third is locked up by a mortgage for waggon hire to nearly
double its amount. This Gh)vemment is thus reduced to the
dUemma of either taking on itself the responsibiUty of incurring
an expense for the provisioning of the Settlers for the abovemen-
tioned intermediate period, or of letting many of them sink under
absolute want. I. have not hesitated, and I have already taken the
Records of the Cape Colony, 237
requisite steps for continuing to them a supply of necessary food
until their crops come up, and I see no other thing to be done
than most respectfully to recommend to your Lordship that the
remaining third of the deposit money be released from its mort-
gage for waggon hire and left with the Settlers disposable for
provisions, with which, after all, whether they can pay for them
or not they must be supplied for the moment.
The Settlers have been brought here, and are perfectly aware
that His Majest/s Government is not at all bound to pay for
their waggon hire, but they say, and I think they say so with
reason, that it is a very heavy expense, which falls hardly on
them, and which they had no reason to calculate and to meet
which they were therefore unprepared. Should His Majesty's
Government take this burden off them, the boon will be received
with the warmest gratitude, and will be viewed by the Settlers
as a strong and convincing proof that they are still objects of
their Sovereign's paternal care and consideration.
The whole amount of deposit money of the Settlers now
located in this Colony is under £15,000 sterling, assuming there-
fore the waggon hire at somewhat less than two-thirds of the
whole, I would ask your Lordship to be pleased to authorise or
cause authority to be given to the Commissariat OflScer here to
include a charge in the above proportion for waggon hire for the
Settlers in his public disbursements, and not to call on the
Settlers for repayment.
I am unwilling to trespass further on your Lordship's time, but
there is another point on which I wish to be honored with your
Lordship's commands.
The day must come, and ought to come soon, when the aiding
hand of Government must be withdrawn, and the Settlers be left
to subsist and entirely provide for themselves. I should hope
that the greater part of them will be able to do so after the
ensuing harvest, that is in January and February next. Cases,
however, may occur where crops shall have faQed, or where from
mismanagement, or other causes, the Settlers have not raised
subsistence. I wish to obtain your Lordship's sanction to the
continuing of a modified Bation in such cases, to ward off the
pressure of absolute want. For payment I would take the best
security the applicants cpuld give, whether Mortgage of their lands
or otherwise ; but your Lordship will have seen, from a preceding
238 Becords of the Cape Colony,
part of this despatch, how frail such security must be, and in case
of its failure the expense would fall on the public. It might not
do so, and I hope would not; but as such a risk may from
necessity be incurred, I hope to have your Lordship's instructions
on this point. The expense would not, under any circumstances
be great, for supposing 1000 persons (which is a number far beyond
what I contemplate as likely) were to be fed for six months
beyond the next harvest on such a modified ration as I propose,
the whole cost would not exceed £5000 Sterling at the present
prices. I do not anticipate the expenditure of more than half
this sum.
I have to apologize to your Lordship for the length of this
despatch ; but I have thought it my duty to bring fairly aud fully
before your Lordship a subject which has very much occupied my
thoughts for some time past, and which certainly is one of con-
siderable importance in regard to the new Colonists and their
future wellbeing. I have &c.
(Signerl) E. S. Donkik.
[Copy.]
Letter from Deputy Assistant Commissary General Johnstoxe
to Assistant Commissary General Bogerson.
Gbaham's Towh, ^ih Augtut 1820.
Sir, — ^I have the honor to enclose herewith Copies of two
letters, one to Captain Trappes, the Provisional Magistrate at
Bathurst. the other the answer thereto, by which you will perceive
that I am directed by him in the absence of the Superintendent
to take Bonds for the Provisions required by the Settlers which
their deposits will not cover, until other iustructions are given on
this subject.
I beg you will be so kind to favor me at your earliest con-
venience with a few printed Forms for the Bonds to be taken from
the Heads of Parties, I have &c«
(Signed) Eobt. Johnstone, D. A. C. General.
Records of the Cape Colony, 239
[Original.]
Letter from tTie Navy Board to Heney Goulburn, Esqre.
Navy Office, 2%ik August 1820.
Sir, — ^With reference to your Letter of the — July last, signi-
fying the desire of Earl Bathurst that conveyance should be
provided for a party of Settlers from the Clyde to the Cape of
Good Hope, we inform you that we have caused the Aheona
Transport, of 328 tons, to be prepared for this Service, and that
she is on the point of sailing for Greenock to receive them on
board ; and, as there is no medical man in the list of Settlers, we
have applied to the Commissioners of the Victualling for an
Assistant Surgeon in the Eoyal Navy to take the medical charge
of the Settlers during the passage, and they have, in consequence,
appointed Mr. Peter Fisher to this Service who, being now in
Scotland, will join the ship at Greenock. We are &c.
(Signed) H. Peake,
H. Legge,
FiTz Middleton.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre,, to Major General
Sl.t EUFANE DONKIN.
Downing Street, 30«A August 1820.
Sir, — I do myself the honour to acquaint you by the direction
of Earl Bathurst that five Boxes addressed to Lt. General Sir
Hudson Lowe will be forwarded to the Cape in one of the
Transports about to proceed to that Colony. These Boxes will
be delivered over to your charge, and I am to request that you
will be pleased to cause them to be forwarded to St. Helena by
the first opportunity that may offer after their arrival at the Cape.
I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
240 Records of the Cape Colony,
[Copy.J
Distrioution of Land to Settlers per Sir George Osborne Trans-
port, for the Guidance of the Landdrost of Uitenhage.
Director : Mr. D. P. Fitmcis.
Number of Men entitled to Land : 7.
Number of Acres entitled to : 700.
Lands to be granted : 1000 acres.
These Settlers must be located upon Spots in the rear for West-
ward) of those per last arrivals. Care must however be taken
that upon each Spot to be located there be some Spring or fresh
water.
Colonial Office, Cape of Good Hope, 31st August 1820.
By Command of His Excellency the Acting Governor.
(Signed) H. Ellis, Deputy Secretary.
[Original.]
Letter from the Reverend C. I. Latrobe to Earl Bathurst.
Nevil'b Court, Fetter Lane, September 4(& 1820.
My Lord, — ^The Mission of the United Brethren among the
Hottentots at the Cape of Good Hope requiring more assistance,
I take the liberty of requesting Your Lordship's kind permission
for the following persons to proceed thither. They are natives of
Saxony.
Henry Nicholas Voigt and his wife Mary Dorothy,
Mary Elisabeth Eichter,
Mary Brenyer, both single,
and to direct a recommendatory letter to be given them to His
Excellency the Governor for a favourable reception.
With the sincerest esteem and gratitude, 1 remain &c.
(Signed) Christ. Ignats. Latrobe,
Secretary of the Unitas Fratrum.
Records of the Cape Colony. 241
[Original.]
Note from the Reverend C. I. Latrobb to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
10 Nevil's Ooubt, Fkitib Lave, SepimJber ^th 1820.
Mr. Latrobe presents his best compliments to Mr. Goulburn, and
takes the liberty of sending him the enclosed petition for a recom-
mendatory letter to the Governor at the Gape.
Mr. Latrobe is sorry to have received accounts rather unfavour-
able respecting the Emigrants to the Gape, which however he
wishes to believe are statements of only partial disappointments.
Gnadenthal is constantly improving, and the Hottentots, under
the direction of the Missionaries have built a bridge with
substantial stone piers over the river Sonderend, which is an effort
greatly admired, as the first operation of that kind in the transac-
tions of Hottentots, and a proof what a change is wrought in the
minds and manners of this degraded people by the introduction
of Ghristianity.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Captain Trappes,
Provisional Magistrate, Bathurst,
Colonial Office, SepimUker %th 1820.
Sir, — I have received and laid before His Excellency the Acting
Governor your Letter of the 27th Ultimo enclosing a Copy of one
you had addressed to Mr. Assistant Deputy Commissary Johnstone
in reply to his communication to you on the subject of the third
instalment of the Deposits of the Settlers having been now ex-
pended in the Amount of Sations issued for their subsistence.
His Excellency entirely approves of the line you have taken ; he
feels that it will be impossible to discontinue the aid of Bations
as hitherto made to the Settlers, until after the ensuing harvest
when each party shall have reaped the fruit of his exertions, but
as it is not to be expected that the charge of this supply can be
ultimately borne by the public, it is necessary and just that the
Commissary should apprize each head of Party that he will be
xiii. R
242 Records of the Cape Colony,
debited with the Amount of whatever he may draw in the Shape
of Bations, and that he will be called upon to give Bond at the
termination of the harvest for the value of what he shall up to
that period have received, and that these Bonds (a form of which
will be furnished to the Commissariat) will be secured in the
nature of Mortgage upon and first claim against the Lands (with
aU they may contain) of the respective Holders, to the defrayment
of which the subsequent Grants will be made subject.
As soon as the period of Harvest shall have arrived, it is His
Excellency's intention that an accurate Betum shall be made to
him of the Produce raised upon each location, and of the means
the heads of parties may possess for the approvisionment of the
respective Individuals of their several parties. From a view of
this document His Excellency will be able to decide in what
manner, to what persons, and to what extent the aid of the Public
stores is to be continued, subsequent to the period in question ; as
it must be obvious that from that moment furnishing daUy Eations
should stop, and the several Heads of parties be only supplied
from time to time according to their numbers and means with
what upon the lowest scale of calculation shall be absolutely
requisite to the support of the people. As however His Excellency
conceives that many of the Settlers might relax in their exertions
were they aware that it is in the contemplation of this Grovem-
ment to continue to support them in any shape, he desires that I
will caution you not to make any of this communication public
that is not immediately necessary to be acted upon; and I am
further to acquaint you that His Excellency has instructed the
Commissary General upon such parts of this reply as concerns his
department. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bibd,
[Original.]
Letter from Bear Admiral Plampin to John
WlLUAM CROKER, EsQRE.
Hjb Majbstt'b Ship Conqueror^
Sptthbad, 9t& September 1820.
giB, — I beg leave to acquaint you for the information of my
Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that His Majesty's Ship
Records of the Cape Colony, 243
Vigo, having Hear Admiral Lambert on board, arrived at St.
Helena on the evening of the 14th of July last, and on the 20th I
gave up the command of His Majesty's Squadron under my orders
to him, and left the Island of St. Helena in His Majesty's Ship
Conqueror the same afternoon.
On the 25th July I arrived at Ascension where I remained till
the afternoon of the following day for the purpose of having a
correct survey taken on the provisions and victualling stores there,
the late Purser (Mr. Martyn) being dead, in whose place I ap-
pointed Mr. James Hawken Secretary's Clerk.
I have further to acquaint you for their Lordship's information
that I this day anchored at Spithead. I have &c.
(Signed) Robt. Plampin, Rear Admiral.
[Copy.]
Letter from Sir Jahlebl Brenton to Sir RufaKb
Shawe Donkin.
Sthokb Town Yabd, 9^ Septemher 1820»
Sir, — The repeated delays and inconveniences which attend
the restrictions placed upon the Transports and other vessels in
H. M. Service by His Excellency Lord Charles Somerset in
December 1818 induce me to request your Excellency would be
pleased to take the circumstances attending this case into your
consideration, and should you find it practicable and consistent
with the interest of the Colonial revenues to relieve the Crown
from the unavoidable expenses and delays attending a mode of
procedure which I believe remains in this Colony alone respecting
H. M. Vessels and Stores. Anticipating the inconveniences which
have resulted, I wrote to the Secretary of the Admiralty requesting
instructions on the subject from their Lordships. My letter was
referred to the Solicitor of the Admiralty, who was of opinion that
the restrictions complained of had arisen from a misconstruction
of the Acts of 13 and 14 Carolus 2nd and 7 and 8 Wm. 3rd. And
their Lordships' Secretary in forwarding a copy of this opinion to
me, added that their Lordships had requested Lord Bathurst to
give such directions as might obviate the inconveniences I appre-
R 2
244 Records of the- Cape Colony.
hended. Various instances have occurred by which the Service
has been greatly impeded by these restrictions. Transports have
been kept more than 24 hours without being able to land their
Stores or to embark them for want of a permit, and I have myself
witnessed the interruption of a Boat's Crew on the same account,
whilst employed in taking down provisions to supply the Men of
Wax fitting for Sea, the provisions being left on the wharf whilst
the boat was sent off to communicate their detention to the Com-
manding Officer. It had been at the same time expressly stated
by the Comptroller of the Customs that the new regulations were
not intended in any manner to include H. M. ships refitting in
Port &c.
On the arrival of the Sir George Osborne Transport in Simon's
Bay on the 1st ultimo, a request was made for her to convey a
quantity of Military Stores from that place to Cape Town. They
were put on board accordingly, and she arrived in Table Bay on
the evening of the 17th. It was not until half past nine o'clock
on the 18th that permission could be procured to land the Military
Stores, and the Custom House regulations again interfered to
prevent her continuing to discharge them after three o'elock in
the afternoon, the boatmen alledging that the Custom House would
be shut by four.
I need not point out to your Excellency the absolute necessity
of aU possible exertion being made by vessels in Table Bay, par-
ticularly during the Winter Season, to take advantage of every
moment when the weather is moderate to discharge their cargoes,
as mornings and evenings are in general particularly favorable for
this purpose. Even in Summer, when the Bay has the advantage
of a weather shore, all communication with the shipping is
frequently suspended in the middle of the day from the violence
of the S.E. wind. It is also notorious that in either Bay the loss
of one fine day may occ^on more than a week's detention.
The Comptroller of the Customs it appears impressed upon the
mind of His Excellency Lord Charles Somerset the necessity of
subjecting Naval Stores to this regulation, but he did not do this
until after the Colony had been twelve years in possession of TTia
Majesty, during the whole of which period no demand had ever
been made for permits, or any remark respecting their being landed
without them ; but the Comptroller had, a short time previous to
his suggesting the new regulations, seized a quantity of Gun-
Records of the Cape Colony. 245
powder in the Boyal Magazines and one measure was obviously
intended to support the other. The Gunpowder I understand has
been restored on orders from England given to that effect, and as
the restrictions upon His Majesty's Service evidently grew out of
that seizure, I presume to hope that they might also be annulled
with it.
I beg leave to appeal to your Excellency whether it be possible
for the permits as they are given out by the Custom House to
have the effect which the Comptroller of the Custom proposes ; a
slip of paper is issued with the permit upon it, and a rix dollar is
received for it, but no inspection, in general, takes place, either on
the shipment or the landing, and whether the Article be a bale of
goods or an ox the process is the ssune.
I trust your Excellency will see that the offer I made to Lord
Charles Somerset of submitting the Transports and Store ships to
the most rigorous inspection, of receiving a Custom House Officer
on board should it be ^deemed expedient to send one, and of sub-
mitting all the documents relative to their cargoes to the Custom
House, is likely to be a greatet protection to the Colonial Bevenue
than the plan suggested by the Comptroller of the Customs, and
that you will be pleased to permit the King's Vessels to have
their former means of landing their Stores without hindrance.
I have &c.
(Signed) Jahl. Brenton.
[Original.]
Letter from the Bbveeend William Boabdman to his Son.
Mb. Wiluok'b Pabtt,
NBAB Bathubst, 10th September 1820.
Dear Thomas, — ^We are at length settled at the place of our
location^ or rather, have been here 7 or 8 weeks ; but, Mr. Willson
having left the party immediately on our arrival, the business of
measuring the land, and allotting to each his portion devolved on
me ; so that I have been almost continually engaged. I am happy
to inform you that our situation is delightful, resembling much a
park, the air and water are good, and the soil apparently fertile ;
so that, unless the summer ^rove very dry, we have the prospect
2-16 Records of the Cape Colony.
of a good crop of com. My neighbour Lieut. Bissett and I have
ploughed in common a valley containing about five acres, and
sown about half of it with wheat, but cannot sow the rest yet, as
seed-corn is very hard to be obtained. We have also digged a
garden, and planted about 100 vine stocks, with potatoes, pease,
beans, French beans, pompions, and melons, which are come up,
and promise a fair crop; we have also sown the seeds of other
vegetables, as turnips, cabbages, onions, beets, cauliflowers, &c.,
but, I am afraid prematurely ; as, altho' the midday heat is equal
to that of the hottest at Midsummer in England, yet the nights
are intensely cold, and a hoar frost is often found on the grass
before sunrise : as we live in tents these changes from heat to
cold affect us more severely ; as soon therefore as we have finished
the cultivation of the ground we shall begin to build without
delay, altho' straw for thatch cannot be had until December, when
the crop of wheat is ripe.
My salary is fixed at 2000 Eixdollars per annum, for which
liberal allowance I am under the greatest obligations to Mr.
Maude, the Governor demurring to allow me a stipend, as the
whole of the party were not members of the Church of England :
two or three families of methodists and as many of Jews, (or
proselytes as they call themselves) having smuggled themselves
on board; the British Government also had sent no definitive
instructions relative thereto ; their sanction to the measure must
therefore be obtained, which I have not the least doubt will be the
case, as that Government which intended to confer a favour on
Colonel Claugbton, would never have thought of doing so by
sending a person he so highly esteems to perish with his family
in the wilds of Africa.
From the liberal manner, however, in which the colonists have
been treated as well by tlie Colonial as by the British Govern-
ment, I have nothing to fear. On the passage, (as I believe I
observed in my last letter) the health and comfort of the settlers
were provided for in every possible manner: tea, sugar, cocao,
lime juice &c. were provided in sufficient quantities for those in
health; and wine, preserved meats with other medical comforts
for the sick : our agent Lieut. Williams turned the people regu-
larly on deck, often at first much against their inclinations, whilst
he, with myself, and Dr. Paull, the surgeon, superintended the
nitrous fumigations below.
Records of the Cape Colony. 247
Soon after our landing Jrd of each man's deposit was returned ;
the rest has been detained by the colonial Government, in part of
payment for the rations of beef or mutton and bread or flour
which I understand will be delivered out (as they are at present)
untU the wheat be harvested, so that the Colonial Government
has evinced a degree of wisdom which deserves the greatest praise.
I had also forgotten to observe that another third of the deposits
was furnished to the settlers in agricultural and other useful
implements, as spades, shovels, hoes, axes, harrow teeth, saws,
hinges, nails &c. at very low rates; waggons also to bring us
hither from Algoa bay (now Port Elizabeth) were found by
Government.
The Colonial of&cers also are in general British, and execute
their respective offices with fidelity and ability. His Excellency
the Governor Sir Bufane DonMn, to whom I had the honour of
being introduced by Captain Cloete, is the complete gentleman
and man of business : also Captains Cloete, Evett, Moresby B.N.
of the Menai, and Trappes;, with whom I have had business to
transact, have shown me every attention. Captain Trappes's
family is related by marriage to Grimshaw Lomax Esqr., also to
the Blundells of Ince Blundell & Crossby.
Altho* it is now the commencement only of the Spring, yet the
number and variety of most beautiful flowers is astonishing, there
are also many useful plants^ as wild leeks, marjoram, mint, worm-
wood, &c, as also a tree bearing berries resembling wild cherries,
and another, the round succulent acid leaves of which make
excellent pies or puddings, lesembling in taste young gooseberries
or apples. There is also abundance of game, as antelopes, wild
hogs, zebras, monkeys, & baboons, hares, wild Guinea fowls, ducks,
& doves, and geese, with partridges, plovers, parroquets, and a
variety of smaller birds of the most exquisitely coloured plumage.
There are however other animals which are more unpleasant
neighbours: about 5 miles from hence the postboy (a soldier)
was stopped by a lion on his way from Bathurst to Grahamstown,
which caused him to turn back : scarcely a night passes in which
we are not serenaded by the spotted hyaena (vide Encyclopaedia
Brit, article canis) which comes generally singly, but sometimes
in troops, the noise of which is most horrid ; there is also another
species called the laughing hysena from its diabolical laughter.
The notes of these troublesome creatures, the barking of watch
248 Records of the Cape Colony.
dogs with the report of firearms in every direction form no
pleasant concert. We have lost five sheep, which straggled from
home; and which they, no doubt, have picked up. There are
also leopards (called here tigers) seen occasionally: our servant
Wm. Hogg when I was surveying in the woods, bringing my
dinner, was stopped at the entrance of a jungle by a leopard,
which he represents as a most beautiful animal: being at not
more than ten yards distance from the beast, and thinking that I
would rather lose my dinner than my servant. Will offered him
the former, which he civilly declined ; and greatly to the satisfac-
tion of one of the parties at least, they parted good friends. We
have also enemies of a more insidious kind in abundance, as
scorpions, scolopendras, and the most deadly kind of snakes, one
of which (the puff adder,) I killed on Thursday next {sic).
Of the Dutch settlers I can say little, having seen none except
those who brought us here and who came from Graaff Reynet 150
miles to the northward; we could not understand each other's
language ; yet they appear an uncouth, half-civilized race, a com-
position of knave and fool, in which the former predominates;
they have raised the price of every necessary of life to an
enormous height ; and had it not been for the provident care of
the Government we must have been starved.
All our party, many of whom are very worthy and respectable,
and firmly attached to the British Government, are anxious to
hear from Britain, myself among the rest. I request therefore
that you will write to me without delay and direct to me near
Bathurst, District of Albany, Cape of Good Hope. Your mother,
sisters, and brothers join in love to you with
your affectionate father,
Wm. Boardm/^.
P. S. Present our grateful respects to Messrs. Hornby and
Maude and family, as also to Dr. Whittaker, and every friend at
Blackburn : communicate also the contents of this to our relatives
at Childwall, Speke, and Prescot. Present our best wishes to
Mr. and Mrs. Barton, and above all write to me immediately. I
should be happy to receive a letter from Miss Dawson.
We are all in good health and spirits, in the midst of good
Records cf the Cape Colony. 249
neighbours ; and I have the happiness to be much esteemed by
all the party. See W. Hogg's mother, and inform her that he is
in good health, and contented, and that he behaves very well.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Major General
Sir Rufane Donkin.
London, \l1h September 1820. •
Becommends to his protection
Henry Nichs. Voigt and his Wife,
Mary Dorothy,
Mary Elizabeth Eichter,
Mary Bruyer, both single,
proceeding to join the Mission of the United Brethren.
H. G.
[Original.]
Letter from J. W. Croker, Esqre., to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
AmrntAT.Tv Offioe, l^ih September 1820.
Sir, — Eeferring to my letter of the 24th July last conveying
the request of my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that Lord
Bathurst would instruct the Governor of the Cape of Good Hope
to allot a suitable piece of ground for the erection of an Observa-
tory, I am commanded by their Lordships to request to be favored
with an answer thereto. I am &c.
(Signed) J. W. Croker.
[Copy.]
ProclamcUion by Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
Whei-eas the late accumulation of population in various parts of
this Colony, remote from the residences of the local Magistrates,
250 Becords of the Cape Colony.
renders it necessary and expedient, to adopt some further Measures,
for the prompt Administration of Justice, in cases of misbehaviour,
or minor offences, and I have, therefore, come to the resolution, to
grant my Warrant to certain Heemraden, whose local situations
may enable them, to take cognizance in the matters aforesaid,
under the Begulations hereinafter prescribed; and to select and
appoint in the first instance, certain additional Heemraden, where
I may deem it expedient, who, by virtue of such appointment,
shall become Members of the Board of Landdrost and Heemraden,
of the District in which they reside, at the period of their respec-
tive appointments, and be vested with power to investigate mis-
demeanours, and minor offences, and decide therein, under the
following Instructions, viz : —
Art. 1. All complaints of Persons, not acting in the capacity of
public Prosecutors, concerning misbehaviour, (minor offences,) not
liable to public punishment, and being, moreover, of such a nature,
as to admit of an amicable arrangement, including all complaints
of Tradesmen and others, against their Apprentices; Masters
against their Servants, whether Freemen or Slaves, and of Servants
against their Masters; and further, all complaints of Parents
against their Children, shall be subject to the judicial cognizance
of any Heemraad, who shall be furnished with a Warrant to this
effect, under my Signature, or that of the Governor for the time
being, provided the offence has been committed, within the limits
assigned to his jurisdiction, which limits shall be fixed and made
known, according to circumstances, by the Landdrost of the
District.
Art. 2. In all the cases mentioned in the preceding Article, it
will be incumbent on the Heemraad, to endeavour to reconcile the
Parties: should, however, his endeavours prove unsuccessful, a
record is to be made thereof; after which, he will proceed to a
judicial investigation of the case.
Art. 3. For this purpose, a time must be appointed to the
Parties, for the investigation or trial of the case, which shall take
place as soon as possible, according to circumstances, especially
the greater or less distance of the dwelling places of those con-
cerned, and of the Witnesses, from the residence of the Heemraad.
Art. 4. At the commencement of the trial, the Complainant
shall relate the circumstances of his complaint; but, previous
to being thereto admitted, he shall be obliged to take the oath
Records of the Cape Colony, 251
required in Crown Trials. The Complainant, or Accuser, having
given his relation, the Accused shall be asked by the Heemraad,
whether he acknowledges the oflfence imputed to him, in the act
(rf accusation, or not ? And in case he pleads guilty y the Heem-
raad shall proceed to pronounce his sentence; but in case the
Accused pleads Tiot guilty, or refuses to answer, the Witnesses of
the Complainant shall be examined. After which, the Accused
shall make his defence, and the Witnesses of the Accused shall be
examined, and this having been done, the Heemraad shall pro-
nounce, according to Law, his decision or sentence. It is, how-
ever required, that the Heemraden in the judicial investigation,
and in the passing of their sentences, as far as the nature of the
circumstances allows, shall proceed, conformably to what has been
prescribed in the Mode of Proceeding in Crown Trials, Articles 78,
79, 109, 110, 111, 118, OQd 119.
Art. 5. Should the Heemraad, before whom a case is tried, feel
doubts as to the decision or sentence which he ought to pro-
nounce, he is at liberty to refer the case to the Board of Landdrost
and Heemraden.
Art. 6. An accurate record shall be made, of the whole of the
proceedings in each case, including the sentence, and as far as
the nature of the circumstances admit, agreeing with what has
been prescribed for the Crown Trials, Articles 83, 84, and 85.
Art. 7. In case of the non-appearance of the Complainant or
Accused, or of any of the Witnesses who shall have been duly
summoned ; as also in case of unwillingness or refusal of any of
the Witnesses to give evidence, it will be incumbent on the
Heemraad, to act according to what has been prescribed for the
Crown Trials, Articles 114, 115, 116, and 117.
Art. 8. An appeal is allowed from the sentences of the Heem-
raad, to the respective Boards of Landdrost and Heemraden of
the Districts in which they reside, in those cases in which a re-
hearing by the full Board has been allowed to the Parties, from
sentences of Landdrosts and Commissioned Heemraden of the
Districts ; in which cases, the appeal shall be noted in the Office
of the Heemraad, within five days after the prououncing of the
sentence ; and a sum of 25 Bds. shall be at the same time deposited
in the said Office, which sum shall become forfeited, in case the
sentence be confirmed, or the appeal not prosecuted. The prose-
cution of the appeal, shall take place at the first ensuing Court-
252 Records of the Cape Colony,
day, after three days being computed from the date of the pro-
nouncing of the sentence, or if within such time the same cannot
take place, owing to the distance of the dwelling places of the
Parties from the Drostdy, then on the first succeeding Court-day.
Art. 9. With regard to the execution of the sentences of the
Heemraden, to the forfeiture of the right of appealing, and also
to the prosecution of the appeals, the Mode of Proceeding, as pre-
scribed for Crown Trials, Articles 131 and 132, as also Articles 8,
133, and 134, shall be followed.
Art. 10. The Heemraden, acting under special Warrants, are
also authorised and directed, within the limits of their respective
jurisdictions, to summon before them any Person or Persons sus-
pected, on probable grounds, of intention to break the Peace ; and
conformably to what has been prescribed for the Crown Trials,
Articles 95, 96, 97, and 98, are to cause him or them to give
suflBcient security, by bond, to keep the Peace ; or in case of non-
appearance, unwillingness, refusal, or inability, to give such
security, to take him or them into custody ; for which purpose,
the Heemraden herein alluded to, will unite in their own Persons
the authority, which, in the said Articles of the Crown Trial, has
been divided between the public Prosecutors and the Judges.
Art. 11. In case of the commission of crimes, which are subject
to a public corporal punishment, within the limits of the Jurisdic-
tion assigned to Heemraden, having my special Warrant, as afore-
said, they are authorised, without previous judicial decree, to
cause the sup*posed Ofifenders to be apprehended, in which cases
they shall be obliged to take the depositions on oath, of one or
more competent Witnesses, who can give evidence respecting the
circumstances of the perpetration of the ofiences; and in case of
non-appearance of the Witnesses who shall have been duly sum-
moned, as also in cases of unwillingness or refusal of any of them,
to answer the queries, or give the evidence required, the Heemraad
is hereby authorised, to act against such Witness, as is prescribed
by the 115th and 116th Articles of the Proceedings in. Crown
Trials.
Art. 12. In cases of suspicion of future misbehaviour, for which
the giving of security for good conduct, or apprehension of the
suspected Persons, shall be required, or in cases of the apprehen-
sion of Offenders, an accurate record shall be kept by the Heem-
raad, containing the deposition and evidence, duly sworn to, the
Records of the Cape Colony, 253
contents of the bonds of security given by the suspected Persons,
and all such further information obtained, as shall relate to the
respective cases.
Art. 13. The Heemraad acting under this Proclamation, shall
transmit, without delay, to the respective Drostdies of the District
to which they belong, all Persons apprehended, either for the pre-
vention of crimes, or in consequence of crimes actually committed,
together with the authenticated copies of the records relating to
the cases of such Persons, in order thereby to enable the Land-
drosts, further to act in the said cases, according to the nature of
the circumstances, conformably to Law.
Art. 14. The Field-Cornets, within the limits of the Jurisdiction
s^signed to the Heemraden alluded to, shall be obliged to send,
for their information and guidance, copies of their reports relative
to crimes and misdemeanours committed within their Field-
Cometcies, as also copies of their reports after inspections or
inquests.
Art. 15. Should any Person feel himself aggrieved by any act or
acts of the Heemraden acting under this Proclamation, it will be
then required, that he shall address himself by Memorial to the
Landdrosts and Heemraden of the District, who, upon investiga-
tion of the circumstances, shall, if necessary, afford the redress
required, or otherwise refer him to the proper authority, for the
purpose of obtaining redress.
Art. 16. Each Heemraad acting under this. Proclamation, shall
be allowed to appoint a Clerk, whose duty shall consist, in being
present at all official transactions of the Heemraad, framing the
necessary records thereof, drawing up summonses and requisitions,
writing acts and copies, and attending to all such further oflScial
duties, as shall be required of him by his Employer. The sum of
300 Eds. annually, will be allowed the Heemraad, to defray this
charge, payable out of the Treasury of the District.
Art. 17. The Heemraden alluded to, shall have at their disposal
the services of one or more Inhabitants, whose dwelling places
are situated nearest to their residences, to be appointed by them-
selves, on whom it shall be incumbent to serve such summonses
and requisitions, as they may . find it necessary to issue, and to
apprehend such Persons, against whom the Heemraden may find
it requisite to issue their Warrant, and to convey them to the
respective Drostdies, in which they sh^U be assisted, in case it
254 Records of the Cape Colony.
may be deemed necessary by one or more of the other Inhabitants^
regularly called upon to this effect.
Art. 18. In selecting the Inhabitants for the duties alluded to
in the last Article, the Heemraden shall, as far as possible, select
unmarried Persons, Burghers of this Colony, not being Heads of
Families ; and unless such Inhabitants, for reasons to be detailed
by them, by Memorial to me, or to the Governor for the time
being, shall have been excused from the services to which they
have been appointed, they shall be obliged to perform the said
services, and continue in such functions during two successive
years, on pain of being considered as Opposers of the lawful
commands of the Magistrates, and punished accordingly.
Art. 19. All Burghers in the service of the Heemraden acting
under this Proclamation, shall be freed from all other municipal
duties, especially Commandos, and they will, over and above the
disbursements they may be necessitated to make, be allowed a
certain sum for their trouble in serving summonses and requisitions,
and in apprehending Persons, to be regulated according to such
Tariff as shall be made for them ; all which expenses shall be
paid to them, out of the District Treasury in which the Heemraad
shall reside, subject to reimbursement by the Parties, who eventu*
ally shall have been condemned to pay the costs.
The Heemraden furnished with the special Warrant alluded to
above, shall take the following Oath, in the Court of Landdrost
and Heemraden, viz : —
" I do sincerely promise and swear, that I will be faithful and
bear true allegiance to His Majesty (xeorge the IV King of the
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland ; and that I will
faithfully and obediently serve His Majesty's Government estab-
lished in this Colony ; that I will do the duties prescribed by the
Proclamation of the 15th Sept. 1820, diligently, and to the best of
my abilities ; that in the performance of these duties, I will do
equal and impartial Justice to all Parties, without fear of any of
them, or of their Friends and Protectors."
And that no Person poiay plead ignorance hereof, this shall be
published and affixed as usual.
God save the King !
Given under my Hand and Seal, at the Cape of Good Hope,
this 15th day of September 1820.
(Signed) B. S. Dokkin.
Becords of (he Cape Colony. 255
[Copy.]
Prodamatum h/ Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin. .
Whereas the encreased population, consequent upon the recent
location of the Settlers who have arrived in this Colony from the
United Eangdom, has rendered it expedient to establish in the
Sub-Drostdies in which they are located, Courts for the Enregister-
ment of Marriages, and for the cognizance of Minor Criminal and
Civil Cases, to obviate the inconvenience to which the Inhabitants
would be exposed, from the necessity they would be otherwise under,
of resorting to the Courts of the chief place in each Province of the
Colony, in which they are settled :
I do therefore hereby direct the Deputy Landdrosts of the Sub-
Drostdies of Clanwilliam, and Graham's Town, to assemble a
Court of Deputy Landdrost and Heemraden, (the number of
Heemraden competent to constitute such Court, with the Deputy
Landdrost, not to be less than two) on the first Monday of every
Month, at which Court all the Inhabitants of the proportion of the
Districts of Tulbagh and Uitenhage, now included in the Sub-
Divisions of Clan William and Albany, shall be at liberty to have
their Marriages registered, as customary in this Colony.
And I do hereby further direct the aforesaid Deputy Landdrosts,
with the number of Heemraden as aforesaid, at least, to constitute
a Court, at the S£uue time and place, for the trial of such Criminal
Cases as are cognizable by the Courts of Landdrosts and Heem-
raden, under the Proclamation of the 18th of July, 1817, and of
such Civil Cases as are of the competence of those Courts to decide
upon.
And that no Person may plead Ignorance hereof, this shall be
published and affixed as usuaL
God save the King !
Given under my Hand and Seal, at the Cape of Good Hope,
this 15th day of September 1820.
(Signed) E. S. Don kin.
256 JRecords of the Cape Colony,
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretaty to the Zanddrost of Uitenhage.
OoLOHiAL Officb, September I5th 1820.
SiB, — His Excellency the Acting Governor having had nnder
his consideration the state of that part of your District in which
the Emigrants from England have been lately located, and having
perceived that it is desirable for the convenience of the Inhabitants
and for the qniet and good order of the District that certain
further regulations should be promulgated on these Heads, His
Excellency has determined that there shall be a Monthly Court
for Matrimonial Affairs and Petty Cases at Graham's Town, at
which the Deputy Landdrost shall, as is usual, preside, with at
least two Heemraden, acting under the same instructions as the
Court of Landdrosts and Heemraden are guided by in like matters
at the chief places of the several Provinces, of which the usual
notice will be forthwith given ; but as the number of Settlers, and
their distance in many instances from the Sub Drostdy may make
it inconvenient for them in very minute cases to go to Graham's
Town either for the purpose of procuring redress in such cases, or
giving information to the Magistrates on more grave subjects, his
Excellency has empowered the Provisional Magistrate at Bathurst
to take cognizance of certain matters which are defined in a Pro-
clamation issued for the guidance of Special Heemraden to be
appointed by His Excellency's warrant in such situations in which
he may judge it requisite to extend this further aid to the Magis-
tracy and Inhabitants ; His Excellency has thought fit to define
the limits of the jurisdiction of the Provisional Magistrate at
Bathurst, so that all collision between that oflBcer and the Magis-
trate at Graham's Town may be thereby avoided. This jurisdiction
will embrace all the locations seaward of a line drawn from the
North West side of Mr. Mahon/s Settlement to the Jager's drift
on the Bosjesman's Eiver, and thus include the several locations
pointed out in the enclosed list, to which you will be pleased to
give the necessary publicity.
• But His Excellency having further considered that the difference
of language may be of considerable embarrassment in cases where
the English Settlers are concerned, he has decided upon appointing
two additional Heemraden for the Graham's Town jurisdiction in
Records of tJie Cape Colony, 257
addition to the Heemraden already considered as belonging to the
Sub Drostdy ; and it is His Excellency's desire that yon instruct
the Deputy Landdrost not to take cognizance in his Court of any
case either criminal or civil unless one of the said additional Heem-
raden whom His Excellency will select from among the English
Settlers residing in the aforesaid jurisdiction, be present when the
cause in which such English Subject is concerned shall come on,
matrimonial cases excepted, in which the usual necessary questions
may be put to the parties, without it being necessary that an
English Member of the Court be present, provided the Deputy
Landdrost himself be so. These additional Heemraden will not
however be furnished with the Special Warrant alluded to in His
Excellency's aforesaid Proclamation of this date; but as it is
essential to provide for the possible absence or illness of the
Provisional Magistrate at Bathurst, His Excellency has decided
upon appointing a Heemraad in that jurisdiction, with powers to
act under such circumstances, according to the powers vested in
such by the aforesaid Proclamation ; this Heemraad may or may
not be called to the sitting of the Court of Deputy Landdrost and
Heemraden of Graham's Town, according as it shall appear advis-
able to yourself or the Deputy Landdrost.
It will rest with you to put the respective parties into possession
of the details necessary to their canning these instructions into
execution ; and therefore it remains only on this subject necessary
to add that His Excellency desires that Messieurs Pigot and
Campbell (of Botha's Farm) may be appointed Heemraden in the
Graham's Town jurisdiction, and Mr. Phillips for that of Bathurst ;
the warrant for the special duties with which the latter is to be
entrusted being herein enclosed.
I likewise transmit to you six printed copies of the mode of
proceeding in Crown Trials in English, and as many copies of His
Excellency's Proclamation of this date ; and two copies in English
and two in Dutch of the Instructions for the Matrimonial Court,
in order that you may furnish them as may be required to the
Court of Graham's Town, and to the Provisional Magistrate and
Heemraad at Bathurst.
One step arising out of these Instructions it appears to be
immediately necessary to provide for, and that is the erection of a
place of confinement for Prisoners at Bathurst; a plan thereof
should be agreed upon between Captain Trappes and yourself; and
xm. s
258 Records of the Cape Cohmy.
you should endeavour to induce some of the Heads of Parties or
principal Settlers to tender for the work, after which such tenders
as shall have been received should be transmitted hither with the
plan proposed for His Excellency's sanction. I have &a
(Signed) C. Bird,
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secketary to Captain Trappes.
Colonial Office, Sepienber 15th 1820.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor to
acquaint you that the expediency of establishing a Court for
Matrimonial affairs, and a Court for taking cognizance of Criminal
and Civil Offences at Graham's Town has made it necessary officially
to promulgate your Appointment as a Provisional Magistrate in
the District of XJitenhage ; and to define the limits of the District
within which you are called upon to exercise those judicial powers
which it has been thought fit to entrust to you, and which are
fully described in His Excellency's Proclamation of this date for
the appointment of certain Special Heemraden, as conservators of
the Peace in such situations in which it may appear to His Ex->
ceUency to be necessary. By this augmentation of the powers
formally entrusted to you, I am directed by His Excellency to
state that it is not meant to revoke or amend those Instructions
which you received on your first appointment through Mr. ElUs or
to limit those duties or interferences with respect to the Settlers
which at that time were found necessary to entrust you with, but
by the present arrangement to aid the Courts of the District and
to £Eusilitate the ends of Justice in the Cases pointed out. But as it
may happen that from your absence or indisposition, the Inhabitants
might not have it in their power to obtain in the cases alluded to,
that speedy redress which it is the wish by this measure to place
in their power. His Excellency has expedited His Warrant to Mr.
T. Phillips constituting him a Special Heemraad, with powers to
act in your absence, or when you may be otherwise legally
prevented from the performance of these duties, (of which you
will upon such occasions give him due notice) according to the
terms of the aforesaid Proclamation*
J
Becords of the Cape Colony. 259
The limit of the District to which your judicial powers tfre
confined is defined by a line drawn from the Fish Biver passing
the north west side of Mr. Mahoney's location to the Jager's drift
on the Bosjesman's Biver, and including the several locations
specified in the enclosed List.
It will be necessary that you take into your employ an active
and intelligent Clerk, the selection of whom His Excellency leaves
to you as well as the amount of Salary to be allowed him, provided
ttie sum of 600 Bds. be not exceeded. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Copy.]
Letter from Henry Ellis, Esquire, to Sir Jahleel Brektok.
CoLOViAL Offiob, Wh ^epUmhw 1820.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor to
acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of the 9th instant, with its
inclosures, and I have it in command to inform you that the
general question upon which the Department under your superin-
tendence as well as the Department of H.M. Ordnance are at issue
with the Officers of H.M. Customs in this Colony, having been
referred to H.M. Secretary of State for the Colonial department,
for orders thereupon, until the receipt of an answer to that reference
His Excellency does not conceive that it would be decorous in him
to anticipate the decision that may be taken on the existing system ;
with a view however partially to remove the difficulty complained
of His Excellency will direct that the charge of one BixdoUar
cease to be levied on all permits granted for the shipment or
landing of public Stores or provisions from or for the use of H.M.
Vessels of war and Transports in the Forts of this colony : this
remission being however subject to the decision of H.M. Secretary
of State on the whole question still under reference. I have &c.
(Signed) H, Ellis, Deputy Secretaiy.
S 2
260
Aeeordt of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton to the CommissioneTi
of the Navy.
Caps of Good Hops, 21«< SepUwber 1820.
CrVSTVEMXN, — Ab no Step had been taken by the Colonial Govem-
ment to prevent the inconveniences which unavoidably result k)
H.M. Service by subjecting the Transports to the forms estab-
lished at the Custom House for Merchant Vessels, as stated in my
letter of the 10th December 1818^ and as these inconveniences
have been experienced on many occasions, I have thought it my
duty to address the Colonial Gk)vemment again on the subject, to
specify the instances in which the service has been impeded, and
to request its interference in behalf of the Crown. His Excellency
has been pleased to assure ine verbally, that he has taken the case
into his serious consideration, and has directed the payment of the
permits to be in future remitted, but as the question of the
expediency of the transports being subjected to these restrictions
is now before the Secretary of State, he does does not feel authorised
to annul the regulation made upon this subject by Lord Charles
Somerset
As the payment of the very small sums required for procuring
the permits was a very trifling inconvenience when compared to
the detention of the Transports, I beg leave to submit the subject
again to your consideration, in the hope that you may be enabled
to cause the measure to be given up altogether.
I have met with a case in the Court iof Admiralty reports for
1811, that of the Svrift, Begson Masteri where the distinction
between a Transport and a Merchant Wessel seems to be very
clearly defined, and in which the Sentemipe of a Vice Admiralty
Court, acting upon a view of their identity, | was reversed.
I enclose a copy of my last letter to thSt Acting Governor and
the answer to it. I have &c. ij
(Signed)|tf J^ahl. Bre>;ton.
r
f
n
Itecord& of the Cape GoUmy. 261'
[Copy.l
Letter from Mr. W. Parker to John P* Watnby, E^QRB.
Temts, Stomfhqbc, %^ Septemim 1820.
Sir, — Ton have indulged your malicious disposition by cruelly
and unnecessarily exposing my property to destruction, during an
equinoctial gale at a time when it required all my exertions ta
secure the wretched shelter for my family and my boat. By this
act you have not only disgraced the character of an Englishman
but that of a Christian, you well know my distressed situation,
and you have adopted every means in your power to annoy me,
because his Excellency the Acting Governor was pleased to grant
me without solicitation, two Morgen of Land on the Ostwall near
your Lands. Jealous of your illgotten wealth, you attempt to
deprive others of the means of prosperity, you say, and have said,
that cost what it would, even two Thousand Dollars a year, that
you will deprive me of the means of existence by cutting me ofiT
from every supply of water. Thus you cruelly and arrogantly
presume to deprive my large family and Settlers of one of the
elements of nature, of the most indispensable article of life, of
water which I am well informed ia the common property of the
public, being on the common outspan of the Bay.
On my first arrival in the Colony your character was fully told
me and I was cautioned not to have anything to say to you, not
only by the most respectable Dutch Inhabitants but by the
English.
Even the excellent Mr. StoU, the much esteemed Landdrost of
this District, was diffident asking a favour fiK)m you. But necessity
has no law. It forced me in order to prevent my family from
Death on the burning sands of Saldanha Bay to solicit an act of
kindness from a person whose character was so equivocal and to
make one of the best men in the Colony, or perhaps in the
universe, the instrument of doing so. You did not want your
wretched jouthouse^ for I find that the rest of your houses wei^e
empty. But to gratify your spleen, you, not satisfied at exposing
my large family to the perils of a fluctuating climate, further out-
rage the sacred rites of hospitality in a foreign land, and through
me, insult the Gk)vemment of the Colony, which placed me on
the shores of Saldanha Bay, because the head of the Colony has
been pleased to countenance my establishment near your estate* .
r
262^ Records of the Cape Colony.
Is this the mode you adopt of showing your gratitude to Govern-
ment for granting you Klapmutz in a perpetuity^ when the sale
was dubious about that farm, you were well inclined to make me
the instrument of having it turned in your favour by accom-
modating me with the sale of your estate here. But having
obtained your point thro* Lord Charles Somerset's influence you at
once immask yourself, and have vainly attempted by the most
inhospitable treatment to force me from this part of the Colony.
I shall send a copy of this to Sir B. Donkm and to my Mends in
London, and shall let the world know the inhumanity of an
Englishman at the Cape of Good Hope. I am Sir &c.
(Signed) Wm. ' Pabkeb.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mb. William Pabkeb to the
Deputy Colonial Secbetaby
Tbntb at Stovpboek, 2M Sep^enJber 1820.
Sib, — I take leave to inform you that on the 4th of September
Inst. I wrote to His Excellency the Acting Governor who was
then I understand at Groote Post, informing him of the truly
distressed state of my family at Saldanha Bay, and of Mr. Kendler,
the resident, refusing me every accommodation at the Government
premises in this place. I was not honoured with any notice being
taken of that communication.
The Batdiffe Whaler is now on the eve of saiUng, and I am
under the necessity of returning the sails the Master of the Ship
was so kind as to lend me. On Saturday night last during a
severe equinoctial gale, Mr. Watney, who well knew my very
distressed situation, jealous of His Excellency affording me any
encouragement to establish myself in this part of the Colony,
broke open the doors of a small out house of his in which my
most valuable effects were deposited, and he had them all removed
to the beach near his house, where they were exposed to the
weather and to plunder. It is true that he repeatedly sent me
notice to remove my things from his premises, but I had noplace
to deposit them in, and his people actually told me that he did not
want the place in which they were, hit that he was incensed at the
Records of the Cape Colony^ 263
Oovemment giving me any land near his property,^ Hie has done
an act that hw disgraced the character of an EiiglSshman, and I
have written to him to that effect, and nov take leave to send you
for His Excellency's information a Copy of my letter to Mr*
Watney. I am now preparing a ciieiimstantial account of my
residence in Southern Africa, to tcansmit to Earl Bathurst, and
I shaU submit to his Lordship that the instructions of Goyem-
ment and the wishes of His Majesty have been almost disregarded
respecting my family and settlers. I can no longer submit to be
treated by Colonel Bird, who has practised the most fallacious
conduct, with any further instances of cruelty. He has most
grossly deceived me aad exercised his ofGicial authority to the ruin
of myself and my laige family. Be pleased to assure His
Excellency that I impute no blame to him, as I understand that
his assmning the reins of Government was quite accidental and
that he was unprepared to meet the duplicity that has- been
practised by the Colonial Secretary. Through his improper
conduct I experienced a gross insult in the house of Mr. Bergh,
the Deputy Landdrost at Clanwilliam, who very justly felt hurt
at Colonel Bird's writing to him that he Mr. Bergh was an enemy
to the Gk)vemment as he had given me wrong information
respecting the lands designed for my location. I admit that
Colonel Bird holds a highly responsible, honourable and beneficial
situation. But I am satisfied that neither His Excellency nor
the British Government will countenance him in tampering with
the happiness, nay the existence of so many unfortunate indi«
viduals. I have neither lands to cultivate, shelter for my family^
nor settlers, and nothing but destruction staring me in the face,
which is sufficient to drive a man like me accustomed to mix in
the first Bodety and to every comfort, to desperation. His
Excellency will therefore I hope excuse the very strong language
that I use, and call for the letter Colonel Bird wrote to Mr. Bergh
respecting me and also for Mr. Buissinne's report which so notably
differs from what he told Mr. Bergh and many other individuals,
and from real truth.
Were His Excellency to see our present situation he would
consider us more in the light of shipwrecked beings than loyal
and suffering British subjects sent to this Colony under the
auspices of Government.
Yesterday the crew of one of the Whalers who got intoxicated
264 Records of the Cape Cohny,
at Mr. Kendler's, where a common dram shop is kept, went over
to my efiects at Mr. Watney's, and plundered them in defiance of
the remonstrances of my man who was in charge. Indeed His
Excellency's presence at this Bay and Clanwilliam is indispensably
necessary^' If some attention be not paid to these parts of the
Colony the English Government will be disgraced by permitting
practices so hostile to the interests of society and civilization.
I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Original.]
Lettef from the Keverend William Wright to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
15 Abundel Struct, SrsAin), Septembw 27th 1820.
Sir, — ^As I propose veiy shortly leaving this country to enter
upon the duties of my situation at the Cape of Good Hope, I take
the liberty of applying (according to your desire) for the letters of
introduction which you have been so kind as to promise me to
the heads of His Majesty's Gk)vemment in that colony.
I beg leave to enclose Mr. Hamilton's letter stating the nature
of my appointment, and beg the £Ekvour of its being returned.
I have &c.
(Signed) William Wright, A.M.,
Missionary to Cape Town.
[Original.]
Letter from Major Holloway to Lieutenant T. White,
BOTAL ENGDfXBB OfFIGE,
Cafk of Good Hope, 21th September 1820.
Sir, — His Excellency the Commander of the Forces having
under yesterday's date directed a (jreneral Map of the Colony to
be forthwith formed, and compiled by the Engineer Department
from such Military, Naval, Colonial and other Materials as can be
collected, in addition to the Surveys now carrying on in different
Becards of the Cape Colony. 265
places; and having understood through the Colonial Secretary
Colonel Bird that you are acquainted with the Method of taking
Military Sketches of Countries, I am authorized to state to you
that the Acting Gtovemor and Commander of the Forces would be
happy of your assistance if it should be agreeable and convenient
to you in the capacity of an Assistant Engineer on the Frontier ;
and I therefore beg to say that it is proposed to allow to the
several Assistant Engineers who may give their aid in the pro*
meting of the beneficial views of His Excellency, such an allow-
ance per square Mile sketched and drawn as may be a proper
remuneration, together with the necessary means of moving from
one place to another.
The scale to be used is 2 miles to one Inch, and the usual
method hitherto pursued has been by means chiefly of a Compass
to intersect convenient points, proceeding from a base line, and
to sketch the intermediate country, transmitting Weekly Setums
of Progress drawn up according to a settled form to be afterwards
compared with and* to be illustrative of the sketches ; but I am
to observe that Sir Bufane Donkin has not decided on the exact
amount of the allowance to be paid to the Assistant Engineers.
Bequesting of you the favour of a reply as soon as possible to
let me know whether it would suit your arrangements to give any
assistance in the interesting and useful design of His Excellency
according to the Outline I have mentioned, as Sir Bufane is very
anxious that the service may be forthwith commenced upon, con-
ceiving that it will eventually prove of extensive public utility.
I have &c.
(Signed) W. C. Holloway, Major Boyal Engineers.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Sbcrbtary to
Mr. William Pabker.
Caps Towk, Sepiomber 29t& 1820.
Dear Sib, — I received your public letter of the 25th with
strong feelings of regret, inasmuch as I cannot but think that
the disappointment attending your views in this Colony has
266 Eecords of the Cape Colmiy.
induced you to fonn very erroneous opinions on the conduct of
iudividucds, who, in their official capacity, have been called upon
to direct and superintend the location of yourself and party.
There is one fallacy, if I may be allowed to use the expression,
which pervades the whole of your reasoning : namely, an attempt
to separate Colonel Bird from the Acting Governor. The idea of
placing parties of Settlers in any other district but the Zuureveld
belonged originally to His Excellency, and the object absolutely
entertained by all whose duty it became to act upon that idea
was to select from the unoccupied Lands the most eligible
situation, in fact there was no private interest to oppose the
fair and honest execution of the measure; and if the places
selected were not equal in quality to more fortimate spots, the
difference arose from the obvious circumstances of the latter
having been the first occupied As to the allied discrepancy
between Mr. Buissinne's report and hii^ private opinion, as yet
there is no proof of the fact, and it will be recollected that the
only considercUion of selection to he considereE indispenacMe vxis
capainlUy to maintain^ not capability for profUaMe cultivation. An
agricultural speculator with a party of labourers attached to him,
and possessed of capital, would not be satisfied with the {onueacg
but would require the latter quality, before he ventured on
purchase or occupation. In short necessity differs from option*
and I therefore can conceive the possibility o£ a public officer
entertaining an opinion that he would not lay out money with
a view to profit on land, which however was quite capable of
affording sustenance in return for industry. This was the point
referred to Mr. Buissinne, and to it his report was directed. With
regard to yourself you wiU perceive from the statement of the
cause and circumstances attending the selection of lands in
Clanwilliam, that your not being now in the Zuureveld is purely
accidental, for had the Ea^t Indian and Fanny arrived among the
first ships, they would have been dispatched to Algoa Bay, and
you would never have heard, either of Mr. Buissinne's report, or
of Mr. Watney's refusal to allow a participation in water. Your
commercial views would have been of more distant and difficult
realization than at present, but at the same time you would have
avoided much personal disquietude, for mere locality would have
compelled you to adopt the course that wisdom points out to
a settler in an unoccupied country, the procuring immediate
Records of the Cape Colony. 267
shelter and providing the means of future maintenance. As it
is, your mind has been diverted to the supposed possibility of
mercantile profits, and in the disappointment attending exaggerated
expectations, the common failing of our nature, leads you to look
for the cause anywhere but in yourself. I assert with a confidence
which defies contradiction, that there has not only been no dis-
position to thwart your views individually, but on the contrary
that had you at once taken measures for placing your party
beyond the reach of want or the influence of disunion, the
superiority of your arguments and the strength of the private
recommendations which you brought to this colony would have
obtained for you every possible consideration and assistance ; nor
indeed notwithstanding the fact of your correspondence with the
Secretary's Office having exhibited a series of demands contrary
to Colonial usage and established regulation can I discover that
a reasonable or practicable feuiility has been withheld. Tour
acquaintance with Mr. Adderly induces me to add a recom-
mendation that you should either join the party at the Kleine
Valley, or abandon your views in this Colony altogether, for I
can only anticipate increased disappointment to yourself and
distress to your family and dependents from a continuance in
your present system of preferring requests impossible to be
granted and awaiting unavoidable refusals. In the event of
your wishing to make any use of this letter in any representa-
tion which you may think fit to address to your friends in
England, I beg leave to assure you that I can have no possible
objection. I remain &c.
(Signed) H. Ellis.
[Copy.l
LettdT from Mr. William Parkbb to Earl Bathurst.
Baldakha Bay, South Afbioa, 29ti^ BepUfwber 1820.
My Lord, — Circumstances of a very serious nature affecting the
vital interests of many suffering individuals and the public generally
having taken place respecting the Settlers that left London and
Cork for this Colony^ in the Ship East Indian, I feel it my im-
perative duty, having already experienced the inutility of repre-
268 Records of the Cape Colony.
senting facts to the Colonial Government here, to submit to yonr
Lordship's consideration, and through Tour Lordship to the British
Government, the following details.
I have avoided as long as possible troubling Your Lordship with
any communication, hoping that by expostulations and representa-
tions founded on truth, the Acting Governor Sir Bufane Donkin
would, on his return from the Zuureveldt, have rectified the errors
committed in his absence by the Colonial Secretary, Colonel Bird,
but as His Excellency has not carried into effect his intentions
of visiting the Settlers in the District of Clanwilliam, nor of
enquiring into the notorious ill conduct of some of the Settlers,
who have been actually countenanced by the Secretary therein,
I must lay before your Lordship a circumstantial narrative of my
proceedings, not only since my arrival in the Colony but on board
the Ship East Indian.
I beg Your Lordship's reference to the 15th Article of the
excellent regulations, which your Lordship enjoined the heads of
Parties to enforce, and which regulations were bottomed on the
wisest principles of humanity.
Pursuant to them I felt it my duty to caution several individuals,
particularly Mr. Thomas Seton and the Bevd. Francis McGleland,
the Chaplain to the Party, as to the line of conduct they pursued
on board : the former for acts of almost mutinous insurrection, and
the latter, although a Clergyman of the established Church, for
constant inebriety and fomenting disputes among the Settlers on
board and grossly insulting Mr. Holditch, the surgeon, whose
conduct was extremely correct and attentive to his professional
duties. My cautioning these persons against a continuance of
such ill conduct only caused them personally to insult me and to
set me and Your Lordship's regulations at defiance.
Li consequence of the repeated instances of ill conduct, I
determined to prefer charges against these two individuals, and
immediately after my arrival at Simon's Bay, which was on the
30th April last, I sent to CoL Bird specific chaiges, and also sent
him an account of my arrival and waiting His Excellency's
instructions.
In answer to this letter, I received a letter from CoL Bird
stating that I was to be located on the North- West Coast of the
Colony, and that it was advisable my proceeding to Cape Town
to make arrangements for the disembarkation of the Settlers at
Records of the Cape Colony, 269
Saldanha Bay. Accordingly on the 3rd May I went there and
had an interview with CoL Bird on the following day; the
Secretary informed me that the rich and fertile district of Clan-
william was selected for the location of the Settlers per East
Indian and Fanny, that the lands intended for them were at or
near the Sub-Drostdy in Jan Dissels Valley, and that they were
not more than 85 miles from Saldanha Bay; that the Colonial
Government was most particular in this selection, as they wished
from the very strong testimonials that I possessed to render me '
every favour.
A total stranger to the Colony, and not knowing any of the
localities of the Country, I was most thankful to Colonel Bird
for this Toark of favour shewn to me, and after calling his
attention to the ill conduct of the individuals on board the Ea^t
Indian, one of whom, Mr. McCleland, had been previously with
the Secretary, I left his Office and went among some acquaint-
ances to inquire into the alleged fertility of ClanwiUiam. The
first and most competent person to whom I spoke recommended
xne to visit the lands before I sent the Settlers there, or at all
events before I took up my Family, as he, altho' a native of the
Colony and one who from his situation should know something
of the District, never heard even from report that it was such
as CoL Bird represented. As this estimable gentleman that thus
advised me had no motive but that of humanity to give me this
information, I received it as I ought and on his suggestion
solicited from the Colonial Secretary a letter to the Deputy
Landdrost to shew me the lands.
Now, My Lord, before I proceed further it is necessary to call
your Lordship's attention to the second circular letter issued from
the Colonial department in London, wherein it is expressly stated
** that in allotting them the Lands which Government have agreed
to grant them their interests and their wishes will be consulted
and attended to as far as may be consistent with the public
interest of the Colony." Every settler rejoiced that the Govern-
ment at home should have adopted such a humane and wise
regulation. Your Lordship will be able to judge in the sequel of
this narrative how far Col. Bird attended to my interest and wishes.
It was with considerable difficulty and great apparent reluctance
on the part of the Colonial Secretary, that I obtained from him
a sealed letter to Mr. Bergh, the Deputy Landdrost of Clanwilliam.
270 Records of the Cape Colony,
Having done so I returned to the Ship at Simon's Bay, where I
found that Mr. McCleland and Mr. Seton had been haranguing
the Settlers and told them that the Gk)yemment would take no
notice of what had passed on board ship and that none of my
letters would be attended to. As the Colonial Government wisely
determined not to permit the lower Orders of Settlers to land, I
was accused by them of being the cause of this order being issued,
and I was publicly called a Tyrant and Oppressor. The ship was
ordered round to Saldanha Bay, and I left my family under the
protection of that excellent OflScer Lt. Wolrige and Mr. Hogg the
worthy Commander of the East Indian^ and proceeded by land,
accompanied by Mr. Francis and my nephew Mr. W. S. Parker,
two of my Settlers, to Cape Town. I had another interview with
CoL Bird, who informed me that the Colonial Government had
no power to take notice of any conduct that happened at Sea, and
no notice would be taken of the charges preferred by Lt. Wolrige
and' myself. Indignant at this conduct, " What then (says I) are
the instructions of Earl Bathurst to be set at nought and are the
culpable to be countenanced in their iniquity ? " The Coloni
Secretary bowed assent to this question, and I took my leave of
him, impressed with an idea that the affairs of this Colony were
sadly mismanaged.
On Saturday the 13th May furnished by Mr. StoU, the Land-
drost of the Cape District, with letters to the respectable Dutch
gentlemen on the road, we left Cape Town to view the lands
which Col. Bird almost represented as a Terrestrial Paradise, and
on our way to them every intelligent Farmer smiled at CoL Bird's
description of theuL
On the 17th May we got to the lands, which were shewn to us
by the son of the Deputy Landdrost and the Land Surveyor Mr.
Tulleken. We were astonished, nay disgusted, at the fiEdlacious
accoimt CoL Bird had given us, and at the house of the Deputy
Landdrost I wrote some observations on the Land, which I read
to him before I left his house, and which he said agreed in
substance with the report of Mr. Buissinne, the Brother in Law
of Col. Bird, and of Mr. Van Eyneveldt, the Landdrost of Stellen-
bosch, the two gentlemen sent by Colonel Bird to view the Lands ;
they were of opinion with him, Mr. Bergh, that the disposable
lands near the Sub-Drostdy were only calculated for the support
of ten families at most
Beoords of ihs Cape CoUmy. 271
I was most particular in getting Mr. Bei^h's opinion on this
snbject, as he was the person deputed to affi)id ns the neoessaiy
information, which he gave ns with correctness, with candour, and
with truth. I left Mr. Beigh*s house for Saldanha Bay to meet
the Settlers and to prevent if possible all of them proceeding to
Glonwilliam. Fortunately for me Mr. StoU, the much respected
Landdrost of this District^ met me at a Mr. Watney's house in the
Bay, and he sent an express to CoL Bird with my letter of the
22nd May and the accompanying observations, copies of which
I have the honour to transmit to your Lordship along with a copy
of Col. Bird's answer of the 23rd. In this letter there will appear
to your Lordship an allegation not founded in fact in respect to
Mr. Buissinne's report, which I have not seen, but which that
Gentleman told several individuals was erroneous and different
from the real character the Lands at ClanwiUiam possessed, or
why should Mr. Buissinne have told Mr. Bergh what he did, or
why should he make 2l false report to Col. Bird and mislead him
by erroneous statements, thereby entailing on Individuals most
serioua trouble, loss of time and property, and ultimately throwing
an unnecessary expence on the Government.
Tour Lordship on examination will find, that there is a dis-
crepancy in the conduct of CoL Bird, or in the oral and written
statements of Mr. Buissiime, that I most respectfully submit
requires Your Lordship's notice, as in the sequel you will find
that through their conduct immense difficulties have oppressed
many truly distressed settiers.
On the 24th May I addressed another letter to Col. Bird in
answer to his of the 23rd, and had the Secretary acted agreeably
to my suggestion an infinity of trouble and great loss of Property
would have been saved to Individuals. Instead of his attending
to my suggestion, I received his answer of the 27th May, which
is a document deserving Tour Lordship's particular attention
inasmuch as he asserts ''that it is not practicable to locate the
party by the Eaet Indian^ or any portion of it, at Saldanha Bay,
although subsequently Sir Bufane Donkin by Mr. Ellis's letter of
the 27th July offers to me some of the Government Lands on the
Ostwall, the east side of the Bay, for the purpose of erecting stores.
Had this offer been made to me on my first arrival, before my
substance was wasted, a considerable sum of money would have
been saved to my much distressed family. However as Col. Bird
272 Records of the Cape Colony.
instead of complying with the printed instnictions Yonr lordBhip
was pleased to issue, shewed every hostility to my establishing
any portion of my settlers at Saldanha Bay and as some of them
were rendered discontented by the instigations of Mr. Seton,
Mr. McClelandy and Mr. Bobert Woodcock, who recommended
those who were not articled to me to proceed to the first place
selected by Government for their location, instead of the Znnr-
veld, where Col. Bird proposed they should proceed, I consented
to their landing in this Bay ; as by doing so, if the lands at
the Zunrveld proved unfavorable, I should avoid their certain
murmurings and hostility. And altho' I had the most un£Etvor-
able opinion of the lands at Clanwilliam, I waived it to what
should have been the better judgment and more correct informa>
tion possessed by Colonel Bird, in fact Colonel Bird's letter of
the 27th May and his positive instructions to the Landdrost,
Mr. Stoll, coupled with the orders lieut. Wolridge received, left
me no alternative. I acted on the said kind advice of the
Landdrost, a gentleman as distinguished for his humanity as for
his generous attachment to the English. He felt considerable
pain at what must be the fate of so many persons devoted almost
to destruction through official mismanagement
The Settlers were landed, and the largest proportion of them
proceeded to Clanwilliam. I was not enabled to follow them
until the middle of June. On my arrival there on the 21st of
that month, Mr. Bergh received me with the greatest coolness,
and on enquiring into the cause, I found that CoL Bird had
written to him most severely censuring him for misleading me
aiotU the Lavd designed for my location, and expressing an
opinion, as if by doing so Mr. Bergh was an enemy to the Crovem-
ment Astonished at this communication, I left Mr. Bergh's
house to take shelter in a Hottentot hut at Klein Valley, the
place assigned to me, and I wrote to Mr. Bergh on the 22nd June.
In answer thereto, I received Mr. Bergh's reply, a document of
some importance to me, as it states that in all the Land there was
but 3,200 acres instead of 7,600, to which I was entitled. How-
ever, that idleness should not create further misery, I set my
articled Settlers to work without delay in building a house for my
family and sowing wheat, anxiously waiting the arrival of Hib
Excellency the Acting Grovemor for ulterior arrangements.
The Free Settlers were indeed justly discontented at not being
Itecords of the Cape Colony. 273
able to obtain their respecdve portions of land, but Mr. TuUeken,
the Land Surveyor, having on Saturday the 24th June pointed
out the Northern boundaries of my Grants I wrote to Mr. Bobert
Woodcock, who with nine other persons was entitled to 1000
acres, and stated that if they would have their Grant on the
Northern bounds that they should get possession of it. I
selected Mr. Woodcock's party for this accommodation, as he
was among the first that engaged to come out' under my
direction.
On the 26th June I went to the ground to point out the bounds
to Mr. Woodcock, and I was immediately met by Mr. Tulleken,
who informed me that he made a considerable error and that the
bounds were farther to the Southward than he pointed out on ^the
24th. Mr. Woodcock said that this was no consequence to him,
fls he should insist on having the 1000 Acres on the Northern
bounds agreeably to my letter, totally disregarding the error
committed by Mr. TuUeken, the Land Surveyor, but hoping,
no doubt, that he would thereby get the Land I had myself
commenced cultivating, and on which a house was in considerable
forwardness.
Mr. Bergh having assured jne that there was no land contiguous
to Klein VaUey for the location of my Settlers, recommended me
to view a great extent of unoccupied land called Bontjes Moof,
which after three days lost in the occupation, and ruining a horse,
proved to be a continued stratum of black rock, apparently well
supplied with water but not containing one acre of land fit for
cultivation. On my return to his house, he then recommended
my visiting a farm called De Driehook, belonging to the Widow
Besteman, but I had seen enough of that part of the Country to be
sufficiently assured of its absolute wretchedness, and that it was
useless any longer wasting my time in such a miserable District.
As Sir Bufane had not carried into execution his intention of
visiting the Settlers, I determined to wait on him at Cape Town,
Accordingly on the 8th July, contrary to the request of Mr. Bergh,
who assured me that His Excellency was on his way to Clan-
William, I proceeded to this Bay to see my Family, and arrived at
Cape Town on Saturday the 15th. Col. Bird did all he could to
prevent His Excellency having an interview mth me, and were it
not for the kindness of Sir Jahleel Brenton, it is more than probable
that I should be deprived of that honor. But having obtained it,
xni. T
274 Becords of the Cape Colony^
His Excellency was absolutely astonished at the manner I had
been treated, expressed great displeasure, commanded Col. Bird
to provide proper Lands for my Settlers and to extend the
liberality of Government towards me. He also commanded
Colonel Bird to make some arrangements for my accommodatioa
at Saldanha Bay, and for that purpose, recommended my sending
a Memorial, a Copy of which is submitted herewith.
Impressed with the highest sense of Sir Eufane's kindness and
his just indignation at the conduct of the Colonial Secretary, I left
Cape Town on Tuesday the 25th July, and on tlie following
Monday received Mr. Ellis's, the Deputy Colonial Secretary's
letter of the 27th, wherein His Excellency was pleased to grant
me two Morgen of Land on the Ostwall, the East side of Saldanha
Bay, for the purpose of erecting Stores. Indeed altho' the east
side was best calculated for that purpose, I did not contemplate
obtaining any Land there from Government, as I understood that
all there was the property of individuals, and particularly of
Mr. Watney.
As all my articled Settlers were idle, I naturally looked round
to select, in case I was to have the power of selection, a desirable
gpot for my intended undertaking. I did so, and chose the only
spot in the Bay fit for it, unless at an expence that would sink an
immense sum. It is, however, destitute of any spring of fresh
water. I took the opinion of several individuals, particularly
of a Mr. Heatley, the friend of Mr. Watney, whom he sent
here to endeavour to get me to give an enormous price for
his Estate.
Mr. Heatley told me that he had reason to think that the place
I had selected was the property of the Crown. I made Mr. Watney
an offer for his land, which he wrote to me was preposterous, and
desired me to quit his house which he required for his own family.
It appears however that Lord Charles Somerset having used his
influence in London to obtain for Mr. Watney a perpetuity of the
Farm of Klapmutz, and his Lordship having, as it is reported,
succeeded therein, there was no occasion to afford me any further
accommodation, as he, Mr. Watney, had obtained his point ; I was
therefore constrained to remove my family to the Government
land at (illegible) where I procured miserable shelter for them
under the sail of a ship. I had no other alternative.
I beseech your Lordship to consider what must be the situation
Beeords of the Cape Colony, 275
of my wife and six children accustomed to all the comforts of life»
exposed as they are, and have been, to severe equinoxial gales, in
such a wretched situation ; and as a husband and father yourself,
I most respectfully call on your Lordship to consider what must
be my feelings at seeing them in such circumstances, in an almost
uninhabited, nay barbarous country.
Mr, Watney, not satisfied at my removing my family from his
house on his arrival here, gave me notice to remove all my goods
from his concerns, with which I could not comply, as I had no
place wherein to deposit many valuable articles. At length
Mr. Watney actually broke open the locks of the place in which
they were deposited and dragged every article amounting to near
£2,000 sterling in value to the beach. There they were exposed
to destruction from the weather, and they were plundered the
following Sabbath by the crew of a Whaler. He left the Bay
early next morning for Klapmutz, before he could receive my
letter.
Now, My Lord, I pray your Lordship to consider how I must
have felt on being informed, when all my care was required to
secure the wretched habitation of my family during an African
equinoctial gale, that an Englishman who had received such
extensive favors from the Colonial Government should have the
cruelty to destroy the property of an innocent, unoiSending, and
much distressed stranger, sent to Saldanha Bay by order of
Grovemment,
When on this subject, it is due to the Dutch Inhabitants to
inform Your Lordship that I have uniformly, along with all my
Settlers, experienced from them the greatest kindness and
hospitality. Their houses and their provisions have, with very
few exceptions been at our service in all parts of the Colony
through which we have travelled, and it was very seldom that
even the poorest inhabitants would accept the slightest recompense
for such civilities.
I have to apologize to your Lordship for so long intruding on
your valuable time, but I hope that your Lordship from your high
Official Situation as Secretary of State for the Colonies will derive
a melancholy pleasure from the perusal of these dismal lines, as
£rom them you wiU derive some information as to the state of
Society in this Colony.
It is now necessary to solicit your Lordship's patience while I
T 2
276 Records of the Cape Colony.
yecall your attention to the occurrences at Clanwilliam. Although
there were only 100 Morgen, or about 200 English acres of land
that could be cultivated with any prospect of success in the
measurement of 3,200 acres assigned to me, the rest being
unproductive mountains or miserably arid plains, yet that idle-
ness among the Settlers should not create mischief, I employed
all my articled Settlers and offered to the others proportions of
the valuable land, which was in fact making mere patchwork
of the farm, and that I should leave no room for being charged
with discontent I pushed on the work and left the place in charge
of my nephew Mr. W. Parker, j'., a young man of great activity
and exertion.
Shortly after my leaving Elein Valley Mr. Woodcock availing
himself of the error of the Land Surveyor and of my letter
respecting the 1000 acres I was to give him, applied to Mr. Beigh,
the Deputy Landdrost, and procured an order from him to the
Land Surveyor to measure off 1000 acres for Mr. Woodcock on
the Noi-them bounds, totally disregarding the error that he the
Surveyor committed; when that Survey was finished the 1000
Acres comprehended the ground that I cultivated, the house that
I was building, and every inch of Land reserved for myself fit
for Cultivation. Mr. Woodcock was subsequently sanctioned by
Mr. Bergh in violently taking possession of my property* My
Nephew's life and my own were conspired against by some
persons brought from Longford by the Rcvd. Francis McCleland,
who not satisfied at instigating them to insult me, did not hesitate
justifying the crime of assassination vat Simon's Town, even in the
House of the English Clergyman there, the Eevd. Mr. Sturt, who
felt it his duty to communicate the intentions, which he did first
in the presence of Captain Eeay of the 64th Begiment, smd
subsequently in the presence of Lieutenant Wolrige of the S.K
and of Mr. Francis one of my Settlers. I have complete evidence
that three of the Longford people, goaded thereto by the Chaplain,
openly averred that they would shoot both my nephew and myself
if they did not procure the laud that was promised them. My
nephew sooner than forcibly maintain himself on the Land I had
cultivated, complained to Mr. Bergh of Mr. Woodcock's conduct
and of his assaulting my people in charge of my cattle. But the
Deputy Landdrost, instead of acting as a Magistrate should have
done, dismissed the complaint, referring my Nephew and people
Secords of the Cape Colonjf. 277
to the Head Landdrost at Tulbagh, which was ninety miles from
Clan William.
In fact. Unless by an armed resistance, my nephew had no
power to protect my property against lawless violence and magis-
terial imbecility, and sooner than I should be accused of any
illegal or unwarrantable proceeding my nephew peaceably submitted
and came here immediately to inform me of the transaction. I
immediately dispatched him to Cape Town with a letter to
Mr. Ellis, the Deputy Colonial Secretary. Mr. Ellis gave him a
sealed letter to Mr. Bergh, with which he returned to Clan-
william, and since that period I have had no further communica-.
tion on the subject, altho' I repeatedly applied to the proper
authorities thereon.
Thus, My Lord, through Colonial mismanagement and through
ofiScial neglect I am without Lands, without a house, without
shelter either for my Family or Settlers, many of whom are justly
discontented. I am obliged to feed them in idleness and to submit
to all the miseries of a situation more wretched than that of those
unfortunate persons who have been transported for transgressing
the Laws of God and Man. Now, My Lord, I am determined
to pay all. due submission to the Laws of God, of my country,
and of the Colony in which it is my misfortune at present
to reside.
I know. My Lord, that the Colonial Government in justification
of their negligent conduct will say that Sir Eufane Donkin oflfered
by Mr. Ellis's letter of the 25th July, to remove and victual at
the pubUc expence such of the Settlers as were not satisfied with
their location at Clanwilliam to the Zuureveld. But his Excel-
lency was well aware, through the excellent Sir Jahleel Brenton
and myself, that however well inclined to remove, that I could
not avail myseK of his oflfer, having purchased horses, oxen, sheep^
pigs, waggon, cows, and immense quantity of heavy articles for
a residence on the Sea Coast.
Besides His Excellency never considered what was to be done
with the improvements made and property expended at Klein
Valley. His offer was however a gracious boon to some who
emigrated, as many did for a mere existence, and who gladly
accepted a proposal that insured an abundant supply of food at
the public expence for what must prove a very long period.
. It was not for this I left my respectable connectioi^s in Europe
J
I
278 Bficords of the Cape Colony.
with my large Family. It was not with the intention of becoming
an African Boor that I left my comfortable home and those en-
dearing ties which render civilized Society so charming. There-
fore His Excellency did not press my adopting such an alternative,
nor will he, should he be inclined to uphold Colonel Bird, press
this offer in justification of the Secretary's great oflBcial mis-
management.
It was my most anxious wish, as your Lordship weU knows, to
have got located at the Knysna. For this purpose I solicited and
procured a very flattering signification of the Eoyal wishes. But
as Colonel Bird, without paying the least regard to my interest and
wishes, forced me to Saldanha Bay, I met the unpleasant mandate
with resignation, and have been well disposed to make every
exertion to form a permanent Establishment in this Bay, which
Sir Eufane Donkin told Sir Jahleel Brenton and myself that
he would countenance, but which he is evidently prevented doing
by some other person.
I now most respectfully submit these melancholy facts to Your
Lordship's humane consideration, most thankful that the Almighty
has been pleased to restore the health of my family, two of whom,
Mrs. Parker and my eldest son, were forced to quit Mr. Watney's
house for their present wretched abode, just as they recovered
from a severe inflammation of the eyes, the most prevailing
complaint in this sandy country.
And I most humbly hope that Your Lordship will be pleased to
adopt such strong and energetic measures as will bring the author
or authors of my calamities to a proper sense of his or their n^li-
gent if not highly criminal conduct, and that you will further be
pleased to order the Colonial Government at the Cape of Grood
Hope to make me ample compensation for the great difficulties to
which they have so unthinkingly if not cruelly exposed me and
my Articled Settlers.
I have solicited the excellent Mr. Wilberforce, the universal
friend of mankind, who, by his unremitting exertions in the cause
of humanity, ensures for himself eternal felicity and in this un-
certain ^^orld the gratitude of millions, to be the channel of
communicl9.ting these details. He has for some years honored me
with his ^DO^^'^spo^d^^c^^ ^^^^ correspondence to a personal
acquaintanci^ and I ardently hope to a permanent firiendship.
To be honorfed with the countenance of so many characters dis-
Records of the Cape Colony. 279
tinguished for their wide spreading philanthropy is cheering and
consolatory. It assuages the day of grief and of trouble and
enables me to bear up against the machinations of the wicked*
I have &C.
(Signed) W. Parker,
[Copy.J
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy
Zanddrost of Clanwilliam.
Saldanea Bat, 29iA Septendier 1820.
Sir, — I have no objection to Stones getting Little Pork Valley,
provided you take care that he does not disturb the industrious
Hottentot Zwarts, in the Lands ho I^ cultivated and in his
cleanly hut.
After the gross errors that were committed by Mr. Tulleken and
Mr. Woodcock's violent proceedings, which, I am extremely sorry
to observe, met some countenance from you in your Magisterial
capacity, I shall be very cautious how I make any promise
respecting any more lands.
I have applied to Government for some of the money they owe
me, I expect it next week and shall send my Nephew to Klein
Valley to settle with you and others.
I have sent a detailed Statement of my residence at the Cape of
Good Hope to the. English Government in which I have particu-
larly noticed the kindness I have received from you and the
unjust accusation made against you by the Colonial Secretary,
which led you to give me such an unfriendly reception at the
Sub Drostdy on the 21st June last. I am determiDed that
Colonel Bird's conduct shall not pass with impunity.
I am Sir &c;
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
280 Records of the Cape Colony,
fOriginal.]
<
Petition of Messrs. Charles and Valentine Griffith.
To His Majesty in CounciL
The petition of Charles and Valentine Griffith, Lieutenants
late of the Eoyal Marine Corps, Humbly Sheweth
That your Petitioners left England to settle in the Colony of
the Cape of Good Hope under the sanction and immediate patron-
age of your Majesty's Government to receive a grant of land
agreeable to the forms of the circular letter issued in August
1819 ;
That the only object of your Petitioners in thus removing their
family and property to Southern Africa originated in the desire
by receiving a grant of land in this Colony to be enabled to
realise a prospect of future provision for the orphan family of
their late Father, consisting of three sisters and a younger brother,
left dependent in the world totally unprovided for ;
That on the arrival of your Petitioners in the Colony by a
Government Transport in the month of April last, they accepted
a proposal made by His Excellency the Acting Governor and the
Colonial Secretary, to be located with two other Parties upon a
farm recently purchased by the Colonial Government for £1200
Sterling and immediately in the vicinity of the Cape District, and
contiguous to this property was a quantity of unappropriated
Government Lands. That the Purchase Money for this farm was
to be distributed upon the whole of the lands, and agreeable to
the proportion of each Party for a grant they were to pay the
Purchase Money by stated instalments ;
Your Petitioners in giving their consent to this arrangement
had not time or an opportunity to view the lands in person, as
the detention of the Transport from her ultimate destination
awaited their decision. Your Petitioners therefore with perfect
confidence placed implicit reliance on the flattering representation
made of 'the value of the property conveyed by the first source of
authority and information on the subject ;
It is therefore with unfeigned regret that your Petitioners arc
under the necessity to state their total disappointment in their
expectations of a location on the lands in question. They found
them after a full examination, by a residence of near three months
Records of the Cape Colony, 281
with their people under tents on the spot, to be perfectly in-
adequate from the poverty and sterile nature of the soil to support
or afford employment for the number of agricultural labourers
sent there for a location. This opinion was early conveyed for the
information of the Colonial Government in Cape Town, and upon
the return of His Excellency the Acting Governor from the
Frontier an order in the month of July was issued to your
Petitioners' family, and people with another Party to be recon-
veyed to Cape Town. And upon the return of your Petitioners
under existing circumstances it became their first duty to find a
place to shelter their family and people for the remainder of the
Season, and having sustained a ruinous expence in supporting
the unproductive labour of above thirty individuals, for three
months, the exigencies of the moment reqidred some definite
arrangement if possible to counteract the total loss of the labour
of their people and also of the planting season then far advanced.
Your Petitioners under these accumulating circumstances readily
accepted the oflfer made to have transferred the lease of 24 years
unexpired of one of the Government Farms called the Old Post,
with seed already planted in the ground and a part of the stock on
a valuation to be paid at future instalments.
Your Petitioners beg permission to state that there is a small
grazing place of unappropriated Government Land immediately
contiguous to this farm and called Drie Paape Valley and at
present grazed with three other places by the cattle belonging to
the Groote Post, a Farm in the hands of the Colonial Government,
but so detached and inconveniently situated to the latter that no
conveyance can approach it without going above four miles round
and then obliged to cross the Farm now under lease to your
Petitioners.
Having encountered these unforeseen disappointments and
suffered a ruinous expence, your Petitioners do most humbly
approach your Majesty in Council to be graciously pleased to
grant them as a remuneration for their claims for Land upon the
Colonial Grovernment of this Colony the above two grazing farms
called The Old Post and Drie Paape Valley on a perpetual Quit
Kent to be fixed.
Your Petitioners always trusting with perfect confidence in the
Paternal protection of your Majesty's Government to support the
industrious of your subjects have with great diiiidenoe further to
282 Records of the Cape Colony.
state that they have had the honor to serve your Majesty as
Subaltern OflScers, the one fifteen and the other twelve years on
active employment, and that their late Father, an old officer, had
the honor of devoting forty years of his life in your Majesty's
Service, and his death left to the protection of your Petitioners
three sisters and a younger brother totally destitute and un-
provided for. Your Petitioners will therefore be bound ever to
pray.
(Signed) Charles GRiFFrra, retd. Lt. RM.
Valbntinb Griffith, H.P. Lt. EL Marines.
Cafe of Good Hope, Septemlber 29^% 1820.
[Original]
Letter from Mr. William Eussell to
Henry Goulburn, Esqrb.
Glasgow, Wfh September 1S20.
Sir, — In consequence of indisposition and other unforeseen
circumstances three of my party have drawn back and cannot
go to the Cape. I herein inclose a list of them and a list of the
persons going in their places, likemse your letter to the Grovemor
in which it may be necessary to make some alteration after this
changa May I request that you will be pleased to write me in
course of Post authorising said change and inclosing another letter
to the Governor to the same purport as the one which I now return
you. Having agreed with lieut. E. Mudge that the Party shall
be on Board on Saturday the 7th October and to sail next morning,
you will therefore see the necessity of an immediate answer.
There is likewise one of the Party, No. 30, in the list who has
got married ; his name is Eobt. McFarlane, and his wife's name
Mary Cameron, aged 23, you will please insert her name along
with her husband. I remain &c.
(Signed) Willm. Eussell.
P. S. As I will be on board before your answer can reach me
you will address me William Eussell on board the Abeona,
Greenock.
^eecffrds of the Gape Colony. 283
[Copy.]
Extracts from a Paper of Complaints submitted to His EocceUency
the Acting Governor by the Son of the Deputy Landdrost at
ClanwUliam on the 2nd October 1820.
Mr. Parker having quitted Clanwilliam and left many of the
Settlers in a state of uncertainty respecting their lands and who
now incessantly complain, as may be seen from Mr. Bobert Wood-
cock's letter, it is therefore suggested that Mr. Parker may be
ordered to return from Saldanha Bay, in order to fulfil his engage-
ments with the different Emigrants, since his cousin, whom he has
left there, will not, nor can he do anything.
His Excellency's Answer : Mr. Parker to be called upon to go
immediately to his Party and locate them, and to be told that if
he fails to comply, he will according to the tenor of Lord Bathurst's
instructions forfeit all Claim to Land.
What is to be done with respect to the Eevd. Mr. McCleland's
claim on Mr. Parker, the latter having allotted to him land on
which there is no water whatever ?
His Excellency's Answer : Mr. Parker to be told that Water is
considered as for General use, and the Head of Party is bound in
duty to make a fair repartition of it.
(Signed) R, S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Extract from a Letter from Mr, William Parker to the
Deputy CoLONLAi Secretary.
Saldanha Bat, drd Chkber ]820.
As my family go to-morrow to Bonteberg, where we shall
remain until His Majesty's pleasure be known, I have to request,
that measures be forthwith adopted, for the removal of seven of
my articled Settlers, from Clanwilliam to Saldanha Bay, and
Bonteberg, which will require four waggons.
284 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to the Deputy
CoLONiAJi Secretary.
Saldavha Bat, Zrd October 1820.
Dear Sir, — I have received your favour of the 29th Ultimo
marked private, but which you in conclusion permit me to
transmit to my friends in England. Indeed I have been prepared
to meet such a document, as I have been some time deprived of
the honour of a friendly communication from you.
Thank God that I am enabled to reply to it, and I hope in such
a maimer as must prevent any future cavil.
In the first place you say, that the disappointment attending
my views in this Colony has induced me to form very erroneous
opinions of Individuals. I will be candid with you and say, that
I have only formed unfavourable opinions of two persons, namely
Colonel Bird and Mr. Watney, and I can refer to the evidence
of their acts to prove that these opinions are not erroneous.
You write as the advocate of Colonel Bird, your colleague in
office. This is a kind and manly part, and what perhaps I should
do, were I situated as you are.
Colonel Bird in his official capacity required my attending him
at Cape Town. I did so, when he informed me that the rich
and fertile District of Clanwilliam was fixed for the location of
the Settlers by the JEast Indian and Fanny, and that a very
particular mark of favor was shown to me in the selection of the
lands. I thanked him. But I had not left his office many
minutes when, having stated to several, and particularly to one
individual, Colonel Bird's character of the lands, he shook his
head and recommended me to see them before I sent the Settlers
there, or at all events before I moved my family there. For this
purpose, I solicited a letter fi-om Colonel Bird to the Landdrost.
He gave it to me most reluctantly. Why reluctantly ? and
why did he countenance the Bevd. Francis McCleland and Mr.
Thomas Seton in their notorious ill conduct by telling them that
no notice would be taken of what happened on board ship ?
although he received a fuU statement from me, and t believe
from Lieut. Wolrige of the Eoyal Navy, of its dangerous tendency.
I will now ask you, how could I take measures to guard ^aius^
Records of the Cape Colony. 285
the influeilce of disunion to which you so emphatically allude?
"when Mr. McCleland returned on board the JEast Indian from
Colonel Bird, and said that he was authorized by him to say that
no charges that I made against him, or any other person, would
be attended to, and that he was most honourably acquitted by
the Government. Thus did Colonel Bird treat with contempt
the 15th Article of the excellent Instructions of the Earl Bathurst
which do honour to his Lordship's humanity, as the Colonial
Secretary scorned to attend to my representations, altho' I was
selected by His Lordship as the Director of a large party. I
rejoice at having your letter now before me, as you afford me an
opportunity to prove the fallacy of all your arguments in defence
of Colonel Bird, which I am prepared to do, not only in this
Colony, but at the bar of the high tribunal to which I have
appealed. There was no fallacy in separating Colonel Bird from
the Acting Governor. Because were his Excellency at Cape
Town when I arrived, I am satisfied that he would not have acted
in the manner Colonel Bird has done, after he had received my
letters containing criminal charges against two of my party, and
my letter containing my strong observations on the inadequacy
of the lands for the location of the Settlers at Clanwilliam. His
.Excellency would have paused, before he would have done the
rash act Colonel Bird has done, by which he has entailed misery
on so many, and by which he has incurred such a public expense.
Why did Colonel Bird disregard the correct information (rf Mr.
Bergh, the Deputy Landdrost at Clanwilliam, that he gave me,
and which I communicated to the Secretary. Mr. Bergh is I hope
able to prove the discrepancy between Mr. Buissinne's report and
his private opinions. So are others equally respectable, and who
will be forthcoming when necessary.
You have let me into a secret in regard to the science of
colonization, a secret well worth knowing, and for which I beg
yomr acceptance of my best thanks. Were this secret known
when the grant was proposed in Parliament, few would have
volunteered to proceed to this Colony. Indeed it appears from
your letter, that the chance of providing a mere existence for the
Settlers was the only measure contemplated by the Colonial
Government, and it also appears that this was the only object
Mr. Buissinne had in view, as you say " that this was the point
referred to Mr. Buissinne, and to it his report was directed."
286 Records of the Cape Colony,
How then could Colonel Bird have the face to tell me in his office
" that I was particularly favoured by the Colonial Government."
But even Mr. Buissinne was grossly mistaken, if he asserted
"that the lands at Clanwilliam were quite capable of affording
sustenance in return for industry." I deny it, and so will every
experienced agriculturist. Therefore between Colonel Bird and
Mr. Buissinne there is almost the appearance of a conspiracy
against the prosperity of the Settlers, I may almost say, against
their lives.
Your arguments are written in a very logical manner, but
notwithstanding their style, they develop one great truth, that
the Colonial Government at the Cape of Good Hope considered
all the Settlers in no better light than that of convicts, for whom
svstenancey which is all we Settlers were to look to, was provided.
Your permission to avail myself of your letter does honour to
your candour. I shall therefore take your hint and send a Copy
of it to my friends in England, with a copy of this my answer.
Otherwise from its being marked private I should consider it
strictly confidential. I have tvo lands at Kleine Valley fit for
cultivation, as magisterial imbecility deprived me of all that I
cultivated, even of the house that I was building. Were proper
attention paid to my official letter of the 5th of August to you,
there would have been long before this comfortable shelter for
a large family at Kleine Valley. The walls of the building
•nearly completed are sufficient evidence of this assertion. There-
fore as you are pleased to admit the superiority of my arguments
and the strength of my private recommendations, it will be found
should His Excellency be disposed to enquire " that I am entitled
as you say to every possible consideration and assistance." But
as I have now sufficient reason not to expect either, I shall make
no further solicitation on that head, and demand what I have
a strict right to demand and nothing more.
Did not providence bless me with intellect to refute official
errors, I should run the risk of being branded as the most dis-
contented of men and undeserving any favor, and shonld forfeit
that character, which thank God has led me to an acquaintance
with the first characters of the age.
Had I been originally ordered to the Zuurveld (which from
your letter must be looked on as a place of exile) I should not
have resided there many years. But I should, as others have
Records of the Cape Colony, 287
done, have reconciled myself to a temporary location. I was not
left any option, "as neither my wishes nor my interests were
considered'* I have asked no favour but what was consonant
to my instructions, and extremely reasonable and practicable.
I must beg leave to decUne attending to your recommendation,
as I have, no lands at Kleine Valley, nor shall I abandon my
views in this Colony altogether.
I shall await instructions from the British Government in
answer to my strong representations, founded as they are on the
broad basis of truth, and supported as I trust ihey will be by
men most distinguished for their worth and political influence
emanating from worth alone.
I must conclude by saying that I have not seen the reality
of any disposition to oblige me, except on the first day that I had
the honour of an interview with His Excellency. His good dis-
position towards me has evidently been counteracted. He was
pleased to promise to promote my accommodation at this (Saldanha)
Bay. The heavy gales of wind that my family has experienced
the four last weeks under canvas, will be proof of the truth of this
assertion. I again return you my best thanks for your extremely
valuable communication. And I am &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr, A. V. Bergh to the Colonial Secretary.
Oapb Town, October 9rd 1820.
Sir, — I take the liberty of enclosing you a letter from Mr.
Parker addressed to my Father, and received by me yesterday,
in answer to an application from him for the payment of a Bill
for provisions and others delivered, amounting to about 1000 Eds.,
which sum Mr. Parker on his leaving Clan William, had promised
to forward to his Nephew, but who, after my departure also left
the Drostdy, and is at present at his Uncle's at Saldanha Bay,
and which letter I cannot withhold bringing to your cognizance,
the more so as the said Mr. Parker's conduct, will be clearly
ascertained, in the same, as having no other object in view, than
288 iiecat'ds of the Cape Colony,
to flatter and deceive my Father, through his unprecedented
xingentlemanlike accomplishments. I have &c.
(Signed) A. V. Bergh.
[Copy]
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to
Mr. William Parker,
Colonial Offiob, M October 1820.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor
to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 25th Ultimo, and
I have it in command to express to you the conviction of Hia
Excellency that you have no just grounds of complaint whatever,
but on the contrary that every facility compatible with the laws
and regulations of the Colony has been afforded to the successful
location of yourself and party.
His Excellency has in every part of his proceedings with
respect to the Settlers generally been guided by the instructions
of His Majesty's Secretary of State and by an anxious desire to
give full effect to the paternal intentions of His Majesty's (Jovem-
ment, and he has the satisfaction of knowing that the exertions
of the Colonial Government in this respect have been fully
appreciated by the different parties. His Excellency therefore
can only regret that you should have taken so different a view of
your situation.
I am further instructed to convey to you the expression of His
Excellency's most decided disapprobation of the unbecoming
language which you have applied to the conduct of the Colonial
Secretary, and His Excellency wishes you most distinctly to
understand that the several arrangements made by that Officer
have taken place not only with his concurrence, but by his
express commands. I have &c.
(Signed) H, Ellis, Dep. Sec.
Becords of the Cape Colony. 289
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend William Wright to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre,
(kMer 5tA 1820.
Sir, — I some days since took the liberty of applying to you by
letter, according to your desire, for the letters of introduction
which you were so kind as to promise me to the heads of His
Majesty's Government at the Cape of Good Hope, as I shall be
very shortly leaving this country to enter on the duties of my
situation at Gape Town. I also enclosed the Bevd. Mr. Hamilton's
letter stating the nature of my appointment, and begged the
favour of its being returned. I was informed that you were not
in town on the day that I left my letter at this office, and have
taken the liberty of calling this morning to enquire if it had been
received. I have &c.
(Signed) Willdlm Wright, A.M.,
Missionary to Cape Towd.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
GOTKBHMBMT HOU0B,
Gaps of Good Hope, Oetdber Q(h 1820.
Sir, — I have to apologise for addressing you under a private
cover, but the subject of this letter, altho' it may not require to
be detailed in an of&cial despatch, is one on which it may perhaps
be right you should have some information from hence.
I allude to the proceedings of a person of the name of Parker,
who came here with Settlers some time ago from Ireland, and
who, ever since his arrival, has been pressing on this Government
with the most exorbitant demands and absurd pretensions. A
detail of them would take up too much of your time, but an
ample one can be furnished hereafter, should it be required.
The immediate cause of my now addressing you is Mr. Parker's
xin. u
290 Becords of the Cape CoUmf.
having written of late several very indecorous letters to the
Colonial Office here, and one to me, complaining of the whole
conduct of this Government and its officers towards him, with the
exception of myself and the Deputy Colonial Secretary, (an
exception I myself wholly disclaim, as would I believe Mr. Ellis),
coupled with a declaration that he will publish the whole of lus
sufferings and bring the matter before Parliament and the public
From all I can collect, he hus correspondents who may enable
him to do this, and I have no hesitation in assuring you that the
conduct of all the officers of this Grovemment has been in the
highest degree attentive and considerate towards Mr. P£u:ker, who
has had more indulgence than, and more facilities afforded him
than any other Settler ; but the fact is Mr. Parker has never set
himself at all to work, he has abandoned his location, he has
defrauded his unfortunate followers in every way, he has wasted
the little substance he had in dreaming about a new city he talks
of founding, and instead of taking some steps to secure to himself
and followers subsistence by industry, he has left them in a
starving state, and now attributes his and their misery to this
Government, and demands dwellings for himseK and people,
money, a civil office for himself with a salaiy, and various other
things on the same scale.
He is at present likely to be prosecuted criminally before one
of the provisional Courts for waylaying one of his own people for
the purpose of forcing a document from him. This outline of Mr.
Parker may perhaps enable you to answer any questions which
may be put about him, and which I can have completely filled up
if necessary, I have &a
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Enclosure.]
Memorandum.
His Excellency the Acting Governor, having decided previous
to commencing his Journey to the Frontier District in April last,
not to confine the location of the Emigrants expected firom Europe
to the Albany District or Zuurveld only, but to place parties in
several eligible situations throughout the Colony, His Excellency
gave instructions for locating tlie Settlers from Cork, when they
Hecords of the Cape Colony. 291
should arrive, in that subdivision of the District of Tulbagh on the
West Coast called Clanwilliam.
This situation, the residence of a Deputy Landdrost, had been
very favourably spoken of to His Excellency by a Magistrate who
had long resided there. Well watered, it has the Oliphants Eiver
running thro' it, which, at a distance of only twenty miles,
becomes navigable to the sea, where it is supposed not to be
obstructed by a Bar as the Eivers of this Colony usually are.
Mr. Buissinne therefore, Acting Inspector of Lands in the
absence of Mr. D'Escury, was sent thither to superintend the
survey of the unoccupied Government lands and to make a general
Beport on the capability and circumstances* of this District.
Previous however to his having completed these operations, but
subsequent to Sir B. Donkin's departure for the frontier, the Hast
Indian and Fanny transports from Cork arrived in Simon's Bay.
Mr. Parker, the Head of the principal Party, came to Cape
Town and saw the Colonial Secretary, who informed him of the
destination of the Settlers under his direction. Mr. Pwker
appeared disappointed ; he said he had been assured he should be
allowed a choice of situation, and that he had come out with the
fiill persuasion that he should be settled at the Knysna. Lt.*Col.
Bird informed him that the lands at the Knysna were private
property, and that he had no alternative but to order the transports
fortiiwith to Saldanha Bay, where the Emigrants would be dis-
embarked, and where every preparation had been made for their
subsistence and conveyance to their ulterior destination. Mn
Parker begged to go to the place of location by land, and to join
his party on their arrival at Saldanha Bay. Facilities were
afforded him for this object, and letters of introduction to the
Authorities at Clanwilliam were given to him by the Colonial
Secretary.
In the mean time various complaints had been transmitted to
the Colonial office from persons attached to Mr. Parker's Party
against that gentleman, and he, on his part, complained heavily of
the conduct of many who had embarked with him, particularly
of the Chaplain, Mr. McCleland, Mr. Woodcock, and Captain
Seaton. As no cognizance could be taken in the Colonial Courts
of what had passed at sea, it could only be recommended to each
party to forget or stifle their animosities or wrongs and join
heartily in the endeavour for which they had left their country,
u 2
292 Records of the Cape Colony.
as without unanimity, they were told, success could not be antici-
pated. It appeared, however, that such was the disorganised state
of this party that no good could be jBxpected from it, and in trans-
mitting the statements of each side to the Governor, the Colonial
Secretary gave his opinion that these Settlers would not answer
the expectations formed of them,
Mr. Parker, according to the intention above alluded to, pro-
ceeded to Clanwilliam and met the transports East Iridian and
Fanny at Saldanha Bay, where the Landdrost of the Cape District,
to whom had been entrusted all the arrangements for the trans-
port and maintenance of the several parties, awaited him. The
parties under Messrs. Ingram, Synnot, and Butler set out for their
destination in the most orderly manner and in good spirits. Mr.
Parker informed the Landdrost that he might dismiss the waggons
collected for his party, as he was determined not to proceed so far
from the seashore ; that his views were commercial, not agricul-
tural, and that the situation and soU of Clanwilliam were not
calculated for his purposes in any degree.
As it was very onerous and inconvenient to the Inhabitants (it
being the ploughing season) to remain with their waggons any
indefinite or unnecessary time^ the Landdrost did dismiss the
farmers whose waggons and teams had been impressed for this
service, and he reported the circumstance in which he was placed
to the Colonial Secretary.
Meanwhile Mr. Buissinne's report reached the Colonial OflSce,
and from the plan which he had caused to be framed the Colonial
Secretary ordered the location of the several parties in the same
manner as had been practised for those sent to the Zuurveld,
assigning to Mr. Parker's party the well watered loan place called
Kleine Valley.
Mr. Parker had written to the Colonial Secretary to the same
effect as he had communicated to the Landdrost, stating that it
would better suit his views to be settled at Saldanha Bay, where
he proposed to build a Town to be called New Cork, and suggesting
that the Colonial Government might afford him the means of pur-
chasing Mr. Watney's rights at that place. Mr. Watney, it was
imderstood, wanted £5000 Sterling for the ground claimed by him
there. Lt. Col. Bird answered that his instructions did not allow
him to entertain these points, and that therefore he had given
directions to the transport East Indian to proceed without delay
Becords of the Cape Colony. 293
to Algoa Bay, where Mr. Parker's party would be located with the
great mass of Settlers in the Zuurveld, Upon receipt of this
communication Mr. Parker changed his mind, and begged to be
furnished with the means of going to Clanwilliam, to which the
Landdrost (notwithstanding the inconvenience) having assented,
the party set forward and took possession of the location assigned
to them, Mr. Parker, family and servants remaining in Mr.
Watney's house at Saldanha Bay.
When His Excellency the Acting Governor returned to Cape
Town, Mr. Parker came to him and represented the inadequacy
of the Kleine Valley for his party, in consequence of the badness
of great part of the soil. Sir Bufane asked him how much good
land he admitted it to contain ? to which he replied not more than
1700 morgen (3400 English acres). Sir Rufane then said, you
shall receive it only as that quantity and the diiSerence between
that quantity and what your numbers are entitled to shall be
made up to you in adjacent lands ; directions to which eflfect were
immediately given. Mr. Parker represented at the same time
that his own views would be frustrated by going to Clanwilliam,
and begged that he might be allowed a spot to erect stores on at
Saldanha Bay. This was also immediately directed, and 4 acres
allotted for the purpose in a situation approved by His Excellency
on inspection of a plan of the Bay, so as not to interfere with
private property, or with those sites which have been deemed
necessary to preserve for the use of the public.
Great discontent and disunion still prevailing in Mr. Parker's
party, which dissatisfaction was increased by Mr. Parker's having
refused to take tents or tools for their use from the Commissariat ;
the latter because it interfered with a retaU he was endeavouring
to push of Tools he had purchased at the Tower, at prices far
greater than those charged in the Commissariat list, His Excel-
lency the Acting Governor proposed to remove as many as wished
to leave Clanwilliam at the Colonial expense, to the Albany dis-
trict, and 18 heads of families have availed themselves of this
offer, and have been located in the Zuurveld, Mr. Parker himself
not having thought it advantageous to his interests to remove to
the East Coast.
It appears therefore that Mr. Parker had knowledge of the site
upon which he was to be located, previous to the debarkation of
his party (an advantage no other head of party had enjoyed), that
294 Becords of the Cape Cohny^
it was optional with him to have gone to Clanwilliam or the
Zuurveld in the first instance, but that he preferred the former,
that at a subsequent period he declined to be so removed, altho'
he stated his dissatisfaction with the lands assigned to him, that
according to his own acknowledgment there is more good land at
the Kleine Valley (1700 morgen) than the remains of his party is
entitled to, and that he has received beyond what he was entitled
to at Clanwilliam, an eligible situation at Saldanha Bay.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulbubn, Esqre.
Stoke, Bristol, Oei^ber lOth 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to transmit a memorial addressed to me
by a person named Young, one of the Settlers who went to the
Cape under the direction of Captain Synnot. As it is not in my
power without further information to give the Memorialist any
satisfactory answer, I take the liberty of suggesting that the
matter should be referred to Sir Bufane Donkin for enquiry under
the authority of Earl Bathurst I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Copy.]
letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton to Mr. William Parker.
Sdion's Bat, im October 1820.
My dear Sir,— I regret extremely that you continue to view
the reception you have met with in this country in the light you
have done. The interest I have felt in your welfare has necessarily
placed me in a situation to form an opinion respecting it, and I
am entirely persuaded that no person who has arrived in this
country as a Settler has stood upon more favourable groimd than
you have done. J lament that it has not been in my power to
Records of the Gape Colony, 295
persuade 70a that such is the fact, but with such a conviction
upon my mind you may naturally imagine that I cannot allow
myself to be the medium tibro' which your representations are
forwarded, and you must excuse my returning the letters to you.
I have not read them, your letter to me being sufficiently ex-
planatory of their contents^ In returning them I will only
entreat you once more not to act upon such feelings, and can assure
you from my own knowledge that tha wishes of the Colonial
Grovemment and of Sir Bufane Donkin in particular have been
most friendly towards you. Believe me &c.
(Signed) Jahlehu Brenton.
[Copy.l
Letter Jrorm the Beputy Colonial Secritary to Mr.
William Parker.
Gaps Town, llth October 1820.
Sir, — ^Altho' Kis Excellency will not for a moment admit that
you can have any right to question in written communications the
conduct pursued by Public Officers acting under his orders. His
Excellency has been pleased for the purpose, if possible, of
inducing you to adopt a tone more becoming your situation, to
transmit to you the enclosed Copy of an Order addressed on the
10th of August last to the Deputy Landdrost of ClanwiUiam on
the subject of your allegation respecting Mr, Woodcock.
In I'egard to your letter of the 5th August, as you had deter-
mined to remain on your assigned lands the first paragraph did
not require an answer, and in proof of His Excellency's disposition
to attend to the suggestions,, if founded on reasonable grounds, of
individual settlers, Mr.. Holditch, the Grentleman recommended by
you, has been appointed Medical Attendant to the Settlers at
ClanwiUiam. Military arrangements have moreover been made
for establishing a guard (a point also submitted by you) at
Saldanha Bay.
Your residence at Bonteberg being totally imconnected with the
location of your party at Eleine Yalley, His Excellency cannot
feel justified in charging the Public Treasury with the expense of
the conveyance of your articled Settlers to the former place, nor
is it the practice of His Excellency either to employ expresses at
296 Records of the Cape Colony.
the suggestion of individuals, nor, when so employed, to place them
at their disposal. I have &c.
(Signed) Hekry Ellis.
[Copy.]
Proclamation by Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
Whereas it has appeared to me to be expedient and adviseable,
that a full and permanent Seat of Magistracy should be established
in the District of Albany, in order that the Inhabitants of that
District, including the new Locations of the Settlers from England,
may have the fuU Benefit of easy Access to a Provincial Court,
and be visited annually by the regular Commission of Circuit from
the Worshipful the Court of Justice : I do, therefore, hereby give
Notice, that the Province of Uitenhage shall henceforward be
limited and bounded on the East by the Bosjesman's Eiver ; and,
consequently, that the Country to the Eastward thereof, with the
newly-acquired Territory between the Great Fish Biver and the
Keiskamma, and including the Field-Cometcies of Upper and
Under Bosjesman's Eiver, of Bruintjes Hoogte, and of Albany
Proper, shall form the Province of Albany, whose chief Place and
Seat of Magistracy, shall be the Town of Bathurst.
The Court of Heemraden for this District, will consist, on its
Formation, ot the Heemraden resident within the Limits of the
Sub-Drostdy of Graham's Town : But it is hereby further made
known^ that these Begulations shall not take effect, until the Land-
drost, whom I shall appoint to the new District, shall have arrived
at the Seat of Magistracy, and taken upon himself the Duties of
his < Station; after which, he is hereby authorised to make such
minute Arrangements with the Landdrost of Uitenhage, concerning
their respective Boundaries, as shall not have been provided for
by this ijotification.
And that no Person may plead Ignorance hereof, this shall be
published and affixed as usual.
God save the King !
Given under my Hand and Seal, at the Cape of Good Hope,
this 13th day of October, 1820.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
Becords of the Cape Colony, 297
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Eael Bathuest.
GOYEBNMBNT H0U8E,
Oafb of Good Hopb, Octdber l^ik 1820.
My Lord, — I have the honor of reporting to your Lordship that
after due consideration, and weighing the subject well, I have
determined on making that part of this Colony, where the Settlers
are principally located, a separate District, for the reasons detailed
in the enclosed Proclamation, and for many others almost equally
strong.
I am persuaded that this arrangement will be highly beneficial
to the new Colonists ; that it wUl tend to consolidate and dispose
them into social communities ; and that the actual presence of a
Landdrost and a Magistracy amongst them in the Town of Bathurst
will repress that disposition to separate which has shewn itself in
some of the parties.
I have named as the Landdrost, Colonel Graham, formerly
Commandant on that Frontier and Lieut. Colonel of the Cape
Corps. I apprehend that that Ofllcer's name is already known to
your Lordship. He is a gentleman, and the representative of a
most respectable family in Scotland, a truly honorable man, and
he is universally esteemed and beloved throughout this whole
Colony, in which he has resided about fifteen years and. to which
he has rendered many essential services.
I am persuaded that imder the superintendence of Colonel
Graham, the Province of Albany and the rising Town of Bathurst
will be brought forward and established as quickly as the nature
of this Country and of colonization will admit ; and I beg leave
respectfully to express my hope that the arrangement I have made
will meet your Lordship's approbation. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
298 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulburn, Esqrb.
Nayt Office, Mik Odober 1820.
Sir, — ^With reference to our letter of yesterday's date, we
request you to inform Earl Bathurst that it appears by letters this
day received from Lieutenant Mudge, the Agent for Transports on
board the Abeona, that that Transport sailed from the Firth of
Clyde on the 13th instant, with Settlers for the Cape of Grood
Hope; and that Eobert Thomson, a Settler, had been placed in
prison at Greenock by his creditors, but Lieutenant Mudge had,
at his urgent request, consented to take Mary Eraser his wife and
his family in the Abeona, Mr. Eussell, the Chief of the Party, and
the other Settlers having pledged themselves to be her Protectors
until her husband should be enabled to rejoin her. We are &c.
(Signed) E. Seppings,
H. Legge,
J. Thomson.
[Copy.]
Letter from, Mr. William Parker to the Deputy
Colonic Secretary,
BoNTEBKBO, Wh October 1820.
Sir, — I should ill discharge the duty I consider imperative on
me as a loyal British Subject, as one who values and who has
exercised the birthright of a Freeman, were I to permit your
letter of the 11th Inst, to remain unanswered.
I must be ignorant of the Constitution of England, under which
all its subjects enjoy the necessary and indispensable privilege of
remonstrating and petitioning when aggrieved, if I have erred in
questioning even in written communications the conduct pursued
by Public Officers acting under His Excellency the Acting
Governor's orders.
I have been aggrieved by the conduct of Colonel Bird, Mr.
Buissinne, and by Mr. Bei;gh, the latter of whom it appears had
Records of the Cape Colony. 299
uot replied to your official communication to him of the 10th
August last> which certainly required an immediate answer.
By his orders all my articled Settlers were deprived of employ-
ment, as every inch of land fit for cultivation at Klein Valley was
given to Mr. Woodcock, whom, it since appears, he especially
wished to favor as being a Brother Meuson.
I have to lament that I have so often occasion to inform His
Excellency that there are no lands at Klein Valley fit for my
occupation, and I should be glad to know what other " tone " but
that of complaint and remonstrance I can use. I have not landed
in this Colony to supplicate pardon for crimes. Nor shall I sacri-
fice an iota of my independence of mind to please any official
person.
I respect and revere the Laws of the United Elingdom, the
Laws of Freemen, and I shall take care not to transgress the laws
of this Colony. But I trust that the doctrine sent through you by
His Excellency's orders is not consonant to Colonial usage. If
so, I will candidly avow that no person attached to British juris-
prudence should attempt to reside in a country where Public
Officers were placed beyond the cognizance of justice, and where
they may be permitted to aggrieve suffering individuals '' without
thevr conduct being questioned m vrritten commrmicatums*' One
official person wanted to persuade me that bad lands were good, and
he got peevish at my not crediting such an absurd assertion and
my not sacrificing my time and property in useless attempts at
their cultivation.
On a reference to my letter of the 5th August last, I cannot
discern any determination of mine " to remain in the lands assigned
to me." On the contrary my letters to you of that date are of a
very different nature.
You have now brought your official correspondence to a satis-
factory shape, by admitting that the only proof of His Excellency's
attending to my suggestions was by his being pleased to appoint
Mr. Holditch, the Gentleman recommended by me, as Medical
attendant at Clanwilliam, and his ordering a Military Quard to
Saldanha Bay. By these marks of attention I am much obliged^
particularly as they are official admissions of the soundness of my
views.
Had His Excellency been pleased to promote my residing at
Saldanha Bay agreeably to his promise of the 21st July^ Bonteberg
300 Records of the Cape Colony.
would not have been my residence. I was constrained to move
my family there to preserve their lives £rom the fluctuations of
the weather.
On the whole therefore His Excellency wiU, I hope, admit that
I have experienced no favor advantageous to my family or to
myself. On the contrary through the neglect of a few indiyiduals
acting under his orders, I have met with the greatest difficulties.
I have &c.
(Signed) W, Parkeb.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
LoNDOV, 2(Mfc Oddf&r 1820.
Sir, — ^This letter will be delivered to you by the Eevd. Mr.
Wright, who has been selected by the Society for propagating the
Gospel in Foreign Parts, to proceed as their Missionary to the
Cape of Good Hope; and I am directed by Earl Bathurst to
request that you will extend to Mr. Wright the protection to which
his profession entitles him, and which his Lordship trusts that he
will endeavour to merit by an exemplary and conciliatory line of
Conduct in the discharge of the duties of his Mission. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[OriginaL]
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry
Goulburn, Esqre.
Cahhoh Bow, OdUAer Tlti 18S0.
Sir, — ^Having received from Lord Charles Somerset the enclosed
letter from Mr. Eoss of the Printing Department at the Cape of
Good Hope, on tiie expediency of sending out to that Colony, with
the Stanhope Presses now just completed, a person capable of
Records of the Cape Cdony. 301
Buperintending them : I have the honor to request that you will
lay the same before Earl Bathurst, and, should the proposal meet
with his Lordship's approbation, move him to direct that a free
passage to the Cape be given to the person selected for this
purpose. I am &c.
(Signed) Tho. Pee. Courtekay.
[Enclosure.]
To the Eight Hon. Lord Charles Henry Somerset.
My Lord, — I take the liberty of addressing your Lordship on
the subject of the demand for Printing materials which accompanied
me on my departure from the Cape. I have had the opinion of
Mr. Clowes, the Printer who furnishes the materials, as to the
necessity of employing and sending out with the Stanhope Presses
a person capable of superintending them, both as to the erecting
of them, and preserving them in their perfect state of repair. Mr.
Courtenay has hinted to me the propriety of addressing your
Lordship, and praying your Lordship's sanction to this necessary
proposal. By procuring the person a free passage to the Cape, and
insuring him employment there, Mr. Clowes can procure one for
that purpose.
I can assure your Lordship, it will prove most fortunate to that
important Branch of the Colonial Grovemment, and I trust that
your Lordship may be pleased to sanction the proposaL
I have &c.
(Signed) Geo. Eoss.
London, 1 Dunoan Plaob, City Road,
16t^ (kUiber 1820.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst.
Caps Town, 2\et October 1820.
My Lord, — Having been obliged to seek shelter for my large
family at a farm house called Bonteberg, near Groenekloof, I have
302 Records of the Cape Colony.
Come to this town to provide provisions for them and my articled
Settlers, as the Farmers in the country are almost exhausted, and
to forward my letters to my friends in Europe, with the detailed
but melancholy account of my residence in this Colony, now near
six months.
As the ship Brilliant is on the eve of sailing, I have continued
the copies of my correspondence with the public authorities of this
Colony up to this date, that your Lordship may see the very great
and unaccountable neglect throughout almost the whole of their
proceedings, respecting the Settlers at ClanwiUiam and the little
attention paid to the sufferings of distressed strangers.
I must beg leave most respectfully to refer your Lordship to
Mr. Wilberforce for minute particulars, as that highly valued
personage is fully acquainted with all the circumstances connected
with my situation in this Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Deputy Landdrost of ClanwiUiam to the
Colonial Secretary,
*
Clan WnjiiAM, 22nd October 1820.
Sir, — I feel myself obliged to trouble you with the following
complaint against Mr. W. Parker, Senr., whom I expected would
have come here long ago, to distribute the Land of the Kleine
Valley, among the Settlers, and in particular to the Eevd. Mr.
McCleland. His Nephew, Mr. W. Parker, whom he had left
here, has deceived me during more than a month vnth. positive
assurances, that his Uncle was daily expected: but whereas it
seems Mr. Parker Junior's object is, to impede the measures of
Government, permit me to request that he may be obliged by
means of authority to come hither in order to fulfil his duty.
He has caused a piece of land to be pointed out to the Eevd.
Mr. McCleland which cannot be cultivated, nor can it have any
water. I have &c.
(Signed) 0. M. Bergh, Deputy Landdrost
Records of the Cape Colony. 303
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Seceetary to Mr. William
Pabeeb.
CoLOHiAL QmciB, 2iih October 1820.
Sir, — ^I have had the honor of submitting your letter of the
21st Instant to his Excellency the Acting Governor, and I am
commanded to acquaint you in reply thereto, that His Excellency
cannot authorise the payment of the 3rd Instalment of the deposits
of the party landed from the Sast Indian, until it shall have been
ascertained what outstanding demands there are against this
instalment, and I am to add, that no head of party can claim the
aforesaid third instalment, as matter of right, imder the Secretary
of State's Circular, until he shall have been located three months
on the lands assigned to him by the Colonial Government, which
in your case, has not taken place.
I am also to acquaint you, that His Excellency does not feel
himself warranted in removing, at the public expence, fipom the
Kleine Valley to Bonteberg, the Settlers under articles to you, who
still remain at the location which had beein destined for diem.
And I am further to signify to you, that as His Excellency
perceives, by the letter now before him, and by the tenor of your
whole procedure in this Colony, that you have manifested no
intention whatsoever of locating at the Kleine Valley, but on the
contrary, that you have abandoned your party, without having
fulfilled any of the conditions prescribed by the Secretary of State's
Circular, and by the regulations framed for the guidance of the
Settlers coming to this Colony, His Excellency can no longer
consider you in the light of the Head of a Party, or as possessing,
or as being entitled to, any land as such, in this Colony; and
directions will therefore be immediately given for the effectual
Establishment of those persons whom you have abandoned, and
who now will be entitled to choose another Head, and thereby, it
is hoped, carry into effect the views and intentions of His
Majesty's Government, which have been so entirely disregarded
by you. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
304 Records of the Cape Colony^
m
[Copy.]
Lettefr from the Colonial Secketary to 0. M. Bebgh, Esqee.,
Deputy Landdrost of Clanivilliam.
Colonial Office, 25th October 1820.
Sir, — It being manifest to His Excellency the Acting Governor,
from letters which have been oflBcially laid before him, from Mr.
W. Parker, that Mr. Parker has no intention whatsoever of locating
at the Kleine Valley, His Excellency has signified to him, that
he can no longer look upon him in the light of a Head of Party,
but considers him to have abandoned those under his charge, and
not to be entitled to any lands, as such, in this Colony.
Under these circumstances it becomes necessary to provide for
the exigence, which this dereliction on the part of Mr. Parker has
given rise to, and to take such steps, in respect to the lands at the
Kleine Valley, as shall enable the Settlers who came out in the
Hast Indian, and who are there located, to provide for them-
selves, according to the benevolent intentions of His Majesty's
Government.
The instructions of H.M.'s Secretary of State are, that locations
shall not be assigned to parties of less than ten male adults, and
that each party of that number, qr more, shall be under the
direction of a chief or head, of their own choice. You will be
pleased, therefore, to proceed upon this basis, you will cause the
people at the Kleine Valley to be accurately mustered, by name,
number, age and sex, and you will communicate to them, that the
confusion which has arisen from the mismanagement and abandon-
ment of their late chief, necessitates an entirely new arrangement
of the land at Kleine Valley, that they are therefore to elect for
themselves such new Chief or Chiefs, as may be agreeable to them-
selves, provided they adhere to the number prescribed by H.M/s
Grovemment, that is, provided they form themselves into associa-
tions of not less than ten, as above described. You will then
cause the Kleine Valley to be divided into such portions as shall
give to each party, according to its numbers, an adequate propor-
tion of arable and grazing land, bearing in mind that it is neither
necessary, just or practicable that the whole allotment of each
should consist of cultivable land, but that if each obtains a fair
proportion of arable land, the expectations of the Colonial Govem-
Records of the Cape Colony. 305
ment will be answered. With respect to springs and running
water, they are to be considered as the property of the community ;
the irrigation derivable from any stream is as much as possible to
be equally shared, and drink-water must be accessible to each
person of the location. A separate and eligible allotment must be
set aside for the clergyman.
Those persons who are servants, either articled or not articled,
are to continue with their respective employers; and in the
subdivision of the general allotments, (which is to be effected
by the Head of Party) the Masters are to be considered entitled
to as many shares as they shall have male adults attached to
them, subject to such agreements as they shall have entered into
with their servants, it not being the intention of His Excellency
to interfere with the agreements persons shall have made among
themselves. It is also foreign to H. £.'s intention to disturb,
more than is absolutely requisite, such settlers as have already
been fairly located ; but he cannot sanction any of the persons
now at the Kleine Valley occupying more land than they are
entitled to by the regulations, that is, more than one hundred
acres for each male adult in the proportion described in the former
part of this instruction : Neither can His Excellency sanction any
transfers which may have been made of land, whether by lease or
sale, as these lands do not become the transferable property of the
Individual who has been first put in possession, until after he
shall have been located upon them three years. His Excellency
therefore holds the lease or sale of the land first allotted by
Mr. Parker to Mr. Holditch, to be entirely null and void, Mr.
Holditch having given in his name to proceed to the Zuurveld,
where he was to have obtained the quantity of land granted to
one Individual, and consequently forfeiting all claim to land at
the Kleine Valley ; the subsequent appointment of Mr. Holditch
to be District Surgeon at Clan William in no way altered his
situation in regard to the land he had, in the first instance,
virtually resigned. His Excellency suggests that the land held
by Mr. Holditch should be made the location of the Eevd. Mr.
McCleland, in his capacity as chaplain to the Settlers in the
Deputy Drostdy. Mr. Seton also, and those attached to him,
will not claim land at the Kleine Valley, under this new arra^ge-
ment, he being to be located at the Diepe Valley.
In the execution of this instruction you will be pleased to call
xin. X
306 Records of the Cape Colony^
upon Mr. Synnot (in his capacity as Heemraad) for his able
assistance^ and proceed in it with all the discretion, regnlarity and
decision, so important a business requires; you will direct the
Land Surveyor to form an accurate plan of the Kleine Valley,
the outline of which is in Mr. Tulleken's diagram, and to distin-
guish the locations, as you shall now assign them, to the Heads
of Parties, who will be chosen as above directed ; the water which
each location will have must be accurately marked, and the whole
transmitted for His Excellency's approbation, with as little delay
as possible.
The Season being far advanced, and much time having already
been wasted which ought to have been employed in profitable
cultivation. His Excellency anticipates the probability that great
distress, from want of provisions, may possibly arise among these
unfortunate men, who have been n^lected from the first, and who
are now finally abandoned by Mr. Parker, their leader, whose
peculiar duty it was to have provided for their wants, present and
future, and he desires that you will be pleased to make to him an
accurate report upon this head, that such steps may be taken
forthwith, to meet the exigence, as shall be indispensably neces-
sary. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bibd.
P.S. You will particularly understand that His Excellency does
not desire you to interfere with such of Mr. Parker's articled
servants as may be still at the Kleine Valley, Mr. Parker having
signified his intention of removiug them to Bonteberg.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lokd Bathurst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
LoNDOH, 29<& OeUiber 1820.
Sir, — Lord Charles Somerset has forwarded to me a letter
which you had addressed to him in which you have stated the
reasons which have induced you to suspend for the present the
works which had been ordered and commenced at Fort Willshire.
Records of the Cape Colony. 307
Upon a consideration of those reasons, I am perfectly prepared
to admit that great Weight would imder ordinary Circumstances
attach to them; but considering on the other hand that the
Establishment and Maintenance of two advanced posts, as
originally proposed by Lord Charles Somerset, is essential to the
protection of the British Territory from the incursions of the
Kaffres and that Circumstances have occurred to prevent or at
least to retard the emigration of the Highlanders oi^ whom you
had, to a degree, relied for the defence of the Country near the
Frontier, I cannot but consider it most important that the works
should be continued, and I therefore trust that you will on the
receipt of this dispatch direct them to be resumed in such a
manner as may enable you to place a moderate force there at the
earliest possible period. For although it might require a long
period to complete permanent barracks and other necessary
buildings, yet it is evident from the measures which you propose
to adopt that a much shorter time will enable you to place the
men imder Cover and thus to answer every immediate object
which the forts in question were intended to answer. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
London, 30^^ Odober 1820.
Sir, — I transmit to you a Memorandum relative to two
individuals who are stated to have been resident within your
Government and to have died there in possession of considerable
property, and I have to desire that you will cause enquiry to
be- made into the Circumstances stated in the Memorandum and
report to me the result. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst,
X 2
308 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lokd Bathukst to Major General
Sir Eufane Donkin.
London, W(h October 1820.
Sir, — I transmit to you enclosed a Copy of a letter which has
been received by my Under Secretary from the brother of Captn.
Synnot who has proceeded to the Cape of Good Hope with a
number of persons to settle there under his direction ; and I have
to request that you will enquire into the truth of the Allegations
set forth in Captn. Synnot's letter, and redress his grievances if
they should prove to be founded.
I send to you at the same time a Memorial from a person who
accompanied Captain Synnot to the Cape, complaining of breach
of faith in his pecuniary engagements; and altho' the settlers
were repeatedly told previously to their departure from England
that His Majesty's Government could take no Cognizance of their
private agreements, I should nevertheless entertain no objection to
your using your good offices in this and in other Cases where
you might think it expedient to appease any differences existing
between the subordinate Settlers and those under whose direction
they have placed themselves.
I take this opportunity to forward an application which has
been received from a person who is interested in the fate of a
Settler, and I request you will take the necessary measures to
enable me to answer his enquiries. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOTEBNMENT HOUSB,
Gape of Good Hope, October 90ih 1820.
My Lord, — Amongst the Settlers who have come out to this
Country is a Mr. William Parker, from Ireland, whose proceedings
towards his followers and this Government have been so marked
by neglect and dishonesty towards the former, and by extravagant
Records of the Cape Colony. 309
atid inadmissible demands on the latter, that I have been obliged
to break up his Party and to permit the Individuals of it to choose
their own Head, in order to ensure their Settlement and future
maintenance.
I should not have resorted to a measure of this nature, had it
not become my duty to rescue the unfortimate persons who have
trusted themselves to Mr. Parker from the misery into which they
were rapidly sinking from his total neglect of them, and, from hia
having finally abandoned them to come and reside at a. place called
Bontebeig, near Gape Town, at a distance of full 100 miles from
his place of Location.
He forced me to know and to notice this his entire desertion of
his party by a letter, from which I have the honour to enclose an
extract, and I have in consequence taken these poor people under
the immediate protection of this Government, and, I have sent
Instructions to the Deputy Landdrost of their District how to
proceed, of which Instructions as well as of the letter written to
Mr. Parker on the occasion, copies are enclosed.
I should not have troubled Your Lordship so much at length
concerning an Individual, were it not that Mr. Parker very early
began to menace this Government with the consequences which
would ensue if his demands were not complied with, and, amongst
those consequences was the bringing of his case before Parliament,
which from certain Correspondents he appears to have, he might
perhaps find means to do ; it becomes therefore my duty to enable
His Majesty's Government to answer any questions or statement
which may be made in Parliament, which I now beg leave to do,
by assuring Your Lordship, that any member of His Majesty's
Government may distinctly and clearly assert that every possible
attention has been shewn to Mr. Parker ever since his arrival in
this Ck)lony ; that a strong disposition existed on my part, and on
that of the Public Oflftcers of this Government, to assist Mr.
Parker; and, that this disposition, as well as everything which
has been actually done, or has resulted from it, has been rendered
wholly nugatory by Mr. Parker's want of faith towards his people,
his visionary and monstrous schemes, hi^ unreasonable expecta-
tions, and finally, by his utter abandonment of those unfortunate
persons who trusted to him. I advance all this on my own
responsibility, and I pledge myself that any assertions to the
above effect, which may be made by His Majesty's Government,
310 ^B^cords of the Cape Colony.
shall be amply and fully made good ^y abundant documents from
the Colonial Office here.
I have said nothing of the arrogance and disrespectfulness of
Mr. Parker's style of correspondence with this Government, and I
can assure Your Lordship, that it has not been permitted to operate
in the least to his prejudice, although his letters have been highly
offensive, as your Lordship will perceive, should it hereafter be
necessary to send documents from this to repel any statements
made by Mr. Parker.
A strong opinion prevails here, that this Individual is suffering
under a degree of mental derangement, and I have sometimes
been disposed to adopt this opinion ; which, however, it is difficult
to reconcile with the persevering consistency with which he has
all along kept his own interests in view, to the total disregard of
those of his followers. I have &c.
(Signed) K. S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to the
Eeverend Mr. Owen.
Gheyeley Park, November %nd 1820.
Sir, — I had this day the honor to receive your letter of the 30th
Ultimo, and in reply have the honor to state that nothing can be
more desirable than to have a military Chaplain stationed at
Graham's Town, which is the Head Quarters of the Military
on the Frontier of the Cape Colony, and within from 5 to 25 miles
of the largest proportion of the new Settlers. There is at aU times
a force of from 250 to 350 men at Graham's Town. I shall be
extremely obliged if you can effect the early appointment of a
respectable clergyman as military Chaplain on that station.
I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
Records of the Cape Cclony. 311
[Office Copy,]
Lett&r from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to
Sir Kupanb Donkin.
London, 9<^ November 1820.
Sir, — This letter will be delivered to you by Messrs. Thomas
and Frederick Perry, who are proceeding to the Cape of Good
Hope with views immediately connected with that Branch of the
Medical Science which is their profession ; and as they have been
jepresented to Earl Bathurst to be young • Men of respectable
character, I am desired by his Lordship to request that you will
afford to them your protection. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry GouiiBURN,
[Copy.]
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to the
Landdrost of Uitenhage.
Colonial Ofziob, 9th November 1820.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor
to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 21 ult. giving
cover to an application from Mr. C. Gumey, and I have it in
command to inform you that His Excellency has been pleased to
permit Bichard Claringbould and John Darby to proceed to
England for the purpose of procuring sundry articles and assist-
ance, necessary to the better conduct of tiie Fishery at Port
Elizabeth. I have &c.
(Signed) H. Ellis.
312 Becords of (lie Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from the Reverend Francis IVTCleland to
Earl Bathurst,
Cape Town, N<yvember 9th 1820.
My Lord, — It had been my intention to pass over in silence
the conduct of Mr. Wm. Parker to myself and my lady, during
our voyage with him to this country, but it appears tiiat after
using every possible means to blast my reputation with the
Grovemment here, and thereby ruin my prospects, he has, as a last
resort, written to the Glovemment in England, and also to many
individuals of exalted character, bringing charges against me
seriously affecting my reputation as a man, more particularly as a
clergyman, and complaining in pointed language of the little regard
paid to his complaints by the authorities here. Respecting the
origin of Mr. Parker's persecution of me I am totally unable to
assign any adequate motive : 'tis most true that on my learning
his shameful transactions iu money matters with Messrs. AspinaU
and Jackson, respectable Solicitors in London, as well as the
fneans he had recourse to, to procure the amount of his settlers'
deposits after he had spent upwards of the one third of it, I ceased
to look on him with that deference and respect which his talking
of religion and his apparent zeal for the good of the poor had
previously required. It is most fortunate for me that I do not
stand a solitary instance of Mr. Parker's bad treatment, no, my
Lord, everyone whether Mendless or destitute that dared not to
cringe to his haughty mandates, and that had spirit enough to
resist his arbitrary and tyrannical conduct, was soon convinced
that in this seeming friend to religion and virtue, there was a
most malignant heart, and a disposition that would studiously
embrace every possible means of ruining his fellow creatures when
th^y presumed to have an opinion contrary to his own. Whether
I look at Mr. Parker's conduct in proposing to his Settlers to
allow him to hire waggons for their conveyance to the interior at
three times the price that Grovemment would do it, and for reasons
which cannot be mistaken, whether I look at it in withholding
Mr. Woodcock's deposit in payment of a mess account contrary
to his own express agreement, whether I look at it as connected
with Miss Cayle, an unprotected female, that embarked at his
Records of the Cape Colmiy. 313
own desire, in procuring two medical men, Mr. Banch and Mr.
Holditch, to sign a certificate of madness against her, when all
his other machinations against her peace and liberty had proved
abortive, or whether I look at his conduct in making oath before
his Majesty's Fiscal that he believed his life to be in danger at
my hands, whether I look at Mr. P/s conduct in these or a
hundred other instances, I discern the same unchristian spirit, the
same disposition which is at utter variance with virtue and
morality. But, my Lord, Mr. Parker has proceeded to threaten
the (Jovemment with Parliamentary investigation, should he not
obtain redress of his grievances, as he calls them. It is possible
Mr, Parker may find some individual ridiculous enough to bring his
aflfairs before the house of Commons ; and I am aware that many
would be inclined to do so, not from the goodness of the cause, but
from a desire to bring the existing state of things into discredit ;
but in such cases I think it incumbent on every good member of
society, and his imperative duty, to apprize the Government of
the conduct and character of such persons as lay claim to such
high interference, and since I had the misfortune to unite myself
to Mr. Parker, he has done everything to cramp and paralyse the
exertions of that Government which, imtil he brought it on him-
self by his own misconduct, was most anxious to promote his wel-
fare. There is not an individual with whom I have conversed that
does not speak in the kindest manner of Sir E. Donkin, and so far
as regards myself, from what I know of His Excellency and those
who act under Ms direction, they are all entitled to the gratitude
of every individual who came to this Country, as having displayed
the utmost desire to promote their welfare by every means in
their power.
The best refutation I can give to Mr. P/s charges against
myself lies in your Lordship's office. I refer to the certificates
of the Bishops of Waterford and Eaphoe, that of Viscount Forbes,
Sir G. E. Fetherstone, and many others, and to my conduct since
I became a servant of Government I can also refer with confidence.
It was solely in expectation of my getting on my arrival in this
Country a comfortable livelihood, that I was induced to change
my situation in life, and that the brother of the late Major
General Sir W. Clark, Bart., permitted me to espouse his daughter.
The salary I at present receive is about two thousand rixdollars
annually, without a house or any land. Considering the rate of
314 Records of the Cape Colony.
exchange this salary is not more than one hundred and forty-five
pounds British^ and when your Lordship looks to the prices we are
obliged to pay here for everything coming from Europe, you wiU
find that it does not really amount to more than seventy British
pounds. Add to this that the Clergy at home receive marriage and
surplice fees, &c, &c. but my flock are so poor that I can never expect
to derive any advantage in that way. Under all those circum-
stances, and that of the Dutch Clergy being allowed a house, some
land, and slaves, I trust your Lordship will have the kindness to
take my case into consideration, and be graciously pleased to
encrease my present salary, so as to enable me to support the
respectability of my profession. I have the honour &c.
(Signed) Francis M'Cleland.
rCopy.]
Letter from SiB Hbebeet Taylor to Hbnry Goulburn, Esqrb.
HoBSE GuABDB, IWh November 1820,
Sir, — I am directed by the Commander in Chief to refer to you,
for the consideration of Earl Bathurst, the enclosed letter firom
Lord Charles Somerset, relative to the Exchange between this
Coimtry and the Gape of Good Hope, and being satisfied that
Lord Charles Somerset's Proposal is made from a full considera-
tion of the subject, and with a view to the advantage of the
Soldier, His Boyal Highness has readily sanctioned its being
submitted for the adoption of His Majesty's Government.
I have &c.
(Signed) H. Taylor.
Records of the Cape Colony. 315
[Enclosure.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Major General
Sir Herbert Taylor.
NoBTH BoWy Pabk Lank.
Sir, — It having become necessary to adopt whatever may be
best calculated to prevent the ruinous increase of the Exchange
between this Country and the Cape of Good Hope, and it being
considered that the payment of the Troops on that Station with
the Paper Currency of the Colony (at the same rate of Exchange
at which the Civil Servants of the Colony who are paid in sterling
Money receive their salaries) would materially contribute to that
object I take the liberty of soliciting the sanction of H.E.H. the
Commander in Chief to be permitted to propose the adoption of
this measure to His Majesty's Government.
I could adduce many arguments, should H.E.H. require it, to
prove that it would not only be extremely advantageous to the
Officer and soldier, but would also obviate many inconveniences
relative to the payment of the Troops stationed on the frontiers of
the Colony (composing the major part of the whole Force), I trust
therefore H.B.H. may be graciously pleased to acquiesce in the
proposal. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Copy.
JSxtract from a Letter from the Deputy Landdrost at Clan-
William to the Colonial Secretary, dated 14ih November,
1820.
In answer to your communication of the 25th ulto., I have the
honor to state, that I lost no time in acquainting the Settlers that
belonged to the Party of Mr. Parker, of the intentions of Govern-
ment respecting them. They expressed great satisfaction at
being released from their engagements with Mr. Parker, but have
not as yet been unanimous with respect to the choice of a person
to be returned as their head.
' With respect to the Settlers being provided by Government
316 Eecoi'ds of the Cape Colony,
with provisions I have to represent that those of the Settlers who
came out under Mi*. Parker are in a most deplorable state, and if it
meets His Excellency's approbation, no delay should be allowed
in making the necessary arrangements for purchasing com, as not
only those who through the mismanagement of Mr. Parker but
also the crops sown by all the Settlers have failed from the con-
tinued drought we have experienced, nor is there any com to be
purchased in this vicinity and I bag to suggest, that in the District
of Tulbagh, a quantity should be purchased suflScient to supply
their wants until they may expect it from their crops of next
year.
A sufficiency of meat can be obtained here.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Parkbb to the Earl Harrowby,
Gboenkloof, Gape of Good Hope,
Uth Noemher 1820.
My Lord, — ^Your Lordship's worthy relatives at New Market
House, Mr. and Mrs. Aldworth introduced me to the correspond-
ence of your excellent Brother, the worthy Bishop of Gloucester.
I therefore avail myself of your Lordship's official privilege to
transmit a duplicate of my letter of the 2nd ulto. to His Lordship.
This I leave open for your kind perusal, as it will develop the
truly unfortunate situation of many of the Settlers, who proceeded
to this Colony under the Parliamentary grant of 1819.
As one of His Majesty's Cabinet Ministers, Your Lordship will
feel a particular interest in respect to the situation of so many
British Subjects and you will feel highly indignant, that the
Colonial Secretary here. Colonel Bird, should have treated Earl
Bathurst's excellent Begulations with such contempt, and that he
should have the presumption to censure His Majesty's Grovemment
in the most unqualified maimer for their sending so many Settlers
to this Colony, without consulting him, or their making previous
arrangements with this Government. He openly declared that the
poor Settlers must perish from want, and that his word may not
prove false, it appears that he selected the most wretched situation
Records of the Cape Colony. 317
in this Colony for the location of my large party, that either they
should perish from want, in a place where provisions were very
scarce, or that I should be ruined by the expense of maintaining
them. Thus did he gratify his spleen at the measures of the
British Government, and at my serious expense, as it has required
every energy of mind and body to procure provisions for them
totally unaided as I have been by the Colonial Government.
My public exertions in Ireland, when famine and pestilence
desolated my native country, first introduced me to the acquaint-
ance and friendship of your highly esteemed Eelatives at New-
market House. It was the estimation, in which they held me,
that led to my corresponding with your Eight Eeverend Brother,
who like your Lordship fills his dignified situation with the
tenderest concern for his fellow creatures. I have been con-
strained to send to Mr. Wilberforce, the acknowledged Eepre-
sentative of this Continent in the Imperial Parliament, a long
detail of the situation of my Settlers in this Colony, that he may
be pleased to bring the subject before the House of Commons, in
a manner that I am certain will add to the high character that he
has maintained, as the friend of true Eeligion, the friend of the
oppressed, and the friend of every social virtue. These have no
efi&cient supporters in this Country, labouring as it does under the
arbitrary and despotic conduct of its Eulers, who meet so few
disposed to act from independent principles and to oppose them
in their unjustifiable conduct. It has unfortunately fallen to my
lot to throw a light on these works of darkness, that have so long
shed a dismal gloom over this important Colony.
Mr. Aldworth could tell your Lordship, with what indifference
for men of wealth and worldly influence, when I was convinced
they acted wrong, I have advocated the cause of the poor in
Ireland. This conduct brought on me the hostility of several,
but it procured me the friendship of such characters as Mr. and
Mrs. Aldworth, two individuals who are an honour to society. It
introduced me to Mr. Wilberforce, who always acting on the
principle of " NU humani a me alienum puto," will give a useful
lesson in the House of Commons to Public Servants and tell them
that, the- Honourable House will not sanction cruelty, or oppres-
sion even in the remotest Colonies of Great Britain, and that
Governors and Secretaries, however high their situations, must
be answerable to those principles of freedom, and subject to these
318 Records of the Cape Colony.
public investigations, the dread of which can alone insure the
liberty of the person in the most secluded comer of His Majesty's
extensive dominions.
The Government in the Secretary's letter of the 11th October
did not admit " that I had any right to question in written com-
munications the conduct of Public Officers acting under His
Excellency's orders." If this doctrine could be maintained, every
British Subject would live in as much personal terror as in
Turkey or Algiers.
According to the meaning of the correspondence that I have
had with the Public Authorities in this Colony, all the Settlers
were to be treated as convicts, and Emigration to the Cape of
Good Hope was only to be considered by Colonel Bird, who is the
assumed Grovemor, or Autocrat here, similar to transportation
under the Sentence of the Law to New South Wales.
I do not err in drawing this conclusion, for the Deputy Colonial
Secretary openly answered and even wrote to me on the 29th
September "That the Settlers were only to get lands barely
sufficient to maintain them without any regard to profitable
productitm." I have sent to Mr. Wilberforce an authentic copy
of his letter. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Farkeb.
[Original.]
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Canhon Bow, Ncvember llOi 1820.
Sir, — Having been informed by Lord Charles Somerset that his
Lordship has found it necessary to purchase two bulls and two
cows of the Yorkshire breed, for the use of the Government Farm
at the Cape of Good Hope, I have to request that you will move
Earl Bathurst to direct that freight be procured for their trans-
mission to the Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Per. Courtenay.
Becords of the Capt Colony. 319
[Copy.]
Letter from the Landdrost of Uitenhage to
Me. C. Gurnet.
UiTENHAOE, \Wi November 1820.
Sir, — ^I have pleasure in conveying to you the enclosed, being
the authority for Messrs. Claringbould and Darby to proceed to
England. I have &c.
(Signed) J. G. Cutler, Landdrost.
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend John Owen to
Henrt Goulburn, Esqre.
Chaplain General's Office, Nof)ember 20, 1820.
Sir, — The Chaplain of the Forces at Cape Town lately informed
me that the Troops on the Frontier of that Colony complained of
having no clergyman to perform with them the requisite spiritual
duties. That I might be more exactly informed before I submitted
the subject to the proper authorities, I wrote to Lt. Genl. Lord
Charles Somerset, and I take the liberty. Sir, to enclose a copy of
his answer, which perhaps my Lord Bathurst will have the goodness
to read.
There is only one Chaplain in this Colony, on the Establishment
of the Army, and he is stationed at Cape Town. I have employed
the Civil Chaplain to ofl&ciate to the Troops in Garrison at Simons
Town ; for which the Secretary at War sanctions the payment of
fifty pounds per annum from the military chest.
The commands of Government for the utmost oeconomy will I
hope plead my apology with you for enquiring in the first instance
if there be any Colonial Chaplain at Graham's Town, or in its
immediate vicinity, whom my Lord Bathurst would be pleased to
direct to ofl&ciate with the Troops on a reasonable allowance from
the Military Chest of the Cape ; 2dly. If there be no clergyman of
320 Records of fhe Cape Colony,
the Church of England at present so situated whether his Lordship
would judge it expedient to send one who might have charge of
the Spiritual duties with the Troops and Settlers at Graham's
Town and its vicinity. I have &c.
(Signed) John Owen, Chaplain General.
[Copy.]
Memorial of John and Thomas Smwh.
The Memorial of John Smith, Sawyer, and his son Thomas
Smith, Taylor, Amply Sheweth
That Your Memorialists entered into articles of agreement with
Mr. Wm. Parker of Cork, to come out under the sanction of
Government, to this Colony, that your Memorialists was with
their families to be supplied with provisions by the said W. Parker
for the term of three years, and be on our location granted portions
of land, to be brought by your Memorialists into cultivation, that
Your Memorialists have been located just six months, a part of
which only said Parker has supplied them with provisions, nor has
he granted them any land whatever. Your Memorialists have
repeatedly applied to the Deputy Landdrost whose answers has
been, the moment Mr. Parker comes to this neighbourhood, he
would make him fulfil his agreement, but at present he is out of
his jurisdiction. Your Memorialists situation would have been
most deplorable, were it not for being employed by Mr. Ingram,
and some others, but now that employment begins to be over.
Your Memorialists therefore humbly prays Your Excellency, to
make such order as will oblige Mr. Parker, to fulfil his agreement,
or that your Memorialists may be at liberty to procure for them-
selves work, in any other part of the Colony, as all wants is
employment; Mr. Bergh as that respected Gentlemen says, he
does not feel himself authorized even to grant your Memorialists
a District Pass, as are under Articles of Agreement with said
Wm. Parker without Your Excellency's command.
For the truth of this Statement beg leave to refer to the
Records of the Cape Colony. 321
Landdrost^ Captain Synnot and Mr. Ingram, and your Memorialists
as in duty bound pray.
(Signed) John Smith,
Thomas Smith.
GiJurwnjJAif, Nov, 2ML 1820.
[Original.]
Letter from Major General Sir Herbert Taylor to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
HoBSi OuABDS, November Mh 1820.
My dear SiR,-r-I am directed by the Commander in Chief to
request that you will communicate to Lord £athurst the enclosed
official and private letters which I received yesterday from Major
General Sir B. Donkin, and that you will convey to me His
Lordship's sentiments upon the various arrangements which he
therein suggests, for His Boyal Highness's information. Sir
B. Donkin appears to H.B.H. to have assigned very strong reasons
for the addition of a Company of European Lifantry and of a Troop
of European Cavalry to the Cape Corps, but it is impossible for
His B.H. to judge how far such a measure may, at this moment,
concur with the general views and arrangements of His Majesty's
Government, and, from an observation made in Sir B. Donkin's
private letter, H.B.H.'s communication of this proposal may
appear premature, as he had not contemplated submitting it to
Lord Bathurst until he should have leamt what had been deter-
mined upon the arrangement proposed by Lord Charles Somerset
for the Cape Corps, now established.
His Boyal Highness considers it desirable that the remaining
Companies of the African Corps should be sent home to be
disbuided, but adverting to the description of men of which that
Corps is formed, he trusts that Sir B. Donkin's proposal to detain
and settle a proportion of the Officers and men, between the
Keiskamma and the Great Fish Biver near the Sea, will o.btain
Lord Bathurst's sanction.
You will oblige me by returning the enclosures when you
xni. Y
S22 Records of the Cape Colony,
commxmicate to me Lord Bathurst's Rentiments upon these several
points, that I may, in obedience to His E.H/s instructions, reply
to Sir E. Donkin accordingly. Believe me &c.
(Signed) H. Taylor.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Provisional Magistrate of Albany to
Sir Jahleel Brenton.
Bathubst, 29th November 1820.
Sir, — ^Having had repeated applications made by Out Pensioners
of Greenwich Hospital to have their respective Pensions paid them
in the Province of Albany where they are now located, I have had
an order this day presented to me which appears only payable to
the Pensioner himself in Person on his presenting it to the Store-
keeper at the Naval Yard. As it is quite impossible for Individuals
to comply with this Order, may I beg you to take this Case into
consideration, and, if possible, make some arrangement for their
relief. I trust the nature of the Case will plead my excuse for
this intrusion. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Trappes,
Provisional Magistrate.
[Original.]
Memorandum hy Sir Jahleel Brenton.
The greatest diflSculties attending the settling of strangers in
distant Colonies arise from the want of comforts and regular
supplies for the first year ; they arrive full of those sanguine hopes
by which they have been induced to quit their native country ;
imagine, they know not why, that they are to find the means of
obviating every inconvenience already provided for them, and
consider that prosperity is to be the immediate instead of the
Records of the Cape Colony, 323-
gradual result of their obtaining possession of their new property.
They have no sooner however reached the place of their destination
than they are involved in disappointment and distress ; their
helplessness encreased by the contradictory, or discouraging reports
they receive from the Inhabitants, and the impossibility of judging
for themselves. The want of a dwelling and of the immediate
necessaries of life occupy their whole attention and all their time,
whilst the cultivation of their lands is necessarily retarded, at least
for one season.
How to remove these difiSculties and to render the establishment
of the newcomer easy to himself and immediately profitable to
the Country has been the subject of my serious attention for some
time, and a plan has suggested itself which if acted upon on a
small scale, would I should hope at all events bear innocent
experiment. No great advance of money will be required to
carry it into execution, and little if any loss can be sustained
under the most unfavourable result, whilst on the other hand
there appears a fair prospect of fully attaining the object in view,
and having the sums which have been laid out for the purpose
returned with interest.
The suggestion I take the liberty of o^ering is that a certain
portion of land, equal only in extent to one loan farm of 3000
Morgen (rather more than 6000 acres) should be assigned for the
purpose of receiving a detachment of Settlers from England,
the spot to be chosen from the Government lands in some fertile
part of the Colony, as near as possible to an accessible part of the
Coast.
A Square of 200 Acres to be selected, as nearly central as may
be consistent with due attention to the advantages of soil and
water, for the purpose of building a church, a parsonage, and a
house for a surgeon, also for a Glebe, and the formation of a
village :
Thirty lots of 100 acres each to be measured out in favourable
situations for small farms, as near the place intended for the
village as convenient, and each of these lots to be subdivided into
two, a and b, after these portions have been measured off, there
will remain 2800 acres unappropriated.
As Inhabitants of the new settlement, I propose that a number
of persons amounting in the whole to 30 families, desirous of
emigrating to this Colony should be collected as nearly as possible
Y 2
324 Records of the Cape Colony.
from the same neighbourhood in England, of good character and
industrious habits, if possessed of a small capital, so much the
better, but as the object is to provide for the distressed, poverty
should be no obstacle, where the character is unexceptionable.
The party to be under the guidance and even the controul of a
respectable Clergyman of the Church of England, who should be
considered as the head of the Society; there should also be a
medical person attached to it
In forming this party it should be considered indispensable that
at least six carpenters, and as many masons should be of the
number ; all these artificers to be taken into the pay of Gk)venmient
at moderate wages from the moment they reach tiie spot intended
for the Establishment, until their services be no longer required
for the Public
All the Settlers to be furnished with tents by (government,
which are to be pitched for their temporary accommodation whei^
required.
Upon their arrival at the place allotted for them, the ground
for the public establishment to be first selected, then the 30 lots
intended for the farms.
The divisions marked a are to be distributed by lot, one to each
family ; those marked b, to be reserved for purposes to be hereaftCT
explained.
The Carpenters to be sent to the nearest wood, with their tents
and provisions, to be employed there in preparing beams, rafters,
planks, door and window frames, &c., &c., for building small houses
on the proposed scale, which when ready axe to be carried to the
place fixed upon by the waggons which conveyed the workmen to
the Forest.
The masons in the mean time will be occupied in raising the
walls of the houses, wherever those for whom they are intended
may point out: the remainder of the community to assist in
carrying on the work, and by their united efforts it is not unreason-
able to expect that in less than ten months a sufficient number of
comfortable dwellings may be provided for the accommodation
of the whole.
An accurate account to be kept of the expenses which have
attended the construction of these houses, and an average made of
the cost of each, and the sum to be charged against the person for
whom it has been built.
Becords of the Cape CdUmy. 325
The expenses attending the formation of the proposed establish-
ment may be estimated with sufficient correctness, by a reference
to those incurred in building the houses for the artificers of the
Nayal Yard at Simon's Town. They are neat and comfortable
dwellings, and well calculated for small families. As the Settler
encreases in Income, he may enlarge his house and add to his
accommodation in proportion to his means. These houses, 20 in
number, cost upon an average £101 4$. 8d. each, but it is to be
considered that they were built during the War, and with expensive
materials.
In this case almost all the materials will be the produce of
the artificer's industry, and as the labourer will feel an intere3t
in the work being carried on with as much economy as possible,
in order to keep down the amount of his rent, it may be con-
sidered that a great diminution will be experienced in this
article also ; a very small quantity of lime will be required, as
the houses will be thatched, instead of having the expensive
fiiat roofs of those belonging to the Artificers. When all
these favorable circumstances are contemplated, I feel justified
in estimating the cost of each house at a sum not exceeding £70
sterling.
In addition to the money thus advanced to each family for
building a house, must be added the amount of their provisions
for the first year, viz. the absolute necessaries of life. As each
fEunily may be supposed to include amongst its numbers, yoimg
children, if not infants, I consider that 2«. per day will be a
sufficient allowance for each house, upon an average. Some of
course will require more, and others less, acc(»ding to circum-
stances.
It will be abundantly sufficient to procure bread and meat, which
is all that the poorer classes can require, and whatever the other
flEunilies may be enabled to add from their private property will of
course encrease their own comforts.
The whole debt therefore incurred by each family at the con-
clusion of the first year will be £106 10a. Sterling, but they are
not to be called on to make any payment until the expiration of
the third ' year, when the accumulated interest, added to the
original debt, will be £123 5«. S^d. It is to be observed that the
Interest for the first year is included, as the money will have been
advanced in the commencement of it. The legal interest for this
326 Records of the Cap^ Colony.
sum, with the addition of £1 for perpetual quit-rent, will be the
amount of each family's debt to Government.
iS B. d.
Interest upon £123 5^. 8^(2. 6 3 3}
Perpetual Quit-rent 10 0
Total £7 3 3i
For this small sum, the stranger will find himself with his
family established in a comfortable dwelling on his own farm of
50 acres, already nearly three years under cultivation, from which
he will have already reaped three harvests, for which he has paid
no rent during the whole of that period, but on the contrary has
received provision for one year from Government, which is included
in the above charge.
A great part of this debt may in many cases be redeemed by the
Individual incurring it, even before the period of his rent becoming
due : (the amount of which will be reduced in proportion) either
by work performed for Government, or by the produce of his
land, deposited in the public granary ; the artificer, if industrious,
will not only have worked himself clear of debt, but actually into
some portion of capital, before the expiration of the three years.
Small houses will in the first instance be sufficient for the
Clergyman and Surgeon, and these might be constructed at the
same time with the houses of the other inhabitants, but as soon
as the whole party are lodged, better accommodation may be
provided for these gentlemen and a church be built large enough
to contain 500 persons, allowing for an encrease of population to
a certain extent in the neighbourhood. A most excellent building
of this description has lately been erected by the Moravian
Missionaries at G^ene Kloof for fifteen thousand Rix Dollars,
and when it is considered that the price of timber and plank was
encreased tenfold from the period of its delivery at the forest to
that of its arrival at Groenekloof, it may not be unreasonable to
expect that a Church of the dimensions required may be built for
10,000 Eix Dollars, or less than £1000 Sterling. The housei
for the Clergyman and Surgeon, I shall estimate at £1400, the
one at £800 the other at £600.
The whole expense of the proposed establishment would then be
as follows :
Records of the Cape CoUmy. 327
80 houses, for as many families, @ £70 ea, . . • • 2100
One year's provision for each family @ £36 lOs. ea. . . 1095
House for the Clergyman ..•••• 800
House for the Surgeon ....... 600
Church 1000
£5595
It is to be observed that nearly four-fifths of this sum will have
been laid out in giving immediate employment to the new settlers,
and will in reality have been earned by them in carrying on the
public works, for the amount of which Government will be in the
receipt of the legal interest, whilst the remaining £1095 advanced
for provisions will also have obtained a positive benefit to the
Country, and will equally be on its return to the public funds, by
being progressively, if not rapidly redeemed.
The payment of the first two sums amounting to £3195 I have
already provided for, both as to Interest and Principal, by the rents
which the Inhabitants are to pay for their respective farms, whilst
the money advanced on the occasion is secured by the property.
It now becomes necessary to look for an equivalent for the
remaining £2400 laid out in erecting the Church and (rovemment
Houses.
I have for this purpose reserved the lots marked b.b.b. which,
when the settlement has been established for three years, and
consequently attained to some degree of importance, are to be put
up to auction and disposed of to the highest bidder : in all proba-
bility the owners of the contiguous lots willing to encrejise their
property, and secure it from the hands of strangers, will be most
anxious to become purchasers, and thus create a competition
greatly to the advantage of Government. The facility of disposing
of the reserved lots would be encreased by allowing the purchase
money to remain at Interest on the same terms as those adjoining.
No settler however should be allowed to purchase more than the
two lots immediately touching his own on* each side, nor these
without giving security for the payment of the Capital within a
certain number of years ; this last condition appears necessary in
order to prevent a monopoly, and too great an extension of the
farms.
I will suppose these reserved lots to sell for no more than £2
per acre, they will bring in £3000 Sterling, by which this sum
S28 Records of the Cape Cclony.
will be instantly paid off, and £600 deposited towards defraying
the expenses of a Govemment School viz.
Per annum ...•...••• 30
Perpetual Quit. Rente upon the .60 farms (the last sold being
also subject to the same charge) 60
Forming an annual Fund of • • • • • • £90
a sum amply sufficient not only for all the expenses of a fr^ee/
school^ but to pay the interest for money laid out in the erection
of a school room.
That I have not overrated the value of the reserved lots will be
evident by a reference to the price at which land of the most
indifferent description is selling in various parts of the Colony,
but most particularly by the extraordinary rise in the value of
land at Hottentots Holland, where a piece of ground was
purchased in 1817 for building a church and parsonage which cost
23,000 Guilders, after appropriating as much as was required for
the original object, the remainder was sold by auction for building
on, and fetched 161,000 Guilders.
There will remain the Salaries of the Cleigyman and Surgeon to
provide for. I should consider that £300 per annum for the first,
and £200 for the latter would be ample, as they would have in
addition the advantage of houses and a certain extent of ground
attached to them. As these appointments would afford the means
of giving comfortable employment to some deserving officers of the
Army or Navy, in addition to their half pay, I should not consider
thQ new establishment as chargeable for their support, but look to
the Public being remunerated by the provision made for our
countrymen, and the rising prosperity of the Colony.
The 2800 Acres unappropriated are to remain the property of
the public, either for the supply of fuel, for grazing ground, or any
other puxposes for which they may be found most applicable, but
such part of the central division of 200 acres as may not be
requii^ for the public buildings are to be sold by auction for
buildingi and the proceeds reserved for Government purposes
connect^ with the Establishment,
Such are. the outlines of the Plan I have ventured to proposa
I will only add a f^w observations in endeavouring to anticipate
|;he objections which may probably be brought against it.
JReoards of (he Cape Colmy. 829
In the first place it may be said that the aooommodation of 30
families is an object too inconsiderable for the formation of such
an establishment as I have proposed. I beg leave in answer to
state that the 30 reserved lots imply the future settling of more
families, and that the Church may become the centre of an
extensive parish, by the cultivation of the surrounding Country.
Should the first undertaking be successful, the farms may be
multiplied by the same means in the neighbourhood, without any
additional public establishment.
It may be urged that some of the Individuals sent out will
probably prove unworthy of the encouragement conferred, and
that in this case (rovemment would run the risk of losing both
Capital and Interest. Such cases of demerit must unavoidably
occur, but the resumption of the house and land and its sale by
auction would undoubtedly save the Country from any loss.
Those who fail from indolence, or other blameable causes, must, in
order to obtain a subsistence, become labourers where they might
have been principals, and should they leave the neighbourhood
where they were first established, some other part of the Colony
will have the benefit of their labour.
Sickness has been a deplorable drawback to the progress of most
Colonial Establishments: I have endeavoured to guard against
both the cause and effect, by suggesting the means of placing the
Settlers as soon as possible in dry and comfortable habitations,
and by proposing the appointment of a Surgeon.
(Signed) Jahleel Bbenton.
[Oflace Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General Sir
BUFAKE DONEIN.
LomxHr, %md DeonAer 1820.
Sib, — ^I have had the honour of receiving your dispatch No. 21
requesting instructions as to certain points connected with the
location of the settlers in the Colony.
You are quite coxrect in supposing that His Majesty's Govern-
ment never held out any ejcpectation of bearing any charge for
'330 Records of the Cape Cdorvjf.
the Settlers beyond that of their passage to the Colony, and that
the expence of their Conveyance to the places of their location, of
their provisions and even of their agricultural implements,
however they might be in the first instance provided by Govern-
ment, was ultimately to be defipayed either out of the money
originally deposited in England, or out of any other funds which
the settlers might have at their disposal.
This arrangement was adopted not only with a view to prevent
the expence to which the Gk)vemment was to be exposed, but in
order to ensure on the part of the Settlers that due diligence and
exertion to labour for the means of subsistence which experience
has pointed out to be utterly incompatible with a gratuitous
distribution of provisions. I am perfectly aware that whenever
the day arrives at which the deposit money having been expended
the Government shall cease to furnish provisions, a considerable
number of Settlers will be in great difficulty, if not in immediate
distress. But on the other hand I feel that the profligate and idle
would be exposed to the same diflBculties, to whatever period the
distribution of provisions might be continued, and I therefore
deem it essential that every opportunity should be taken of
inculcating on all Classes that whenever the deptjsit money shall
be exhausted the Grovemment will no longer issue provisions
except on due payment of their Value. In cases of aggravated
distress, the interposition of the Government must be exercised for
the relief of the Sufferers from absolute Want ; yet even in those
Cases where deserving individuals are the Sufferers, it would be
better to take Security, however inadequate, for the repayment of
what may be advanced, than to bestow it gratuitously, and in
the case of the idle and profligate, the assistance should be afforded
by giving them Work for which they should be paid, and not by
supplying them with food, and leaving them without employment.
The more successful Settlers will undoubtedly be ready and
able to afford employment to many, and although to those who
may have proceeded with ideas of independence, it may not be
agreieable to resort to daily labour, yet the government is not
called upon to exempt them from this penalty arising from their
Want of exertion.
The Waggon hire is certainly a charge which must have fallen
heavily on them all, and which to the extent may not have been
anticipated ; so far as regards future exertion also it stands on a
Records of the Cape Colony. 331
very, dififerent footing from a supply of provisions. You will,
therefore, consider yourself justified in dispensing with the repay-
ment by the Settlers of the Sums which may have been advanced
on this account.
This additional boon ought to enable the settlers to overcome
all their real difficulties ; and you will therefore in granting it,
apprize them that it is the only additional Assistance which under
any circumstance the Government can afford to them, and you will
take the opportunity of distinctly stating that no expectation is to
be entertained of the issue of rations, without payment, for any
period however limited. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Major General Sir
EUFANE DONKIN.
LoNDOK, 5tft Beomher 1820.
Sir, — ^This letter will be delivered to you by two individualsl,
Louis Chandelier, and Claude Permset, whom I have allowed to
proceed to the Cape of Good Hope, on their way to St. Helena,
where they have been engaged to form part of General Bonaparte's
Establishment ; and I have to instruct you to take a convenient
opportunity to forward these individuals to St. Helena, giving
notice to Sir Hudson Lowe of the Circumstance. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from F. Freeling, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
General Post Office, bih Deomher 1820.
Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
of the 28th ulto. transmitting, by direction of Lord Bathurst,
for the consideration of My Lords the Postmaster General, copies
832 Records of the Cape Colony.
of a dispatch and its enclosures which had been receiyed from the
officer administering the Government at the Gape of (jood Hope,
respecting the refusal of Masters of British ships to take chai^
of mails to this country ; and requesting to be informed whether
the Master of a vessel has the right to refuse to charge himself
with the King's Mails. I am commanded to acquaint you, for
the information of Lord Bathurst, that there is no Law which
enacts that Masters of Merchant vessels shall receive Mails of
fihip Letters on board their vessels when they come from any of
the British Settlements to this Gountry. I have, &c.
(Signed) F. Freeling-
[Original.]
letter from the Eevekknd Geokge Thom to
HeNBT GrOULBUBN, ESQBE.
15 CaBtle STBaer, Oxfobd Stbeit, DeoenAer bik 1820.
Sib, — I have the honor to state, that agreeable to the conversa-
tion which you honored me with on the necessity of obtaining
Scottish Presbyterian Ministers to fill the vacant Ghurches at the
Gape, I waited on the Eight Honorable Lord Gharles Somersetp
and his Lordship was pleased to request me to enter into a cor-
respondence with some eminent Professors of the UnivendtieB
on the subject. I have consulted with the Bevd. Dr. Nicol of
Swallow street, the Bevd. Dr. Waugh of Well street, and the
Bevd. Dr. Manuel of London Wall, well known Scottish Divines
in London, who aU coincided with my suggestion that the Bevd.
Dr. Macgill, Professor of Divinity in the University of Glasgow,
to be the Professor most likely to recommend young clergymen
of approved principles, character and talent for this most important
work. I have accordingly opened a correspondence with Professor
Macgill by introductory letters from these Scots Ministers on this
subject, and I shall not fail to wait on you when the answer is
received. I have, &c.
(Signed) Geobge Thom, Minister of Galedon.
Records of the Cape Colony. 333
[Oiiginal.J
Letter Jrom Mr. John Carter to Earl Bathurst.
Dbal, nsab Post Euzabith,
Alqoa Bat, llih December 1820.
Mt Lord, — I am requested by Mr. Gurney and the rest of the
party belonging to Deal to inform your Lordship that we are very
comfortably situated as above, about three miles from the Bay and
the same from Zwart Kops Biver: we have been in the habit
of catching a great many fish which we have sold very readily
and to good advantage. We see an opportunity from the Spot
where we are, to embark in the Whale Fishery, and two of the
party having got permission of the Government to proceed to
England for the purpose of procuring Boats and other necessaries
to carry on the establishmenti Messrs. Claringbould and Darby
have proceeded for that purpose.
I beg to represent to your Lordship that they will have the
means to buy what is proper, but that if His Majesty's Government
can help them so £eu: as to get the goods sent out free of Duty and
Freight it would be of vast consequence to the Party, as they
must unavoidably be at a very considerable expence.
We have petitioned Lord Liverpool in case any Boats are at Deal
that have been condemned for smuggling, that his Lordship would
be kind enough to get some of them at the cut up price ; being
personally acquainted with, and a Constituent of Mr. Lushiugton's,
I have written to him on this subject. Messrs. Claringbould and
Darby are the two belonging to tiie Party who have proceeded to
England for the purpose mentioned. I have, &c.
For Mr. Gumey and the Deal Party.
(Signed) John Carter.
334 Becords of the Cape Colony,
[OrigiiiaL]
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry (Joulbuen, Esqre.
Natt OmoE, l2Jtk December 1820.
Sib, — ^We transmit herewith for the information of Lord Bathnrst
a cop7 of a letter from Sir Jahleel Brenton, Commissioner of the
Kavy at the Cape of Good Hope, dated the 21st of September last,
together with copies of the correspondence that had taken place
relative to the inconvenience experienced by His Majesty^s Service
by subjecting Transports to the forms established at the Custom
House that permits should be taken out for the landing and ship-
ment of Naval and Victualling Stores in the same manner as for
goods and merchandize imported and exported, and we request
to be informed if his Lordship has given any directions to the
Governor of the Colony for relieving the Transports and King's
Ships from taking out Custom House Permits for loading or
imloading Stores.
We embrace this opportunity of acquainting you for His Lord-
ship's information, that we consider it of the first importance to
the speedy and efficient performance of the Transport Service that
all militaryy transports should be relieved from all Custom House
restrictions that can be permitted with a due regard to the safety
of the revenue, but in particular at Table Bay and other open
Boadsteads, where the loss of an hour may be of the greatest con-
sequence to the lives of His Majesty's Troops, and to the safety
of the ship as well as the stores embarked. We are &c.
(Signed) Ex, Tiphno,
Jn. Thomson.
J. Babrett.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Landdrost of Uitenha^e,
the Deputy Landdrosts of Grahamstown and Clanvniliam, and
the Provisional Magistrate of Baihurst.
GoLOHiAL Office, IWi DecenOfer 182a
SiK, — His Excellency the Acting Governor having authorized the
Officers of the Commissariat to issue Bations of Bread and Meat
Records of the Cape Colony, 335
to such of the Settlers who should stand in need thereof, which
Bations His Excellency has directed to be delivered to Heads of
Parties, according to the numbers of the respective Parties, it has
come to His Excellency's knowledge that some of the Heads have
(notwithstanding their having drawn the aforesaid Bations of Pro-
visions) in various instances stopped the issue thereof to the Men
of their parties under the pretext that such Men had been refractory,
or had not worked properly, I am directed therefore to acquaint
you that His Excellency does not approve of the line the Heads
of Parties have adopted in these cases. But His Excellency agree-
ing in the principle that if men will not work they shall not be
fed by their employers, he has desired that you may notify to tSie
Heads of Parties tiiat if they have just complaints against their
people on this point, upon their laying them before you and sub-
stantiating the same, you will authorize in writing the withholding
the number of Bations according to circumstances, which number
\& in such cases not to be drawn from the Public Stores, which
it is necessary on every account to oeconomise as much as possible.
I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. Wiluam Parker to Earl Bathurst.
OBoamBKLooF, Oafb of Gkx>D Hofb, 16<& December 1820.
My Lord, — I most respectfully take leave to submit the accom-
panying letter to Mr. Ellis, the Member for Dublin, to your
Lordship's kind perusal.
I am the more emboldened to do so, as I am well assured that
your Lordship is a warm supporter of the glorious Constitution of
Great Britain, as established in Church and State. And your
Lordship will be struck with amazement on learning that the
Ck)vemment of the Cape of Good Hope is at present administered
by an individual professing the Boman Catholic Beligion, or at all
events notoriously hostile to the interests of the Church of
England.
On my first interview with Colonel Bird, I told him that I
336 Becords of the Cape Colovy.
rejoiced that I was to reside in a country where the Boman
Catholic Clergy had no influence, and where there was no Priest
to poison the minds of the lower orders of the Settlers. This
declaration to a man whom I supposed was a loyal Protestant ex
officio, has heen the fundamental cause of Colonel Bird's cruel
machinations against me.
May I take the liberty to solicit Tour Lordship to be pleased to
forward the letter to Mr. Ellis with its enclosure and to transmit
that for Mr. Vansittart to that estimable individual. I have Sec.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to CaptauSt H. Somerset,
Acting Deputy Landdrost, Grraham's Totfm, and Captain C.
Trappes, Provisional Magistrate, Bathurst,
Colonial Otfiob, 2Ut December 1820.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Grovemor to
transmit to you herewith Circular Letters to be sent to each of the
Heads of Parties in Your Jurisdiction, as soon as it may be
practicable to have them conveyed to them. You will perceive,
that it is His Excellency's intention that such arrangement should
now be made, as shall lay the foundation for the future supply of
the Settlers, from means which shall be independent of the Cvni.
Government or Commissariat.
His Excellency is quite aware of the Calamity of blight, which
has blasted the hopes of so many of the most industrious of the
Settlers, and His Excellency will use every effort in his power
to avert the consequences which withdrawing the Government
Supplies altogether would at such a period occasion; the entire
stopping of the Commissariat issues must therefore still be a
prospective measure, but the circumstances of the Country gene-
rally, in consequence of the great failure in all its Districts by
blight, and the welfare of the Settlers themselves, which depends
so much on their exertions for their own support, necessitate a
strict oeconomy, in the issues. It will be necessary theref<M*e that
you consult with each other on this subject, with the view of
Becards of the Copt CoUmy. 337
ascertaining firom. the heads of Faitiesy and by peraonal inspection,
what resonrces from v^etables or otherwise the SettleatB can depend
upon, so that each shall draw no more from Public Stores than is
absolutely indispensable. It will require great pecserenince and
exertion to act up to the entire spirit of tins instmetion, bot His
Excellency is convinced that yon will see the absolnte necessity of
the measnre, and tiiat yon will in conseq[aenoe hare it in yoor
power to make him an early report on the sobject.
Independent of the condderataon iof ceconomising the Supplies,
it will be evident to yon that it is necessary that some steps dionld
be takenwhidishaUhaYetheetGect of constraining the able bodied
to labonr, which it is aasomed they will not be mffiffMitly ir%t>\rwu^
to while too mndi fiicility in psocuring snbsistenoe withoot labour
is afforded them. I have &c.
(S^ned) C. Bibd, Secretary.
[Copy.]
Circular Letter from ike Golcmal Seeretary to the Heads of
Partus of Settlers.
Sib, — His Excellency the Acting Crovemor deems it expedient
to give yon Notice thsrt^ he has directed the Officers of the Com-
missariat Department to dose tlie Account of Deposits with your-
self, and other Heads of Parties, charging against the Sums of
Deposit, to which, by the Communications of His Majesty's
Secretary of State for the Coloniei^ you appear to be entitled, the
Amount of Stores, Pnmsions, and Waggon Hire, with whidi you
stand Debited to His Majesty's Crovoimient.
Your account will be closed to the end of this present year, widk
the view of discontinuing the Issue of Prorisioiis by GrOTemment,
as soon as it shaQ be practicable, subsequent to the Housing of the
present Harvest.
His Excellency the Acting Croremor does not disguise fiom
himself, that circumstances hare occurred which will prerent
many of the Settlers from being yet in a position to maJTitain
themselyes, firom the Produce of their respective Locations. These
xra. . z
338 Records af the Cape Colony,
oircumstanceSy which have arisen, either from the late F^od of
the Season at which the Transports arrived here, or from the want
of Ploughs and Agricultural Implements, which, unfortunately,
did not reach this Place untU long subsequent to the arrival
of the Settlers, or, finally, from the unprecedented Calamity of the
Blight, which has cut off so much of the just expectations of the
Industrious, induce His Excellency, (contrary to what had been
his original intention), to continue to authorise the Commissariat
to provide, in some degree, for the failure of Private Eesources,
and to continue to Issue, upon Payment, or undoubted Security,
such Proportion of Provisions as the respective Parties may not
have it in their power to procure from other Sources, in a Country
destitute of Markets. It will be evident to you, that the greatest
oeconomy should pervade the System of Issues, the Commissariat,
therefore, cannot be authorised, on any account, to Issue a larger
Hation than what is allowed to His Majesty's Troops ; and circum-
stances may arise which may render it impossible to issue to the
Settlers a Soldier's complete Eation, in which case a proportionate
diminution in price will be made ; and it is to be distinctly under-
stood that neither this Government, nor the Commissariat, can or
does pledge itself to issue any specific and unchangeable Bation,
either in quantity or quality; as it must be obvious, that the
difficulty of Transport at this Season, with many local circum-
stances, may render the exact execution of such a Pledge
impossible*
It will be requisite that you give regular and early Kotice to the
Magistrate, in whose Jurisdiction your Location may be, of the
Kumber of Eations you may from time to time require, stating
therein the Mode of Payment you propose for the same, which
Mode must be clear and satisfactory, it not being to be expected,
that His Majesty's Government should authorise any Issues of
Stores or Provisions, unless it be reimbursed ; nor will Bations be
supplied for a greater Kumber of Persons than shaU. be actually
in your Location, at the time of Drawing for the same. It is also
necessary for you to observe, that Issues of Provisions will only
be made at Graham's Town, or Bathurst.
The Demand against your Party for Waggon-Hire, for their
Transport from Port Elizabeth to the Albany District, is very
great; it was, however, clearly stipulated, tiat His Majesty's
Government should be at no expence, with respect to the Settlers,
Beeords of the Gape Cdomf, 339
subsequent to their Landing; His Excellency, therefore, cannot
release your Account from that Charge, unless under fresh Instruc-
tions from His Majesty's Government, but he has referred the
Question Home, for consideration, and wiU communicate the
Sesolt to you, as soon as he shall have been honoured by a Beply.
I am &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Original.]
LeUer from Sir Jahleel Brenton to L. McLean, Esqre.
Cape o> Good H6»s, 280^ Iktmim IWK
Sm, — The inclosed Ticket for the payment of a Pension due t6
Thomas Brent has been forwarded to me by the provisional Magis-^
trate of the Eastern District in a letter, a copy of which is also
annexed. Many similar Certificates have been sent from distant
parts of the Colony, and you will be aware of the impossibility of
the Parties fulfilling the stipulated conditions, as the ezpence and
loss of time incurred by their coming to Simons Bay, to appear
before the ofiScers of the Bock Yard, would greatly exceed the
value of the Pension.
As I consider the spirit of the Begulation contemplates the
prevention of Forgery, I have requested in one instance, that of
Michael Plowman, the Deputy Landdrost of the District to identify
the holder of the Ticket by an oflScial Document, on which it is
my intention to cause the Money to be remitted to him.
The present Ticket being so far beyond the date assigned for its
payment, I have thought it necessary to return to you agreeably to
the directions contained in it.
I have to request arrangements may be made for the payment of
these Pensions by the Parties being identified in the District where
they reside. I have &c.
(Signed) Jahl. Brenton, Commissioner.
z 2
340 JRecords of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from Lieutenant Mudge to the
COMMISSIONEKS OF THE NaVY.
Lisbon, 28f A December 1820.
Honorable Gentlemen, — I have the melancholy duty of
informing you of the destruction of the Abeona Transport, 328
tons, No. 36, bound to the Cape of Good Hope with Settlers, and
of the dreadful fate of the great majority of the Persons on board
of her. In detailing the circumstances of this fatal accident I
feel a ray of consolation in the consciousness of having done all
in my power to rescue from the jaws of death as many of
my fellow sufferers as possible. On Saturday 25th Ultimo in
Latitude 4° 30' N. Longitude 25° 30' West, about fifteen minutes
past noon the Alarm was given of the Ship being on fire. I
instantly rushed on Deck from my Cabin where I was writing,
and learnt that it was in the Lazaretto abaft, the receptacle of all
the Ship's Stores and Provisions. Every Nerve was exerted in
handing Water to the first Mate and Seamen who were down in
the abovementioned place, but it all proved useless, for the people
in a few minutes were driven up from below by the dense smoke
and the rapidity with which the fire communicated itself to every
surroimding object. Sails, Oakum, Eope, &c. I now privately
ordered the Master to clear away the quarter Gigs with a few of
the Sailors while I with the rest and as many of the Settlers as I
could rouse from the panic which had seized them continued
pouring Water into the Hold in the hope that we might still get
it under. The Yard Tackles were aloft and the Carpenter directed
to cut away every lashing and Spar that might impede the
hoisting out of the long Boat and Skiff, the latter of which was
stowed in the former. In about ten or fifteen minutes from the
first alarm the case was hopeless, the Ship being in a perfect blaze
from the Mainmast aft on the lower deck, and from the excessive
heat of the upper one we momentarily expected the fibre to
penetrate it. The Skiff was out and the two Quarter Gigs down,
the long Boat almost high enough for clearing the side, when the
flames rushing up from the after hold communicated with the
main rigging, flew up to the mast-head like Lightning, burnt the
main lift, top sail sheet, and every rope that secured the Yard
Records of the Cape Colony, 341*
Ann aloft, and blasted the hope of getting her clear. The
attempt, Gentlemen, to paint the horror of the scene at this
moment were vain, the Shrieks of the Women and Children
combined with the furious element marching on to devour us,
formed a picture of human misery that must rend the stoutest
heart. I continued with Mr. Fisher, the Surgeon, and a few of
the Seamen heaving round the Windlass to which we had brought
the fore tackle of the long Boat, judging that by getting her bow
well up we might possibly be enabled to launch her over the side,
but the panic and confusion at this instant were so powerful that
she proved too heavy for the few that I could find sufficiently
collected to attend to the Orders given, indeed had we got her
afloat the probability is that we could not have kept her so for
any length of time, for on the main yard arm falling, she came
down with a force that stove in some of her planks. Seeing now
that all was over, and that the people were throwing themselves
overboard and into the Boats, accompanied by Mr. Fisher the
Surgeon I jumped over the larboard bow, and happily for us at
the moment my own Gig was close to the Ship, and those in her
attended to our voices and came and took us in. My great
anxiety now was the saving as many lives as our three small
boats could possibly swim with, and I have to rejoice in stating
that 49 have been miraculously preserved. A few minutes after
my quitting the wreck the main and mizen masts fell, the flame
rapidly advancing forward drove numbers of the poor wretches
on the bowsprit, where it was our hard lot to behold them frantic
without being able to render them the least assistance. Ton will
judge. Gentlemen, of the manner in which the Boats were
crammed when Husbands who had Wives and Children still
clinging to the Wreck exclaimed against more being received.
We deemed it advisable to keep close to the Wreck till daylight
the next morning, that in the event of a Vessel during the night
passing within twelve or fifteen miles of the spot she would see
the immense body of fire which continued raging till about three
o'clock in the morning, and if nothing should then appear our
intention was to make the best of our way towards the Coast of
Brazil, but sanguine indeed must be that mind which could
expect to make a Voyage of such distance in our miserable plight,
with a few Hammocks only to make Sails, a compass so damaged
as to be useless, our stock of water a few gallons we had collected
842 Beeords of the Cape Colony.
during the night by wringing clothes dronched with lain, and
Provisions a few Hams which happened to have been in one of
the Boats previons to the accident, and three live Pigs which were
found swimming about and taken in. The fire, as I have before
mentioned, continued till about three o'clock in the morning,
when eveiything disappeared. A little before daybreak when
tfi^nlring only on the awfulness of our situation, die Carpenter
first discovered a Vessel close to us. I dreaded lest it should
prove like others reported during the night a mere phantom of the
imagination, but in a few minutes every eye beheld her coming
down before the wind directly on us. We seized our Oars and
were alongside and on board of her in a few minutes more. She
proved to be the Cond^a da PorUe, Portuguese Merchant Ship,
from Bahia bound to Lisbon. After relating to the Captain our
history I demanded of him at what time he had first seen the
light, and learnt with astonishment that they had not seen it at
all, that their own course had brought them to the very spot
where the boats were lying, so completely so that had we been
unable to move the Boats the Vessel would probably have run us
down. I lost no time in ascending on the Main Top (rallant
Yard, accompanied by the Master, flattering myself that I might
see some of our poor Absentees floating about on Spars, and after
intently sweeping the Horizon and seeing nothing, I solicited the
Captain to cruize about in the neighbourhood, which he did till
noon, when he said he could detain the ship no longer. Forty-
nine Persons added to bis own Crew consisting of between 40
and 50 made it absolutely necessary that no time should be lost
lest Water and Provisions should fail. This dreadful accident
was occasioned by the first Mate Mr. Duff forgetting his wonted
prudence in taking out of his Unthom the Candle to see some-
thing more clearly with, when a spark from it or the candle itself
feU on some of the combustible matter around him^ and as he had
gone down in the Lazaretto to pump off the allowance of Spirits
for the people, it is more than probable that fire wajs first com-
municated to that article, and I also imagine from the wonderful
progress it made in so short a time after the alarm had been given
that the poor fellow made some ineffectual attempt to stifle the
fire ere he called out. I pay only a just tribute to his memory
in asserting that he was a most excellent steady Character, and
when solicited by one of the Seamen to save his life, his grief at
Beeords of the Cape Colony. 343
having been the cause of Buch destruction made him decline it ;
no, he said, I pity those in the Boats most, for with us it will
soon be over, but they will be eating each other in a few days.
I learn he was almost the sole support of an aged Mother. After
a very favorable Passage in the Gondega where we met with
attenjtion and received all that their very confined means could
bestow, we arrived here on the 20th instant, all well. The Master
of the Vessel has since been attacked with illness and is now
confined to his bed, but I trust with care and attention he will
soon be restored. You will perceive Gentlemen by the accom-
panying list of the saved that numerous yoimg Children are
included. The Parental affection never shone with greater lustre
than on this occasion. Mothers and Fathers apparently regard-
less of themselves caught up their yoimg Children and threw
them into the Boats, and m one family (Barrie's) the eight junior
are preserved, one only a Child of fifteen months old, while the
noble Parents with their Eldest Son and Daughter are numbered
with the dead. Another circumstance of a great Soul deserves
to be recorded. A Mrs. McLaren with her Husband and four
Children upon the flames advancing retreated into the fore
Channels when recollectuig that her husband was a good swimmer
she implored him to save his own life and leave her and their
Children to the fate that awaited them, as he could not avert iU
On a reference to the list Gentlemen you will perceive that her
wishes were attended to. I picked him up in my own Gig. The
people after having met with the most marked attention from the
Gentlemen of the British Factory embarked this morning in a
fine Brig, the Hoyal Charlotte, for Greenock, and I have directed
Mr. Fisher the Surgeon to accompany them, thinking his services
may be requisite on the Passage. I myself purpose proceeding
home in the Falmouth Packet in a few days, and shall hasten to
report my arrival in town at your Board. I have considered it to
have been my duty to have allowed several young Boys and Girls
who have become Orphans to be taken by the different English
Gentlemen here desirous of having them and who have pledged
themselves to provide for them, considering it a better prospect
than any they can have at home. The fortunate circumstance
of the Vessel going to the Clyde, from which neighbourhood
almost all the Settlers come from, assures me that they will be
properly taken care of on landing, and as there are several of the
344 Records of the Cape Colony.
Passengers and Sailors anxious to get to Town I should hope that
some means would be found to enable them to accomplish it. I
have to observe that I considered it right to put the whole Party
at this Port into the hands of the British Consul General, who
has provided for their passage home, thinking it preferable to the
drawing a Sum of Money on the Board and doing it myself.
1 hope the Board will excuse any little informality in the two
small Bills drawn on the Treasurer of the Navy by Mr. Fisher,
and approved of by me from the necessity of the Case. I am &c.
(Signed) Et. Mudge.
{Enclosure 1.]
A List of all those saved in the destruction by fire of the Abeona
Transport on the 25th November 1820.
Lieutenant Mudge, Agent E.N., Mr. Fisher, Surgeon Ii.N.,
Mr. James Prichard, Master, Mr, Lock, Second Mate, Stages,
Carpenter, Mains, Jordan, Bastoo, Lawson, Henderson, EUee, and
Paterson, Seamen, Edwards and Eobinson, Boys.
Emigrants: Men, Walter Kay, John McLaren, Thomas Eeid,
Eobert BaUardie, John Clark, John McLean, Hector Munroe, and
James Wright. Woman, Catherine Kay. Girls, Catherine Barrie,
Mary Barrie, Isabella Freeland, and Mary Mclsaac. Boys, James
McLucky, Thomas Barrie, George Barrie, William Barrie, Eobert
Barrie, Archibald Barrie, Alexander Barrie, Lindsay Paterson,
Charles Coverly, Thomas Coverly, Alexander Bain, John Bain,
and William Mclsaac.
Passengers : Men, Boswell and Bottom. Women, Mary SuflBeld,
and Isabella Boswell. Boys, George Sufl&eld, Thomas Suffield,
and William Boswell. Girls, Charlotte Suffield and Isabella
BoswelL
[Enclosure 2.]
A list of all those lost in the destruction by fire of the Abeona
Transport on the 25th November 1820.
Mr. Duff, First Mate, Hardy, Steward, Smith, Cook, Murray,
Dath, Johnston, and Lombard, Seamen.
Mecords of the Cape Colony. 3i5
Emigrants: Men, Mr. Eussell, John Eussell, CJeorge Enssell,
James Eussell, John Hally, James Montgomery, David Walker,
Eobert McFarlane, Eobert McLucky, John Barrie, William Allan,
John Paterson, John Mcintosh, Charles Coverly, Hugh Freeland,
John Henderson, William Trotter, John Dobbie, Eobert Mclsaac*
William Stirling, and James Bain. Women, Mrs. Eussell, Hally,
McLaren, Walker, McFarlane, McLucky, Eeid, Barrie, Paterson,
Mcintosh, Coverly, Freeland, Henderson, Trotter, Dobbie, Bain,
McLean, Thomson, Mclsaac, and Stirling. Girls, Mary Eussell,
Jessie Eussell, Helen McLaren, Jean McLaren, Helen McLucky,
Mercy Barrie, Helen Paterson, Elizabeth Paterson, Elizabeth
Mcintosh, Lily Mcintosh, Mary Coverly, Mary Freeland, Margaret
Freeland, Jessie Freeland, Eosina Freeland, Agnes I'rotter, Eliza-
beth Trotter, Margaret Dobbie, Elizabeth Bain, Mary Thomson,
Jean Mclsaac, and Jean Stirling. Boys, Daniel McLaren, John
McLaren, Eobert McLucky, Peter McLucky, James Barrie, Adam
Paterson, James Mcintosh, William Mcintosh, John Mcintosh,
Peter Coverly, George Coverly, William Freeland, John Freeland,
Henry Freeland, Eichard Henderson, William Henderson, John
Henderson, James Henderson, Andrew Henderson, Eobert Hender-
son, John McLean, John Thomson, Eobert Thomson, Daniel Thom-
son, William Thomson, Eobert Dobbie, William Dobbie, John
Dobbie, James Bain, Thomas Bain, William Bain, Benjamin Bain,
George Trotter, William Trotter, Alexander Trotter, James Stirling,
and William Stirling.
Passengers : Woman, Mrs. Hall. Girls, Mary Ann Sufi&eld and
Jean HalL Boys, John Hall and Ealph Hall.
[Original.]
Letter from SiB Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOTERNMENT HOUSE,
Gape of Good Hofb, December SOih 1820.
My Lord, — It is with much concern that I have to acquaint
Your Lordship that the Wheat Crops have almost universally
failed throughout this Colony, in consequence of an unprecedented
346 Records of the Cape Colony.
blight which has extended itself in eveiy direction ; but I have
the satisfaction of being able io state, at the same time, that
owing to the abundant hanrest of last year and to the precautions
taken by the Munidpal Authority of this Town, under the direo-
rtion and sanction of (rovemment, the pressure will be much
allemted in Cape Town and that the old Colonists in the
Country Districts will be in so far aided as not to leave much
anxiety on their account.
The failure of the harvest will be most severely felt by the new
Settlers, whose crops have been, I may say, wholly destroyed by
the blight, so that scarcely any of them expect to reap even the
quantity of seed put into IJie ground.
The failure of their first effort is much to be lamented, and, in
.its consequences, must be attended with considerable expence and
trouble to this Government. I only beg leave to assure Tour
Lordship, that whatever of the fonn^ may be incurred, shall be
watched by me with the utmost attention.
I b^ leave to enclose, for Your Lordship's information, a copy
of a Circular Letter which has been sent to the several Heads of
Parties, as well as of a letter of Lostruction to the Magistrates on
the subject of the future subsistence of the Settlers ; and I much
regret that owing to the misfortune which has befallen their first
labors, the Settlers are likely to be under the necessity of leaning
more heavily and for a longer tiine on the aiding hand of Grovem-
ment than I anticipated in my Dispatch of the 26th of August
last; but in which I even then requested Tour Lordship's
commands under a possibility of a partial failure of the crops at
the new locations. I have &c.
(Signed) K. S. Donkin.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Lord Bathurst to Sib Eufane Donkin.
London, Slat Jkeewher 1820.
Sib, — I have to acknowledge the receipt of your dispatch of the
26th of July last in which you recommend to His Majesty's
Mercy Jantje Piet a Hottentot who had been convicted of murder,
Records of the Cape Colony. 347
but whom you were induced to respite from execution, and I now
transmit to you enclosed the p&rdon which His Majesty has been
giacioiiflly pleased to grant to the Prisoner on condition of Trans-
pcNftation for life. I have &g.
(Signed) Bathukst.
[Copy.]
Extract from the Opgaaf Boll for the year 1820 as returned hy
the IfistittUion, called Encnin the Uitenkage Districts
3 Male Missionaries, 1 Female Missionary, 31 Male Hottentots
above 16 years of age in Service, 26 Male Hottentots under 14
years of age in Service, 29 Female Hottentots above 16 years of
age in Service, 28 Female Hottentots under 14 years of age in
Service, 3 saddle horses^ 5 breeding hoxses, 191 draft oxen, 255
breeding cattle.
348
Records of the Cape CoUmy.
[Copy.] — Statement of Pensions payable from the Revenue of the Cape of
taken from the Cape of Oood Hope Account for 1819, and front
•
PenoDB formerly boldiDg OfSoeB
In the BritlBh Senrioe.
LengCh of
Service.
«^ . — . tmm ^^
Fenons* NameB.
oiJaneB in tnofle
OflSoea.
Civil.
Bds. 8k. St.
G. G. Hobne, Esq. •
Late Chief Assistant C!olonial
Secretary's Office.
\ /
*
3,000 0 0
A..A. Faure, Esq. •
Late Landdrost at Swellen-
dam.
3,500 0 0
J. P. BaTiTngaard1>
Late Beceiver of Land Be-
5,700 0 0
Esq.f • • • .
venue, and Lispector of
Lands and Woods.
,
P. Diemel, Esq. . .
Late Member of Court of
Justice.
)Not known.
3,250 0 0
CD. WentzeljEsq..
Late Superintendent Gk)vem-
ment Farm at Sweet Milk
Valley.
Not known.
0. LT.Hemmy. .
Late Bookkeeper Collector of
Tithes Office.
600 0 0
Rev. Mr. Vos . .
Late Clergyman at Caledon.
•
1,500 0 0
Jonathan Bedford .
Late Government (hardener.
i \
600 0 0
Mr. I. 3inkantyn .
Late Officer of Health.
600 0 0
C. F. Germann . .
Late Chief Clerk Vendue
Office.
Prom 1st Jan.
1817 to 3l8t
Dec. 1818.
900 0 0
C. Velbron • • .
Late Messenger Court of
Appeal.
Not known.
300 0 0
I. T. StoflTberg • .
Late Superintendent Sal-
danha Bay.
600 0 0
Bev. Mr. Schutz. .
Late Clergyman Graaff
Beinet.
From Ist Oct
1813 to 9th
July 1818.
1,500 0 0
E. Bergh, Esq. . .
TAte President of the former
Lisolvent Estates Cham-
ber.
..
3,000 0 0
C. Nelson, Esq. . .
Late Member of Ditto.
. .
2,250 0 0
I. F. Serrurier, Esq. .
Late Member of Ditto.
. •
2,250 0 0
A. G. van Kervel .
Late Landdrost at George.
. .
3,500 0 0
T. MostertJ. • .
Not known.
..
Not known.
There are various Pensions ta Widows, and small Allowances to discharged
* This is the earliest period to which the Pensions can be traced by the accounts
in this Office.
t Believed to be dead since 1819.
t Wounded in the pursuit of Congo and his accomplices.
Records of the Cape Colony.
349
Good Hope, to persons forvierly in the CivU Service of the Colony;
the Account of the Agent of the Colony for the Year 1820.
•
T>w «nVA* A ■■ill tt^hmm
Annual Amount of PrasloQ paid In
the Colony.
FeiicMl wben Feiusioii
drawn from.
By wDAi Antnonty
pension granted.
Average Exchange
lOf rlzdB. for 12.
sterling.
£ Sterling.
« •
\
i?d«. Sk. St
1,500 0 0
£ 8. d,
139 10 8
1 April 1814.*
1,500 0 0
139 10 8
••
2,000 0 0
186 0 10
16 August 1817.
The Governor.
2,000 0 0
186 0 10
1 July 1814.
300 0 0
27 18 1
11 September 1817.
300 0 0
27 18 1
•^
1 July 1818.
1 April 1815.
7 May 1816.
1 November 18ia
Not known.
JThe Governor.-!
Not known.
1,500 0 0
300 0 0
600 0 0
400 0 0
139 10 8
27 18 1
55 16 3
37 4 2
1 Febniary 1819.
f
200 0 0
18 12 1
1 April 1814.*
The Governor.
360 0 0
33 9 9
10 July 1818.
\
750 0 0
69 15 4
••
\ Not known. /
3,000 0 0
279 1 4
•
1 January 1819.
1 October 1819.
19 December 1817.
The Governor.
1,125 0 0
1,125 0 0
2,000 0 0
360 0 0
104 13 0
104 13 0
186 0 10
33 9 9
19,320 0 0
1,797 3 5
SoldierR, which are not specified, as not coming within the terms of the Order.
(Signed) E. H. Lushington,
Edmund Byng,
George Jenkinson.
350
JRteords of Oie (kipe Oolonf.
[Copy.]
Quantity of Cape Wine imported into Great Britain.
Year.
TnoB.
HoeriMMta*
GaUoob.
1812
40
2
56
■
1814
349
3
55
1815
1,512
1
4
1816
1,631
2
21»
1817
4,218
0
29
1818
3,648
0
^^i
1819
1,648
3
m
1820
1,925-
0
eat
Cape Wine re-exported from Great Britain.
Custom House, London.
fear.
TniiB.
HoeriMMta*
GaUoDB.
1814
13
1
22
1815
41
1
52
1816
199
1
54
1817
483
0
1
1818
566
1
25
1819
329
2
5
1820
344
3
58
(Signed) William Irving,
Inspector General of the Imports and
Exports of Great Britain,
Records of the Cape Colony, 351
Abstract of the Accounts of His Majest'j/s Receiver General at the
Cape of Good Hope, for the year 1820.
REVENUE :
Bd«. ddl. It.
Balance . . . 84,586 6 5i
Lombard bank 94,253 7 3
Discount bank 39,125 7 1
Vendue duties 205,672 1 2i
Customs 257,076 2 0
Land revenue 207 , 165 5 4
Tithes and transfer duties 359,567 6 3i
Stamps 154,643 4 0
Sequestrator's department 44,352 3 0
Printing department 19,657 6 0
Commando tax 7,000 0 0
Port dues .......... 14,655 6 0
Postage . . . 18,865 1 2
Fines 1,504 7 1
Fees of offices 77,283 3 0
Do. wine taster's department ..... 11,504 0 0
Interest by vendue office on a sum of 50,000 rix dollars « 3,000 0 0
Annual repayment by Stellenbosch 3,000 0 0
Burgher senate, in part liquidation of the amount advanced to
them from the Treasury 120,000 0 0
Miscellaneous receipts ....... 1,677 6 1^
Rds. 1,724,593 2 0
EXPENDITURE :
Rds. ikU. M.
Civil list, sterling salaries 235,106 0 1
Colonial salaries 502,523 3 4^
Public buildings (erection of new and repairs of old buildings) 126 , 674 1 Oi^
Cape regiment 284,743 4 4i
Pay of Hottentot captains 3,717 3 0^
Expenses of offices 43,232 3 4
Criminal prisoners and convicts 23,837 3 2^
Remittance to colonial agent 72,926 2 0|
Bible and school fund, in aid of the same .... 216 6 0
Freight and passage money, travelling expenses, &c. . . 5,755 2 4
House rent and lodging money ..... 7,100 6 4
Vessels and boats, purchase money and repair of ditto, in-
cluding charges of the harbour master's departments
at outposts 52,479 2 Oi
Carried forward . . . . . 1,358,312 7 2i
352
Records of the Cape Colony.
Brought forward .
Repair of the wharf ....
Buckbay and Grootepost establishments .
Frontier service . . . . •
Gbvemment Constantia wine .
Commission of circuit
Annual repayment by Stellenbosch (destroyed)
Expenses of surveys
Settlers
Miscellaneous expenditure.
Balance
Rds.
Bkil. 8L
1,358,312
7 2i
2,795
6 2
5,363
4 5
220,876
6 2i
4,990
0 0
9,183
7 5
3,000
0 0
7,841
0 0
1,196
4 4
, 23,928
4 3i
87,115
0 0
Rds. 1,724,593 2 0
(Signed) J. W. Stoll, Bee' Gen^
SUNDRY EXPENDITURE :— 1820.
J. Gabriels for taking down several buildings, formerly be-
longing to the naval department ....
Mr. Murphy, as a remuneration for having acted as a trans-
lator to the committee for defining the laws which are
in force respecting slaves'
Conmiissary general, for rations issued to several negroes in
hospital ........
Rev. Mr. Thom, for having afforded religious instruction at
the Leper Institution
P. Retief, for a bullock waggon
E. Roberts, for a printing press, fee. .-
E. Gabriels, for taking down the whole of the buHdings
formerly belonging to the naval department
W. Scheibe, for tools, &c. for stone quarry at Robben Island. -
J. H. Bruchheizer, for meat supplied to the lions, &c. .
Executioner .........
Resident at PlettenbergV Bay, for provisions and clothing
supplied to the government slaves •
Ditto . . . Ditto ....
Commissary general; for provisions supplied to the negroes of
the Portuguese brig which waar lost in Table Bay
Ditto for forage issued to the colonial chaplain. Cape
Town
Mr. Murray, for six quarantine flags .....*
Carried forward ......
Rds. sML 8t
1,864 0 0
1,500 0 0
3,128 7 5i
300 0 0
800 0 0
2,750 0 0
4,860 0 0
179 2 0
225 0 0
94 0 0
260 0 0
141 0 0
1,065 4 01
217 7 5J
120 0 0
17,495 5 5 J
Records of the Cape Colony. 353
Bds. Bkil. St.
Brought forward. ..... 17,495 5 6^
J. Bnichheizer, meat for lions, &c 225 0 0
Mr. Mancke, for black cloth for the use of the church at
Simon's Town 60 0 0
Mr. Howell, for two prayer books 35 0 0
W. Scheibe, tools for the stone quarry at Robben Island . 164 5 4
Mr. Stoedel, for copies of several documents . , . 100 0 0
Bey. Mr. Borcherds, for having officiated at the Somerset
church on four different Sundays .... 48 0 0
Mr. Qoete, for gunpowder supplied to Mr. Joubert to blow
up the rocks between the Eloof and Palmiet river . 50 0 0
Besident at Plettenberg's Bay, for victualling the government
slaves at that place, &c. , 141 0 0
B. Easton, for board and lodging of a servant maid of the
Countess de Montholon 52 0 0
Executioner , 84 4 0
Premiums given to the highest bidders at the farming of the
wine licences 1,200 0 0
Bev. Mr. Borcherds, for having officiated at the Somerset
church on several Sundays 36 0 0
Besident at Plettenberg's Bay, for victualling the government
slaves at that place • . . . . . 141 0 0
G. MuUer, for the lions, &c 225 0 0
W. Scheibe, tools for the stone quarry at Bobben Island . 358 3 0
P. Stoel, for fixing and taking down the scaffold . . . 21 0 0
Captain Bagot, a donation towards assisting him in conse^
quence of the severe loss he sustained by fire . . 500 0 0
G. Boberts, the pay of a military party employed in removing
stores 43 4 0
Mr. M. Murphy, a remuneration for having acted as translator
to the committee appointed for the purpose of defining
the laws which are in force respecting slaves . . 1,500 0 0
Besident Saldanha Bay, forage for one horse . . . 117 0 0
Bev. Mr. Borcherds, for having officiated at the church at
Somerset 86 0, 0
G. Muller, meat for lions, &c 225 0 0
Executioner 175 4 0
Mr. W. Hertzog, for surveying instruments . . . 595 0 0
W. Scheibe, tools, &c. for stone quarry at Bobben Island . 179 2 0
J. Elemans, for surveying instnunents . . . . 120 0 0
Total Bds. 23,928 4 3*
(Signed) J. W. Stoll, Bee' Gen^
XIII. 2 A
354
Records of the Cape Colony.
Return showing the Popidaiion and Cattle in the Possession of
G»peTown .
Gape Dlslrlct
SlmoD't TowB
StoHenbosch
SwflUiDdam
GimAffBeiiMt
Ultanhage .
ToltMgh. .
AllMtiiy . .
OttffgB
Totol
CHBI8TIAV8:
u
8>:
3,231
f66
301
1,617
1,468
3,667
806
1,330
M3
11,797
I
8S
as
1,677
641
138
1,360
1,643
3,866
864
1.06S
867
10,673
►
»
I
1,806
688
111
1,306
1,063
1,864
648
630
8,686
i
t
3,043
696
109
1,408
1,678
3,967
844
1>
11,870
<2
94
6
10
FRE9 BLACKS:
If
99S
469
876
43
143
601
I
as
38
404
1^
638
671
I
434
83
466
HOTTKMTOTSs
•
1^
111
363
67
613
796
2,467
971
1,311
670
7,046
s
St
as
300
86
860
674
3,668
816
1,034
683
6,899
168
337
48
607
708
3,963
939
1,341
739
7,494
I'
84
168
40
890
631
3,169
846
1,071
668
6,036
NEaKO
APPRENTICES:
438
346
63
96
16
8
18
13
878
Is
Si
as
I
is
104
87
13
17
13
• •
6
1
188 832
^2
214
43
28
24
8
4
9
2
106
81
12
18
170
Return showing the State of Cvitivation and QiMntity of Land
MUIDSSOWN:
MUID6 BEAPED:
t
•
1
1
1
1
1
1
S
S
lbs.
Gape Town
■ ■
• •
• ■
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
Gape District .
3,619
791
4,146
1,967'
30,490
17,808
23,119
1,664
8,217
,010
2,726,403
Simon's Town
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
•
• •
Stellenboech .
4,613*
780
3,86U
342ft
38,896
16,608
84,868
2,601ft
767
,600
20,913,441
SweUendam .
3,471
967i
371
101
63,867
20,471
4,388
731
V
1,046,600
Gxaaff Beinet .
1,086
600
8
6-
31,486
9,182
63
186
•
909.64^
Uitenhage .
814
330
k
84
1,228
2,616
2
792
•
249.O0J
Tnlbagh .
3,633
976i
1,074
818
40,881
16,647
13,443
2,884
•
1,687,789
Albany* . -
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
• •
•
• •
GMrse •
1,226
369
11
• •
16,692
6.220
74
• •
•
851,666
Total . . .
18,261i
4,613
9,470ft
3,7174
193,486
87,846
76,662
7,990
3,974
,610
28,882,33fl
* Census for this year was not taken.
Records of the Gape Colony^
355.
Individudls at the Cape of Qood Hope in the Year 1820.
SLAVES:
CATTLE :
•
I
I
as
2,887
1,896
114
4,219
1,035
1,063
280
1,671
612
13,767
I,
ii
1,176 1,888
474 668
33 47
1,440 2,027
584
391
129
738
349
I
663
711
239
968
1,189
498
27
1,311
603
332
134
670
442
6,314 7.633
351
5,065
^1
ll
^1
2,237
5,164
8,302
5,061
826
3,765
a
f^S
8,105
I
9,949
a
I
%
nc3
5,136
1,406
21,760
3,791
9,944
10,167
1,867
9,697
3,241
41,812
20,013
13,931
26,130
11,963
17,606
12,636
111,228
2,902
5,689
16,583
111,598
44,766
25,771
22,656
232,048
6,339
929
1,012
• •
10,362
1,213
II
5,762
* •
15,471
61,768
1,399,984
103,055
303,267
• •
80,195
QQ
22,747
1,919,602
1,962
• •
836
6,625
1,704
122
8,363
• •
207
i
4,181
• •
13,669
37,004
136,001
22,141
61,831
• •
13,339
252
• •
138
7
13,708
I
669
• •
713
442
134
112
1,367
• •
1 809
287,066 393
3.746
occupied at the Cape of Good Hope in the year 1820.
I
I
I
1
LANDS IN J
FREEHOLD:
I
LANDS IN gUIT-
KENT:
»
8
I
^
o
1,435
44
601
188
12
97
165
49
1,609
496
55,387
484
41
12,093i
894
284
44
850
170
15,210i
696i
77
96i
27i
133
79
1.152*
1,535
1,068
2,146
576
1,347
656
7,918
455
65
30
8
132
32
906
6*
18i
120f
444i
327
21
51U
38
l,619i
409i
33
1
6
21
98
732i
364
112
1601
60
48
23,239
580
2
63,041
37,294
19,720
212
167
618
844
793i
25,192
1,076
191
18
282
443
9^950 87
185,892
1,458
41
2 A 2
356 Becords of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from Major George Pigot to Henry CtOITLBUrn, Esqrel
< PiooT Fabe, January Itt 1821.
Sir, — ^After the trouble you took with the Settlers sent to
Albany in South Africa it may not be unpleasing to you to hear
from one who altho' ill calculated to put a new light on the
subject, presumes to point out what has occurred within his own
observation.
After a long passage in the Northampton Transport, on board
which ship we found everything necessary for our comfort and
health, we arrived at Cape Town March 2nd, where I met with
every attention from Sir Eufane Donkin and the Government ; on
2nd May we anchored in Algoa Bay, after a tedious passage of a
month. An encampment was formed for the settlers on the beach,
who were forwarded in waggons to their respective locations,
which for the most part lay between Graham's Town, the mouth
of the Cowie and Fish Eivers. On the 28th May I arrived at
Bluekranz, an old military post destined to be my future residence.
The country we marched through from Sunday river was beautiful,
and I was gratified to find Bluekranz surpassed any place 1 had
seen on my march. The whole country is like a highly-dressed
park, plenty of good wood, pasture, water, and stone. I have
since found good slate and clay. As the success of the under-
taking depends on my constant presence, I have little opportunity
of going far into the country, but from everything I have seen
within twenty miles ride, there cannot be a doubt but the new
settlement will succeed, notwithstanding the failure of our Wheat
Crop ; the barley crop is good, and if we had a cargo of English
wheat sent out for seed before next June, I think it would be of
infinite service ; the Colony requires a change of seed, those
settlers that brought out a small quantity of red wheat have a
fair crop. The barley of the Colony will not make malt. I
brought a small quantity of English barley and oats, they are both
a good crop. The small parties round Bathurst (our new capital)
have made great progress, but they are all poor ; some fishermen
that have had the use of my nets on the Cowie have frequently
been over the bar at the mouth, where at low water their reporf i^
Jiecords of the Cape Colony, 357
that the surf is not so great as at Algoa Bay, and they make no
doubt but small vessels could get into the river with ease ; when
once in the river the largest ship could sail up several miles.
This will be a great thing for us all. Our flour and stores come
at present 120 miles in waggons from Algoa Bay. There is only
one mill in this part of the country, the expence of getting them
out from England deters us from erecting them. Do you think
Government will carry any machinery we may require (for that
and other purposes equally beneficial to the Colony) free of
expence ? if so, I have written to my brother to send some out.
It is my intention shortly to visit the Cowie mouth, when I will
take the liberty of making my observations known to you.
I have &c.
(Signed) Geo. Pigot.
[Original.]
letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst.
Gboen Kloof, Cape of Good Hope,
Ist of January 1821.
My Lord, — ^With reference to my letter to your Lordship of
the 16 th Ulto. from Cape Town I feel imperiously called on, to
inform your Lordship that the excellent Proclamation of His
Majesty of the 12th February last has been totally disregarded
in this Colony, where it was as I am well informed, the bounden
duty of the Colonial Secretary under the authority of the Acting
Governor, to enforce its strict observance. That Colonel Bird
totally omitted this duty admits of no doubt In support of this
assertion, I am borne out by the evidence of facts particularly
relevant to the subject, namely, that wherever Eoman Catholic
influence prevails, the Proclamations of a Protestant King and a
Protestant Government in which there is the slightest reference
to matters of a Eeligious nature are totally disregarded. Such haa
been the conduct of the Romish Clergy and their flocks in Ireland
and the same tenets that retard the progress of Eeligious Instruc-
tion in Ireland, retard it at the Cape of Good Hope, where secret
358 Eeoords of the Cape Colony.
£oman Catholic influence has totally prev^ited all due respect to
His Majesty's commands.
It was Colonel Bird's duty to send to the Clergy the copies of
this document, and to command its being read in Church four
times a year. I have the authority of the Severend N. K Dennis
the Acting Colonial Chaplain for assuring your Lordship that he
never received the Proclamation nor the commands of Government
thereon and I can appeal to every OflScer in His Majesty's Army
in this Colony that the above Proclamation has been a mere dead
letter. But the excellent truths contained therein were perhaps
-considered too pertinent to the state of society in this Colony and
to the situation of the two subordinate individuals that assume
the supreme Government. The promulgation of such a document
under the authority of the Governor would be a keen reproof to
some. Therefore it appears as if it were determined that His
Majesty's Proclamation should be entirely suppressed at the Cape
of Good Hope. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parkee.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Eight Eeveeend Dr. Slater to
Lord Charles Somerset.
Gafb Towv, Januairy A£k 1821.
My Lord, — ^Earl Bathurst having in a Letter bearing date the
28th November 1819, assented to the residence of a Boman
Catholic Clergyman in the Cape Settlement, I beg leave to
present to Tour Excellency's notice the Eevd. P. Hurst Scully,
as a person appearing to me, well qualified for the Situation, and
to request Your Lordship's sanction to his residence in Cape Town
or its Neighbourhood.
Your Lordship's Solicitude to contribute in every feasible way
to the Comforts of that portion of His Majesty's Subjects whose
interests have been committed to your Excellency's Guidance,
assures me, you will feel a pleasure in affording to the Boman
Catholic Population of the Colony, facilities for attending to their
Sabbatical and other religious duties.
Becards of the Cape Colony. 359-
Tour Excellency knows how mainly well regulated religious
instruction tends to render its objects better members of Society,
and when I solicit your Lordship's Sanction to its being publicly
given, within Your Excellency's Government, I beg you will do
me the favor to believe that any Clergyman exercising ministerial
functions within the limits of my Spiritual Jurisdiction will be
instructed to teach his Hearers that Obedience to the Commands
of God and Loyalty to their Sovereign are Corresponding Duties.
I have &c.
(Signed) EwD. Slater, Euspen.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretaey to the
Eight Eeverend Dr. Slater.
GoLOiaAL Office, Qlh Janwury 1821.
Eight Eevd. Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the
Governor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of the 4th
Inst, recommending the Eevd. P. H. Scully as a Eesident Eoman
Catholic Clergyman in this Colony, and I have it in command to
express the satisfaction which His Excellency feels in complying
with your recommendation, and to inform you that every facility
will be given to Mr. Scully in the exercise of his sacred functions.
I have &c.
(Signed) H. Ellis, Deputy Colonial Secretary.
[Original.]
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to Henry
GouLBURN, Esqre.
Cahnon Bow, Sfft January 1821.
Sib, — Li reference to your letter of the 31st October last,
conveying the authority of Earl Bathurst for me to select a person
360 Records of the Cape GoUmy.
capable of superintending the Stanhope Presses sent oat for the
use of the Colonial Government at the Cape of Good Hope, and to
procure a passage for him; I have now the honor to enclose a
letter from Jesse Marsh, the person recommended to me for that
occupation by a respectable Printer, and I have to request that
you will obtain Lord Bathurst's authority for my defraying the
passage of this man and his wife at the reduced charge which he
mentions.
I am also to solicit Lord Bathurst's directions with respect to
the request of an advance of thirty pounds, which I hope his
Lordship will not consider as unreasonable. I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Per. Courtknay.
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend George Thom to Lord Charles
Somerset.
London, 8^ January 1821.
My Lord, — ^I have the pleasure to state for your Lordship's
information, that the Eeverend Professor Macgill of the University
of Glasgow has replied to the letter addressed to him on the
selection of some ministers of the Established Church of Scotland,
and the Professor states that he will with much delight communi-
cate with several young ministers, who are gentlemen of excellent
private character, of good talents and of known loyal principles.
I am lookiQg for a second letter.
In the meantime. Professor Bentley of the King's College
Aberdeen hearing of the necessities of the Dutch Colonists, and of
the kind intentions of Government to supply their wants, has
written me two letters offering the services of the Eeverend
Andrew Murray Master of Arts, a clergyman of about thirty years
of age, of established character and of good abilities : the necessary
testimonials from the Professors of languages and of Divinity in
the University will be forwarded to me immediately.
I am much rejoiced that there is a prospect of having the wants
of the Dutch Colonial Churches supplied, and the more, as besides
the chaises of Somerset and Worcester being vacant, there is
Records of the Cape Colony, 361
every human probability that several old churches will soon be left
destitute of Christian Instruction. By a letter from Cape Town
I find that Mr. Fleck has been declared by the physicians
unfit ever to preach again. Mr. Manger also has been long
afflicted with disease and is advanced in life and several of the
cotintry ministers are aged and the minister of the Paarl was able
to preach only a few times during eight or ten months. I have
fully stated to the gentlemen everything connected with the
churches agreeable to the Colonial Church Eegulations and your
Lordship's opinion respecting spending a few months in Holland.
It is a subject of much gratification to me that your Lordship
manifests so much paternal care for the advancement of religion
in the Colony, and I am sure it will add much to the pleasure
which the Colonists will feel on your Lordship's return to assume
again the Government of the Colony, that you will be able to
announce a speedy supply of good ministers for the Dutch
churches being at hand.
When I hear again from Professor Macgill I shall take the
liberty of waiting on your Lordship and at the same time on Mr.
Groulbum, as I am unwilling to trouble that gentleman untU I
have the names of the clergymen and the requisite certificates.
I have &c.
(Signed) Geokge Thom.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Henry
GOULBURN, ESQRE.
Gboensloof, South Afbioa, 8 January 1821.
Sir, — I take leave to annex a duplicate of my letter to the Earl
Bathurst of the first Inst. . I also avail myself of this opportunity
to transmit letters for my kind friends Lord Eunismore, Mr.
WQberforce and Sir Nicholas Colthurst with the latter of whom
you are on such a friendly footing. I leave all the letters open
that you and the Earl Bathurst may honor me by their perusal
and that through them you may get acquainted with the state of
362 Records of the Cape Colony^
aflfairs in this Colony, so far as they regard the unfortunate Settlers,
these numerous victims of ofl&cial mismanagement at the Cape of
Good Hope.
It was the formation of a Bible Society here that led to my
ascertaining that Colonel Bird was a reputed Roman Catholic,
and that he acted as Boman Catholics generally do in Ireland, by
resisting every act of a Protestant Government, having a tendency
to promote the interests of Religion and virtue.
My knowledge of this fact in Ireland led to my making this
analogy, which was fully confirmed by a reference to the Pro-
testant Clergymen at Capetown, who assured me that Colonel
Bird was virtually considered and that he latterly acted, as if be
were a Roman Catholic.
So great have been my sufferings and so heavy my expense, that
they are suf&cient to drive me to desperation. Indeed death itself
would be welcome to relieve me from my miseries. But I have
a wife and six children deluded through my infatuation, to emi-
grate to a country where such flattering assurances of success were
held out in the Imperial Parliament, and by the British Govern-
ment. Every assurance, every engagement of His Majesty's
Ministers has been totally disregarded by the Secretaries in this
Colony.
I trust in the Divine goodness that I may retain my health and
senses amidst my grievous afflictions.
If ample redress be not afforded me I am determined to return
to London to lay my complaints at the foot of the throne.
I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Pabkek.
As I am totally disengaged from all pursuits in commerce or
agriculture I avail myself of my otherwise unemployed moments
to write to your Right Reverend Friend the Bishop of Gloucester.
Records of the Cape Colony, 363
[Original.]
Memorial of the Glasgow Missionary Society,
Unto the Eight Honourable the Earl Bathurst.
Memorial and Petition in behalf of the Glasgow Missionary
Society, and relative to the Eeverend William Eitchie Thomson and
Mr. John Bennie intended missionaries.
Humbly sheweth,
That whereas from pure motives of zeal for the glory and
kingdom of Our God and Saviour, and of benevolent concern for
our fellow-creatures, this Society is desirous to send and support
the abovementioned persons, both of whom have received educa-
tion in the University of Glasgow, as missionary instructors of the
heathen within or near the British Colony at the Cape of Good
Hope, South Africa, and particularly in the CaflTre country ;
And whereas one of these missionaries, Mr. W. Thomson, is
designed as an ordained Pastor to officiate among a body of Emi-
grant Settlers from Glasgow near the Country of the Caflfres, and
that a petition was presented lately in his behalf, and favourably
received by His Majesty's Ministers, but on account of deficiency
in point of numbers of the Emigrant Families failed of success
respecting his provision as a minister of the Gospel ;
The request of the Petitioners is that Government would be
pleased to grant to said missionaries their leave, countenance and
protection in their arduous work, which will be conducted in the
most peaceful manner and with a spirit of loyalty and goodwill to
the British Government; and would further grant to them the
common privileges of British Settlers, and would vouchsafe their
liberality and aid respecting a passage to the place of their labours,
so as to diminish the burden of expence to the Glasgow Society.
This petition is humbly presented to His Majesty's Ministers in
behalf of said Society by us Directors of the Society.
(Signed) John Burns, D.D., Minister of the Barony
Parish of Glasgow.
John Love, D.D., Minister Anderston
Barony, Glasgow.
David Cavenent (?), Minister Gaelic
Chapel, Glasgow.
B January 1821.
364 Records of the Cape Cd(my.
[Copy.]
Petition of th£ Churchwardens of the Roman Catholic congrega-
tion in Capetown to SiE Eufane Donkin.
The humble petition of the Church Wardens of the Eoman
Catholic Congregation Eespectfully Sheweth,
That the Eoman Catholic Inhabitants of Cape Town and its
vicinity having without success made every exertion to meet the
Expences incurred by their ecclesiastical Establishment, beg leave
most humbly to solicit a share in the provision which Government
has lately made for the preservation and diBfusion of Eeligion in
this Colony.
We further beg leave to remark, that confining ourselves to
Settlers and Inhabitants alone, the number of Catholic families in
Cape Town far exceeds the precise number, which would warrant
us in laying our account with obtaining the support so liberally
promised by Government.
We would just notice it, as a circumstance which we think
we ought to submit to Your Excellency's consideration, that the
Catholic Soldiers have for these last twelve months had the con-
venience of a place of worship and have enjoyed all other advan-
tages arising from the establishment of our religion in this Town,
without even an expectation on our part of the possibility of
their sharing in the expences, which they in particular helped
to augment.
We therefore most humbly entreat, that your Excellency will
put the most favorable construction upon the public equitable
Declaration of Government which provides without distinction for
every religious Community in this Colony, composed of an hundred
families, otherwise we must, however reluctantly, abandon, at least
for the present, the hope of enjoying the comforts of our Eeligion.
The Congregation as in duty bound shall ever pray &c. &c.
Cape Town, this 9th January 1821.
(Signed) F. de Lettre,
Commissary to the Church,
f Francis G. Powley,
^, , 1J- W. Bohmer,
Elders^ J
P. Verrume,
/ M. DONNOUGH.
Records of the Cape Colony. 365
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathuest to Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
DowNiNO Street, 15 January 1821.
Sir, — I have to acknowledge the receipt of your Dispatch of
the .... reporting that on the Death of Mr. Thos. Calton who
had the direction of the Settlers from Nottinghamshire, they had
placed themselves under the superintendence of Mr. Thomas
Draper, and I have now to acquaint you that the Trustees of
the Subscribers to the Fund for equipping these Settlers have
conveyed to me the confirmation of Mr. Draper's appointment.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Deputy Colonial Secretary to the Officials
of the Roman Catholic Church.
Colonial Office, llth January 1821.
Gentlemen, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting
Governor to acknowledge the receipt of your Memorial of the
9th Instant, and I have it in command to inform you that His
Excellency having taken into consideration the accretion of
Persons belonging to the Roman Catholic Eeligion in consequence
of the late Emigration from England, and especially in the Cape
and neighbouring Districts, has been pleased, subject to the appro-
bation of His Majesty's Government, to assign an allowance from
this date of 1000 EixdoUars per annum to the Eevd. Mr. Scully,
the present incumbent Clergyman of the Eoman Catholic Church.
I have &c.
(Signed) H. Eujs.
366 ' Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from SiK Eufane Shawe Donkin to Assistant
CoMMissAKT General Balph Bogebson.
Head Quabtebs, Gaps Towet, January ISth 1821.
Sir, — Enclosed I transmit to you for your information a Copy
of a Circular Letter dated 21 December 1820, which has been
addressed from the Colonial Office of this Government to the
heads of Parties, and I have to desire that you will take immediate
measures for closing accounts with such Heads of Parties, charging
against the Deposit Money of each the several Sums which are
due to your Department for the issue of Stores and Provisions.
2nd. Owing to the almost total failure of the Crops of the new
Settlers, it has become necessary to provide for the supply of
these Persons with Eations for a much longer period than was
at first contemplated, you will therefore continue to issue Eations
to the Settlers under such arrangements and instructions as you
may receive from time to time. In no case are you to issue more
than a Soldier's Eation to any individual, and the Eetum upon
which the issue of Eations is to be made must have the Counter-
signature of the Magistrate of the District in which the locations
are. The Women two-thirds of a Eation, and to Children one-half
of a Eation is to be issued.
3rd. The Countersignature of the Magistrate will, from the time
this order can reach the Frontier, also be necessary for the issue
of all Stores for Settlers, which however are henceforward to be
issued only on payment.
4th. You will observe in the enclosed Circular that a restriction
is made for the issue of Stores at Bathurst and Graham's Town
only ; but this is not to prevent your issuing Eations and Stores
a^ ^ort Elizabeth through your Officer there as heretofore.
5th. Captain Campbell, Captain Butler, Messrs. White, Francis,
Latham t. j^j Scanlan with their Parties are to have Eations which
will be p^xid for by the Colonial Government, and if you will
charge the ^ mount in your General Colonial Account, it has been
arranged by t he Government here that the charge will be admitted
and paid.
6th. With re^qpect to payment for Eations and Stores issued to
settlers you will as before ordered debit the amount to the
Jiecords of the Cape Colony. 367
Deposits, and should any balance remain in favour of any of the
Settlers, which I rather apprehend will not be the case, you will
pay the same into the Colonial Treasury, specifying by name to
whom the several Sums belong, and the Amount will be applied
by this Government as a set off against the heavy expense now
about to be incurred in provisioning the Settlers.
7th. With respect to repayment for the issue of Eations now
ordered, some future arrangement will be made as soon as the
Orders of His Majesty's Government thereon shall be received.
I am &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin, Major General Commanding,
[Copy.]
Xetterfrom the Colonial Secretary to the Provisional Magistrate of
Bathurst and the Acting Deputy Landdrost at Ghrahamstovm.
Colonial Office, 19ih Jcmwiry 1821.
Sir, — In reply to your letter of the 6th Instant (Graham's
Town 9th Instant) I am directed by His Excellency the Acting
Governor to transmit to you herewith a Copy of Instructions
which His Excellency has given to the Acting Commissary
General on the subject of issuing Eations to the Heads of Parties
whose people, in consequence of the failure of the late harvest
and in consequence of their inability to procure the means of
subsistence through other Channels, may still be under the
necessity of leaning upon this Government for immediate support.
You will perceive that in unison with the Sentiments expressed
in the Circular to Heads of Parties of the 21st December last it
is intended, under the present arduous circumstances, not to
withhold the beneficent hand of Government from the Settlers,
though it must clearly be explained to such as shall continue to
draw the aid of Eations from Gx)vemment that payment will be
expected from them as soon as circumstances shall enable them
to meet the demand. You will point out to these Heads that
for the present their receipts for provisions to be issued in the
proportions notified to the Commissary (but on no account in
368 Records of the Cape Colony.
larger proportion) will be taken, which receipts, if the Amoant
be not liquidated previous to their obtaining the final grants of
the Lands on which the Parties are located, will be converted into
a Mortgage on the whole of the location, including Buildings,
Stock, &c. thereon.
You will perceive that in future no Provisions or Stores are
to be drawn by any Head of Party without his having the Eetnms
countersigned by you; it is by this intended to obviate the
possibility of any person drawing provisions who is not attached
by proper authority to the party located, and to authorize such
only to be drawn for as are actually industrious, and so working
on their Lands as to afford a chance of repayment by the increased
value which may be anticipated therefrom ; this discretion which
His Excellency reposes in you is one of a very delicate nature,
but His Excellency trusts that your known humanity and dis-
cretion will obviate any inconvenience which might be appre-
hended from it, and that you will see in the measure a means
of spurring on the indolent, and not of withdrawing an essential
aid from the sick, infirm, or weakly.
You will observe that no Stores are to be drawn without your
Countersignature, the object hereby is to check any unnecessary
or improper issue, and you will also notice that henceforward no
stores will be issued to parties except upon prompt payment.
The parties under Captain Campbell, Captain Butler, Messrs.
White, Francis, Latham and Scanlan are to draw Hations for the
numbers only that were landed at Algoa Bay ; these Bations are
to be paid for by the Colonial Government, it is necessary there-
fore to observe that any persons who may have joined these
Heads subsequently must be differently provided for.
It will be evident that all those who work for Wages have it in
their power to make immediate payment for the provisions they
may require. It is further necessary that all parties shall be
apprized, that in consequence of this destructive blight which
has so unprecedentedly aflaicted every part of the Colony, it is
possible that a considerable reduction of the Bation may take
place, as already the Inhabitants of this Town have their Bread
made with one-sixth of Barley flour mixed with the Wheat
I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
Records of the Cape Colony, 369
[Copy.]
Extract from a Letter from the Eeverend Mr. Brownlee to
the Colonial Secretary.
Ghubiie Mountains, l^th January 1821.
Sir, — A considerable period has elapsed since I entered into
this Country : what respects my mission nothing of importance
has transpired ; the number of persons that are here for Instruc-
tion have encreased so that those whom I consider as Besidents
are about an hundred, the greatest proportion of whom are
Gonaquas. Yet it is a much more dijfficult task for such Caffers
as are inclined to come and live here, than I was at first aware of;
for although Gaika has acted in a friendly manner towards me,
and has given permission for such as will come and live here, yet
the other inferior chiefs do as they please towards the persons
or property of those who live in their kraals without being
responsible to any superior.
Another very bad, yet prevailing Custom among the Cafifers, is,
that on the death of a common Caflfer the whole of his property
goes to the Chief under whom he has lived ; yet there are a few
chiefs, among whom this custom has no place, and others take
only a part of the Cattle of the deceased.
What respects the policy of the Cafifers there has been no
change. Gaika seems more confirmed in his authority and a
number of his subjects have returned who were with Hinza ; and
Jalousa is very desirous to have matters made up ; he has returned
a number of cattle lately that were stolen from Gaika in the war,
and Hinza has been employed to efifect a reconciliation between
the parties. Slambie from what I can learn is very desirous to
remain quiet, and is very much afraid of a Commando. Guika
has in several instances done as much as he can to put a stop
to the depredations which have been committed on the Colony,
yet some of the Superior Chiefs connive with the depredators,
and such is the relationship among the chiefs and a want of
organisation between them and Gaika, that he is either afraid^ or
xmwilling, to punish them for conniving with the Thieves. Gaika
is still continuing to come here and he is very anxious that a
House might be built for him in this place for the accommodation
XIII. 2 B
370 Records of the Cape Colony.
of his Family that they might more conveniently receive Instruc-
tion by being more stationary on the place ; he is very importunate
in asking for articles and victuals, and he has requested me to
write to His Excellency the Governor that he may allow him some
brass-wire ; all the other Cafifres who come here frequently ask for
Beads, Buttons, and wire, and should there be a regular Channel
established to supply them with such articles, they would give
cattle in exchange, which is the only valuable commodity they
have to Barter. Ivory I have only seen one piece in their Country,
and what they procure is cut into Eings, but should they have an
opportunity of procuring more handsome ornaments, particularly
Beads, all the Ivory their country produces would be dispensed
with.
[OriginaL]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOTERNHENT HOUSB,
Gapi of Good Hope, 20th Jantuurp 1821.
My Lord, — I have availed myself of the return of the Star,
Transport, to embark on board of her, Angelo Gentilini and
Juliette Boullinot and Child, late of the Establishment at Long-
wood, who were sent to this place from St. Helena by Lieut
General Sir Hudson Lowe, in the Camel, Store ship, which arrived
here on the 22nd October 1820.
It appears from Sir H. Lowe's communication to me, that the
former of these persons, Angelo Gentilini, is a native of the Island
of Elba, was in the service of General Bonaparte in that Island,
and has been employed as a house servant in charge of the plate,
during the time of his attendance upon him at St. Helena, and
that Juliette Boullinot arrived there very lately from Europe, as
servant maid to the Countess Bertrand, who dismissed her soon
from her service, with marks of great anger and disappointment.
I have, in compliance with your Lordship's instructions of the
4th July 1816, acquainted these people, that permission to reside
or even to land in Great Britain must depend upon circumstances
to be determined at the date of their arrival there, and I have
Records of the Cajpe Colony, 371
requested the Master of the Star to forward this dispatch to your
Lordship, and await your orders before he permits these people, or
any of them, to quit his vessel. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Letter from the High Cov,rt of Justice to
Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
Gape Town, 20th January 182L
Sir, — ^We have, this day been ofl&cially informed by the
Sequestrator, that notwithstanding an Advertisement inserted by
him in the Cape Gazette of the 13th instant, and repeated in that
of this day, announcing the public sale of the Brig Mary Ann
Sophia, laying in Simon's Bay, on the 25th instant, pursuant to
a sentence of this Court, another advertisement appears in the
same Gazette of this day (without any previous notice seeming to
have been given, and tiierefore on a single notification only)
announcing the sale of said ship on the 23rd instant, under a
decree of the Vice Admiralty Court. Having enquired into the
circumstances, it appeared that James Bead having on the 30th
November last summoned the Master of said Brig, William
Hay ward, for the payment of an account for repedrs done to the
vessel, and the case being referred to the Sitting Commissioner
for amicable arrangement, the master on that occasion acknow-
ledged the legality of the debt, the consequence of which, as
naturally must have been, was that he was condemned to the
payment ; That the sentence being delivered over to the Seques-
trator for execution, the defendant, said Wm. Hayward, pointed
out the ship, as the property to recover the amount upon, at the
same time requesting that, as there were so many demands against
her, she might be administered as insolvent; in consequence of
which the sequestrator accordingly advertised said vessel for sale
in the Cape Town Gazette of the 9th and 16th December last, at
the same time calling on all those who had any claims against her
to give in their demands. Different creditors did so, among the
2 B 2
372 Record of the Cape CoUmy.
rest certain Mr. Prince who holds a Bottomry Bond on said Brig
which he delivered in to the Sequestrator's office as his daim
against her; That said vessel being sold on the 20th December
last, pursuant to advertisement, William Sydney Eobb became
the purchaser, when after the sale Mr. Prince applied to the
sequestrator for a certificate that his claim would be preferent on
the distribution of the proceeds ; but which request the sequestrator
having refused, on the grounds that it must appear after the
sequestrator had, agreeably to his instructions, submitted the plan
of distribution to the Court, and the same had confirmed by
sentence whether Prince's claim was preferent or not, the result
of which reserve was that Prince withdrew his Bottomry Bond
from the Sequestrator's office, declaring that he would address
himself with it to the Vice Admiralty Court.
In the meantime William Sydney Eobb, not being able to
procure a second security for the purchase money, agreeably to
the conditions of sale, the sequestrator was under the necessity of
bringing him before the Court, and laying an attachment on his
person and property, till such time as he would have complied
with said conditions or paid the amount ; in consequence of which
the attachment was decreed by the Court, and carried into
execution.
William Sydney Eobb having thereupon declared to the
sequestrator that he could neither find a second security nor
pay the purchase money, and that he was perfectly willing
the ship should be resold, the more so as the Court of Vice
Admiralty here had dispossessed him of said ship, exchanged the
crew with others, and affixed an advertisement on the mast, the
sequestrator conceived himself not only justified, but obliged to
proceed in execution with the sentence of the Court ; and in conse-
quence inserted the two advertisements mentioned in the
beginning of this letter announcing the public sale of the Brig
Mary Ann Sophia on the 25th instant.
From this statement of the case it appears that the Court of
Vice Admiralty issued a Decree for the sale of the ship Mary
Ann Sophia, after it had already been sold by the sequestrator,
pursuant to a legal sentence of our Court on the 20th December
last, and such notwithstanding that sale was preceded by all forms,
which justify the supposition that the Court of Vice Admiralty
could not have been unacquainted at the time of issuing its
Records of the Cape Coloni/. 373
Decree that the sequestrator had held the sale, agreeably to a
legal sentence of our Court.
We cannot conceal from Your Excellency that we feel ourselves
in the highest degree aggrieved by the conduct of the Court of
Vice Admiralty on this occasion, and that we consider the same as
a direct infringement on the jurisdiction of our Court, and
especially on the rights and privileges secured to the burghers and
inhabitants of this Colony by the 8th aiticle of the Capitulation.
To place this our opinion beyond all doubt, we take the
liberty to submit to your Excellency's consideration that the
Court of Justice is the ordinary Court of the Colony. That by its
Instructions, it is charged with the competency of criminal and
civil matters occurring within the boundaries of His Majesty's
dominion in this Colony ; That the Court is charged to see that
its sentences, decrees, and ordinances be executed and carried
into effect, and that all high and inferior officers and legally
constituted authorities in the Colony, none whatever excepted,
are held and obliged to allow such executions to proceed, without
impediment, and if necessary to assist in carrying the same into
effect.
In the 60th Article of the Instructions for the Court, after
enumerating almost all causes leading to judicial cognizance,
the Court is especially charged with "the cognizance of all
disputes, actions, and claims which may arise between the Inhabi-
tants of the Cape on the one part and strangers, masters of vessels,
seamen or passengers belonging to the ships laying at anchor in
any of the Cape Beads or Bays, on the other part, whether
plaintiffs or defendants, without any exception whatever."
The sentence which has been carried into execution is on a
question precisely falling within the tenor of that part of the
Court's Instructions, which not having undergone any alteration
by His Majesty's Government since the Capitulation, must con-
sequently be considered still to be in full force.
We are not sufiSciently acquainted with the competency of the
Vice Admiralty Court to decide whether in the present case it has,
or has not, a concurrent jurisdiction with our Court. We believe
however, that it would be difficult to construe such concurrent
jurisdiction, from the nature of that Court, as far as we find the
same described by English Law commentators of the best authority,
and that, at all events, if so, it must be by virtue of a special
374 Records of the Cape Colony.
Commission to that effect. Be this however as it may, supposing
the Court of Vice Admiralty to be competent also in the present
case, even then in our opinion the consequence of this competency
can never extend farther than to give a concun*ent jurisdiction,
the intention of which is not, that the same case shall be brought
before both Courts, but only that each Court has an equal right to
such cognizance, and that the case being once brought before one
Court, the competency of the other can no more operate; and
therefore, in our opinion, the Coxirt of Vice Admiralty should in
this case have refrained from decreeing an execution on a property
which had been already executed and sold, conformably to a l^al
sentence of this Court, and which property had already been given
over into the possession of the purchaser, against whom it does
not appear from the circumstances that any decree existed in the
Vice Admiralty Court, and who in the meantime has been forcibly
deprived of a possession which he acquired and held pursuant to a
legal sentence of the Court of Justice.
We avoid making any other remark on the present conduct of
the Vice Admiralty Court than, that it must most xmquestionably
lead to great confusion in the administration of justice, tend to
defeat rather than to promote the ends of justice, expose the
authority of our Court to public derision and contempt, and,
considering the additional charges on the property, open a door
to material losses for the interested parties, while the person on
whose application the decree seems to have been granted, and who
can have had no other probable motive but, if possible, to obtain
an unfair preference above his feUow creditors, while that person,
we say, could have had justice done him by the sequestrator
according to the rules of priority, in a regular and unexpensive
manner.
Under these circumstances we have considered it our duty to
bring the case to the knowledge of your Excellency, respectfully
requesting Your Excellency may be pleased to take the same into
your most serious consideration, and by the authority vested in
the Colonial Grovemment, to order such measures as may tend to
maintain the dignity and inviolability of the Court of Justice
under His Majesty's Government, against the infringement made
in the present case, and whereby the Court may at the same
time be enabled to cause the sequestrator to proceed without any
further impediment in the sale of the ship in question on Thursday
Records of the Cape Colony. 375
the 25th instant, as announced in the Gazette of this day. We
have &c.
For Chief Justice and Members of the Court.
(Signed) J. A. Truter.
By order of the sama
(Signed) D. F. Berrange, Secretary.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. D. P. Francis to Colonel J. H. Strutt, M.P.
NA88AB BlYEB, NBAS AflSAOAI BUBH,
Gape of Good Hops, January 20^ 1821.
Sir, — It is now near eighteen months since you did me the
favor to recommend me to the Colonial department in England
as a person wishing to settle in this Colony and presuming you
would have no objection to hear how far I have succeeded, I am
induced to give you a short account of my proceedings since I
arrived in this Colony. I reached this country on the 30th of
April, and landed at Simons Bay, on the 3rd of May I proceeded
to Cape Town, with a Mr. Parker whose party I had connected
myself with before I left England. On our waiting upon the
Colonial Secretary, Colonel Bird, we found that the Acting
(xovemor Sir Eufane Donkin was up the country. Colonel Bird
informed us that the ship was to proceed to Saldanha Bay, as it
was intended to locate us at a place called Clan William about
120 miles from Saldanha Bay and 140 or 150 from Cape Town.
He assured us that it was one of the best places in the Colony. After
making many enquiries and finding the reports so very different
from each other, Mr. Parker and myself determined to visit the
spot, as we were strongly advised so to do by several friends in
Cape Town, though Colonel Bird appeared not to think it
necessary. A few days after we commenced our journey, and
after travelling four days, the last two over a Country composed
of deep sand, rocks and bushes, we arrived at Mr. Bergh's the
Deputy Landdrost of Clan William, whose grounds adjoin the
lands which were intended for our location, indeed some of the
376 Becords of the Cape Colony.
lands he cultivated were to be allotted to us. The Government
Surveyor was there making a plan of the same, both Mr. Bergh and
the Surveyor gave a most unfavorable account of the place, and I
was sure as soon as I saw the land it was a very just one, for it
consisted of a deep sand highly impregnated with saltpetre without
any vegetation but some wild flowers and bushes; under those
circumstances we thought it advisable to make a report to the
Colonial Government that it was totally unfit for the location
of so many Settlers, not only on account of the badness of the
land but from the smallness of the quantity, there being only
about 1200 acres and not one third of this could ever be
cultivated; this was according to the Surveyor's Eeport The
land required for the Settlers intended for that place was about
12,000 acres. On our meeting the ship at Saldanha Bay we found
the people all very anxious to land, and Mr. StoU, the Landdrost
of the Cape district, who was there to attend to our disembarka-
tion, was requested to send to Cape Town for instructions. The
answer was that no other arrangements could take place, however
another message came to say that unless we proceeded to our
location the ship must return to Simons Bay forthwith. In this
state of things it was thought better to proceed, as it was possible
Government might have other lands in the neighbourhood. I sent
the men belonging to me, as I thought it right to comply with
the orders of Government, and returned to Cape Town myself to
wait the result, as I was well aware that the greatest distress must
prevail, if there was no other reliance for the people than what
Clan William could afiford. In a short time the difficulties of
procuring provisions were very great, and representations were
sent to the Governor alledging the inadequacy of the place. The
Government then ofiered to remove all those who would come to
this part of the Colony free of expence, and give them rations
until they could produce a crop, as some recompence for the loss
of the season and the great expence and disappointment we had
met with. I accepted of this offer and arrived here on the 12th
of October, being five months and 12 days in the Colony before I
was located, and having eleven persons to feed every day. There
never was a country so different from what it is represented, for
most writers have given it the character of a fertile country, but
except in small spots it is very much the contrary. I trust I
have no occasion to say to you Sir, that I should be one of the
Records of the Cape Colony. 377
last persons in the world to find fault with the British Govern-
ment, either at home or abroad, but the breach of faith which I
have met with in this Colony is such as obliges me to complain,
for after verbal promise of the Governor (with whom I had several
interviews) as well as a Circular addressed from the Colonial
Office stating that we should be conveyed free of expence from
Clan William to our locations, and provided with rations for
twelve months, or until we could produce a crop, which must
have been near 15 months as we arrived about 3 months before
harvest, this would have been a poor remuneration for the loss we
had sustained in being sent to Clan William. However a few
days since a circular was sent me saying the rations would be
discontinued without payment or undoubted security for the same,
and this at a time too when it is quite out of our power to procure
bread for money without the aid of Government, as the harvest h^as
totally failed. I have written to the Government here to say that
in the event of their departing from the arrangement made with
me, I should be under the painful necessity of discharging my
people and abandoning my location ; if it should be so, my only
resource will be to apply for some redress to the Government at
home. If I had been sent here when I first arrived in the Colony
in common with other Settlers I should have had no right to
complain, but must have phared my fate with them. I am afraid
I have trespassed too long on your valuable time, and can only
hope you will allow me to apologise for the intrusion and subscribe
myseK &c.
(Signed) D. P. Francis.
[Copy.J
Warrant ismed hy Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
To George Kekewich, Esq., A. M., Judge of the Vice Admiralty
Court in the Settlement of the Cape of Good Hope, and to all
concerned.
In consequence of a representation from His Honour the Chief
Justice and Members of the Worshipful the Court of Justice, I do
by virtue of the Fqwqt and Authority in me vested by His
378 Records of the Cape Colony,
Majesty, strictly prohibit you from proceeding in the Sale of the
Brig Mary Anne Sophia, advertized for sale in the Cape Town
Gazette of Saturday the 20th January Instant, which sale it is
therein intimated is to tcJ^e place on Tuesday the 23rd of January
aforesaid.
Given under my Hand and Seal at the Cape of Good Hope, this
22nd day of January 1821,
(Signed) R. S. Donkin.
[Copy,]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the
Collector of Customs, Simonstovm,
Colonial Office, January 22fM2 182L
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor
to transmit to you herewith a Copy of a Warrant which His
Excellency has issued, calling upon the Judge of the Vice Ad-
miralty Court and upon all concerned to refrain from selling or
putting up to sale the Brig Mary Anne Sophia advertized by the
Deputy Marshall in the Cape Town Gazette of Saturday last for
Public Sale at the Wharf in Simons Town at 12 o'clock on
Tuesday next the 23rd instant. You will be pleased to attend
at the place of sale and communicate the Warrant enclosed to the
Deputy Marshall or such person as shall attend there for the
purpose of selling the said brig, and should the Deputy Marshall
or such other person as may attend there for the aforesaid purpose
not obey the injunction so communicated, you will then read, or
cause the Warrant to be read aloud and caution all and every of
the bystanders against the purchase of the said Brig, and you wiU
make it known that the Brig's papers which are in your possession
will not be given up, and that it is the Governor's positive deter-
mination not to permit the Brig to proceed to sea under the
authority of any papers which may be substituted for the
originals. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bibd.
Secards of the Cape Colony. 379
[Origiiial.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst.
Cafe Town, 22nd January 1821.
My Lord, — Deeply interested as your Lordship must be in
upholding the glorious Constitution of Great Britain I take leave
to transmit to your Lordship a letter to the Viscountess Ennis-
more with an inclosure therein for one of the most eminent of our
Irish Clergymen the Eevd. Doctor Quarry of Cork.
These documents cannot I trust fail attracting your Lordship's
particular attention, for the vast importance of the subject they
allude to as connected with the Established Eeligion of England.
After your Lordship's perusal of them, may I request that you
will have the goodness to forward them as directed to the truly
amiable Viscountess. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court to
Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
Caps Town, Tuesday Morning, } pabt Sbyen,
January 2drd 1821.
Sir, — I was yesterday afternoon served with a prohibition from
your Excellency, on an ea; parte representation of the Court of
Justice, to restrain me from proceeding in the sale of the Brig
Mary Anne Sophia; a power and authority assumed by Your
Excellency, which, with due submission, I dare not acknowledge.
I must observe to your Excellency that I have never received
any ofGicial intimation of a suit against the above vessel being
instituted in the Court of Justice, and consequently do not feel
myself warranted in deviating from the strict line of duty I owe
the suitors in the Court in which I have the honor to preside.
I have &c.
(Signed) G. Kekewich.
380 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufanb Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GovEmnoBNT House,
Cafe or Qood Hops, Jamuury 26M 1821.
My Lord, — ^A case of some delicacy and importance has occurred
here, and in which I have been called to act, arising out of a
question concerning the Powers and Mode of Proceeding of the
Court of Justice and the Court of Vice Admiralty in this Colony.
The case is this :
A Brig, the Mary Anne Sophia^ commanded by W. Hayward,
arrives at the Cape and incurs considerable expenses, part of which
is for repairs to enable her to proceed on her voyage. The Master
is unable to pay, and declares the Brig insolvent ; in consequence
of which, after the usual forms, she is put into the sequestrator's
hands by order of the Court of Justice to be sold for the benefit of
the creditors, the cause having come on before that Court, as a
matter of debt.
Amongst the creditors is a Mr. Prince, who holds a Bottomry
Bond for 3000 Eixdollars, who claims from the sequestrator a
preference of payment on the ground of Bottomry. This claim
is rejected, being contrary to the practice of the Colonial Court.
On this Prince withdraws his bond from before the sequestrator,
and sues the Brig for the amount in the Vice Admiralty Comi;,
which directs the Brig to be sold on the 23rd of January, instant,
to pay this claim of Mr. Prince.
In the meantime the sale of the Brig, pursuant to the orders of
the Court of Justice, had taken place, but the purchaser not being
able to make good his purchase, the sequestrator gave notice of
a second sale for the 25th of January, instant.
In this state of affairs, I received the enclosed representation
from the Chief Justice, calling upon me to support the authority
of his Court, upon which I issued a Prohibitory Mandate to the
Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court, sending at the same time a
corresponding order to the Collector of the Customs at Simon's
Town, and in consequence of the mandate I received the enclosed
letter from the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court.
By this detail it appears that a plain matter of debt is brought
Records of the Cape Colony, 381
before the Court of Justice in the usual manner, and in which the
Court had an undoubted jurisdiction, as is shewn by the 60th
Article of their Instructions ; and I may here incidentally remark
that Mr. Prince, who subsequently went to the Court of Vice
Admiralty, had previously acknowledged the jurisdiction of the
Court of Justice, by lodging or tendering his bond at the Seques-
trator's Oflfice. The Court in due course pronounces judgment,
and the sequestrator acts as in all similar cases. Here then are
trial, sentence, and execution all proceeded in without let or
hindrance, and the whole process of the Law is complete. Here
is no exception taken by the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court to
the competence of the Court of Justice, nor does he appear at all,
un£il after a full and complete execution of the sentence, and
when the whole affair had assumed an entirely new character and
was undergoing the technical operation of the sequestrator who
had ordered a second sale, by virtue of his oflBice, and not because
the Court of Justice had passed a particular sentence (for that
sentence had been executed), but because a purchaser at a Public
Auction had failed to make good his purchase. The sequestrator's
order for a second sale was, therefore, an act of his own, as seques-
trator, the sentence of the Court of Justice having been fully
disposed of before.
Taking this view of the case, it was, in my opinion, impossible
for me to allow the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court to come
forward, and not only interfere with the sequestrator in the execu-
tion of his lawful duty, but, by so doing, and advertising the vessel
for sale, to take on himself the power of reversing or setting aside
a Decree of the Supreme Court of Justice in this Colony ; a power
possessed by the Governor alone when sitting as Judge in Appeal,
and one which I cannot allow any Court or person to exercise
within this Government but myself, even by the indirect process
attempted by the Court of Vice Admiralty.
On this ground, then, namely, that the Judge of the Vice
Admiralty Court has assumed a power which belonged to the
Governor alone as Judge in Appeal, I respectfully submit that I
might rest my justification for what I have done ; but the Judge
of the Vice Admiralty Court has gone or has attempted to go a
step farther than even the Judge in Appeal can go. . He has
reversed or tried to reverse a Decree of the Court of Justice after
it had been actually executed; viewing therefore the matter in
882 Records of the Cape Colony,
this light, I issued the Mandate, prohibiting the Vice Admiralty
Court from proceeding in the sale of the Mary Anne Sophia.
In addition to the above I may perhaps submit to your Lord-
ship that I have no reason to know but that, consid^ng the
terms of the Capitulation and the 60th Article of the Instructions
together, the two Courts in question have a concurrent jurisdiction
in matters of this nature. I do not say that they have, nor do I
rest what I have done on such an assumption ; but should this be
the case, then the Court first entertaining a cause has an un-
doubted right to proceed in it to decision, as has been, on a former
occasion, distinctly laid down in instructions to the Governor of
this Colony^
I beg leave now to make some observations on the letter
addressed to me by the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court, not
with an intention of throwing blame on him, but to answer two
assertions contained in that letter, which I conceive to be not
maintainable.
First, I cannot admit that the Judge of the Vice Admiralty
Court had no notice. Due official notice was given of the in-
tended sale of the vessel in the official Gazette of the 9th of
December, signed by the sequestrator. This Gazette has a notifi-
cation prefixed to it, that all communications in it having an
official signature shall be considered as official, and this notifi-
cation is signed by the Colonial Secretary, by order of the
Grovemor.
Secondly. In regard to the observation of my having acted on
an ex parte Statement (that of the Chief Justice and Court) I beg
leave to observe that on a reference to dates, it will be found that
there was no time for me to hear another party, had I deemed it
right to do so ; but had there even been time, I do not think I
could or should have put on a judicial character and have called
the Chief Justice and the Judge of the Vice Admiralty Court
before me to hear and determine between them.
My prohibition was an act of the Executive, not a judicial one,
and in issuing it on the Statement of one party only, I respect-
fully submit to your Lordship that I have very high authority on
my side to justify the principle, at least, of issuing prohibitions to
prevent instant mischief, on the statement of one party alone,
namely, that of the Lord Chancellor of England, who interposes
his authority continually on an eo; parte statement. To issue
Records of the Cape Colony. 383
prohibitions is the undoubted prerogative of the executive, ac-
cording to the Dutch Laws in force here by the Capitulation.
Had I delayed 24 hours longer, the mischief would have been
irreparably done, and the vessel would have been sold by
12 o'clock on Tuesday the 23rd Instant.
It is with no small anxiety and with very great diffidence that
I lay the above observations before your Lordship. The habits of
my life have not allowed me to consider or disentangle abstruse
questions of Law ; and feeling, as I do, my incompetence for dis-
cussing such questions, I have endeavoured to divest this matter
of everything technical and to act in it from the plain reason of
the case.
Having submitted the grounds and principles on which I have
proceeded, I hope I may be permitted to call your Lordship's
attention to one particular, which is, that by the line I have
taken, should I unfortunately be wrong, the extent of the mischief
done is seen at once. It begins and ends with the Court of Vice
Admiralty, consisting of only two or three persons, and its effects
are not felt beyond the limits of that Court ; but on the other hand,
had I decided against the Court of Justice, the effect would have
been felt instantaneously, and perhaps lastingly, throughout this
whole Colony. The authority of the only Greneral Court of Justice
we have would have been lost, the confidence of the people in
this Court of every day practice and resort would have been
shaken, and the whole machinery of Colonial Jurisprudence would
have been deranged. Moreover, I have little doubt but the Chief
Justice and Members of the Court would have resigned ; and from
the circumstances of this Colony, as well as the peculiar construc-
tion of that Court, it would have been impossible to form another.
The Chief Justice and Members are all upon very small, and, I
may say, inadequate salaries; but what their offices want in
pecuniary advantage, is made up to them in personal considera-
tion and respectability from official station. Were the importance
now thrown around these gentlemen stripped off, no one would be
found to fill their places, and the administration of justice here
would be at an end.
I do not give this to your Lordship as a reason for what I have
done, but to submit to your Lordship, that be it right or not, the
least possible mischief will now result from the collision which
has taken place between the two Courts.
384 Records of the Cape Colony,
Having thus laid the whole case, with its attendant circum-
stances, before your Lordship, I have now to report the final steps
I have taken to prevent any acrimonious feeling from arising in
any quarter here out of this matter, and to ensure the continuance
of that harmony which has so long existed in this Colony. 1
desired the Chief Justice and the Judge of the Vice Admiralty
Court to meet me at the Government House, which they did
yesterday, and I have much satisfaction in acquainting your
Lordship that my hopes and views have been fully realised by
the handsome and cordial manner in which Sir John Truter and
Mr. Kekewich adopted the principle " that the matter should be
considered as a dry case, to be referred to His Majesty's Gk)vern-
ment, and that no irritation or soreness did or should exist between
them and their respective Courts." Of Sir John Truter's merits
your Lordship is already aware, and they have lately been re-
warded by a signal mark of His Majesty's approbation; and I
willingly take this opportunity of bearing testimony to Mr.
Kekewich's honorable and gentlemanlike conduct on all occasions
and of my personal consideration towards him.
I will now only beg leave to express my hope that your Lord-
ship may view what I have done as originating solely in an
anxious desire on my part to maintain the laws of this Colony,
and to preserve harmony and good understanding in it.
I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from William Jones, Esqre., to Richard Penn, Esqrk.
Abuy Pat Office, 2Qth January 182L
Dear Sir, — I beg to return you my sincerest and best thanks
for the favor of your obliging letter of the 5th Instant, in answer
to my application, in behalf of Mrs. White, for a passage for
herself and children to the Cape of Good Hope; and would
certainly have done so sooner, but I was desirous of being
enabled to state to you, at the same time, as required by your
Records of the Cape Colony, 385
letter, the cause of her not having proceeded thither with her
husband ; and I am now informed that it was impossible for her
to go out then, from the precarious state of her health, in con-
sequence of confinement in child-bed.
I beg leave further to mention that Mrs. White has recently
received another letter from her husband, expressive of his most
anxious hope that she may be so fortunate as to obtain, thro' the
assistance of Government, a passage for herself and children, and
be enabled to join him ; he being, at present, actively employed
in a Public Building (a Court House) now erecting at Bathurst
Town ; with every fair prospect of doing well hereafter.
If therefore, under these circumstances, it should he in your
power to obtain, for the poor woman the assistance of Government
in providing a passage for herself and children, it would be an
act of the greatest kindness, and for which. I should feel most
particularly obliged, and, in that case, if it were possible for them
to have a passage on board the Duhe of Marlboroughy W. Hollet
Commander, (a private Trader that will sail early in the ensuing
month) it would be a still greater favor ; as the brother in law
of Mrs. White and his wife, who are mentioned in my former
application, are going to embark in that vessel ; he having made
terms with the Captain to work his passage out. And it would,
of course, afford the greatest comfort and be most desirable indeed
to Mrs. White to go out in the same ship with such near relations.
Eelying on your kind oflBices in this matter, I beg to subscribe
myself &c.
(Signed) W. Jones.
P.S. I would beg leave to add that the grandfather of Mrs.
White's husband (a Mr. Grindon) was, for many years, until his
decease, one of the Landing Surveyors in His Majesty's Customs,
and that those for whom I am soliciting the favor of your kind
assistance are most deserving people, struggling under misfortunes.
xm. 2 c
386 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Reverend George Thom to
Lord Charles Somerset.
LovDOV, 2QUi January 1821.
My Lord, — I have the honour to acknowledge the Beceipt of
the letter of yesterday in which Your Lordship states the
"necessity of establishing EngUsh Schools at the difierent
Drostdies in the Colony of the Cape of Good Hope," the diffi-
culty of pTocuring proper persons capable of teaching the English
Language Grammatically, and that your Lordship is pleased " to
ask my assistance in procuring persons of unimpeachable Character
and otherwise well qualified, and on what terms I conceive such
could be obtained."
It affords me much satisfaction to receive such a communica-
tion, which is so intimately connected with the future prosperity
of the Growing Colony of the Cape; and that your Lordship's
intentions are thus to follow up the successfcd method pursued
under your Administration, of admitting none to Civil Situations
without a perfect knowledge of the English Tongue, the conse-
quence of which regulation is, that to my knowledge and experi-
ence of eight years residence in the Colony, that all Landdrosts
and Deputy Landdrosts correspond with the Colonial Government
now in English, and in 1812 there was only one Magistrate who
did this. All the knowledge of the language which the younger
Servants of Grovernment received was in Cape Toum, and the
Districts in the Interior are till this day deprived of the oppo^
tunity of learning our language.
There are many persons of excellent education and established
character that could be procured to go out as English Teachers ;
but such would not be disposed to go abroad, and to make
sacrifices of no little consequence, society, &c., and to spend the
best of their lives chiefly among the Colonists, without at least
expecting a comfortable subsistence. There is a second class of
individuals who might more easily be procured, who, having been
unfortunate in the world, or are out of Employment through the
present state of Commerce, yet of a good moral Character and
have a grammatical knowledge of the English Language. These
Records of the Cape Colony. 387
would expect mere support, and thus go abroad on lower terms.
But seeing that the most of all the Dutch Schoolmasters in the
Colony are proverbially known for their want of knowledge of
the Dutch Grammar and in most cases otherwise unquaUfied, we
should steer clear of giving a mere pittance (which is the reason
why there are such Schoolmasters in the Colony) by which the
Schoolmaster cannot live, but must divert his work, or at least
divert his attention to some other objects, as is the case with aU
the Dutch Schoolmasters, In no part of the World are School-
masters for these reasons so little esteemed as in South AMca,
and yet there is a universal desire on the part of Parents that
their Children should be instructed.
That Class of Instructors in the English Language who appear
to me to be required in Africa is nearly of the first description.
Young men who have been accustomed to teach, and who have
tolerable liberal education, and a perfect knowledge of the New
System of Education, and such I conceive ought to be at different
Salaries, as they will be at different Stations. For your Lordship
well knows that the expense of Hving varies in different parts
of the Colony, and also it holds out emulation if they are paid
according to their talents, zeal, and worth.
These English Teachers should be required to make their chief
residence at the Drostdies, but they should visit and remain for
some months for certain periods in the more populous parts of
the Districts, as the farms lie very far off from the Drostdy, and
the expense of boarding Children in a Village is considerable, and
in the first instance we cannot expect all the Dutch Farmers to
see the advantages of the English Language.
Now it appears to me that an English Teacher should have
1st. A small dwelling house and garden allowed him like every
other Servant of Grovemment in the Drostdy Villages.
2nd. A salary for Single Men of the first class £%Q sterling.
„ „ of the second class £65 „
„ Married Men of the first class £100.
„ „ of the second class £85.
3rd. That only single Men should be sent out^ and their
Passage provided by Grovemment.
4th. That a knowledge of so much Dutch which will be sufficient
for the Teachers to communicate a knowledge of the English will
be necessary, and this will wonderfully interest the Colonists.
2 c 2
388 Records of the Cape Colony.
5th. That the Teachers should enter into a written engagement
for five years.
The charge made on parents for instructing their Children
and young men in the English language could be a subsequent
arrangement. It should be I think half the sum paid to the
Dutch masters, so as to induce the Parents to send their Children,
and at the same time to teach them to value it, which last plan
begins to be much adopted and is much better than merely allowing
instruction /r«e of expence to all. The amount of this should be
perhaps given to the School Fund or otherwise as might be after
determined. I know of several young men who have studied at
the Scotch Universities, who not having sufl&cient interest to
obtain Cures in Scotland would, I am persuaded, accept of the
situation of English Teachers on such terms.
I need not inform your Lordship of the zeal manifested by some
of the more respectable and better circumstanced Dutch Colonists
to have their Children no longer taught French, and even Dutch,
but rather English. Two circumstances have come under my
own notice, the first when four Brothers of the name of ViUiers
near the Paarl solicited me to obtain a proper Person to instruct
their Children in English the number being sixteen or eighteen
and offered a Salary of 1,000 Eixdollars the first year. With very
great difl&culty I obtained a young Man of tolerable education
who undertook it. His engagement is for three years and the
last year he has 1200 Bixdollars ; and just when I was leaving
the Colony a number of persons asked me to bring out with
me for them New Testaments having on the same page English
and Dutch, and Grammars to instruct Dutchmen to understand
English,
The population of the Colony last year was full 100,000 and
40,000 of these Skves and Hottentots, the remaining 60,000 are
Dutch Colonists and speak that Tongue. Out of Cape Town I
will venture to say there are not 400 who can converse in
English, and not 200 if 150 who write it, or can read it. The
Settlers who have arrived last year, and others from England
are about 5,000 all situated in one District Albany, and thos
there are nearly 60,000 Dutch Colonists who do not understand
a word of EngHsh and are likely to remain so for ages, for thy
occupy all the farms in the District and keep together. Thus
if we ever wish to introduce the English Language into the
Records of the Cape Colony. 389
Courts of Justice in Town and Country, a measure that every
Englishman wishes, it is high time that New and Prudent
measures are taken, to introduce our tongue ; then, and not till
then, will cease jealousy on the part of the Dutch Farmer, when
Schools are established by the wise support of the Colonial
Grovemment, and the just complaint that '' the English rule us,
but they take no pains to teach our Children their language,
and only the rich of our Countrymen have an opportunity of
bringing their Sons into Ofl&ces of Government by being able to
send them to Cape Town to learn English, and our sons also
do not know how to bargain with the English at the Market."
I hope your Lordship will excuse the length of these remarks
into which your Lordship's communication has led me and to
believe that they have arisen from a real regard to the Prosperity
of the Colony, I have &c.
(Signed) George Thom, Minister of Caledon.
[OriginaLj
Memorial of Messrs. McLaren, McLean, and Clark to the
Sight Honorable Earl Bathurst.
Glasgow, 2Qth January 1821.
The Memorial of John McLaren, John McLean, Robert Thomson,
and James Clark humbly sheweth that your petitioners were part
of the people who left this Country by the Abeona transport, with
a view to settle at the Cape of Good Hope under the protection
of Grovemment, but from the melancholy catastrophe which took
place on board that vessel, your petitioners have lost their all.
John McLaren has lost a wife and four children, John McLean
wife and one child, Eobert Thomson wife and five children, and
are now returned home in the most destitute situation, and seeing
very little prospect of comfort here, feel a desire still to proceed
to the Cape of Good Hope as Settlers. They humbly beg that
your Lordship would be pleased to grant the means of conveying
them out, and on arrival there furnishing them with a grant of
Land as near Cape Town as may be consistent with the views
of Government, and from their destitute situation that you will
390 Becords of the Cape Colony.
fumisli them with the necessary Implements for Agriculture and
Seeds to enable them to provide for themselves.
If Grovemment should find it inconvenient to comply with the
above, the petitioners humbly hope that the money which they
deposited will be repaid to them. And your petitioners will
ever pray.
(Signed) John McLAinaf,
John McLean,
James Clabk.
[Copy.]
An Account of the Total Expense incurred hy the Navy and
VictuaUing Boards for conveying and victuallhig Settlers to
the Cape of Good Hope.
Nayt Offiob, Trakbfobt DxPABTimiT,
30tii January 1821.
Expense incurred by The Navy Board • . £56,513 18 5
Do. by The Victualling Board . 30,246 6 11
Total Expense . • £86,760 5 4
(Signed) R* Seppings,
J. D. Thomson,
J. Bowen.
[Original]
Letter from the Eeveeend George Thom to Loed
Ghables Somerset.
London, 3rc2 February 1821.
My Lord, — I have the honor to state that I called this morning
at your Lordship's house, in order to obtain the necessary certificate
of the appointment of Mr. Murray, when I heard that your Lord-
ship had gone to the country and was not likely to return before
Records of the Cape Colony, 391
next month. I then waited on Mr. Groulbum, supposing that the
letter which your Lordship was pleased to read the draft of had
been sent to the Colonial Office, when Mr. Goulburn informed me
that your Lordship had called on him, but that he was from home ;
and thus he had not received the requisite recommendation so as
to afford me a document to be forwarded to Mr. Murray. Since I
had the honor of seeing your Lordship, I have received another
letter from Professor Bentley relative to the form of the document
necessary for Mr. Murray to deliver to the Presbytery before he
can be ordained. The Presbytery as by law established consists
of a number of ministers who meet to perform the act of ordination
on the clergymen, and the Professor observes " Previous to ordina-
tion, they require a regular appointment or nomination (we call it
Presentation) by a proper authority to a specific charge or cure,
which charge has attached to it, by legal enactment a competent
stipend or salary for a clergyman; but clergymen have been
ordained as chaplains to regiments and ministers for particular
Colonies. It will therefore be necessary that Mr. Murray produce
something more as a voucher of his appointment than his own, or
his Mends' ipse dixit, something as near as possible to a crown, or
other Patron's Presentation, You may not be able to get the
signature of the Secretary of State, much less of the King (His
Majesty is Patron of nearly a third of the Scottish Churches) but
I trust you will obtain as formal and particular an appointment as
possible from the Grovemor of the Colony ; at least a letter will be
sent to Mr. Murray stating that he is appointed and that to a
particular Church or District, that he shall be paid by Government
a stipend not less than (stating the amount), and that he shall not
be subject to the control of any foreign church or ecclesiastics."
" It seems " (continues Professor Bentley) " proper in the view of
the Presbytery that a particular charge should be mentioned, but
that need not interfere with any wish of the Governor to have the
matter arranged after Mr. Murray goes out, as he wiU agree to be
translated (that is removed to any other church) or to have the
destination first named changed, if that be required afterwards.
All these particulars are the consequence of the zeal of the church
for the respectability of her clergymen, and that no person who is
fully invested with the clerical character should be without a
charge unprovided for. Mr. Murray will have no objection to
spend a few months in Holland, but to enable him to do so, we
392 Becords of the Cape Colony.
hop6 his salary will commence from the date of his appointment
or departure to Holland."
As your Lordship may not be so fully acquainted with the con-
stitution of Presbyterian Churches, I may illustrate what Professor
Bentley states, by observing, that the above form or proceedings
are analogous to those of the Established Episcopal Church of
England. No deacon of that church can be ordained as a presbyter,
which ordination empowers a clergyman to administer the sacra-
ments, &c., without a cure^ either a parish, the army, navy or for
a colony ; for if a Bishop ordain, he is obliged by law to support
the clergyman ordained out of his own purse in case he has no
cure or appointment, I have enclosed a certificate which embraces
the points noticed in the Professor's letter, which your Lordship
can either Sign or copy it and sign it, as the Patronage lies in your
Lordship ex ojicio, which Colonel Bird informed me and is so
understood in the Colony ; but if your Lordship thinks otherwise
a letter embracing the matter of the certificate addressed to Mr.
Murray will be sufficient; but then the letter to Earl Bathurst
will be necessary to be first forwarded to the Colonial Office, and
after it is received I can have the *' approval '' stated at the bottom
of the letter by Mr. Goulbum or Earl Bathurst; and on this
document Mr. Murray can be ordained and then proceed to
Holland.
Eespecting the specific charge or cure being noticed, Tulbagh or
any other District may be stated pro forma ; as it is always in
your Lordship's power to make what alterations which may after-
wards be foimd necessary. It has been usual that when the most
distant or neighbouring ministers wish to remove the Gt)vemor
of the Colony removes such to the vacant churches nearer the
metropolis of the Colony.
That respecting " a Foreign Church or Ecclesiastic " alludes to
it being not required for Presbyterian clergymen to be subject to
other churches out of their denomination ; but only to the Governor
for the time being, which has and is the state of the Presbyterian
Churches at the Cape and elsewhere, and is in fact the essence of
Presbyteriamsm, as your Lordship knows that the Episcopal
establishment at the Cape is neither under the direction of the
Presbyterian Establishment, nor that Establishment under the
Episcopal, but both are equally separate; but all under the
authority of Government.
Records of the Cape Colony. 393
In regard to the period of commencement of the Salary it is not
a sine qua nan with Mr. Murray, but yet if your Lordship could
allow it, it would be reasonable as the expence will be not a little
in Holland while Mr. Murray is expressly preparing for the
Colony ; but your Lordship will no doubt do what is most proper.
It is to be observed that Presbyterian clergymen have no fees
whatever.
I have entered fully into this subject, a subject that may appear
at first intricate ; but the appointment of the clergymen who follow
will be without any further explanation or trouble.
I hope your Lordship will be pleased to forward the letter to
Earl Bathurst next week and the certificate or letter to me for
Mr. Murray, as Mr. Goulburn says he cannot act without the
former.
Hie letter on schoolmasters and schools I hope embraced your
Lordship's wishes. I shall be looking out for fit persons as soon
as I hear the decision of the Colonial Secretary, Earl Bathurst on
this point.
Wishing your Lordship much happiness, I have &c.
(Signed) George Thom.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Thomas
Peregrine Courtenay, Esqre.
February 4^ 1821.
Sir, — Having found it necessary to purchase for the use of the
Government of the Cape of Good Hope, a small thrashing machine,
the cost of which is £91 18s, Id.^ and to make some additions to
the machine which was sent to the Cape some years back, I have
to request that you will obtain Earl Bathurst's authority for
defraying these charges. I am, &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
394 Records of the Cape Colony.
[OriginaL]
Letter from T. P. Coubtenay, Esqre., to Henry
GouLBUfiN, Esqre.
Gabhoh Bow, 5<& Fdmiary 1821.
Sir, — I have the honor to transmit the enclosed letter from Lord
Charles Somerset, directing me to obtain Earl Bathurst's authority
for defraying the cost of a thrashing machine purchased for the
use of the Government of the Cape of Good Hope, and the expense
of repairing another; and I beg leave to request that you will
move Earl Bathurst to convey to me his sanction for complying
with this request. I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Per. Courtenay.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to Henry
GouLBURN, Esqre.
JPflbruayy 8^1821.
Sir, — There being at present two vacancies for Dutch Clergymen
at the Country churches at the Cape of Good Hope and a third at
Cape Town in consequence of the death of the Eevd. Mr. Fleck
(the senior minister of the Dutch Church there), and the very
feeble state of Mr. Gebhart's health (minister at the Faarl)
rendering it probable that further assistance will very shortly be
requisite, I applied to the Bevd. Mr. Thom (the minister of
Caledon, who happens to be in England on leave) to make
enquiries for competent and respectable persons for these situa-
tions, and have the honor to transmit to you a letter from that
gentleman recommendiag the Bevd. Alexr. Murray and enclosing
imexceptionable certificates of Mr. M.'s Character.
I have this day received another letter from Mr. Thom, which
I have the honor also to transmit for your perusal. I have con-
sequently to solicit Earl Bathurst's authority to appoint Mr. A.
Murray a minister at the Cape of Good Hope, as soon as he shall
Records of the Cape Colony, 396
have qualified himself by having obtained a competent knowledge
of the Dutch language and be ready to embark.
You will perceive. Sir, by Mr. Them's letter of the 3rd Inst,
that a specific notification of the appointment is required by the
Presbytery. I take the liberty therefore of requesting that Earl
Bathurst's notification to me may answer that purpose, but I must
add that I consider Mr. Them's proposals that Mr. Murray should
be nominated previous to his arrival at the Cape to (my particular
Station and that he should receive pay pri^ to his JEmbarkation, as
well as the whole style of the blai^ appointment transmitted for
my signature as inadmissible. I have &c.
(Signed) Chaeles Henry Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
F^ffuary 9th 1821.
Sib, — ^Not having received any reply to an application I made
to Sir Herbert Taylor in November last to obtain the permission
of His Boyal Highness the Commander in Chief to propose to
His Majesty's Government to pay the Troops at the Cape of Good
Hope in the currency of the Colony, in lieu of Spanish Dollars,
at the same rate of exchange as that at which the civil servants
of the Government are paid, whose salaries are calculated in
pounds sterling, I, a short time since, applied- again to Sir H.
Taylor on the subject and have received the answer I have the
honor herewith to enclose.
Previous to my applying to His Boyal Highness I had com-
municated with Mr. Yansittart, who consented that the measure
should be tried.
I am anxious that instructions on this head should be given to
Sir Rufane Donkin with as little delay as possible, as I under-
stood from Mr. Vansittart in November last that from my repre-
sentation, no further supply of Spanish Dollars for the payment
of the Troops would be sent to the Cape, which will of course
396 Becords of the Cape Colony.
have the effect of enhancing the value of the Spanish Dollar and
consequently cause a proportionate loss to the British Treasury as
long as the Troops shall be paid in Spanish Dollars. It is also
extremely desirable to make this alteration at a moment when
(from having a supply of Spanish Dollars in the Commissary's
Chest) the value of the Spanish Dollar is low, as the soldier
(always judging from the present moment) will be sensible of the
benefit accruing to him from the new system, whereas were it
made at a period when the Spanish Dollar should have acquired a
temporary high value he might think his interests injured by the
alteration, and cause (tho' ill founded) discontent in his mind.
I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
February Sth 1821.
Sir, — ^I did myself the honor to address you on the 20th of
December last requesting that the Auditors for the Colonial
Accounts might be furnished with a copy of Earl Bathurst's
sanction of the purchase made (I think) in 1815 of Mr. Brand's
House at Simon's Town for public offices, by which great con-
venience was afforded to the Public Service and a very consider-
able annual saving made. The purchase money was left at
interest on the buildings, and it is the charge of the interest which
the auditors object to allow, unless supplied with an attested copy
of Earl Bathurst's sanction of the purchase. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
Records of the Cape Colony, 397
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Ralph Rogerson, Esqrb.
Cafe Town, 10^ F^trntary 1821.
Sir, — In answer to your letter of this date I beg leave to state
that I have had very sufficient reasons for not returning the
names of some of the individuals alluded to in that letter in the
list of those whom I wished to be paid out of the third Instalment
of my deposit. The Revd. Mr. McCleland for instance has been
paid by me for his own, John Archer's, Patrick Byrnes and James
Johnston's proportion within Is. 8d. Bt. St.
John Addey and Thomas Seton were abeady included among
the names given to you while that of James Stone was erroneously
included in the number entitled to receive their proportion but
for which Stone has no sort of claim, as he did not pay his deposit
in London.
The other individuals alluded to never could have applied to
the Colonial Office unless through misrepresentation, as they
know that they had accounts to settle with me connected with
their deposits.
Indeed from the tenour of the Military Secretary's letter to you
and the very culpable proceedings of the Colonial Secretaries, it is
perfectly clear to me, that His Excellency the Commander of the
Forces has listened to ex parte statements from some of my ill
conducted Settlers, of whom I complained on my first arrival,
while he has contrary to the regulations of the Earl Bathurst
disregarded every just representation of mine, although I frequently
solicited the most minute investigation into my conduct as the
Head of a Party of Settlers, as did Lt. Wolrige of the Royal Navy
into that of Mr. Thomas Seton.
The Colonial Secretaries being so derelict of their public duty,
I have very strong grounds to apprehend that Sir Rufane Donkin
knows but little of my correspondence with them. I therefore
beg leave to inform you for His Excellency's information that
I shall transmit a specific complaint to England on this very
subject and that I shall have Major Rogers' letter to you called
for in a proper place, when the character and feelings of indi-
viduals will not be permitted to be insulted and their families and
398 Records of tJis Cape Colony,
dependents be driven to distress and ruin by His Majesty's
Servants in this Colony.
Although Sir, I thus publicly address you for the information
of the Commander of the Forces, whose duties are confounded
with those of OivU Governors, I shall bear testimony to the zeal
and to the humanity, with which the department imder your
direction has been conducted in regard to the Settlers generally,
the Heads of whom have been treated more like convicted felons
than individuals coming to this Colony under the auspices of the
British Government.
I shall expect my deposit agreeably to the Treasury Seceipt
and I have the honour to be &c.
(Signed) William Paekee.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset.
Downing Stbeet, 13 February 1821.
My Lord, — I do myself the honour to acquaint you in reply to
your letter of the 20th of December that I fully approve of the
Purchase made by your Lordship in 1815 of the Buildings situated
at Symonds Town (late the property of J. Brand Esqre.) on
account of the Public Service. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin.
DowinNG Strket, 13 February 1821.
Sir, — ^I have had the honour of receiving your private letter of
the 4th of December enclosing the Title Deeds of two lots of Land
which you have granted to me in the District of Albany under an
Impression that the enrollment of my name among those of the *
Persons settling in the neighbourhood of Bathurst might have
a beneficial effect upon the Settlers by assuring them of my more
particular protection.
BecQrds of the Cape Colony. 399
I trust you will not consider my refusal to accept these Grants
as arguing on my part any insensibility to the motives by which
you have been influenced in making them. I am not prepared to
deny that my acceptance of them might give some additional
encouragement to the Settlement of the district in which they are
situated, but on the other hand I so strongly feel the great public
Inconvenience likely to result, if this Precedent were to give rise
to a practice of assigning lands to absent Individuals, and the
invidious light in which such Grants could not fail to be viewed
that I can have no hesitation in altogether declining them.
I would avail myself also of this opportunity of suggesting to
you whether (considering the situation in which you stand in the
Colony) the Grant which you have made to an absent member
of your family is not open to a precisely similar objection. For
although I am perfectly aware that such a Grant could not be
intended to be profitable, yet there are without doubt persons who
might either entertain a different opinion, or might be glad to
avail themselves of such a circumstance for the purpose of
impugning your motives and for diminishing the weight of your
authority in the Colony, and I am confident you will concur with
me as considering these inconveniences far beyond any advantage
which the Settlement of the District could derive from the
association either of your or my name with those of the persons
actually resident there. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Oflfice Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
Ck)LONiAL Office, Downing Stbeet, IWi Fehruary 1821.
Sir, — I have had the honour of receiving your letter of the
30th October adverting to the conduct of Mr. William Parker,
a Settler from Ireland, whom you state to have so conducted
himseK as to have imposed upon you the necessity of breaking up
his Party, and permitting the Individuals composing it to select
another Leader.
It is certainly matter of regret that you should not, in
mentiomng Mr. Parker's case, have forwarded the Documents
400 Records of the Cape Colony.
necessary to put me in full possession of all the proceedings
which have been had with respect to him. For although I have
sufficient information from other Sources to justify me in
pronouncing an opinion that Mr. Parker's Disappointment is
principally attributable to a total misapprehension of the objects
to be attained by him at the Cape, and to a continued Indulgence
of those extravagant Expectations, which it had been my duty
to discourage previously to his Departure from this Country, yet
it would be satisfactory to me to be able to decide how far the
conduct of the Colonial Government had, in the course of their
discussions with him, been liable to any of the Imputations which
he has attempted to cast upon it.
In the absence of this full Information, I have no other alterna-
tive than that of transmitting to you the Letter of complaint
which Mr. Parker has addressed to me, and to desire that you
would make to me such a report of the whole transaction as may
enable me to judge of the various charges there adduced against
the Colonial Government; and as the conduct of Colonel Bird
is more particularly adverted to, you wiU of course see the
propriety of calling upon that officer for a particular explanation
of the circumstances respecting him, to which Mr. Parker refers.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Mr. William Parker.
Downing Stbebt, IW^ February 1821.
Sir, — I am directed by Lord Bathurst to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of the 29th of September submitting to his
Lordship's consideration the details of a Correspondence which
has passed between the Colonial Government and yourself since
your arrival at the Cape of Good Hope.
It must always be matter of regret to Lord Bathurst to learn
that the hopes entertained by persons proceeding to a distant
Colony, as Settlers, have been on their arrival either totally or
partially disappointed : But it must be evident, on the one hand.
Bec&i'ds of the Cape Colony. 401 ,
that the disappointment does not of necessity imply any neglect
on the part of the local authorities, while experience shews, on
the other, that it much more frequently is attributable to the
misconduct or unreasonable views of the Settlers themselves.
Before therefore Lord Bathurst can pronounce any opinion upon
the complaints which you have submitted to him, it appears
indispensably necessary to give the local Government an oppor-
tunity of explaining under what circumstances it has happened
that the course which has been pursued by them on the subject
of settlement, and which has called forth the gratitude of by far
the larger proportion of the Settlers, should have produced in your
case so much disappointment. Lord Bathurst has therefore referred
your letter to Sir B. Donkin for his consideration and report. In
doing so however Lord Bathurst has directed me to observe that
your own letter affords sufficient evidence to his Lordship that
whatever may have been the conduct of the Colonial Government
in some particulars, you have mainly contributed to your own
failure by indulging pretensions, which it had been his Lordship's
object to discourage by various letters addressed to you previously
to your departure, by looking more to commercial than to
agricultural projects, and requiring with this view, locations of
Land, in situations, which could not be granted with any regard
to justice or to the public Interests. Whatever therefore may be
the result of this Enquiry as to the conduct of the Colonial
Grovemment, it is impossible that his Lordship can hold out any
expectation that it can repair the evils of your own conduct or
replace you in the Situation in which you would have stood if you
had on your arrival in the Colony applied yourself diligently to the
Cultivation of the Land assigned to you at Clanwilliam or offered
to you in the Zureveldt instead of looking to other Establishments
foreign to the objects of the Government, as previously explained
to you, and incompatible with its general arrangements. I am &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
XIIL 2 D
402 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Parkee to Eael Bathurst.
Gapb Town, 1S<& Fihntary 1821.
My Lord, — I take leave to transmit to your Lordship a letter
for my noble Mend Lord Ennismore, that I leave open for your
kind perusal, as the subject must I hope be interesting to your
Lordship in your high oflBcial situation and particularly as a
personage warmly attached to the British Constitution and to
the glorious principles of the Eevolution, dear to every loyal
British Subject.
I have defended your Lordship from a gross insult in this
Colony, from an imputation of your having conspired the lives
of your fellow creatures by sending them as Settlers here, where
they have met official insult, injury and in some cases utter ruin.
I continue to transmit to Mr. Wilberforce, detailed statements
of various facts with circumstantial written evidence which if
necessary can be proved at the Bar of the House of Commons
to have proceeded from the Secretaries in this Colony, Lieut.
Colonel Christopher Bird and Mr. Henry Ellis. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Stokb, BsigTOL, FArvary 14t^ 1821.
SiR^ — It being extremely desirable that the children of the
Colonists residing in the Country Districts at the Cape of Good
Hope should have the Means of obtaining the English Language,
I take the liberty of submitting to Earl Bathurst the Expediency
of having all the Schools in the Colony conducted by English
Masters. I conferred some time since with the Revd. Mr. Thorn
and requested him to ascertain (from Scotland in particular) if
proper and welU qualified Persons could be procured at. what
Salaries,
Records of the Cape Colony. 403
I have herewith the honor to transmit a letter addressed to me
by Mr. Thom communicating the Eesults of his Enquiries, and I
beg leave to be honored with Earl Bathurst's Instructions upon
the subject.
The Salary of the Dutch Schoolmasters at present is a recom-
mendation too inadequate to tempt a well qualified Man to
emigrate, being only 400 Eds. (not quite £31 Sterling per annum),
and for which they perform also the duties of Clerk to their
respective Churches. I have &c, '
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre,
Stoeb, Bristol, February Hth 1821.
Sir, — Eeferring to a letter addressed to Earl Bathurst on the
30th June last by Mr. Hamilton (Secretary to the Society for
propagating the Grospel in Foreign Parts) in which he transmitted
to His Lordship a Eesolution of the Society to grant £500 Sterling
in aid of erecting a church in Cape Town, I take the liberty of
earnestly soliciting Earl Bathurst's influence to obtain the aid
alluded to, to promote the Erection of a Church at Graham's
Town, where, and in its vicinity, there is a British Population
of upwards of 3000 persons (including the Military) totally
destitute of any place of Worship whatever, and under the
circumstances that no assistance can be expected to be derived
from its Inhabitants in the erection of a Church, they being all
Settlers or Soldiers. I take the liberty of observing that it would
contribute mainly to the early completion of this desirable and
very necessary work if the Society could encrease the amount of
its donation towards it. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
2 D 2
404 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Lord Charles Somerset.
Downing Stbest, Ibth February 1821.
My Lord, — I have received your Lordship's letter enclosing
Certificates of the good conduct and clerical qualifications of the
Eevd. A. Murray as a Clergyman of the established Church of
Scotland, and I have in consequence to instruct your Lordship to
nominate Mr. Murray to such one of the Presbyterian Churches
and Congregations now vacant at the Cape of Good Hope as may
in your opinion afford the best field for his useful exertions,
assigning to him the usual Salary and other advantages of such a
situation. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter from the, Eeverend George Thom to
Lord Charles Somerset.
London, Idh February 1821.
My Lord, — I have the honor to state that agreeable to the
conversation which I had with your Lordship, and the letter to
Earl Bathurst, that I wrote to Mr. William Eitchie Thomson, a
student at Glasgow, and that on the recommendation of the
Professors of the University and Clei^jymen of the Established
Church of Scotland, I have thought fit to recommend Mr. Thom-
son as a well qualified gentleman to undertake to be coadjutor
with Mr. Brownlee in the mission among the Caffires, and Mr.
Thomson has accepted of this arduous office on the same terms as
that of Mr. Brownlee. I have great pleasure, my Lord, also to
state that Mr. Thomson has just arrived in London, and will be
ready to embark for Africa on your Lordship's answer, or that of
Earl Bathurst.
The certificates of Mr. Thomson being numerous and on vellum
has prevented me sending them until your Lordship comes to
Records of the Cape Colony, 405
town, when I shall have the honor of presenting them or to the
Colonial Office.
I hope yonr Lordship received my communication of the 3rd
February, as I have not had the honor of hearing from the Colonial
Office nor from your Lordship. I have &c.
(Signed) George Thom.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
BuBOHEBS Post, Gape of Good Hope,
X^ih February 1821.
Sir, — I take leave to enclose to you a letter for Mr. Wilber-
force, which I leave open for your kind perusal and your sub-
mitting it to the Earl Bathurst. When you and his Lordship
read it be pleased to forward it to the excellent individual to
whom it is addressed.
I am in a complete state of exile in this Colony, living in the
most retired situation with my family near the Mountains of
Groenkloof. But I hope that the tyrannical oppression of the
Secretaries, that has caused our misfortunes has been fully made
known by this time in London. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parker.
[Original]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to Earl Bathurst.
BuBOHEBS Post, Gapk oif Good Hope,
20^ February 1821.
My Lord, — I beg leave to transmit to your Lordship copies of
my letters to Mr. Eogerson Assistant Commissary Greneral of the
10th Inst, and to Lt. Col. Christopher Bird of this date.
I merely trouble your Lordship with a perusal of these docu-
ments in justification of my own character stigmatized as it has
been through the insidious designs of the Colonial Secretary, who
406 Records of the Caps Colony.
from his local influence has at present the power of injuring me
most severely.
Your Lordship will at once see that he has caused Sir Bufane
Donkin to act on the most erroneous principles by attending to an
ex parte statement of the Bevd. Francis McCleland who conducted
himself so outrageously during the Voyage from Europe and who
has acted since his arrival in this Colony in a maimer totally
unbecoming the profession of a Clergyman. I have &c.
(Signed) Wm. Parkek.
[Copy.J
Letter from Mr. William Parker to
Lieutenant Colonel Bird.
BuBOHSBS Post, 20t^ February 1821.
Sir, — Major Bogers having in his official letter to Mr. Assistant
Commissary Greneral Bogerson, stated, that I had acted improperly
respecting the payment of the Deposits of the Settlers that came
out under my direction and requesting that Mr. Bogerson would
endeavour to bring me to a sense of my duty and not to oblige the
poor people to sue me in Court in forma pauperis, I beg leave to
enclose to you my account with the Bevd. Francis McCleland who
I have reason to think has been the cause of Major Bogers writing
such an unjustifiable letter.
It is most strange that His Excellency the Acting Gtovemor
should sanction such conduct. But I am not surprized at it when
His Majesty's Servants in this Colony did not deign to regard the
excellent regulations of the Earl Bathurst. The 15th Article
prescribed the only authority, the only check with which the
Heads of Parties were invested. Its total disregard on the part
of this Grovemment destroyed every subordination and all good
conduct among the Settlers at Clanwilliam and has had a similar
effect elsewhere. But Sir Bufane Donkin listens to an ear parte
statement from Mr. McCleland, and as Commander of the Forces
he orders his Militaxy Secretary to address Mr. Bogerson in a tone
most injurious to my character, when he totally denies me every
inquiry although so frequently solicited.
Records of the Cape Colony. 407
I do not write this letter with any expectation of receiving an
answer from individuals under the Government, whose conduct
has been so questionable, but I write it in defence of my con-
duct, against which this Grovemment has thrown out such an
insinuation.
I shall take the liberty to transmit a copy of this letter to the
Earl Bathurst that His Lordship may be fully informed of the
mode of proceeding in this Colony.
Mr. 0. M. Bergh the Deputy Landdrost at Clanwilliam has
been paid every demand he had against me, although from the
rate I purchased provisions at the period he supplied my people,
he has overcharged me between 3 and 400 Rix Dollars, thus
exacting a profit of nearly 40 per cent more than the current
price of the Country. Such was the assistance that one of His
Majesty's Servants in this Colony rendered the Settlers pursuant
to the instructions of this Grovernment. The poor Settlers who
went to the Zuureveld loudly complained of the impositions
practised on them. But I was written to ofl&cially from the
Colonial Office, " that I had no right to question in written com-
munications the conduct of Public Officers acting under the orders
of His Excellency."
However, this is a right not dared to be denied to any Drum
Boy in a Regiment even by the most arbitrary officer. It is a
right and the privilege of Englishmen coeval with the Constitution
under which we all enjoy so many blessings, our admitted un-
disputed birth right and unless possessed by every subject, British
Liberty would be but a Name.
I have sent my Nephew to Clanwilliam to remove the remainder
of my ruined effects from that miserable District where mis-
management and inhumanity have doomed so many unfortunate
people to be located. I have &c.
(Signed) William Pakker.
408 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Chaeles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
SiXAE, Bbibtol, .February 21«f 1831.
Sir, — I have the honour to transmit to you a letter from the
Bevd. (reorge Thom recommending Mr. W. K. Thomson to assist
Mr. Brownlee in his mission amongst the Buffers.
In taking the liberty of soliciting Earl Bathurst's sanction to
this appointment, I beg leave to recommend that Mr. W. B.
Thomson should be given clearly to understand, that his being
continued in the Service of the Colonial Qovemment must entirely
depend upon the success that may attend his and Mr. Brownlee's
exertions in Kafifraria. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henrt Somerset.
[Original.]
Letter from George Harrison, Esqre., to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre,
Tbeasubt Chambebs, 21ff Ftkruary 1821.
Sir, — Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His
Majesty's Treasury your letter of the 2nd Instant stating that an
application has been received from the survivors and representa-
tives of the persons who were lost in the Abeona Transport on
their voyage to the Cape of Good Hope for restitution to them of
the deposit money lodged with Government on their departure for
that Colony.
I have it in command from their Lordships to desire you will
move Lord Bathurst to cause my Lords to be furnished with a
statement, particularizing the names of the individuals and the
sums to which they are severally entitled, the payments having
been generally made by the Heads of Parties, without specifying
the names of the persons who were to accompany them.
I have &c.
(Signed) Geo. Harrisox.
Records of the Cape Colony, '^09
[Original]
Letter from the Bbveeend George Thom to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
29th February 1821.
Sir, — I have the honor to send you certificates of the qualifica-
tions and conduct of Mr. W. E. Thomson from different Professors
of the University of Glasgow, and also a recommendation fix)m
the Eevd. Drs. Chalmers, Love and Dewar, clergymen of the
established Church of Scotland to the Eeverend Scottish ministers
in London to ordain Mr. Thomson as a missionary under Gk)vem-
ment for the heathen to join Mr. Brownlee now a Colonial
Missionary among the Caffres, on the recommendation of the
Governor Lord Charles Henry Somerset ; and I shall wait at the
Colonial Office to-morrow if convenient for you on the business.
I had the honor of receiving from Lord Charles Somerset the
letter of appointment for Eeverend Mr. Murray which I have
forwarded to the Professors and the Eeverend Presbytery of
Aberdeen. I have &c.
(Signed) Geo. Thom,
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to Earl Bathurst.
Cape Town» Biaardh Isi 182L
My Lord, — I am aware that it is too prevalent a custom to
impute blame, where no blame exists, and that your Lordship
must have been assailed with abundance of complaints from the
new Settlement in this Cblony, for which reason I have been
loath to address your Lordship upon the subject, as it is very far
from my wish to give unnecessary trouble to the Authorities,
much less to descend to become a party in the general clamouf ;
on the contrary, it is my principle, and I shall ever conceive
it to be my duty to exhibit well intended measures in the fairest
light and I shall not fail to exert myself to counteract mis- *
representation.
410 Records of the Cape Colony*
The great and exemplary exertions of His Excellency the
Acting Grovernor for the general welfare and benefit of the
Settlers is beyond all praise, and must have the admiration of
every good and loyal subject. Miscarriage in some instances was
doubtless to be expected as a matter of course, particularly with
those persons who had formed too high expectatious of success ;
several individuals have consequently failed in their hopes. The
respectable and peaceable, have found to theur sorrow that a large
proportion of what is termed the radical population, have taken
advantage of unwary masters and derived through them the
means of Emigration ; hence it is that combination and mutiny
have changed the face of servitude, they have broken the bonds
of Indenture, Servants have become bold plunderers ! and Masters
have become mere slaves! I am much afraid that too many
respectable Individuals (browbeat by their own domestics and
worried almost to death) do and will succumb to the desperate
faction of this radical system, and it will occur to your Lordship
that Heads of parties in particular (from theip peculiar situation)
must be the greatest Sufferers in such a state of ferment, being
marked by the envious and evil minded as the fittest objects for
robbery and destruction. I should have been ill adapted for so
arduous a service had I not calculated upon the effects of the bad
passions of mankind when once united in a common cause ; to
this foresight I owe the present safety of my family : — and I am
pained, grieved to say it, that they have been very near (from the
injudicious Tyranny and oppression of one Individual, (whose
name for charity I will forbear) they have been very near to be
forced into the sad vortex of Calamity.
It will be needless to detail to your Lordship, the Toils, the
anxieties, the degrading offices, the petty jealousies, the brutal
conduct, the gross insults, and the base Ingratitude, which I have
endured, — your Lordship's experience in these matters will con-
ceive them aP; in fact, what I have undergone in this most
arduous duty \ beggars description! it is what no Estate, or
remuneration d^uld possibly compensate! surrounded by objects
of irresistible cWm upon my humanity, which could not fail to
excite both compassion and assistance, I have been obliged in a
manner to pay Vhe second and even the third Instalments in
advance to severw of my followers before I can receive these
payments ; it has Vequired the utmost prudence, patience, and
Records of the Cape Colony. 411
perseverance, and the most decided firmness to conduct so large
a party as mine, (I believe the largest of any) to the place of their
location. My Estate! which, alas, on reaching I find to be
utterly untenable, unless I could forego every Manly principle
and surrender my family to become the victims of disappointed
hope, and revenge ; that Cupidity might wreak his vengeance upon
their defenceless heads !
It will be obvious to your Lordship that any departure from
the letter and the spirit of the Government Circulax in respect
to the reimbursement of the Deposit money, as specified in that
official publication, would naturally excite suspicion, reproach,
and revenge ! I have laboured earnestly to point out the superior
advantage of the Colonial arrangement which is without doubt
very considerable in favor of the settlers, if they can be prevailed
upon to think so, in fact it is calculated to benefit the Individuals
though not the Heads of parties, such as mine, for the former
both enjoy the Lands and the sustenance, whilst I am effectually
driven off to seek another settlement and a livelihood ! and that
too by the very men whom I have toiled to serve ! thus I have
been obliged to bid them "farewell" for the present, and have
left them in the full possession of my Estate ! I have conse-
quently been under the necessity (after suffering every species
of violence, peculation, unseen losses, and very heavy expences,
which I have sustained in discharging this truly arduous though
voluntary service; frustrated in my views, and bereft almost of
everything in the world ! I have been reduced to the necessity
of drawing upon His Majesty's Treasury for the amount of the
second and third Instalments which are due to me on my deposit
money, agreeable to the specified terms of the Government
Circular : and I must pray that your Lordship will cause the
supplies to be charged upon the Lands, instead of anticipating
payment from the Deposit money ! which I trust will enable me
to procure a means of existing in some other part of the Colony,
or at least afford me an opportunity of returning to England.
Confiding my future welfare to the exalted Chaiticter, whom I
have the honor to address, and trusting to the good faith of His
Majesty's Government, I have &c.
(Signed) Thos. Willson.
412 Records of the Cape CoUmy.
[Copy.]
Letter from Captain J. W. Bobebts to
Beak ApMniAL Lambert.
Hu Majsbtt's Ship Skoanoaiurt
St. Hsldu, 4a Mamk 1821.
Sir, — ^The SheanacUer arrived at Table Bay the 22nd of January,
I immediately forwarded orders to the Master of the Menai
through the Colonial officer to join me at Saldanha Bay. From
the distance he had travelled along coast it was hardly possible
for him to be there sooner than the 3rd of Febmary. I gained
from all quarters whatever information was known respecting
Angra Pequena and the Missionary Settlement Bethany, but
although Mr. Schmelen had been in Cape Town about five months
before, the position and distance of the place firom the Bay, I
could not ascertain at all accurately. Dr. Phillips, from whom I
received great assistance, said it bore N.E. six days journey (he
supposed). He also procured a Hottentot Bushman who speaks
English, with an old German who has been 43 years in the Colony
and has resided a considerable time amongst theNamaqua Naticms,
to accompany me in the ship, being much more likely to find out
Inhabitants in the Neighbourhood of the Bay, to endure the fatigue
of travelling inland than Europeans, besides being interpreter
between us.
To Dr. Phillips I also left the arrangement of articles necessary
for barter, and dispatched the bill to Sir Jahleel Brenton.
The Master of Menai joined the 3rd Februaiy. He left the
Saldannab the 4th for the Oliphants Biver, I found that he had
already anticipated your orders, having taken an accurate survey
of the mouth of that Biver from all points of the shore, but to fully
satisfy you respecting the possibility of entering it from the Sea,
I proceeded along the Coast : the winds for several days were
light northerly, therefore favourable for our purpose, but foggy.
I pulled on shore two or three days to endeavor to effect a landing,
not being able to see any distance from the ship.
Although such weather is seldom on this Coast, the swell from
the westward was so heavy that the Boilers broke in 13 fathoms
M'ater where I sounded : for many leagues I do not think a boat
Records of the Cape Colony, 413
can land with safety. The entrance of the Eiver was impractic-
able for even a boat when I saw it, and Mr. Brady states that
when he surveyed it on shore, and the wind was strong westerly,
the sea beat tremendously on the bar.
Having fully satisfied myself of the impossibility of entering this
Eiver, of its ever being useful for the purposes of navigation, I
proceeded without delay to Angia Pequena. Arrived February
9th and fired several guns to intimate arrival to natives, if any,
and next morning dispatched a party consisting of Mr. Charles
Brand, Admiralty Midshipman, with the Hottentot, the old
German and Corporal of Marines, to find out the Kraal of
Bushmen. I judged it right to send so many together, well
armed, from observing a great many tracks of wild beasts of no
common size; this party returned two days and a half quite
fatigued, having failed.
I arranged three other parties, one under Mr. Grifl&ths, Surgeon,
with the Serjeant of Marines, I sent to penetrate from North to
N.E., the second Mr. C. Brand with the Hottentot and a horse
lent me by the Captain of the St. Helena Schooner with six days
water from N.E. to E.S.E., and a third from East to S.E. They
all returned in three or four days, unsuccessful.
At this period a whaler Schooner arrived and about the same
time six or seven natives came down to the beach, those who
appeared to be chiefs were brought on board, were treated kindly,
fed well, and I endeavoured to draw forth some information
respecting Mr. Schmelen, but they denied aU knowledge of any
white man in the Country. I requested them to carry a letter,
promising liberal reward on return, their answer was " They would
make no objection if they knew the walk, but were unacquainted
with such a place as Bethany, that they lived chiefly on sea coast
to Northward, and knew little of Interior." I then asked to
guide myself, but nothing could induce them to go.
Unwilling to give up the object desired, I determined, as the
ship was in safety, to proceed inland as far as provisions would
permit, with or without natives, taking the Hottentot, the
Surgeon, and Mr. Brand, with seven days water on the horse,
made another attempt (by shew of readiness to proceed) to prevail
on two of them to accompany us, but they refused decidedly, and
packing up their things decamped along the shore to some distance
from the ship.
414 Records of the Cape Colony,
They stated as reason for refusing, the want of water in interior,
the wild beasts, and great heat. Being thus obliged to proceed
alone, we quitted the ship at 4 o'clock of the afternoon, and
travelling to the edge of an extensive desert, saw the track of a
waggon which had evidently been at the Bay. This gave us hopes,
we followed it three days journey to Eastward and lost it in a
deep sandy desert. When the sun rose next morning, on looking
from a hill at the country round, nothing was to be seen for many
leagues before us, but sand. Our water but just sufficient to carry
us back. I therefore judged it prudent to return. We arrived in
safety very much fatigued, having gone fifty miles inland. The
country we travelled over consists of sandy deserts, high sand
hills and rocks, no vegetation or water or indication of inhabitants.
The wind blew generally strong from Southward, which setting
the sand in motion, almost blinded us ; the heat was oppressive.
The waggon track we followed had passed at least two months
before during the rainy season, most probably to the Bay for fish,
in opinion of Hottentot, by whom I was guided.
If Mr. Schmelen could once send a person to Angra Pequena, to
state to anyone, or to leave engraven on any spot the precise
distance and direction of Bethany, I think with two or three
bullocks (during rainy season) the Settlement might be found out,
but in the hot months, the want of water and great fatigue of
travelling on foot renders it almost impossible.
The Hottentot who accompanied us and whose knowledge of
travelling in such a country is truly wonderful, thought without
other means and more information he would not proceed further
inland.
If a communication is to be opened I think cattle may be
procured when it rains, but I do not see how they can be driven
down at other times.
The Master of the Whaler informed me that the Natives who
came to the Bay had followed his vessel along the coast for some
time, living chiefly on fish, seals, and by hunting in the immediate
neighbourhood. They are not numerous, have a great many dogs,
appear harmless, but most wretched beings. They get water to
the Northward along coast about a day's journey, where they
generally horde, but have no settled spot, following vessels up and
down for whale blubber, &c. &c. Whalers have been supplied at
times with a few Bullocks and some Goats, which it is supposed
Records of the Cape Colony, 415
are stolen from Tribes in interior when they can travel, which
may account for their unwillingness to show us the way.
I endeavoured to get them to bring down some now, but they
stated none were to be had at present.
The rainy months commence the end of April
Having thus used every endeavour to execute your orders, and
seeing no prospect during the hot season,^! determined to return,
and trust although I have not been so fortunate as to succeed the
exertions used will meet your approbation.
Angra Pequena is an excellent anchorage, some parts are
sheltered from aU winds. There is plenty of fish to be caught
with net ; but could find no water anywhere. Mr. Brady, Master
of M&iaai has completed a correct survey of the Bay.
I do not think I should be acting with justice in closing this
letter without mentioning in strong terms the great activity of
Mr. Brand, Admiralty Midshipman, who, with cheerfulness imder-
took three excurions into the interior, and for ten nights and days
underwent very great fatigue. I beg leave to recommend him to
your notice. I have &c.
(Signed) J. W. Egberts, Captain.
[Original.]
Leitefr frmi the Eeverend T. D. Whitaker to Colonel
Claughton, M.P.
VlOABAOE, BlACKBUBN.
Sir, — I take the liberty of enclosing for your perusal a letter
from Mr. Boardman, who was indebted to your patronage for a
situation near the Cape of Good Hope, where he is arrived with a
numerous family.
But it appears that, from a circumstance which he explains in
the letter, his stipend yet remains unfixed, and without your inter-
position with Government may continue unfixed to an indefinite
period and to his great distress.
May I therefore use the additional freedom of requesting that
you will have the goodness to interpose once more on his behalf,
416 Records of the Cape Colony,
and to procure for him the actual possession of the income already
assigned and promised to him. I am &c.
(Signed) T. D. Whitaker.
[Original.]
Letter from. Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOVBBNMSNT HOUSE,
Gaps of Good Hope, ^th Marek 1821.
My Lord, — I beg leave to acquaint Your Lordship that I have
granted leave of absence for the term of six months from the period
of his embarkation from hence, to Henry Ellis, Esquire, Deputy
Colonial Secretary, to return to Europe on his private aflfairs.
I have directed Mr. Ellis to report himself to your Tiordship on
his arrival in England, and to apply to you for any further exten-
sion of leave, and I have furnished him with the Certificate
required by your Lordship's Dispatch No. 29 dated 21st April
1818. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Extracts of a Letter from, Bear Admiral Lambert to
J. W. Croker, Esqre.
St. Helena, ^ih March 1821.
The Shearwater arrived yesterday evening from Angra Pequena,
where Captain Boberts found it impracticable to open a com-
munication with the missionary settlements during the dry months,
but thinks it may be effected in the rainy season.
The entrance of the Olifant Kiver is also found impracticable.
As he has engaged in this service with great zeal, I enclose a copy
of his report for their Lordships' information, and I shall send tiie
surveys made by Mr. Brady, the acting Master of the Menai, by
the first opportunity after the drawings are completed.
Records of the Cape Colony. 417
[OiiginaL]
Letter from Colonel Claughton, M.P., to Earl Bathukst.
London, March 5ih 1821.
My Lord, — ^I have the honor to inclose to your Lordship a letter
sent to me by the Vicar of Blackburn, with one from the Eevd.
Wm. Boardman to his son. Your Lordship may perhaps remember
that he was lately appointed Chaplain to a party going to the Cape
of Gk)od Hope with Mr. Wilson, but it appears, as your Lordship
will collect from the inclosed letters, that there is some demur or
difficulty as to the stipend assigned to Mr. Boardman. May I
hope that your Lordship will do, as there is no doubt, what is just
and right in the affair, and have the goodness to return to me the
letters to enable me to answer the one, and to send the other to
Mr. Boardman's friends ?
I have to apologise for the frequent trouble I have given to your
Lordship, and have &c.
(Signed) T. Claughton.
[Original.]
Letter from E. LusHiNGTON, Esqre., to Henry
GOULBURN, ESQRB.
Tbeasuby Ghaubebs, 5ih March 1821.
Sir, — Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His
Majesty's Treasury your letter of the 28th November last with
one from Lord Charles Somerset recommending an application of
the Comptroller of the Customs at the Cape of Good Hope to
receive the proportion usually assigned to the Seizing Officer, of a
seizure of gunpowder. I have it in command to acquaint you for
the information of Earl Bathurst that upon a full consideration of
this case in all its bearings, My Lords see no grounds whatever
for altering the opinion they have already expressed of the in-
expediency upon public grounds of officers of the Eevenue in His
Majesty's Colonies abroad proceeding to the sale of stores of any
description, the undoubted property of Government, however they
may have been forfeited and condemned by the laws of the Colony
XIIL 2 E
418 Records of the Cape Colony.
for the neglect or misconduct of the servants or agents of Govern-
ment who may happen to have the charge of them in not payrag
due obedience to the Laws and Begnlations of such colony ; at the
same time however as in the present case the Comptroller of the
Customs at the Cape appears to* have acted, in a great degree at
east, under the authority of the Gk)vemor, and as his conduct
throughout the transaction has met with his approbation. My
Lords request that you will move Earl Bathurst to communicate
to Lord Charles Somerset that they will no longer interpose to
prevent Mr. Bird's receiving that part of the sum arising from the
seizure and sale of this gunpowder to which, under the Colonial
Laws, he may bo strictly entitled, and which may consequently be
considered as legally vested in him. I am &c.
(Signed) E. Lushington.
[Copy.]
Letter from Joseph Luson, Esqre., to the Secretary to the
East Irbdia Company.
Gaps of Good Hope, 5th March 1821.
Sir, — I have the honor to acquaint you that the Honourable
East India Company's Ships Marchioness of Ely and General
Hewitt arrived here on the 27th and 28th ultimo with stores for
this place.
2. Upon my application on the latter day at the Custom House
for a permit to land their cargoes, I obtained one from the Comp-
troller of Customs, although the ships brought no manifests which
are required by Law; and I am most extremely concerned to
acquaint you that I have notwithstanding within the last hour
been called upon by the Collector and Comptroller of Customs to
give security on account of the East India Company, for the value
of the Cape stores which they deem to be liable to seizure for want
of a manifest "properly authenticated." I shall immediately
address a memorial to His Excellency the Governor on the subject
previous to my complying with their demand.
3. I submitted in the absence of the manifest the Invoices
for the inspection of the Officers of His Majesty's Customs, and
Records of the Gape Colony, 419
pointed out to them that no possible intention of acting illegally
could have existed, and therefore hoped as the invoices were signed
by Mr. Urmston, the Chief at Canton, who would have signed the
manifests had such been made out, that they might be received as
an equivalent, but these they have not admitted ; the stores are
however in the meantime given up to me, and the Ships are
proceeding with their landing as usual.
4. The want of manifests existed when the stores arrived in
February 1819, and it was then with great difficulty that I could
get the stores landed, which on the 23rd March following I com-
municated to the Select Committee at Canton, and in consequence
the following season manifests were duly forwarded, which on the
present occasion have been so unfortunately omitted.
5. The ship by which this goes being on the point of sailing, I
could not omit communicating the circumstances of this case so
far as they are gone, in order that the Honorable Court might be
enabled to take any immediate steps that may be deemed neces-
sary, with which view I enclose copies of the Invoices.
I have &c.
(Signed) Joseph Luson, Agent H.E.I.C.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord
Charles Somerset.
Downing Stbeet, 6 March 1821.
My Lord,— I have laid before Earl Bathurst your letter of the
21st ultimo, accompanied by an application from the Eevd. Greorge
Thorn recommending Mr. W. E. Thomson as a fit person to assist
Mr. Brownlee in his Mission amongst the Kafifers, and in conveying
to your Lordship Lord Bathurst's sanction to this appointment, I
have his directions to request that you would make the com-
munication to Mr. Thomson which is suggested in your letter.
I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
2 e 2
Becords of the Cape Cciowi/.
418
for the neglect or misconduct of the serrants or agents of Gorein-
ment who ma; happen to have the charge of them in not paying
due obedience to the Laws and Eegnlations of such colony ; at the
same time however as in the present case the Comptroller of the
Customs at the Cape appears to have acted, in a great degree at
east, nnder the authority of the {Joveraor, and as his conduct
throughout the transaction has met with his approbation. My
Lords request that you will move Earl Bathurst to commnnicate
to Lord Charles Somerset that they will no longer interpose to
prevent Mr. Bird's receivii^ that part of the snm arising from tiie
seizure and sale of this gunpowder to which, imder the Cokoia]
Laws, he may bo strictly entitled, and which may conseqn^itly be
considered as legally vested in him, I am £c.
(Signed) R LuiuUHUTrar.
[Copy.l
Letter from Joseph Luson, Esqrk., to ike Seeretary to th
EaM India G/mpany,
Car gv Qo^ Bopi,5t& jlf/r
SiK,- — I have the honor to acquaint yon ihat tiic IlHiimr
East Intlia Company's Ships Marehwum of Khj hH'I
Eewiit arrived here on the 27tfa and 2SQi dtiinii wni
this place.
2. Upon my application on the latter day ftt ' I
>ermit to land t^^h^igoes, I oI'Nihl- 1 '"'
f Customs^^^^^Khe Hbip" i ^^
420 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend George Thom to Henry
GOULBURN, ESQRE.
15 Oastle Street, Oxford Street, 6f& Mardi 1821.
Sir, — I had the honor of receiving a letter from Lord Charles
Henry Somerset dated 21st February as an answer to my com-
munication respecting Mr. W. E. Thomson to whom I had written
(agreeable to the wishes of his Lordship expressed to me and
the original intention of the Colonial Government that another
missionary should accompany Mr. Brownlee now with Gaika the
chief of the CafiFres, and according to such an intention Mr.
Brownlee went among them) : that his Lordship is pleased to state
to me, "I have written to Mr. Goulbum respecting Mr. W. E.
Thomson and beg to refer you to him." Accordingly I had the
honor of forwarding various certificates respecting Mr. Thomson
for your inspection ; and now beg leave to solicit an interview on
the subject ; or if nothing more is required, that he may be
appointed, and to favor me with the certificates. In the meantime
I have the pleasure to state, that Mr. Thomson possesses different
qualifications from those of Mr. Brownlee, and that he is now in
London preparing himself by acquiring a knowledge of the new
system of education and several useful arts, so that it appears to
me, that jointly with Mr. Brownlee, they will both answer the
wishes of the Colonial Government and of Gaika, respecting the
Caffres.
I further beg leave to solicit an answer as early as convenient
I have &c.
(Signed) George Thom.
Records of the Cape Colony. - 421
LCopy.]
Letter from the Acting Collector and the Comptroller of
Customs to Sir Eqfane Shawe Donkin.
Custom Hoxtse, Marok QUh 1821.
Sir, — ^We have the honor to request that Your Excellency will
be graciously pleased to allow us the favor of a personal conference
on the subject of the cargoes of the Ships Marchioness of Ely and
GeneraZ Hewitt We are induced thus to press for a personal con-
ference as the urgency of the case will scarce permit the lapse of
time belonging to Official forms. We have &c.
»
(S^ed) H. Ellis, Acting Collector,
W. WiLBERFORCE BiRD, Comptroller of Customs.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
Government House,
Cafe of Good Hope, March 7th 1821
My Lord, — In my dispatch of the 26th of January, No. 27, 1 had
occasion to trouble your Lordship much at length on the subject
of the jurisdiction of the Vice Admiralty Court in this Colony.
I regret that I have again to bring that subject before your
Lordship.
The two annual and regular China Ships belonging to the
East India Company, Marchioness of My and General ffevritt,
came here on the 27th and 28th of February, as usual, with their
cargoes for this place, and have been seized by the Acting
Collector and Comptroller of His Majesty's Customs on accoimt
of their not having manifests, which defect in their papers these
two officers say subjects the cargoes to seizure and confiscation.
On this point of Law it was not for me to decide. I therefore
left the Custom House to proceed in the usual course, although
I could not help regretting that such a seizure had been made, on
account of the injury which all difficulties and delay in matters
422 Records of the Cape Colorny:
of trade and commerce must to a certain degree cause ; and, as far
as my judgment enables me to go, it is not the wish of His
Majesty's Government that, in time of Peace, Custom House
Laws should be interpreted in the sense " strictissimi juris,"
particularly where no fraud could possibly be intended, as
certainly none was by these regular and annual ships.
It is not, however, upon this point that I have to trouble your
Lordship, but on the subject of the enclosed letter from the
Acting Collector and the Comptroller of the Customs, and the
enclosed Memorials from the Comptroller, which were yesterday
handed to me while in the Colonial Ofl&ce here, and, in con-
sequence of which, I had soon after a conference with those
Gentlemen, the object of which on their part was to acquaint me
with their wish to carry the case of the two China Ships into the
Vice Admiralty Court, there to be tried, and not into the ordinary
" Court of Justice " of this Colony.
The Comptroller states in his memorial one reason at length
for doing so, which relates to a subject which has before been
under your Lordship's notice, the seizure of some gunpowder
belonging to the King.
The Acting Collector moreover stated that he considered the
Article of the Eegulations quoted by the Comptroller aa Ulegaly
inasmuch as the creation of a Vice Admiralty Court here by the
King had superseded in regard to the China Ships and pro tanto,
the power and jurisdiction of the " Court of Justice," and that,
moreover, the case of the China Ships was one dependent on the
Navigation Laws, and was not a Revenue Case; in which view
of the subject the Comptroller concurred.
In conclusion, these Gentlemen told me that the main object
of their conference was to express their hope that I would not
consider them as "contumacious" in contravening the article
of Instructions to the Custom House above alluded to. In reply
to all which I told them that the subject involved a very grave
question, and that I must take time to consider before I gave my
answer.
That answer I have this morhing given, and I have the honor
to submit a copy of it to your Lordship. I am placed in a
difl&cult situation. Much mischief may result to this Colony
if the ordinary and principal Civil Court in it is to be superseded
by a Court of Vice Admiralty, but on the other hand, I should be
Records of the Cape Colony. 423
taking a very heavy responsibility on myself were I to prohibit
the seizors from going into the Court of Vice Admiralty when
they think they have a lawful right to do so; or were I to
prohibit that Court from taking cognizance of a case carried
to it for decision. Under these diflSculties I have taken the line
indicated in my letter to the Comptroller, and which I hope will
not be disapproved of by your Lordship.
Tour Lordship will probably be of opinion that the Governor
of this Colony has need of a specific instruction relative to the
powers of the Vice Admiralty Court, which has been gradually
putting forth claims as to jurisdiction, which, if established to
the extent which I believe is meditated, will go almost to the
extinction of the ordinary Court of this colony ; or, at all events,
will render some changes in its constitution necessary.
In making this observation I hope I shall not be understood
as imputing blame to the Vice Admiralty Court I cannot blame
it for asserting its supposed Eights; but I submit that those
Bights require now to be accurately defiAcd. They are certainly
new here, and a Governor has not the light of any precedent to
guide him.
There is another point to which I beg leave to draw your
Lordship's attention, which is, the loss the Eevenue of this Colony
will sustain if questions of Custom House seizure be abstracted
from the jurisdiction of the ordinary Colonial Court and transferred
to the Court of Vice Admiralty ; for, by the usage and law of this
Colony, in cases of confiscation under a prosecution in the " Court
of Justice" on the part of the Custom House, one third of the
amount goes to the Colonial Treasury, and this source of Bevenue
is now threatened with annihilation.
Your Lordship is suf&ciently aware of the state of the finances
and of the revenues of this Colony to know that they cannot bear
defalcations without much public inconvenience. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
424 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to the
COMPTROLLBE OF CUSTOMS.
(JoYBBmoENT HouBE, March 7th 1821.
Sir, — I have received and duly considered your memorial of
yesterday's date, and I have also well weighed the conversation
which passed between yon, the Acting Collector of His Majesty's
Customs, and myself, consequent on that memorial, and your joint
application for a personal conference with me, and, I have now to
communicate to you my sentiments thereon.
Your application to me, both written and verbal, involves a
very grave question, no less a one than a defining of the legal
powers and competence of the Court of Justice and the Court of
Vice Admiralty as established in this Colony.
I should have considered the article of the Instructions to the
Collector of Customs, quoted by you in your memorial, as decisive
and imperative on you, had not the Acting Collector stated at our
conference that in his opinion that article was illegal, in as much
as it tends to supersede the jurisdiction of the Vice Admiralty
Court as established by the King : in which opinion I understood
you to coincide.
This is a point of such magnitude and demanding such a scope
of legal knowledge that I cannot take it on myseK to pronounce
upon it, but I shall submit the question to His Majesty's
Government.
However, as it is necessary to come to some practical result
in the case of the two China Ships, I acquaint you in answer
to your expressed request at our meeting yesterday that I shall
not consider you and the Acting Collector of Customs as " Con-
tumacious " in case you contravene the above mentioned article
of Instruction, and carry the cause into the Vice Admiralty Court,
as you purpose dotug; but you are not to consider th^ as an
authority from me for your doing so.
I leave you and the Collector to proceed in such manner as to
you both may appear legal, but I will not by any act or order
of mine give a direct sanction to a departure from the practice
which has hitherto prevailed, nor annul or set aside the Eegula-
Records of the Cape Colony, 425
tions established in this Colony for the guidance of the Custom
House, and on which several Governors, in succession, have for
so many years acted. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin. .
[Copy.]
Mandate of the Vice Admiralty Court,
George the Fourth by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, to
William James Berkwood Esquire, Deputy Marshal of the Vice
Admiralty Instance Court at the Cape of Good Hope, Greeting ;
We do hereby empower and strictly charge and command you,
that you omit not by reason of any liberty or franchise, but that
you arrest or cause to be arrested, the goods wares and merchan-
dizes mentioned and specified in a list or schedule hereunto
annexed (reference being thereto had will more fully and at large
appear) now or lately laden in, or on board the Honorable East
India Company's Ship General Hewitt whereof James Pearson
Esquire is Commander, wheresoever you shall find the same, and
the same so arrested you keep, under safe and secure aiTest, until
you shall receive further orders from us, and that you cite at the
premises Joseph Luson Esquire, the Agent of the Honorable East
India Company, as also the said James Pearson Esquire, and all
persons in general, who have or pretend to have any right, title
or interest, to the said goods, wares and merchandizes, to appear
before us or our judge of the said Vice Admiralty Instance Court,
or his Surrogate, in the Castle of Good Hope, or in his chambers,
on the third day after the said arrest, if it be a Court day, else on
the Court day following, between the usual hours for hearing of
causes, there to answer unto Henry EUis Esquire, Acting Collector,
and William Wilberforce Bird Esquire, Comptroller of His
Majesty's Customs at the Port of Table Bay, Cape of Good Hope,
as aforesaid, in cause of the Breach of the Laws of Navigation
and Eevenue now in force, civil and maritime, and further to do
and receive in this behaK as unto justice shall appertain, and that
you duly certify us, or our said judge or his Surrogate, what you
shall do in the premises together with these presents.
426 Records of the Cape Colony.
Given at the Castle of Good Hope in onr aforessud Court, this
seventh day of March, in the year of our Lord One thousand
Eight Hundred and twenty one ; under the Seal Hereof, and in
our reign the Second Year.
(Signed) George Cadogan, Begistrar.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Fiscal to the Acting Collector and the
Comptroller of Cvstoms,
Fisoal's OFncB, 7{h March 1821.
Gentlebien, — ^As from the informations which I have received
yesterday, it has appeared to me that it is your intention notwith-
standing the official communication which took place on the
5th instant, to withhold from me all those informations which in
my official capacity as His Majesty's Fiscal I am entitled to,
respecting the ships Marchioness of My and General Hemtt, and
thus to act in direct opposition to your instructions, by which you
are directed in all cases of seizure made by you, to report the
same with as little delay as possible, to His Majesty's Fiscal,
in order that he may take the proper steps for the investigation
and prosecution, according to the established laws of this Colony,
comprising such of the British Navigation Laws as by the Statute
49 Geo. Ill Cap. 17 and the Order of His late Majesty in Council
of the 12th April 1809 have been declared to be binding on this
Colony; I hereby most solemnly protest against the illegality
of your said conduct in the cases of the said two ships and all
the consequences which may result therefrom, reserving the right
of obtaining all manner of redress that may be lawfully obtained
against the same ; and will not fail to make the proper applica-
tion to His Excellency the Acting Governor for enforcing the
compliance with your said instructions. I have &c.
(Signed) D. Denyssen, Fiscal
Becords of the Cape Colony, 427
[Copy.]
Letter from the Custom House Officers to the Fiscal.
Custom House, March 7th 1821.
Sir, — ^We have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of this day, in which you protest against our withholding
from you the documents necessary to enable you to consider the
expediency of prosecuting the Masters of the Ships Marchioness
of My and Central Hefwitt for a breach of the Manifest Acts*
We use the term " consider " as we are yet uninformed whether
you deemed the case sufficient to justify a legal proceeding.
With submission, we beg leave to observe that you seem to have
overlooked or misunderstood the real nature of our proceeding, in
relieving you from the duty of moving the Worshipful Court of
Justice in this subject, namely our conviction that the case is not
within the jurisdiction of that Court, but as a breach of the
Navigation Laws belongs specially to the Vice Admiralty Court,
which under correction we cannot deem non-existent in matters
particularized in the Commission under which his honor the Vice
Judge acts.
Our judgment may err in determining the respective jurisdic-
tions, but we have the satisfaction of knowing that the rights of
the Crown cannot possibly suffer and that every end of substantial
justice will be fully and speedily attained by the course intended.
We had the honor yesterday of communicating with His
Excellency the Acting Governor on the subject of jurisdiction,
and at the same time of submitting our anxiety to be discharged
from any misinterpretation of our motives. We have &c.
(Signed) H. Ellis, Acting Collector,
W. WiLBERFORCE BiRD, Comptroller of Customs,
[Copy.J
Letter from the Fiscal to the Colonial Secretary,
Fiboal'b Ofviob, Marck 7(h 1821.
Sir, — Having been informed that the Acting Collector and the
Comptroller of His Majesty's Customs have made seizure of part
428 Xecords of the Cape Colony.
of the cargoes of the Honorable Company^s ships Marchioness of
My and General Hewitt on the ground of a breach of the British
Manifest Acts, and they do intend to commence a Lawsuit for the
confiscation of the seized goods in the Vice Admiralty Court, in
direct opposition to their instructions, enjoining them to report all
seizures made by them with as little delay as possible to His
Majesty's Fiscal, in order that he may take proper steps for the
prosecution ; and thereby not only to deprive the Court of Justice
of its ordinary jurisdiction, but also materially to injure the
income of the Colonial Treasury and the emoluments of my of&cial
situation.
I think it highly incumbent to request that these circumstances
may be laid before His Excellency the Acting Grovemor, and that
the Acting Collector and Comptroller of His Majesty's Customs
may be ordered to act comformably to their instructions, and
may be made answerable for the consequences which from an
unauthorized departure from the same probably will result
I have &c.
(Signed) D. Denyssen, FiscaL
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Fiscal.
Colonial Office, 7^ Marck 1821.
Sir, — I lost no time in submitting your Letter of this date to
His Excellency the Acting Governor, and I am commanded to
infprm you that His Excellency will take the matter thereof into
his most serious consideration, and adopt such measures therein
as to him may seem best. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bied.
Becords of the Cape Colony. 429
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Acting Deputy
Landdrost of Albany,
Colonial Offiob, lik March 1821.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the acting Governor to
acquaint you, that disapproving entirely of the meetings which
have lately been convened at Graham's Town, under the pretext
of discussing agricultural subjects, his Excellency desires you will
in future discountenance such altogether ; and his Excellency has
desired me to add, that the colonial government has no further
occasion for the services of Mr. Goodwin,(?) who was lately appointed
clerk in the secretarial establishment of your district, it appearing
that Mr. Goodwin (?) has taken a very active part in convening
these meetings by addressing circular letters to heads of parties.
I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Copy.]
Memorial of the Fiscal to the Court of Justice.
To His Honor Sir J. A. Truter, Knight, Chief Justice, and the
Members of the Court of Justice of the C6lony of the Cape of
(Jood Hope and the Dependencies thereof.
The Memorial of His Majesty's Fiscal respectfully sheweth
That on the 5th instant Henry Ellis, Esquire, Acting Cd-
lector, and William Wilberforce Bird, Esquire, Comptroller of
His Majesty's Customs, made an official report to the E. 0.
Memorialist, that there was a quantity of goods destined for this
Colony laden on board the Honorable East India Company's Ship
Marchioness of Ely, which had arrived here from Canton in China,
but of which no authenticated manifest had been produced at the
Custom House, and that on the grounds of the want of such
manifest, those gentlemen conceived said goods liable to confisca-
tion according to the existing British Navigation Laws, at the same
430 Records of the Cape Colony,
time requesting the B. 0. Memorialist to prosecute the case before
this Worshipful Court.
That the B. 0. Memorialist, as not being sufficiently acquainted
with the merits of the case, and not being willing to incur any
responsibility, took the case provisionally into deliberation, but
nevertheless, on the proposal to bring it by prorogation of
jurisdiction before the full Court, instead of before one com-
missioner, and at all events to effect that the value of the goods
for which the Agent of the Honorable East India Company was
to give the necessary security, should supply the place of the
goods themselves, which it was the wish of both the Collector and
Comptroller should be delivered up on such security being given
by the Agent of the Company, the B. 0. Memorialist took upon
him to take the necessary preparatory steps thereto before this
Worshipful Court.
That on the 6th instant the B. 0. Memorialist commenced acting,
by submitting to the Chief Justice the proposal of bringing the
case to the cognizance of the full Court, by means of prorogation
of jurisdiction, as also of the Agent of the East India Company
giving security for the value of the goods liable to confiscation,
which was to represent the goods themselves; and the Chief
Justice, having acquiesced therein, the B. 0. Memorialist in
consequence proceeded to draw up a Memorial to this Worshipful
Court tending to that purpose, towards which, requiring, besides
the reproduction of the above-mentioned not duly authenticated
manifest of the goods, which had been previously delivered to him,
or a copy thereof, some further information respecting the case
from the Collector of the Customs, he wrote him on the subject,
but received for answer that both the Acting Collector and Comp-
troller, on a further consideration of the business regarding the
said ship Marchioness of My, as well as a similar one with the
Honorable East India Company's ship General Hewitt^ had been
induced to adopt other measures, and were therefore willing to
spare the B. 0. Memorialist the trouble of addressing this Worship-
ful Court on the subject, it being their opinion that the case did
not belong to the cognizance of this Court, but to that of the Court
of Vice Admiralty here.
That the B. 0. Memorialist, well convinced of the groundlessness
of that sudden change in the opinion of the above-mentioned two
gentlemen, whereby the uninterruptedly acknowledged jurisdiction
JRecords of the Cape Colony. 431
of this Worshipful Court in all such cases, ever since the existence
of the British Government here, was for the first time called in
question, notwithstanding, that that jurisdiction has been con-
firmed both by usage and the laws enacted from time to time, and
with respect to the Navigation Laws, by the Act of the British »
Parliament dated the 24th March 1809, and the subsequent order
of His Majesty in Council dated the 12th of April following,
deemed it advisable to address himself by Letter (copy of which
is annexed) to His Excellency the Governor, requesting that the
Acting Collector and the Comptroller of His Majesty's Customs
should be ordered to proceed pursuant to the tenor of their
respective Instructions, whereby they are directed to report as
speedily as possible all seizures made by them to His Majesty's
Fiscal in order that he may take the necessary steps for the
discovery and prosecution of the offenders.
That the R 0. Memorialist at the same time informed both the
Acting Collector and Comptroller by letter (also annexed) of his
objections to their conduct, protesting against the same, and of
his intention to seek redress where it was legally to be had.
Having adopted all those measures, nothing now remains for
the E. 0. Memorialist than to bring this case to the knowledge of
this Worshipful Court, respectfully requesting that your Worships
may be pleased to take the necessary steps for the maintenance of
the rights of the Colonial Government in general, and of the
jurisdiction of this Worshipful Court in particular, the cognizance
of which, even supposing it had a concurrent jurisdiction in the
case in question with the Court of Vice Admiralty, was still
however already called in by preference by the E. 0. Memorialist
on the 6th Instant, when he obtained the consent of the Chief
Justice to the above mentioned oflScial proposal.
And Memorialist as in duty bound &c.
(Signed) D. Denyssen, Fiscal,
Fiscal's Office, %ih March 1821.
432 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
M&morial of the Agent of the East India Company.
To His Excellency Sir E. Donkin, K.C.B., Acting Governor,
&c., &c.
Memorial of Joseph Luson, Agent to the Honorahle East
India Company, Sfieweth
That your Excellency's Memorialist did on the 5th Instant
address a memorial to your Excellency relative to the circum-
stances of the ships Marchioness of Ely and General Hewitt^ to
which your Excellency was pleased to express your regret in a
letter from the Colonial Secretary dated 8th Instant, that such
circumstances had occurred, but that your Excellency did not feel
that you had any power to stay any proceedings which may be
instituted in the case ; that subsequent thereto, the cargoes of the
East India Company have by the Acting Collector and Comptroller
of Customs been referred for adjudication to the Vice Admiralty
Instance Court of the Cape of Good Hope, a Tribunal hitherto
unacknowledged in its authority for local purposes in this Colony ;
but the said Court having this day served a Warrant of Seizure of
the said cargoes on your Excellency's memorialist he was under
the necessity of denying its jurisdiction and authority, fully
relying on the acknowledged constituted and authorised jurisdic-
tion of this Colony for protection in having so done, and that he
immediately reported the circumstances to His Majesty's Fiscal,
from whom he obtained a corroboration of his opinion.
That it appearing from the 5th article of Instructions given by
the Government to the Collector of Customs in this Colony on the
18th February 1808 it is directed that " all seizures made by the
Ofiicers of Customs shall, with as little delay as possible, be
reported by the Collector to His Majesty's Fiscal, in order that
he may take the proper steps for the investigation and prosecution
according to the established laws of the Colony," your Excellency's
memorialist consequently conceives that the said officers in re-
ferring the present case for prosecution to the Vice Admiralty
Instance Court have acted in direct contradiction of that article
of instructions, and have thereby subjected Your Excellency's
memorialist to the exercise of an arbitrary jurisdiction which, if
Records of the Cape Colony, 433
admitted to be legal in the present instance, would, by establishing
such a precedent, tend to deprive the inhabitants of this Colony
of their acknowledged rights of being subject to no other Courts of
Law than those under which they have hitherto been protected in
their persons and property.
That your Excellency's Memorialist therefore believes that he
shall be fully justified in not having acknowledged the authority
of the Vice Admiralty Instance Court; and humbly prays that
your Excellency may be pleased to call upon the Acting Collector
and Comptroller of Customs to state their reasons for having in
the present instance departed from the mode of proceeding directed
to be observed " in aU seizures," especially as the Vice Admiralty
Instance Court has in consequence proceeded to arrest the cargoes,
and the Comptroller of the Customs has demanded of your
Excellency's Memorialist to point out where the said East India
Company's cargoes are deposited, in order that he might affix
seals on the warehouse doors, which would have been the means of
depriving your Excellency's memorialist of the disposition of the
same, notwithstanding they were landed by the authority of permits
granted by the Officers of Customs, and were therefore, he con-
ceives, legally given up to the keeping and disposal of your
Excellency's Memorialist in his capacity as agent to the East
India Company.
That the extreme hardship of this case will be made apparent
when referring to the late case of the Lady Flora, it will be found
that the Officers of Customs have permitted an unmolested
landing and disposal of her cargo although she was unprovided
with any manifest duly authenticated at the Port of Canton (the
want of which document is in the present instance the ostensible
ground for seizure),, nor were her invoices of that satisfactory
nature (by having the official signature of the Officer for authenti-
cating manifests in China attached thereto) as is the case with
the invoices of the East India Company's cargoes by the ships
Marchioness of Ely and General Hewitt
Your Excellency's memorialist therefore most humbly prays
that he may be allowed the quiet and undisturbed possession of
the property of the East India Company, and that he may not be
subjected to the interference of any authority whatever in the
discharge of his duties and occupations except by the established
Colonial Laws and Eegulations, which under your Excellency's
XIII. 2 F
434 Records of the Cape Colony.
administration have given such general satisfaction to the com-
munity at large.
And your Memorialist as in duty bound will ever pray.
(Signed) Joseph Luson,
Agent H. K L Company,
Gafb Town, lOih March, 1821.
[Original.]
Letter from R. LuSHiNGTON, EsQRE., to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Tbeasubt Ghakbebs, \2ih ifardk 1821.
Sir, — ^Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His
Majesty's Treasury your letter of the 19th ultimo relative to
the return of the Deposit Money made by William Russell in
behalf of the persons who were lost in the Abeona Transport, I
have it in command to acquaint you for the information of Earl
Bathurst that My Lords have directed the Bill for £380, which
may be drawn on this account by Mr. Dalgleish, to be accepted
by Mr. Hill. I am &c.
(Signed) R. Lushington.
[Copy.l.
>;:
Letter from SiR Rufanb Shawe Donkin to J. LusoN, Esqrb.
GtoYEBNm&NT Houfls, Mardi I2ih 1821.
Sir, — I have taken into my most serious consideration your
memorial of the 10th Inst, respecting the seizure of the cargoes
of the ships Marchioness of Ely and General Hewitt by the Acting
Collector and Comptroller of His Majesty's Customs, and the
subsequent steps taken by those OflScers, more particularly their
having carried the case into the Court of Vice Admiralty here,
instead of into the Ordinary Court of this Colony, in consequence
of all which, and other matters set forth in your Memorial, you
Records qf the Cape Colony,, 435
call upon me to interfere, and more especially to allow you the
quiet and undisturbed possession of the property of the East India
Company, as well as to protect you from the interference of any
authority except by the established Colonial Laws and Eegula-
tions; in answer to which I have now to acquaint you that
although I am of opinion that the Colonial Court of Justice would
have been the proper Court for the Collector and Comptroller of
Customs to have carried their case before, and that their not
having done so is a departure from a specific Colonial Regulation
(but of which they dispute the legality), I do not feel that I am
vested with any authority by which I can take out of the Court of
Vice Admiralty here any cause which has been carried into it, and
which has been received by that court, established as it is, by the
King's authority ; and, on that account, I cannot interfere in the
way you wish; but I conceive that you have legal and regular
remedies within your own reach, and without any extra judicial
iuterference of mine, by which the right of jurisdiction on the
part of the Vice Admiralty Court, in the present instance may be
investigated and decided, and when, should it appear that the
Court had assumed any power to which it was not legally entitled,
a full and complete redress will be open to you and any other
aggrieved party in this case by due course of Law.
It may be right to acquaint you that I have in no way
sanctioned the Collector or Comptroller's having carried this case
into the Vice Admiralty Court, although on the principles I have
stated above, I did not feel myself authorized to forbid their doing
so. I am &c.
(Signed) R. S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Memorial of the Comptroller of Customs.
To His Excellency Major General Sir R. S. Donkin, K.C.B.,
Acting Governor and Commanding in Chief, &c., &c., &c.
The Memorial of W. Wilberforce Bird, Comptroller of His
Majesty's Customs, Sheweth :
That your Memorialist is in the course of his duty as a Revenue
2 P 2
436 Records of the Cape Colony.
officer called upon to commence together with the Collector of
H. M. Customs a suit against parties concerned in the importation
from China of Goods into this Colony without producing the
required documents.
That being desirous of bringing this cause into the Vice
Admiralty Court of this Settlement, which by its nature may
be considered most competent to the decision of maritime affairs,
he finds from the 5th article of the Instructions to the Collector
of Customs, by which also your Memorialist is bound, that " all
Seizures are to be reported by the Collector to His Majesty's
Fiscal, that he may take proper steps for the investigation and
prosecution according to the established laws of the Colony."
That your Memorialist has therefore accompanied the Collector
to the Fiscal in obedience to the Instructions.
That having so done your Memorialist humbly intreats to be
permitted by your Excellency to request the Collector of His
Majesty's Customs to carry this cause for decision into the Vice
Admiralty Court of this Colony.
That your Memorialist has every due regard for the talents and
uprightness of the Worshipful the Court of Justice, but having
personally and unfortunately experienced the inability of that
Court to carry its own final Sentence into execution, your
Memorialist cannot without the deepest regret have recourse
again to that Tribunal in a case of the same nature.
That it is well known to your Excellency that in a Revenue
Case in October 1818 a final Sentence of condemnation was passed
in favour of your Memorialist, which sentence, notwithstanding
the constant applications of your Memorialist to the Court of
Justice, remains at this moment " a dead letter," to the extreme
injury of your Memorialist.
That under these circumstances and dreading their repetition,
your Memorialist humbly prays that your Excellency will permit
the Collector (if he be so willing) to take this cause for judgment
into the Vice Admiralty Court of this Settlement.
And your Memorialist as in duty bound &c. &c. &c.
(Signed) W. Wilberfokce Bird,
Comptroller of Customs.
iieeards of the Cape Colony, 437
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. William Paeker to Earl Bathurst.
BuBOHBBs Post, Grobnkloof,
South Afbioa, Hth March 1821.
My Lord,— I take the liberty to enclose to your Lordship the
Cape Town Official Gazette of Saturday last the 10th March Inst.
This contains an Advertisement of the sale by Auction of some of
the Government Lands at Saldanha Bay, where lieut. Colonel
Christopher Bird ordered the landing of my party of Settlers.
The Advertisement has led me to re-examine my correspondence
with Colonel Bird. In his letter of the 27th May last, (copy of
which together with copies of other documents is herewith
forwarded), he asserts that it is not pra^cticdble to locate the Settlers
by the £ast Indian, or any portion of them at Saldanha Bay, there
being no unappropriated land in that quarter, '
Now My Lord permit me to say that if I had been before in the
least destitute of convincing proofs of the gross impropriety of
Colonel Bird's conduct, he has himself enabled me to submit them
to your Lordship's consideration. But I am persuaded that your
Lordship will be pleased to receive this fact as an additional
instance of the great mismanagement of the affairs of this Colony.
I take leave also to forward to your Lordship a copy of my
letter of this date to Mr. StoU, the Landdrost of the Cape District,
in which I have requested him to solicit His Excellency the
Acting Governor to defer the sale of th^ lands at Saldanha Bay,
until the result of my present application to your Lordship be
known. But as Sir Eufane Donkin has been solely guided by
Colonel Bird since he assumed the Government of this Colony I
apprehend that he will not attend to my request. Should he
however do so, I trust that your Lordship will be pleased to order
these Lands down to Low Water mark to be granted to me in
part compensation for my great loss and disappointment in this
Colony, which I have so fully proved to have originated with
Colonel Bird, who, the first day I saw him, took an antipathy
to me, because as a loyal and firm Protestant well experienced in
the evils of Popeiy, I reprobated the conduct of the Eomish
Priesthood in Ireland, one of the great evils of my unfortunate
country, and I told the Colonial Secretary^ that I rejoiced that [
438 Records of the Cape Colony^
was to live far remote from their influence. But in this I was
mistaken for Colonel Bird had a Popish Priest in this Colony
under his immediate protection, as fully appears by an official
Advertisement in the Cape Gazette of the 12th February 1820, the
very day His Majesty issued his excellent Proclamation for the
general suppression of immorality and vice, but which Proclama-
tion through the insidious spirit of Popery was utterly disregarded
in this Colony.
Popery is inconsistent with all good government, no country
can possibly prosper when its councils are within the reach of its
influence.
I take the liberty in the exercise of the privilege of a British
Subject to address your Lordship on a topic which circumstances
have rendered most relevant to my complaint against Colonel
Bird.
Your Lordship by your noble, firm and strenuous opposition to
the demands of a faction in Ireland, to undo the glorious work of
our forefathers, the, I hope, imperishable Constitution of Great
Britain, has proved the soundness of your judgment. Although
some of the best men of the age difier in opinion with your
Lordship on this subject, it is a difierence which proceeds from
the purest motives, that partake more of the meekness of
Christian charity, than an intimate knowledge of Koman Catholic
Principles, of the effects of which every Statesman should have
some personal knowledge before he can be strictly competent to
give an opinion as to the eligibility of Boman Catholics to places
of power in a Protestant (Jovernment
£x uno disce omnes.
And from the Cape of Grood Hope let every reflecting man draw
his own conclusions as to the alleged innoxiousness of Popish
influence.
Now, My Lord, if Lt. Colonel Christopher Bird be not a
confirmed Boman Catholic, he certainly wants the indispensable
requisite, an outward and visible sign of the inward and spiritual
grace of a good Protestant, for he has totally neglected the
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, which the Beverend Mr. Dennis
is prepared to prove.
The first legal and Parliamentary authorities (and we cannot
go beyond Blackstone and Burke) assert that "our Church is
Protestant, our State is Protestant, our Government is Protestant
Records of the >Cwpe Colony. 439
in all its parts.** Surely therefore the Cape of Good Hope is
strictly a part of our Protestant Government and the inconsistency
of a Popish Colonial Secretary in it, must be very apparent to
your Lordship.
Were it necessary to multiply complaints against Colonel Bird
as to his ill conduct here I could adduce the purchase of lands for
the Settlers under the directions of Captain Campbell, Mr. Griffith,
Mr. White and Mr. Keave at the Zonder End, for the sum as I
understand of 39,000 guilders but which lands were on inspection
abandoned by all these individuals except Mr. Keave, and were
with a considerable addition lately advertised for sale when 15,000
Guilders was all that was offered for them. Thus has the Colony
been run to an expense of 24,000 Guilders, when Colonel Bird
asserts that it was totally impossible to purchase lands for the
Settlers,
Your Lordship will be the better able to judge of Sir Bufane
Donkin's competency for this Government, when he told Mr.
Griffith that the grant of Lands he was to get was worth £10,000
Sterling.
The farmers in this Colony have been greatly harassed by the
very unwise measures of His Majesty's Government here, measures
which time has proved to have emanated from a predisposed
determination to injure His Ministers at home. I have &a
(Signed) Wm. Pakker.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. William Parker to J. W. Stoll, Esqre.
BuBOHiBBS Post, 15^^ Maardh 1821.
Sir, — Having seen in the Cape Town Gazette of Saturday last,
an advertisement of the Sale by auction of the Lands and Houses
belonging to Government on the Peninsula of Saldanha Bay, I
feel it my duty to address you as Landdrost of the Cape District
thereon, as the official organ through whose medium applications
respecting Lands should reach the Acting Governor by whose
commands you advertised the Lands in question.
440 Becards of the Cwpt CoUmy^
From the advertisement I am fully convinced that Sir BufjEuie
Donkin is uninformed as to my first correspondence with the
Colonial Secretary, when I had the honour of meeting you at the
Bay. I therefore take the liberty to transmit to you for the
special information of His Excellency, a copy of my letter of
the 22nd May respecting these very lands and a copy of his reply
of the 27th of that Month.
Colonel Bird asserts ''I regret to see the determination you
have come to, which so deeply affects the interests of the Settlers
belonging to the East Indian, the landing and locating these
parties or any portion of them by Qovemment at Saldanha Bay
is not pra>dicaik, there being no unappropriated land in that
quarter''
l^'ow Sir, you as Landdrost told me that there was unwppro^
priated land near the Post House and your public advertisement
confirms the truth of your candid assertion.
Indeed, Sir, I have always found every communication of yours
•bottomed on the strong foundation of truth, and that in your
conduct there was no deceit. Acting as I have done according to
the strict letter of the Earl Bathurst's Instructions and Begula-
tions, which have been so utterly disregarded by the Colonial
Secretary, I shall refer his Lordship to these documents and shall
solicit a grant of the lands in question.
I have therefore to request that you will immediately submit
this letter to His Excellency, together with the copies of a part
of my correspondence with Colonel Bird and request him to be
pleased to order the sale of the lands to be postponed until the
pleasure of the British Government be known.
His Majesty's Ministers vdll at once see the gross deception
that has been practised on me since my arrival in this Colony by
Colonel Birdy and they will no doubt feel indignant, that a lojel
British subject firmly attached to the Protestant ascendancy in
Church and State should be treated in a Protestant Colony with
such cruel and ruinous deception.
I beg that ypu will favour me with an early answer and I
have &c,
(Signed) Wm. Paekbr.
HecordB of the Cape Colony. 441
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOVBBNUENT HoUSE,
Gafb of Good Hope, March nth 1821.
My Lord, — In my last Dispatch of the 7th of this month,
marked separate, I had the honor of submitting to your Lordship
a report of the circumstances which had taken place here relative
to the Seizure of two China Ships by the Acting Collector and
Comptroller of the Custom^, and that those Of&cers had carried
the case into the Vice Admiralty Court for adjudication, instead
of into the Ordinary Court of this Colony.
I beg leave now to lay before your Lordship a copy of a
Memorial from Mr. Luson, Agent to the East India Company here,
relative to that Seizure, and which states also that he had refused
to acknowledge the jurisdiction of the Vice Admiralty Court ; to
which Memorial I returned an answer of which I have the honor
to enclose a Copy.
Your Lordship will observe that I have declined all along acting
extra judicially in this affair, on the principle that the Executive
should not interfere authoritatively in questions of Civil Eights or
of Property, where the parties can have recourse to Law, but I
have no hesitation in saying that if the Seizure and ultimate con-
fiscation of the ships in question had been a matter solely affecting
this Colony and its revenues, I should, under all the circumstances,
and its being evident that no fraud was intended on the part of
the Captains (as certainly none was) have ordered the Custom
House to desist until the question should be submitted to His
Majesty's Government for decision ; but by carrying the case into
the Vice Admiralty Court the Collector and Comptroller make the
Crown a party in the event of confiscation, and, consequently, had
I interfered, I should have been disposing of the King's Bights
without any authority to do so.
I fear that this and some other similar events originating in
.the Custom House and Vice Admiralty Court of late, will be
prejudicial to this Port, and that Ships will be deterred from
entering a place where they are subject not only to unexpected
and doubtful Seizures, but also to be carried into a Court foy
442 Records of the Cape Colony ^
adjudication, whose jurisdiction in matters of this nature has never
before been heard of in this Colony.
Your Lordship will perhaps pardon my submitting for your
Lordship's consideration that in the Custom House Bevenue cases
in England, where a hardship is clearly proved, a simple applica-
tion to the Commissioners of Customs obtains redress at once.
In this Colony there are no Commissioners nor, as far as I am
aware, does a power analogous to theirs anywhere exist here,
imless it be supposed to exist in th^ Governor as the King's
representative, and Your Lordship may perhaps be disposed to
consider how far it may be right to confer such a power on the
Governor or otherwise in case it does not already exist in him, so
as to afford relief in Custom House Seizures, where the Law may
be peremptory, and the offence venial. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Messrs. Claringbould and Darby to
Earl Bathurst.
Deal, 17 Jtraroft 1821.
My Lord, — ^Having been permitted by His Excellency Governor
Donkin to return to this Country for the purpose of procuring
various articles necessary for our Establishment at Algoa Bay, we
seize the first moment of our arrival for the purpose of transmitting
the inclosed letter from our party detailing our views and wishes
and humbly soliciting the aid of your Lordship towards carrying
them into effect by granting us a passage for ourselves, and the
articles we may purchase, to the Cape of Good Hope in any of
His Majesty's Store ships or vessels of war bound to that colony.
The inclosed letter fully developing our objects, we forbear to
trouble your Lordship at greater length than to add our most
humble but earnest request that your Lordship will be pleased to
•comply therewith, but the benefit we have already received at
your Lordship's hands for the convenience of our undertaking and
the favorable and indeed friendly reception we have experienced
from all the OflScers of Government at the Colony' from the
Records of the Cape Colony. 44$
moment of out debarkation call for the most grateful acknow-
ledgements, and we now beg leave most respectfully, but most
sincerely, to offer them on behalf of ourselves and our whole
party.
We left Algoa Bay on the 18th December last, at which time
our own Establishment and all in the Vicinity were progressing
beyond our most sanguine expectations ; we had previously taken
a journey of 7 days up the Country, which we found indescribably
delightful and the new Settlers quite as comfortable as from their
recent location could be expected. Holding ourselves at the
command of your Lordship, we have the honour &c.
(Signed) Eichard Claringbould,
John Darby,
at Mr. Edward Darby's, DeaL
[Original.]
Letter from Captain Hugh Pigot to Earl Bathurst.
11 Pebot Stbbbt, 3faro^ llih 1821.
My Lord, — I have this instant received a letter from my brother
Major Geo. Pigot at the Cape, respecting whom my brother Colonel
Pigot and I called to entreat your Lordship would give him the
appointment of Landdrost of Albany, Colonel Graham having
declined it. I likewise requested if possible to be allowed to send
him some agricultural implements by a Government Transport
freight free, and particularized a water wheel with mill stones &c.
I now beg leave to lay before your Lordship an extract from his
letter.
** If it was represented to Government that there is but one
mill within an hundred miles of Graham's Town and our new
capital (Bathurst Town) I feel confident from the liberality we
have all experienced you will be permitted to send one by a
Government Store Ship or Transport, and if you can by the same
means, send out clothing for another year with double the quantity
of shoes. Had I not come out so well supplied with them, my
people would have had as much reason to be dissatisfied as some
444 Records of the Cape Colony,
others have. The wheat I am informed is blighted throughout the
Colony, in this I am not singular, fresh seed therefore must be
procured or one may expect the same next year.
" The Cowie Eiver, which runs from Graham's Town through my
estate and Bathurst Town (my fishermen informed me) has a bar
at the entrance with four or five feet at low water, but within a
vessel of three hundred tons can sail up for many miles. Goods
landed here would save great expence and I hope to have a wharf
erected by next year."
I fear my lord having already dwelt too long, and shall beg to
conclude by entreating your Lordship will be pleased to take this
matter into your consideration, and remain &c.
(Signed) Hugh Pigot, Captain R.N.
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend George Thom to Henry
GOULBURN, ESQRE.
15 Castle Street, Ozfobd Stbibt, 2l9t March 1821.
Sir, — ^I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the
appointment of the Eevd. W. E. Thomson, and have fully ex-
plained to him the objects and conditions of the same.
As Mr. Thomson is desirous of immediately proceeding to the
Cape I beg leave to solicit a passage for him, or a sum for that
purpose. If a few pounds were allowed also for some agricultural
implements, a collection of seeds and for a hand-mill for grinding
corn, it would save much extra expence to the Colonial Govern-
ment. I have &c.
(Signed) George Thom.
Records of the Cape Colony, 445
[OriginaL]
Letter from the Keverend William Eitchie Thomson to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
LoNDOK, 2\9t Marth 1821.
Sir, — I had the honour to receive (through the medium of the
Reverend George Thorn) the letter of sanction from the Eight
Honourable Earl Bathurst of my appointment to the Caflfres in
South Africa, also a letter from Lord Charles Somerset in which
his Lordship refers Mr. Thom to you for a passage.
I beg leave now respectfully to state that in the prospect of this
undertaking I have been making preparations to enable me in
conjunction with Mr. Brownlee to forward the benevolent designs
of the Colonial Government towards that people ; and I trust that
by patience, kindness and industry we shall be successful in com-
municating useful knowledge.
Having already subjected myself to considerable expense by a
residence in London for several weeks, I feel anxious now to leave
this country so soon as possible. I therefore solicit your attention
to the passage to the Colony and that you will be pleased either to
appoint me to a vessel of Government at any early period or grant
a sum of money sufficient to defray the necessary expenses to
Cape Town. I have &c.
(Signed) W, E. Thomson.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin.
DowNDfG Street, 23rd March 1821.
Sir, — I transmit to you a letter addressed to His Majesty
containing an Enquiry relative to the fate of an Individual who is
represented to have accompanied General Janssens to the Gape of
Good Hope in 1802: And I am to request that you would be
pleased to direct enquiry to be made respecting the person in
question, and that you would transmit to me a Certificate legally
446 Records of the Cape Colony.
verified of his existence if it should appear that he is still alive
and residing within the limits of your Government or of his Death
if it should prove that he died in the Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathubst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter frwn Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to C. Griffith, Esqre.
DowNnra Stbbbt, 23r(2 March 1821.
Sir, — I have received the directions of Earl Bathurst to acknow-
ledge the receipt of your letter of the 2nd of October last, enclosing
a joint Petition from your Brother and yourself praying that two
small grazing farms of unappropriated Government Lands at the
Cape may be granted to you on perpetual Quit rent ; and I am
desired to acquaint you in reply that it does not at present appear
advisable to Lord Bathurst to authorise the alienation of the land
in question which forms a part of the Domain of the Crown.
I am &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord
Charles Somerset.
DowNiNa Street, 2Srd Marek 1821.
My Lord, — I do myself the honour to acquaint your Lordship
by direction of Earl Bathurst that the Society for the Propagation
of the Grospel in Foreign parts have adopted the Suggestion con-
tained in your Lordship's letter of the 14th of February last, and
have consented to appropriate in aid of the Expence attending the
erection of a Church at Graham's Town the Grant of £500 which
they voted last year towards a similar object at Cape Town.
I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
Records of th^ Cape Colony. 44T
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Kufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOTEBNMBNT HoUSE,
Cafe of Good Hopb, 26e^ March 1821.
My Lord, — I have the honour to enclose an application to your
Lordship from Lieutenants Charles and Valentine Griffith of the
Eoyal Marines, praying that Your Lordship will sanction their
obtaining possession (on the tenure of Perpetual Quitrent at a
reduced rent) of a Government Farm here of which they have a
temporary occupancy on Lease at a Kent of Five Hundred and
thirty rixdoUars per annum.
These gentlemen came out as Heads of a Party of Settlers and
were offered a location at the Zonder End Eiver about fifty miles
irom hence in a situation peculiarly central, but after having
viewed the lands they did not approve of them, and declined
taking up their abode upon them ; it was then proposed to convey
them to the Zuureveld or Albany District where the largest
proportion of Settlers is located, but this they also declined and
in lieu thereof made a private agreement for the remainder of the
Lease, of which twenty-four years are unexpired, of the Old Post
Farm in the Groene Eloof District.
These gentlemen set forth to your Lordship the long services
of their family, which your Lordship will best appreciate, without
comment from me, but your Lordship will in the decision of this
application naturally consider, whether under the circumstances
of their case, these gentlemen, who have refused two locations^
have any well founded claims on this Colony altho' they have
received no lands as Settlers, and whether it be advisable to
establish a precedent of reducing the permanent Land Bevenuo
of this Colony. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
448 Records of the Cape Colony,
[Original.]
Memorial of Messrs. Claringbould and Dabby to the
Earl of Liverpool.
To the Eight Honorable the Earl of Liverpool, &**. &**.
May it please your Lordship
We the undersigned being the persons permitted by a letter of
leave from His Excellency the Governor of the Cape of Good
Hope to return to England for the purpose of procuring articles
necessary for the better establishment of a Fishery by the Deal
Party of Settlers located at Algoa Bay under Mr. Charles Gumey,
and respecting which we had the honor of addressing your Lord-
ship a few days ago through the medium of the Eeverend Mr.
Pennington having understood that the ship Sappho^ Captain
Lamb, is taken up by Government as a Transport for the purpose
of conveying stores and passengers to the Cape of Good Hope and
is now loading at Deptford Dockyard and expected to sail in
about twelve days, beg leave to solicit through your Lordship the
favor of a passage for ourselves and the boats and articles we
have purchased for our Fishery by the said ship free of freight.
We beg leave most respectfully to represent to your Lordship
that in purchasing the articles we came to England for we have
expended the greater part of our capital and that we should
consequently feel most severely the additional expence to which
we should be subject were we to convey them and ourselves to
the Cape in a merchant ship liable to freight, and as our object has
the approval of His Excellency the Governor and we trust will
be deemed by your Lordship to be a truly laudable one, we
humbly presume to hope that your Lordship will be pleased to
enable us to carry it into effect by granting us permission to pro-
ceed with our said articles in the manner before requested. And
as in duty bound, We will ever pray.
(Signed) Kichard Claringbould,
John Darby.
Deal, 30t^ Mardh 1821.
lUcords of the Cape Colony. 449
[Copy.]
Proclamation by SiE EUFANE Shawe Donkin.
Whereas the Landdrost and Heemraden of the District of
Stellenbosch have represented to me, the Inadequacy of the
Ordinary Eevenue of their District, to meet the great Expences to
which they have unavoidably been subjected, and by which a
considerable Arrear has occurred, which it is now necessary to
provide for ; and whereas the Landdrost of the aforesaid District
has requested, that the Board be allowed to levy at the ensuing
Opgauf, besides the ordinary Quotas, as already authorized, the
further sum of One Eixdollar per Head, for every Slave, Male or
Female, above the age of 10 years, and Four Skillings, or a Half
Eixdollar, for every Male or Female Slave, under that Age, from
the respective Proprietors thereof. Inhabitants of that District.
By Virtue, therefore, of the Power and Authority in me vested,
and in furtherance of the Provisions of the Proclamation of the
1st April, 1814, which regulated the Mode by which the Assess-
ments for meeting the Expenditure of the several Country Districts
should be made, I do hereby empower, authorize, and direct the
Landdrost and Heemraden of the District of SteUenbosch, to levy
at the ensuing Opgaaf of the years 1821 and 1822, from the
Proprietors of Slaves in that District, the several Sums of One
Eixdollar per Head, for each Slave of, or above, the Age of 10
Years, and Four Skillings, or a Half Eixdollar, for every Slave
under that Age ; and I do hereby further empower the aforesaid
Landdrost, to sue for, and recover in the usual manner, any and
every Default of Payment in the Premises, after regular Demand
shall have been made for the same.
And that no Person may plead ignorance hereof, this shall be
published and affixed in the usual manner.
God save the King I
Given under my Hand and Seal, at the Gape of Good Hope,
this 30th day of March, 1821.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
XITI. 2 G
450 Becards of the Cape Colony^
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henby Goulbubn, Esqrb., to
Lord Charles Somerset.
DowNnra Stbbbt, 81 Mar^ 1821.
My Lord, — I do myself the honour to transmit to your Lord-
ship by the desire of Earl Bathurst for your Information and
Guidance, the accompanying copy of a letter from the Secretaiy
of the Treasury in answer to one which I addressed to him on the
28th of November on the subject of the application made on the
part of the Comptroller of Customs at the Cape to receive the
proportion assigned by the Laws of the Colony to the seizing
officer, of the Gunpowder seized by him in consequence of the
irregular and illegal mode of its being landed by the Ordnance
Office. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry GtOULburn.
[Original.]
Ldter from the Navy Boa/rd to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Nayt (hviCB, Srd April 1821.
Sir, — ^With reference to our letter of the 22nd ultimo, we
acquaint you, for the information of Earl Bathurst, that the
persons undermentioned may embark on board the Sappho,
360 tons, at Deptford, on Saturday next the 7th instant, for
passages to the Cape of Good Hope, viz.
J°^ McLaren
J°®. McLean } Emigrants
James Clark
Zephur
Joseph and J Witnesses returning to the Isle of France
Favore
Charlotte Forbes and her 4 children. We are &c,
(Signed) Et. Sopping,
J. Thomson,
J. Bowen.
Records of the Gape Colony^ 451
[Copy.]
Letter from the Court of Justice to SlE RuFANE Shawe Donkin.
Gaps Towxr, April 6tA 1821.
Sib, — We again feel ourselves under the disagreeable necessity
of addressing your Excellency on the subject of impediments
which the Court of Justice has met with from the side of the
Vice Admiralty Court, in the discharge of its official functions.
On the 8th March last His Majesty's Fiscal addressed the
annexed Memorial with the four accompanying documents to
our Court, from which will appear that the Acting Collector
and Comptroller of His Majesty's Customs, after having comform-
ably to the 5ih article of their Instructions, reported to the Fiscal
an intended seizure of certain goods, imported here in the Honor-
able East India Company's ships MarchioTiess of My and General
Hewitt, and after the Fiscal had in consequence taken preparatory
official steps with the Chief Justice, brought the further prosecu-
tion of the case before the Vice Admiralty Court, which Court
actually admitted the same, notwithstanding besides the measures
taken by the Fiscal, the parties concerned had already summoned
the Acting Collector and Comptroller before the Court of Justice,
in order there to institute their action, should they conceive to
have any against them.
What further proceedings did take place in the Vice Admiralty
Court, we are ignorant of; but on the 10th March a sentence was
given by our Court, ordering the Acting Collector and Comp-
troller, pursuant to the 21st article of their Instructions, to furnish
His Majesty's Fiscal with the grounds on which they conceived they
could justify the said seizure, and the Fiscal, should he deem
those grounds sufficient, to prosecute the case in the usual manner
before our Court.
From this interlocutory sentence the Acting Collector and
Comptroller appealed to the Court of Appeals here, through
which the final decision of the cases has been hitherto prevented.
However we have not thought ourselves justified, on this account,
to withhold any longer our sentiments on the subject from your
Excellency's notice and serious consideration.
In so doingy it is by no means the object of the Court of Justice
to enter into any anxious discussion respecting the competency, or
2 G 2
452 Heeards tf the Cape Colony^
incompetency, of the Vice Admiralty Court to take cognizance of
cases regarding the Bevenue of the Colony, and of questions
arising out of breaches of the Navigation Laws, connected
therewith.
Neither has the Court the smallest intention to infringe on the
rights of the Vice Admiralty Court, much less to do so with a
view thereby to extend the Uraits of its own jurisdiction beyond
the prescribed bounds. While moreover the Commission of the
Vice Admiralty Court having never been promulgated here, or
been communicated in any other legal manner to the Court of
Justice, we feel ourselves unable upon adequate grounds to form
a regular judgment on the competency or incompetency of that
Court
The sole object of the court of Justice is to point out to His
Majesty's Government that in the case mentioned in the Fiscal's
memorial, without the least act on the part of this Court, impedi-
ments have been thrown in the way of the free course of Justice,
which the interest of this Colony, under His Majesty's Govern-
ment, imperatively requires should be prevented in future. In
justification hereof we beg leave to offer the following considera-
tions.
In the first place, the Court of Justice is known to be the
Ordinary King's Court at the Cape of Good Hope, competent to
judge and decide all cases, as well criminal as civil, without
exception; so that he who, in any case, should undertake to
dispute the Court's competency would be obliged to prove another
jurisdiction competent in such particular case.
Secondly, the Court of Justice has been not only from time
immemorial under the Dutch Government, but especially since
the year 1795 under the British Government, in the undisturbed
possession of the free exercise of jurisdiction in all cases of
revenue and seizure occurring within the limits of this Colony,
without any the least doubt having ever been started on the
subject.
Thirdly, The Court of justice is, with due submission, of opinion
that the rights and privileges of the inhabitants of this Colony
are necessarily connected with the competency of this Court ; not
only because it must be considered as of essential importance
to them that they should find their competent Court in the
ordinary Colonial Court of Law, but especially because if they
Records of the Cape Colony. 453
were subject to the jurisdiction of the "Vice Admiralty Court, they
would thereby be deprived of the advantage of an intermediate
appeal in this Colony, and compelled, at a much greater and more
heavy expense, to carry their case immediately to England.
Pourthly, There do not exist any reasons, connected with the
interests of Justice and of His Majesty's subjects, and founded
on principles of a speedy, moderate and impartial administration
of the Laws, which in either of the cases which of late have
been entertained by the Vice Admiralty Court, would justify the
expediency of a right of preference being attributed to that Court.
Fifthly, finally we believe we may add that as uncertainty
is an essential defect in the administration of Justice, a continua-
tion of the present state of things would be entirely inconsistent
with the liberal spirit which so evidently shines through that
branch of the British Government, and which most certainly can
never have a tendency towards creating such ferment in the
public mind as has been apparent on the occurrences which have
led to this application, and which probably will not have escaped
your Excellency's attention.
We beg leave to conclude with the assurance that the Court
of Justice has no other object in view than to see a continuance
of that order which has hitherto, under many different and
difficult circumstances, so happily and iminterruptedly reigned
in this Colony, and on our part further to impress on the inhabi-
tants the conviction that their lot has no less, with regard to the
administration of Justice than in other respects, been improved
under their present mother country.
For the rest we most willingly submit to all dispositions
which His Majesty's Gk)vernment may deem proper to make
in this respect, well convinced that their object will invariably
tend to insure the honor and the interests of justice.
We have &c.
The Chief Justice and Members of the Court.
(Signed) J. A. Truter,
By order of the Court.
(Signed) D. F. Berrangb, Secretary,
454 Jtecords of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from the Severend George Tho»C to
Henry GouLBuitN, Esqrb.
London, 5^ April 1821.
Sir, — I beg leave to introduce the EevA Mr. Thomson who is
ready to emimrk to the Cape. I trust that you will have the
goodness to allow him passage money, as there are several ships
to sail next week for the Gape, and Mr. Thomson has been now
so many weeks in London living with his wife at much expence
which has completely dried up the little funds he had. If you
would be kind enough to permit Mr. Thomson to take his passage
(which for himself and wife can be obtained for £100) and allow
a sum for agricultural purposes &c. as stated in my last letter,
you would greatly oblige me. I have &c.
(Signed) Geo. Thom.
[Copy.]
Petition of John Quin.
To His Excellency Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin, K.C.B., Acting
Governor of the Cape of Good Hope.
The humble petition of John Quin, Labourer, Showeth
That Your Petitioner is the Articled Servant of Mr. Wm.
Parker, who has abandoned him, and being deprived of provisions
as granted the Settlers here, your petitioner prays Your Excellency
to order his being discharged from said Parker, and to afford him
provisions until such time as your petitioner can get employment
somewhere else, as it is impossible for your petitioner to remove
from hence for some time, as your petitioner's wife daily expects
to be brought to bed, who with three small children and myself
are now depending on the bounty of the Rev**. Mr. M^Cleland,
and Mr. Ingram as your petitioner has not a dollar on earth
and almost destitute of clothes.
Mecords cf the Cape Colony. 455
Your petitioner prayd your ExceUency to take tis ttiiserable
fidtuation into yotir Excellency's serious consideration, and afiford
him the means of removing his truly unfortunate family from
hence, in order that he may get work, as those humane gentlemen
cannot long procure us sustenance, and your petitioner will as
in duty bound for ever pray.
(Signed) John Quin.
Pabtbidge Valley, 6t^ ^prt2 1821.
[Copy.]
Proceedings connected vdth the East India Company's Ships
General Hewitt and Marchioness of Ely.
On Saturday the seventh day of April in the year of Our Lord
one thousand eight hundred and twenty one.
Before me George Cadogan, Notary Public, by the authority
of Parliament duly sworn, and admitted, residing in Cape Town,
Cape of Good Hope, in the presence of the subscribed witnesses,
personally came and appeared Johannes Henricus de Wet of
Strand Street, Cape Town aforesaid, Esquire, who did declare,
testify, and say for truth, in manner following, that is to say :
That between the hours of 10 and 12 in the forenoon of Friday
the ninth day of March last past, Mr. Berkwood in his capacity
as Deputy Mai*shall of the Court of Vice Admiralty at the Cape
of Good Hope, came to the house of him the appearer, and stated
a desire to speak with Captain James Pearsoii Commander of the
Honorable East India Company's Ship the Ceneral Hewitt^ then
lying at anclior in Table Bay, that he the said appeater caused him;
the said Deputy Marshall to be introduced into an apartment,
which he the said Captain Pearson occupied. That immediately
afterwards, he the said Captain Pearson produced to him the
appearer a paper writing, observing at the same time that it
was a copy of a warrant of arrest, issued from the Court of Vice
Admiralty, and had been then served upon him by the said
Deputy Marshall.
To the truth hereof, he the said Appearer declared to be ready
and willing to make oath, whenever so required. Thus done
and passed in Cape Town aforesaid, in the presence of Eichard
466 Becords of the Cape Colony.
Bland and Johann Cobus Wrensch, witnesses hereto required,
who with the appearer and me the Notary have subscribed to
the original hereof, written upon a stamp of one Bixdollar.
Which I attest.
(Signed) Geo. Cadogan, Notary Public.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Rufane Shawb Donkin.
Ck>LONiAL Office, 10 April 1821.
Sir, — ^I have received and laid before the King your Dispatch
of the 30th of December last relative to the general failure of the
Wheat Crop throughout the Colony of the Cape of Gk)od Hope,
and I am commanded to express to you the deep regret with which
His Majesty has learnt the severe visitation to which the Colony
has been subjected ; which is the more to be deplored as destroying
the fair hopes which the Settlers lately established, had reason to
entertain of reaping the fruits of their industrious exertions. It
remains only for me to convey to you His Majesty's Approval of
the measures, which under these unfortunate circumstances you
have taken, for alleviating the evils which this Calamity must
bring upon the Settlers ; and to inculcate upon you, that while
you do not permit such aid to be withheld from these Individuals
as may be essential to their maintenance (taking for the repay-
ment such security as they may be able to afford) you do not lose
sight of the paramount duty of an economical application of the
means at your disposal for their relief. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
Records of the Cape CoUmy. 457
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Lord
Charles Somerset.
Downing Stbbbt, 10 A'jgfH 1821.
My Lord, — ^I have had the honour to receive and lay before
Earl Bathurst your Lordship's Letter of the 14th of February last
relative to the expediency of establishing English Schools in the
Colony of the Cape of Grood Hope. Lord Bathurst has given me
directions to acquaint your Lordship in reply that he entirely
concurs with you in opinion as to the expediency and propriety
of gradually superseding the Dutch Schoolmasters by Englishmen
of a superior class, as affording both the best means of making the
English Language more general in the Colony and improving the
manners and morals of the People. Lord Bathurst, therefore,
readily sanctions the plan recommended by Mr. Thom and will be
ready to approve the appointment of a limited number of British
Schoolmasters at the Salaries proposed on proper Certificates being
produced of their qualifications. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Reverend Mr. Scully to the Burgher Senate.
Gaps of Good Hops, lOtik Apnt 1821.
Gentlemen,— ^The Gk)vemment in Europe a^nd the Government
at the Cape of Good Hope have been pleased to approve of my
mission to this Colony as a Boman Catholic Priest.
I have the honour to inform you, that the object of this Mission
is much retarded by the want of a proper place for the performance
of Divine Worship.
I humbly and respectfully request you will be pleased to take
this circumstance into your Consideration.
I pray in the name of the Inhabitants of Cape Town and its
vicinity who profess the Eoman Catholic Faith, that you will have
458 Records of the Gape CoUm/.
the goodness to grant my humble request, which is, that a con-
veniently situated piece of ground may be allowed for the building
of a Chapel, School, Priest's Dwelling, &c. I have &c.
(Signed) P. Scully, Priest.
[Office Copy.J
Letter fro^m HfiNliY GotJLBURN, EsQKE., to SiR Rufanb
Shawe Donkin.
DowNDTO Stbsbt, II April 1821.
Sir,— This Letter will be delivered to you by three Black Men
named Zephur, Joseph and Favore who were brought to this
Country some time since from the Isle of I^rance to give evidence
on a Trial for Slave Dealing, and whom Lord Bathurst has provided
with Passages to the Cape in consequence of their objection to
return to the Mauritius. Lord Bathurst has desired me to state
to you the circumst&nces of their case, and to request that you
will give to these Individuals every assistance in your power to
enable them to obtain the means of earning a livelihood on their
arrival at the Cape. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Major Pigot.
Colonial Office, 11 Aprii 1821.
Sir, — I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 1st
of January last giving a report of your voyage to the Cape of Good
Hope in the Northampton Transpoil; and subsequent establishment
in Albany, and I have in reply to express my gratification at
hearing so favourable an account of the state of the Settlement,
and of the prospect of those persons Who have proceeded to the
same District I am &c.
(Signed) Henry GotJLBURN.
Bteard* «f the Gape Colowy. 45d
[Copy.]
Ldter from the Directors of the Roman Catholic Church in
Capetown to the Burgher Senate,
Gape of Gk>OD Hops, IWi, April 1821.
Gentlemen, — The Directors of the Eoman Catholic Church have
been acquainted that the Beverend Mr. P. Scully, Priest of said
Church, has addressed a memorial to you requesting in the name
of the Catholic Inhabitants of Cape Town, and its vicinity, the
grant of a piece of Ground for the Building of a Chapel &c. &c.,
without giving information thereof to the Directors.
We hope you will see the impropriety of Mr. Scully, as he is
paid by us and the Congregation, and therefore cannot do anything
exclusive of his Sacerdotal duties, without the previous knowledge
of the Directors, and that you will be pleased not to give any
answer to his Letter without the further approbation of the
Directors, who will first inquire into his request We have &c.
(Signed) F. De Lettbb, Commissioner^
of the Church
J. W. BOHMER I
J. B. Verrume ' ^^^^^•
M. DoNOUGH, Absent
Joseph Heinrich
[Original,]
Letter from Lord CflARLBis Somerset to Henry
GOULBURN, ESQRE.
NoBTH Bow, April IZth 1821.
Sir, — Mr. Thomson, the gentleman whose appointment (as
coadjutor with Mr. Brownlee in a mission to the Kafifers for the
purposes of Religion and Civilisation) has received Earl Bathurst's
sanction, having applied to me for an advance of money for the
purchase of Agricultural Implements and Seeds, I directed him
to make out an estimate of such articles as he conceived absolutely
460 Records of the Cape Cclany,
necessary^ and have now the honor to enclose it for Earl Bathnrst's
approval.
Should his Lordship be pleased to anthorize it, may I request
that the Colonial Agent may be directed to issue the amount for
the purposes specified.
With r^ard to Mr. Thomson's passage to the Cape, I take the
liberty of suggesting if there should be no Government Vessel
about to sail shortly, that a reasonable allowance be made to
Mr. Thomson to find his own passage, as there are ships departing
for the Cape every week, and a long detention in London would be
ruinous to Mr. Thomson's circumstances. I have &c.
(Signed) Chables Henby Somebset.
[Enclosure.]
List of Agricultural implements &c for the Mission to Cafi&aiia
under the patronage of the Colonial Government.
2 Ploughs (Cottam's improved) . . . . . 9 0 0
6 Plough mould plates @ ea. 8«. . . . • 2 8 0
6 do. shares „ 2fi. 6<i 0 15 0
6 do. ground rests „ 2fi. 6c2. . . . . 0 15 0
6 do. shoes „ 2«. 6d 0 15 0
6 do. Points „ ls.Zd. . . . • 0 7 6
1 Scotch angled Harrow . . . . 4 0 0
1 Ox Harrow . . . . 2 10 0
2 setts do. teeth ,,108 10 0
1 Wheat hand mill (Cottam's improved) . . . 10 10 0
llndian Com mill 2 0 0
6 Scythes @ 9«. . . . . . . 2 14 0
12 reaping hooks „ 28. 6ci 1 10 0
6 spades „ 38 0 18 0
6 Bakes „ l8. 3d. ; 0 7 6
12 Hand hoes „ Is. 0 12 0
A small assortment of Carpenters' tools say to the
amount of . . . • . . . . 6 0 0
Pick axes, Hanmiers, Trowels, and other miscellaneous
articles say 3 18 0
£50 0 0
With an allowance of 10 0 0
£60 0 0
Records of the Cape Colony, 461
for the purchase of such agricultural and other seeds as may not
be easily procured at Cape Town, such as several varieties of the
grasses, hemp, flax, mangel wurzel, beet ; and pea, bean, cabbage,
turnip, carrot, onion, kale and other seeds. This allowance to be
exclusive of what may be granted from the Government Stores in
the Colony of seed com for the first general crop.
(Signed) W. R. Thomson,
Colonial Missionary.
[OfiBce Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Sir Eufane
Shawe Donkin.
DowNiNO Stbxbt, 18^^ AprU 1821.
My dear Sir, — The persons alluded to in the accompanying
letter have experienced so many privations and losses since they
first determined on emigrating to the Cape that Lord Bathurst is
anxious to do everything for them consistently with former
Hegulations and justice to the rest of the Settlers. He therefore
has requested me to trouble you with this private note to request
that you would give them eVery accommodation that their situa-
tion will admit of. I have &c
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry Goulburn, Esqre., to Sir Rufane
Shawe Donkin.
Downing Stbebt, 13^^ April 1821.
Sir, — This Letter will be delivered to you by five Individuals
named in the accompanying Return who are proceeding to the
Cape of Good Hope under the Regulations which have been pro-
mulgated by His Majesty's Government, These Persons having
462
Hecards of the Cape Colony.
been attached to a party consisting of about thirty families who
embarked firom the Clyde in the month of September last, and
who were unfortunately lost in the Abeona Transport, Lord
Bathurst has consented to waive in their favour the original
Begulation which established that Grants of Land should not be
made to any party consisting of less than ten families, and has
therefor^ directed me to request that these five Persons may enjoy
the same advantages as have been granted to the rest of the
Settlers.
These Persons have deposited the Sum of £55 as specified in
the enclosure ; and I have to request that you will issue your
warrant to the Officer at the Head of the Commissariat Depart-
ment at the Gape for the repayment to them of the amount of their
deposit Money in the proportions, and at the periods stated in the
Begulations. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry Goulburn.
[Enclosure.]
Return : —
John McLaren
. 36
. Joiner » ,
. £15
John McLean
. 34
. Turner •
. 10
James Clark .
. 30
. Merchant
. 10
Eobert Thompson
. 30
^ Bricklayer ,
. 10
Thomas Beid •
. 26
. Sawyer . ,
. 10
Agnes Beid .
. 22
[Original.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
KoBTH Row, ApfU 14ti^ 1821.
Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter
covering the copy of one from Mr. Lushington notifying that the
Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury will no longer
interpose to prevent the Comptroller of the Customs at the Cape
Records of the Cape Colony. 463
of GU)od Hope receiving that part of the sum arising from the
seixore and (eventual) sale of gunpowder to which under Colonial
Laws he might be strictly entitled.
It is impossible for me, Sir, to peruse other parts of that letter
without perceiving that the Governor of the Cape of Good Hope
and the Officers of the Custom Department under him, are placed,
as to their future conduct, in a dilemma from which nothing but
specific Instructions for their guidance from Earl Bathurst can
relieve them.
If the Colonial Regulations for the Custom Department (which
have been approved by His Majesty's Government) are improper
ones, I have to crave that the errors in them may be pointed out
and the necessary alterations made, but as long as these or any
other Begulations remain in force, my duty binds me not only to
adhere to them but to enforce them, altho' the Person who may
venture to disregard or (as in the case in question) set them at
defiance may belong to the Ordnance or Naval Department.
As their Lordships have been pleased to remark upon "the
inexpediency of proceeding to the Sale of Stores the property of
Grovemment " (as if such measure had been adopted in the present
instance) I feel myself called upon to state, that no such Measure
was adopted in this case, not one Ounce of Gunpowder was sold in
consequence of the seizure^ nor was any part out of the keeping or
superintendance of Government. An Account merely was kept of
the quantum of gunpowder sold in the ordinary manner from the
period of the award by the sentence of the Court of Justice,
the proceeds reserved are deposited in the Bank in order that if
the seizure should be eventually confirmed to the seizing Officer he
might then receive that proportion of the proceeds which the Law
had awarded.
I have entered into this explanation in defence of the conduct of
Officers performing conscientiously and assiduously an irksome
duty, and I entreat that I may be honoured with specific
Instructions from Earl Bathurst for the future guidance of this
Department of the Colonial Government. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Spbierset.
464 JRecards of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from SiR RuFANB Shawb Donkin to Eabl Bathurst,
OOTEBKMEMT HOUSK,
Caps or Good Hon, AprU 14f^ 1821.
My Lord, — I have the honor <rf submitting to your Lordship a
letter I have received from the Court of Justice here, on the
subject of the claims which have been made by the Vice Admiralty
Court to jurisdiction in certain cases, and on which I had occasion
to trouble your Lordship in my dispatches of January 26 No. 27,
March 7 separate, and March 17 No. 30.
Those Dispatches and the letter from the Court of Justice will
put your Lordship so entirely in possession of the circumstances
connected with this matter that there is little left for me to add.
One subject however is dwelt upon in the enclosed letter which
I confess had escaped my attention until it was thus brought
before me, that of the injury the Colonists would sustain of being
deprived of the power of appeal here should the jurisdiction of the
Vice Admiralty Court be e:!^nded so as to embrace matters
usually cognizable by the Ordinary Courts of this Colony. To
deprive them in any degree of the intermediate appeal here would
be thought an evil of a very serious nature, and one which would
be very seriously felt. 1 have &c.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry GtOulburn, Esqre.
Natt Office, 141^ April 1821.
Sir, — In return to your letters of the 11th and 13th instant, we
acquaint you, for the information of Earl Bathurst, that Mr. Thomas
Eeid and his wife and Eobert Thompson, Settlers, may embark in
one or two days on board the Sappho at Deptford for passages to
the Cape of Gk)od Hope. We are &c.
(Signed) J. Thomson,
FiTZ MiDDLETON,
J. BOWEN.
Records of the Cape Colony^ 465
[Original.]
Letter from the Navy Board to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Katt Offiob, 19(h April 1821.
Sib, — Since our letter to you of the 16th instant, we acquaint
you, for the information of Earl Bathurst, that we have made
arrangements for the conveyance in the Sappho to the Cape of
Good Hope of John Darby and Eichard Claringbould, as they now
propose to take only one whale boat with them instead of the
three mentioned in your letter of the 14th instant ; and we have
to add that it is necessary the boat should be sent on board imme-
diAtely and that the two men should embark, the ship being under
sailing orders from Deptford. We are Sir, &c.
(Signed) J. Thomson,
FiTZ MiDDLETON,
J. BOWEN.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to Mr. Thomas Willson,
Colonial Offiob, IWi April 1821.
Sir, — I am directed by His Excellency the Acting Governor to
acknowledge his receipt of your Letter of the 14th Instant, with
enclosure from Mr. Goulburn, on the subject of an application you
had made to Lord Bathurst relative to the tenure under which
you wish to hold the lands to which you consider yourself to
have claim as the Head of a Party of Settlers whol arrived with
you in the Belle Alliance, now located in the Albany District;
— I am to inform you, that nothing will be more agreeable to
His Excellency than that your views in this Colony should be
attended with success, and His Excellency therefore will attend
with alacrity to any instructions which shall emanate from the
Secretary of State in your regard, but unless His Excellency be
duly authorised to deviate from the general rule which has
been laid down for his guidance. His Excellency will be obliged
strictly to conform, thereto. You are aware that by the reguUi*,
xm. 2 H
466 Hecards of the Cape Colony.
tions alluded to, the parties will only be entitled to take Land
in proportion to the numbers who shall be located after the
expiration of Three years, and that the tenure upon which the
Lands will be ultimately ceded is that of Perpetuity, subject to a
moderate quitrent, the maximum of which was fixed in the
Circular issued by the Secretary of State. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird,
[Original.]
Letter from SiB Eufane Shawe Donkin to Eakl Bathurst.
GOYBBNMENT HOUBB,
Gape of Good Hopb, 21sl April 1821.
My Lord, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your
Lordship's dispatch dated 16th May 1820, giving cover to seven
memoranda which had been put into your Lordship's hands by the
charge d'afifaires of Wurtemberg, at the Court of Great Britain,
respecting several individuals, subjects of that Country, who are
supposed to have been, or still to be resident in this Colony, and
desiring that the necessary measures may be taken for obtaining
the information therein solicited.
In reply to which I beg to transmit to your Lordship the
enclosed copy of a report from the Orphan Board of this Settle-
ment, (to whom I caused your Lordship's Dispatch to be referred)
which contains all the information the Board has been able to
collect respecting these individuals. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. DoNKlN.
[Copy.]
Extract, Resolution passed hy the President and Members of the
Burgher Senate at the Cape of Good Hope,
Saturday. the ^IstAprill^l.
The President produced a Letter from the Eeverend Mr. Scully,
the Eoman Oiatholic Priest;, requesting that he might be favored
Records of the Cape Colony. 467
with a Piece of conveniently situated Ground in Town for the
purpose of building a Chapel, School, and Dwelling House for the
Priest, and stated that on the receipt of that Letter he had
requested, and charged Messrs. Loedolph and Hofmeyr as Com-
missioners to look out for a well adapted spot ;
That said Commissioners had reported that they had found a
proper place for the purpose which had been pointed out to them
by the said Priest Scully, behind the Packhouse of P. Albertus
at the Buitenkant, but that he the President was obliged to stop
the business, on a Letter received from the Directors of the Eoman
Catholic Church, who opposed the same in consequence of the
incompetency of Mr. Scully.
Eesolved to transmit Copies of these mutual Letters to the
parties, in order that they may further declare thereon. ^
(Signed) P. J. Truter, Secretary.
[Original.]
Letter from Mr. Thomas Willson to Earl Bathurst.
Gape of Good Hope, 21 April 1821.
My Lord, — On the receipt of the Letter dated 30 August 1820,
which your Lordship directed to be forwarded to me but which
did not reach me before this Month, I communicated to His Ex-
cellency the Acting Grovemor that your Lordship " only forbears
to take into consideration my request for a freehold grant in lieu
of a perpetual quit-rent, of the lands to which I am entitled as
Head of a party of Settlers," because your Lordship deems it
" more advisable that it should be first submitted to the Governor
for approval." His Excellency has consequently been pleased to
furnish me with the reply which I have the honor to enclose to
your Lordship.
The Acting Governor very kindly intimates that " nothing will
be more agreeable to him than that my views in this Colony should
be attended with success," and is pleased to add that " he wUl
attend with alacrity to any Instructions which shall emanate from
the Secretary of State." I trust therefore that your Lordship will
2 H 2
468 Records of the Cape Colony.
do me the honor and favor to issue snch Instractions to the Colonial
Government as will truly secure my hard earned Estate in Freehold
to my family that I may at least have a probable hope (if the new
Settlement ultimately succeeds) that my Heir at law may derive
some benefit from llie excessive Toils both of body and mind,
which an anxious Parent desirous of conf ening a permanent benefit
to his family has sought in a Foreign Land under the auspices of
His Majesty's Government, and that I may yet hope, if your Lord-
ship will be so far considerate for me, that my Estate may at least
become useful to my children and perhaps a peaceful retreat for
my old age.
It will be obvious to your Lordship that a grant in common
with my followers must prove utterly useless to me or my family,
and after all my Labours, Expences, Losses and Bobbery that I
have sustained, I shall inevitably have become the mere dupe and
tool of my party, rendering them every benefit they desired, and
myself no benefit at all, but in return encountering all the ill
treatment which your Lordship and His Excellency the Acting
Governor are but too well apprised of, which however I am most
anxious to forget and forgive as the frailty and ingratitude that too
commonly characterises Mankind. Your Lordship will be aware
also that by conferring upon me a Freehold grant it will enable
me more effectually to discharge the Public debt which my party
have incurred, and in point of fact I shall merely become the
Steward of His Majesty's Treasury in liquidating the same ; there-
fore without intruding myself further, I must entreat the favor
of being honored with your Lordship's consideration in issuing
the necessary Instructions to His Excellency the Acting Governor*
I have &c.
(Signed) Thos. Willson.
Records of the Cape Colonif. 469
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Rufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
GOYKBNHBNT H0U8B,
Gaps of Good Hops, April %2nd 1821.
Mt Lord, — I have the honor of acquainting your Lordship that
I have determined as soon as possible after the celebration of the
King's Birthday to proceed again to the Frontier to make such
arrangements as the total failure of the Crops and other matters
connected with the Settlers in Albany render necessary, and which
can be made in an efficient and satisfactory manner by no one but
by the person holding the Government.
One of my chief objects will be to come to some practical reso-
lution and order relative to the feeding of the Settlers, for it is
impossible that the burden of supporting them can be much longer
borne as it now is, but at the same time, it will be a matter of
much delicacy, particularly after such a distressing season of blight
as we have had, to withdraw the aiding hand of Government.
I shall call together the Heads of Parties as soon as possible
after my arrival at Bathurst, and come to some final imderstanding
with them on this point.
In my Dispatch of the 14th October last (No. 22) I reported to
your Lordship that I had appointed Colonel Graham Landdrost of
the new District of Albany. The death of that officer has deprived
the public of the advantages which I had anticipated from the
arrangement I had in view. I then (so strongly was I impressed
with the necessity of uniting the civU and military authority)
urged Colonel Mouckton, the officer next in rank to myself, to go to
Bathurst as Landdrost and Commandant, and I at one time hoped
that I had persuaded this most respectable man and officer to do
so, but family reasons and other circumstances at length decided
him to decline the duty, and he has since gone to England.
After this I let matters go on, hoping they might take some
better arrangement of themselves, but experience only shews how
indispensable it is to unite the two authorities. The difficulty is
to find a Military man with sufficient information and practice to
fit him for civil administration. I think I have found this union
in Major Jones, an officer lately come out to me as Town Major,
and whom I have known and served with during several Campaigns
470 Records of the Cape Colony,
in the Peninsula, where I employed him confidentially as one of
my Assistants in the Quarter Master General's Department with
the Spanish and French Armies on various missions, aU of w;hich
he conducted with prudence and ability. Major Jones is exceed-
ingly well educated, is of most conciliating manners, and I can
hardly name anybody more likely, or perhaps so likely, to be
popular amongst the Settlers.
If my arrangements go on as I expect they will, I shall place
him at once in the Chief Civil and Military Command ; but, to
obviate future inconvenience or difficulty in any military arrange-
ment on the Frontier, it is very desirable that Major Jones should
have the rank of Lt. Colonel in the Army,- for which it is my
intention to solicit His Boyal EQghness the Commander in Chief,
and which I hope there will not be much difficulty in granting,
as Major Jones is now one of the oldest Majors in the Army, and
he is, I believe, the only one of all the local Spanish Lieutenant
Colonels who has not since obtained that Sank in His Majesty's
Service and he has now been a Spanish lieut. Colonel Twelve
years.
Your Lordship may perhaps find a favorable opportunity to
mention this matter to His Eoyal Highness the Commander in.
Chief, in case you should view it as I have done. I have &c.
(Signed) E, S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Letter from Mr. Thomas Pringle to the Colonial Secretary.
Teviotdalk, Baviaan*8 Bitkb, 22n<l April 1821.
Sir, — As I understand that Mr. Ellis has left the Colony, I take
the liberty to address you upon the progress of our little Settle-
ment, conceiving it proper in our present situation to communicate
our proceedings distinctly and to be directed implicitly by the
general views of the Grovernment which has hitherto extended to
us so kindly its paternal care.
Since I wrote to Mr. Ellis on 1st December I have learnt that
my Query respecting the use of the Water in irrigation was
jRecords of the Cape Colony. 471
nnnecessaiy, since there exists no such Law or Begulation as I
had been told of. I have therefore without hesitation occupied
the portion of Land immediately adjoining to our original location,
extending dovm the limit marked in the coloured Sketch trans-
mitted to me, and respecting which His Excellency's gracious
decision was communicated in letters from the Colonial Office of
August 30th and September 27th. Upon the arable part of this
additional grant two families have been placed, who have already
made considerable progress in its cultivation.
Our Progress in other respects has been somewhat checked by
the very unfavorable Season, contrary to our hopes in December.
Ova Crops have been utterly destroyed by Eust, and a severe
drought which immediately succeeded and lasted more than three
months deprived us of the means of remedying this misfortune by
sowing a second Crop, which we understand is sometimes success-
fully practised. The drying up of all our Fountains, and of the
l)ed of the River for an extent of twenty Miles below us, and for
80 long a period, alarmed and dispirited some of the party more
than any other circumstance that has occurred ; so much so that I
was solicited to apply for a location on the Kounap Eiver where
the Water never fails. I was however averse to trouble Govern-
ment with any such application, because it seemed to me both
premature and imprudent, premature, inasmuch as the failure of
the Water for one Season did not warrant us to abandon the place
as unfit for agriculture without further trial, and imprudent,
because a position on the Kounap would be exceedingly hazardous
for such a small party before Settlers are placed also on the Kat
River. Besides as we cannot but be sensible that the Grovemment
is sincerely anxious for our safety and welfare, it seems to me a
reasonable duty first to make every exertion to render our location
available for tiiie purposes of agriculture, and if after a thorough
trial it should disappoint our views in that respect, it would be
then time enough to ask for a new Location, or for a piece of Corn
Land where the supply of Water is more certain and abundant.
But this place, tho' rather awkwardly situated, possesses some
considerable advantages, particularly in respect to Cattle and
Sheep ; and tho' the supply of Water (from what we have heard
and experienced) appears to be more limited and precarious than
what we were at first led to believe, still I do not doubt that from
60 to 80 acres may be successfully cultivated on the wlwle localion ;
472 JRecords of the Cape Colony.
which will at least be more than sufficient in ordinary Seasons fof
the support of the Inhabitants ; and which extent is as much or
more than any other position on the Baviaan's Biver will afford.
Having urged these views to the other Heads of families, they
have seen the propriety of them, and I am happy to say that all
have returned with alacrity and perseverance to tixe improvement
of the location, and I confidently expect now that our Streams are
again flowing, that at least thirty acres will be sown in a few
weeks. We also continue our Buildings, and in the course of the
Season every family expects to enter a substantial clay or brick
House on their respective allotments. In order also to increase
our means of defence against any possible disturbance that may
hereafter arise in the Frontiers from Gaffres or otherwise, I am pre-
paring materials for erecting a sort of small Fort to secure our-
selves and our Cattle in any emergency.
Meanwhile altho' the Caffres have been lately stealing cattle
from our neighbours, we have suffered no disturbance, and consider
ourselves sufficiently protected by the party from the Cape Corps
who are very sober and well behaved men, and much preferable to
our former guard of Provincial Hottentots.
The original party has been lately further reduced by the
temporary absence of three men from the location, viz. my
Brother John, appointed 2nd assistant on Somerset farm, and
Mr. Sydserff, who with one of his Servants has removed to the
Farm of Botmansgat on this Eiver now granted to Mr. Sretch
Mr. Sydserff s object is to open a store for Merchandize there, at
the same time to carry on the improvement of his allotment here«
upon which he has placed for that purpose three Servants, Bastard
Hottentots of Good Character.
To increase our strength of armed Hands, I have in addition to
the people last mentioned, placed on my Father's grounds an old
German of the name of Groep^ and his family of 4 or 5 Bastard
Sons upon a contract of four years, by which he is engaged to
cultivate a certain portion of Land and to assist in making Soads
and other improvements. I am in hopes that by this means I
may be enabled in a few months to relieve Government from the
inconvenience of keeping a Military Guard here for our protection,
as all these people are trained up to the use of arms and have each
a personal interest in the safety of the place and property.
Now then that there is a fair prospect of our permanent Settle-
Becords of the Cape Colony. 473
ment in this place, and that a considerable population of Christians
and Hottentots are placed on it, I begin to feel no small anxiety
about obtaining the means of education and Beligious Instruction,
sensible as I am, from what I have observed in Scotland, of the
paramount influence of these means upon the Civil and Moral
Character of any Community ; at the same time I am aware it is
premature to expect any assistance from Government in obtaining
these objects until the vicinity shall be occupied by a^ Population
sufficient to form a respectable Congregation. But that time I
would willingly believe is not far distant ; and in the meanwhile
perhaps it may be permitted me to suggest that a favorable situa-
tion for a Church and School might be found near the junction of
the Bush Fountain with the Baviaan's Eiver on the upper part of
the Farm now occupied by Mr. Prinslo, about 25 Miles below us.
I take the liberty to mention this, because I have heard it reported
that Government intends to resume the place now occupied by
Prinslo, and because it is a very central Situation for the future
Population on the Baviaan's River above and below, and on the
Bush fountain, where already a considerable number of People
and several English families are settled. If the unoccupied ground
on the Baviaan's River is to be settled by Scottish Families, as I
understand is the intention of Government, the great majority of
the people would be Presbyterians, and in that event would most
probably agree in chusing a Clergyman of that persuasion who
might be in connection with the Colonial or Eeformed Church,
which only differs in doctrine and discipline from the Church of
Scotland in some slight particulars.
I have been the more free in offering these observations, because
from my personal acquaintance with many leading Members of
the Scottish Church, I believe it would not be difficult to procure
a respectable Clergyman and Schoolmaster to settle here as soon
as a reasonable provision can be made for their subsistence. At
present the nearest Church is at Cradock, 50 or 60 Miles distant,
and where also the Service is exclusively in Dutch.
I have lately received letters from my Relations in Scotland who
are preparing to join us notwithstanding the unfavorable reports
that have gone home respecting the situation of the other Settlers.
Begging you will excuse the length and freedom of this letter, I
have the honor to be with respect &c.
(Signed) Thos. Peingle.
474 Records of the Cape Colony.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Henry GtOULBurn, Esqrk, to
LoED Charles Somerset.
GoLOHiAL OmcB, 25 AprU 1821.
My Lord, — Having laid before Earl Bathurst your Lordship's
letter of the 13th Instant respecting an allowance to be made
to Mr. Thomson for the purchase of Seeds and Implements for
Agriculture and for the payment of his Passage to the Cape; I
am directed to acquaint you in answer that Instructions have
been given to the Colonial Agent to issue to Mr. Thomson the
Sum of £60 which it is to be understood is to cover all expenses
of this nature connected with his Mission into the Interior of
Africa. I have &c.
(Signed) Henry GtOulburn.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin to Earl Bathurst.
Government House,
Cape of Good Hope, AprU 26^ 1821.
My Lord, — lieut. Warren Markham, my relation, and one of
my Aides de Camp, will have the honor of presenting this letter
to your Lordship. I have directed him to wait on your Lordship
on his arrival in England to answer any enquiries, as far as his
ability goes, which your Lordship may be desirous of making
relative to this Colony.
I am just setting out on a second journey to the Frontier to
carry into effect several final arrangements relative to the Settlers
in Albany, and other matters; on which subjects I shall make
such official reports as may be necessary. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
Records of the Cape Colony^ 475
[Original.]
Letter from the Eeverend Montagu Pennington to
Earl Bathurst.
Deal, April 28, 1821.
My Lord, — It is with very great reluctance that I intrude
upon your Lordship's valuable time, but I have been unable to
refuse the earnest request of some of my neighbours and
parishioners, and must therefore trust to your Lordship's goodness
for my excuse.
I beg leave to refer your Lordship to a petition from the persons
to whom I allude, on the 17th of March last. They are therein, I
believe, properly described as experienced boatmen, with wives
and families, having suflBcient property not to need any pecuniary
assistance from Government, and asking the favour only of a
passage to Algoa Bay and of an allotment of land near the coast.
I think the petitioners were 16 in number, and there are 4 more
who are also desirous of going, if it may be allowed.
Your Lordship is probably not so well aware of the peculiar
situation and distress of this town, as Lord Liverpool is. Many
of the boatmen are literally starving, and others, of whom the
petitioners are a part, living upon the principal of the little
property which they had saved, and which must soon be exhausted.
They are therefore anxiously desirous of employing the remainder
in a scheme which seems to promise a maintenance to themselves,
and perhaps to be of use to the infant colony, and to the shipping
in that neighbourhood.
In consequence of their not having received an answer from
your Lordship, they are now in a most anxious state of uncertainty,
and know not what to do. They venture therefore, with all
humility, most earnestly to intreat your Lordship to have the
goodness to inform them whether there is any probability that
His Majesty's Government can grant the prayer of their petition,
and at what probable distance of time. I have &c.
(Signed) Montagu Pennington,
Minister of Deal Chapel.
476 Records of the Cfbpe Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Commissioner of the Soman Catholic Church
in Capetown to the Burgher Senate,
Gapk Town, 2nd May 1821.
GENTLEMEN,-^The Directors of the Eoman Catholic Chnrch
have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter of the
30th April last, together with a Copy of the Bequest of the
Eeverend Mr. Scully, The Directors having taken the Request
into Consideration, have resolved to make a new application.
I have &c.
(Signed) F. de Lettre, Commissioner of the Church.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Officials of the Roman Catholic Church in
Capetown to the Burgher Senate.
Gape Town, 2nd May 1821.
Gentlemen, — The British Government in Europe and the
Government at the Cape of Good Hope have been graciously
pleased to allow of the free exercise of the Catholic Beligion in
this Colony.
We have the honor to inform you that the object of this
permission is very much impeded by the want of a proper place
for the performance of Divine Service, and for a School. We
humbly and respectfully request you will take this circumstance
into consideration.
We therefore pray in the name of our Congregation that you
will be pleased to grant our request, that a well situated Piece
of Ground may be given for the use of our Congregation.
We have &c,
(Signed) F. de Letteb, Commissioner
of the Church.
M. DONOUGH
J. B. Verrumb , -^, ,
J. W. BOHMEB ^ ^^^^•
Jos. Heinrich
Records of the Cape Colony. 477
[OriginalJ
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
NoBTH Bow, Pabk Lake, May 2nd 1821.
Sir, — Being anxious to return to the Cape of Grood Hope, and
learning that one of His Majesty's Frigates is destined to touch
there on her voyage to India, I take the liberty of soliciting you
to submit to Earl Bathurst my request to be provided (with my
family) with a passage in that vessel.
Should his Lordship be pleased to acquiesce in this request, I
beg to be permitted to pay into the Treasury the amount of the
regulated allowance made by Government to the Captains of His
Majesty's Vessels on similar occasions, in order that no Charge
may be brought against the Public on this accoimt. I have &c.
(Signed) Charles Henry Somerset.
[OriginaL]
Letter from John Barrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre,
Admibaltt Offiob, 2nd May 1821.
Sir, — I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty to transmit to you, for the information of Earl
Bathurst, an extract of a letter from Bear Admiral Lambert,
with a copy of one therein referred to from Captain Boberts of
His Majesty's Sloop Sheanvater, relative to the proceedings of
the latter officer in attempting to open a communication with
the Missionary Settlements in the neighbourhood of Angra
Pequena. I am &c.
(Signed) John Barrow.
478 Records of tJie Cape Colony.
[Originai]
Letter from Major George Pigot to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Pigot Pabx, neab Gbaha]I8towk, May Q£k 1821.
Sir, — Having since my last communication to you visited the
mouth of the Cowie river and rowed down it from the junction of
the salt and fresh water about 15 miles, I again take the liberty
of addressing you, wishing to show to what extent I conceive the
Cowie may be used as a port.
The Cowie river can only be navigable for flat bottomed barges
about 15 miles. The road from the river mouth to Bathurst is so
much shorter, being only 9 miles, I do not consider it wiU at
present be used as a navigable river, but I do consider the port
may be visited with the greatest safety. Small vessels with little
draft, of seventy tons, may cross the bar with the greatest ease, and
ride in perfect security, and there is not the least doubt from the
report of the fishermen who cross the bar at all times, in a little
boat found on the beach, that there is good anchorage outside
the harbour for ships of any burthen. I trust Government will
take this into consideration, for on it depends the success of our
arduous undertaking.
I mentioned in my last the failure of our wheat crop, and the
advantage of a supply of English wheat for seed, we have now our
lands ready to sow, but not a grain of wheat fit to put into the
ground. The Colonial Government have sent a supply from Cape
Town, but as there was the same disease all through the Colony, I
fear we may have another year's crop lost.
I continue to be as much pleased with the country as ever. My
permanent dwelling is not yet fit for my reception. With a party
of 20 good workmen I thought before I left England I could build
a house in a few months, but the timber is to be felled and sawed,
bricks made, slate quarried, &c., &c., before the work begins,
besides the necessary attendance of the farm, garden and vineyard,
and the very great difficulty we have had with our people. All
the large parties of 100 are broken up, such* a mixture of people
never could agree. I am delighted I only brought farming
servants.
June 8th. Since writing the above Sir Eufane Donkin has
Records of the Cape Colony. 479
visited us. He takes the greatest interest in our welfare, had it
not been for his very great attention many would have returned
home. He visited the Cowie river attended by several of the
heads of parties last week, he went in the little boat on the bar,
at his return he immediately sent off two of the settlers (seafaring
men) to Algoa Bay with orders to bring the Locust Brig, and anchor
her off the mouth of the river, we ai*e all anxious for her arrival,
she unloads most of her cargo at Algoa ; so confident am I that
the undertaking will succeed, I requested some stores of mine
might be sent in her. I may have the honour of being the iBrst to
land goods at our new port.
We presented an address of thanks to Sir Eufane for his very
great care of us. We likewise presented two memorials, one
relative to the Law of succession, the other to the very insecure
tenor by which we hold our lands, until they are finally made over
to us, to both subjects I beg to draw your attention. Our inability
to make a will is a great bar to improvement. Many that I have
spoken to on the subject, who like mysejf have children by a
former marriage. wiU not expend any of their capital, I have
without thinking on the subject sunk so much that my poor
children at my death will be greatly injured ; it is out of our
power to leave property entire. The Orphan Chamber seize every-
thing, and divide it as they think proper, the children by a former
marriage are excluded receiving any share.
With respect to the insecurity of our grants, altho' I am
confident it is the intention of the English Government to make
it over to us, yet from our ignorance of our boundary we cannot
possibly make improvements without running the hazard of
having some part taken from us. A Governor may come out
who may choose to move us to another location ; I know this
idea prevents all the people that have capital from making the use
of it they otherwise would. Here I am again individually con-
cerned, having nearly finished a good house, made an excellent
garden, planted a vineyard, and ploughed and fenced an hundred
acres for tillage, for which I have gained the approbation of His
Excellency Sir Eufane Donkin. I have not only no security that
my children will inherit what I have accomplished in so arduous
an undertaking, but it is even possible that I may myself be
moved. I have mentioned my fears to Sir Eufane Donkin, who
I am confident will do all he can for us all, but this is a matter
480 Beeords of the Cape Colony.
that rests with the English Govemment. I hope what I have
stated will not be considered as making difficulties. As the
future welfare of my fanulj (three females) depends on these
two subjects, I trust you will excuse my requesting that you
will further our object as far as may be in your power.
Sunday 16th June. The Locust Brig is not yet arrived, we have
had a violent hurricane, many houses destroyed, mine much
injured. Sir Bufane returned to Cape Town on Tuesday.
Your most obedient &c.
(Signed) Geo. Pigot.
[Original.]
Letter from Bear Admiral Lambert to J. W. Croker, Esqre.
Vigo, St. Helena, 7th May 1821.
Sir, — I have to acquaint you for their Lordships' information
that General Buonaparte departed this life at a little before six
P.M. on Saturday the 5th Instant.
My letter No. 9 of the 2nd Inst, by the Bristol Merchant Ship
will have apprized you of his dangerous illness. On that day a
consultation was held, in which, by the Governor's desire Dr.
Mitchell, Surgeon of the Vigo, joined. He continued in attend-
ance until the demise, and afterwards assisted at the opening of
the body, the report of which, signed by all the medical attend-
ants, I enclose.
From the importance of this event I have judged it proper to
confide my dispatches to Captain Hendry, the Senior Commander
on the Station, who has visited the body with me, and can give
their Lordships any further details required.
I have sent him in the Heron, that vessel being the fastest
Sailer, and the next for relief; and I trust these measures will
have their Lordships' approbation. I am Sir &c.
(Signed) Bobt. Lambert,
Bear Admiral Commander in Chief.
Records of the Cape Colony, 481
[Copy.]
Letter from the Colonial Secretary to the Military Secretary.
Colonial OmoB, 15 May 1821.
SiK, — ^His Excellency the Acting (Jovemor has desired me to
communicate to you fliat Mr. Burgis of Mr. Turvey's Party of
Settlers and Six Children have arrived here in the Government
Brig Locust in a state of total destitution.
His Excellency has unfortunately no means at his disposal by
which provision can be made for these unfortunates, but he has
reason to think that some humane persons are likely to interest
themselves for them, and in the mean time it is His Excellency's
desire that these seven individuals may draw Bations from the
Commissariat, who should be instructed to charge the amount of
such Bations to the account of Mr. Turvey^s party, where Mr.
Burgis's Amount of Deposit it is presumed still remains unsettled.
The issue of the Bations should commence from the date of Mr.
Burgis's arrival in Cape Town. I have &c.
(Signed) C. Bird.
[Original.}
Letter frcm Mr. William Parker to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Saldanha Bat, 21 JIfay 1821.
Sir, — I take the liberty to inclose you a letter for Mr, Grant,
the Father of our friend the Irish Secretary, which I request that
you will hand to him. I have left it open for your perusal, that
you may know my situation at present, and a little of the difficult
ties that I have had to encounter.
Colonel Bird the ajdwd Governor of this Colony could have
placed me this time twelve months on those lands, which would
have made a vast difference to me ani saved a great waste of
property. But this was not his object, which was to cause general
distress, to increase the afUction of the Settlers and to excite their
disgust at the measures of the British Government, to which
XIII. 2 I
482 Becords of the Cape CoUmy.
Colonel Bird shewed eveiy hostility from the moment I first saw
him. I have &c.
(Signed) William Paskeb.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Commissumer of the Boman Catholic Church in
Capetown to the Burgher Senate,
Cafb Toinr, 2lti May 1821.
Gentlebcen, — ^The Directors of the Catholic Church have re-
ceived the annexed note thro' Mr. F. G. Powley from Major
HoUoway of the Boyal Engineers, in which the Major writes that
the erection of a Chapel or other bmlding at the Castle will not
occasion any further injury.
The Directors therefore respectfully request that the President
and Members of the Burgher Senate will be pleased to grant to
their Congregation one of the two pieces of Ground, (either Ko. 1
or 2) applied for. I have &c.
(Signed) F. de Lettbe,
Commissioner of the Church.
[Copy.]
Bxtract, BesoltUion passed by the President and Members of the
Burgher Senate at the Cape of Oood Hope.
Wedneiday the 21<( May 1821.
The President produced a Letter from the Commissioner of the
Soman Catholic Church, in which he acknowledges in the name
of the Directors, the receipt of a Letter dated the 30th April last,
together with a Copy of the request of the Reverend Mr. Scully,
and Stating that the Directors having taken that request into
consideration had resolved to make a new application. Likewise
a Memorial from the Directors aforesaid, requesting a piece of
well Situated Ground for their Congregation, together with an
Becords of the Cape Colony. 483
application from the said Commissioner in the name of the Direc-
tors praying for a Grant of One of the Two pieces of ground
marked No. 1 & 2 in the plan exhibited.
Besolved, to place that Plan, with an Extract hereof, in the
hands of the Commissioners for the month, with directions to
inspect that ground, and to cause a general plan with all the
known Bloks therein, to be formed in duplicate by the Sworn
Land Surveyor, in order thereupon to make a favourable repre-
sentation to Government.
(Signed) P. J. Trutbr, Secretary.
[Copy.]
Letter from Eabl Bathurst to the Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty.
DowNiNO Stbebt, 23rci May 1821.
Mt Lords, — t have received the King's Commands to signify
to you His pleasure that you do provide General Lord Charles
Somerset, his Daughter, Aid de Camp and Servants with a con-
veyance to the Cape of Grood Hope on board a Ship of War pro-
ceeding to that Station. I am &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Original.]
Letter fr<yni Lord Charles Somerset to
Henry CtOULburn, Esqre.
Pabk Lani, May 23n2 1821.
Sir, — I have the honor to request that you will obtain Earl
Bathm'st's sanction to the appointment of Captain Daniel Page
(on the i pay of the 60th Begiment) to be Paymaster of the Cape
Corps.
This officer has performed the duties of Paymaster of the Corps
since the augmentation of it in October 1819, in a most satis-
2 I 2
484 Records of the Cape Colony.
factory and accurate manner, and having obtained the necessary
securities I have the honor to request that his appointment
^ould be conjGrmed. I have &c.
(Signed) Chaelbs Henby Somersbt.
[Copy.]
General Orders.
Hkad QuABTBBfl, Gbaham's Town, 24ti^ Mag 1821.
1. Such men of the Eoyal African Corps as may be fit for
further service and who may be desirous of volunteering into the
38th, 54th, or 72nd Begiments are to make their wishes known
to the officer commanding the Boyal African * Corps, and the
officers commanding the 54th and 72nd Begiments at Cape
Town will send such instructions as they may deem necessary to
the officers commanding the detachments of their Corps on the
Frontiers lor receiving and transferring on the 2$th June next the
men so volunteering. Lieutenant Colonel Willshire will take
the necessary measures relative to men for the 38th Begiment,
communicating with Major Evans on the subject.
2. Captain Sparks will lose no time in making out a list of such
men as cannot lawfully return to England, in order that the
necessary arrangements may be made relative to them.
3. As the Commander of the Forces intends that the reduction
of the remainder of the Boyal African Corps shall take place on
the 24th June next, the officer commanding will take the neces-
sary precautions for closing all accounts up to that date. Such
men as may neither volunteer for either of the battalions in this
command nor be discharged in this Colony with Colonial passes
will be attached from the 25th June to the detachment of the
72nd Begiment at Graham's Town, and will be subsisted with that
Corps until His Majesty's pleasure shall be known relative to
them.
4. Such men as may be lawfully sent to England to be dis-
charged and who may not wish to remain in this Colony will be
placed under charge of one or more officers of the Boyal AMcan
Corps, according to their numbers, in order to be sent to Europe
when an opportunity offers, of which due notice will be given.
Records of the Cape Colony. 485
5. Estimates for pay for the Royal African Corps are to be
immediately made out to the 24th June, and transmitted to Cape
Town.
6. A future arrangement and order will be given relative to
subsistence to officers after the 24th of Jime, to enable them to
return to Europe, according to the customs of the Service in
like cases.
7. The officer commanding the Eoyal African Corps wiU take
care to have the compensation money for clothing ready to issue
to such men as may be entitled to it, on or before the 24th of
June, in order to prevent any difficulty or delay in disbanding the
Corps on that day.
8. No delay must take pUce at Cape Town in returning the
estimates and in notifying the rate of exchange to Deputy As-
sistant Commissary General Johnstone at Graham's Town, who is
authorized to make the necessary issue.
9. The Commanding Officer of the Eoyal AMcan Corps will
take care to make any arrangements not noticed in this order
which may be necessary to ensure the closing of all accoimts of
the Boyal African Corps on the 24th of June next.
May ^&th 1821.
Certain men of good character of the Boyal African Corps
having applied to the Colonial Government for Colonial Passes,
the officer commanding is authorized to discharge such men
previous to the general disbanding of the Corps ; but no discharge
in the Colony is to be given unless the man's character shall
have been previously reported to, and approved of by the Com-
mander of the Forces.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Bufane Shawe Donkin.
DowKiHG Stbeet, London, 28 May 1821.
Sir, — I transmit to you enclosed copies of a communication and
of its enclosures which have been received by my Under Secretary
of State from the Secretary to Greenwich Hospital respecting the
486 Seeords of the Cape Colony.
payment of naval pensions or allowances to certain Settlers who
have recently proceeded to the Gape of Good Hope.
It is to be regretted that arrangements for the payment of
allowances of this description were not made in conformity with
the regulations which have been established in regard to the issue
of Military pensions ; but as no further time should be lost in
adopting e£Eectual measures for securing to the Naval Settlers the
payment of their respective allowances, I deem it my duty to
instruct you immediately to direct the Landdrosts and Deputy
Landdrosts of the several Districts in the Colony to call upon all
persons having claims to allowances from Greenwich Hospital to
come forward with a view to their being identified.
After you shall have obtained proper lists of all such claimants,
you wiU forward them to the Commissioner of the Navy resident
at Gape Town, in order that he may transmit them to Greenwich
Hospital ; and you will in the mean time feel it your duty to adopt
some temporary arrangement in concert with the Commissioner
which shall secure to the Navy Settlers the receipt of their allow-
ances. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Office Copy.]
Letter from Eajil Bathurst to Snt Bufane Shawe Donein.
DowNiKO Stbibt, LoiTDON, 80 May 1821.
Sib, — ^I have received and laid before the Kong your dispatch
No. 27 of the 26th January last, reporting a case which has arisen
out of a question concerning the powers and mode of proceeding
of the Court of Justice and the Court of Vice Admiralty of the
Colony.
The details which you have transmitted to me of this question
are certainly not so complete as I could have wished in order to
enable me to lay down a positive rule of conduct to be pursued by
you in this and similar cases if they should unfortunately occur.
The Court of Vice Admiralty would undoubtedly have jurisdiction
over Bottomrie Bonds under certain circumstances ; but as there is
nothing special stated with respect to the particulars of this case,
Records of the Cape Colimy. 487
I am left to presume that there was no other objection to the
juiisdiction of the Court of Admiralty than what arose from the
prior jurisdiction of the Court of Justice and the Sale decreed
under the authority of that Court. But presuming the latter
court to have been rightly in possession of the subject of the
Suit, I am of opinion that the Court of Vice Admiralty would
not have jurisdiction to supersede the effect of the proceedings of
the Court of Justice by giving authority to a new Suit against the
Vessel, instituted after the Vessel had so become the subject of
the process of the Court of Justice, and upon this point I have to
remark that the Judge of the Admiralty Court states only that he
had not received of&cial intimation of a Suit against the Vessel
being instituted in the Court of Justice.
It may be a question of form whether the notice of Sale in the
Gazette was a sufficient notice, or whether any other notice ought
to have been given and in what manner. The suitors were
different parties and it was very probable that such information
would not be given in the course of proceedings in the Court of
Vice Admiralty ; but I think it uDnecessary to consider that point
or the regularity of your proceeding in issuing the prohibition,
without further information of the Colonial Law upon which that
authority is founded, as I feel persuaded that if it be understood
that the Sale under the authority of the Court of Justice ought not
to have been interrupted, the present difference of opinion will be
removed, and the means of guarding against any similar Misunder-
standing in future will be best provided for in the mode that may
be suggested by the good Sense and local experience of the Judges
of the respective Courts exercised in concert with you on the
subject. I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
[Copy.]
Letter from Lord Charles Somerset to
T. P. COURTENAY, ESQRB.
Pabk Lane, May 30ih 1821.
Sir, — The very great advantage which has been derived by the
Colony of the Cape of Good Hope from the importation of Merino
488 Seeards of the Cape Cdowy.
Sheep, has induced many of the Colonists most conversant on
those subjects to uige me very strongly to introdnce the South-
down Sheep, with a view of giving weight to the mutton, to
import also some of the large Hampshire or Berkshire pigs for the
purpose of making bacon, and two bulls and two cows of the
Teeswater breed, in order to improve the breed of Tnilking cows ;
I have to request that you will obtain Earl Bathurst's authority
for the purchase of these animals. Two rams of Mr. Elman's
prime breed will cost about £60, 2 boars and 2 sows from £15 to
£20, 2 bulls and 2 heifers of the Teeswater Breed about £160.
For the latter I have to request you to obtain freight on board
the first Government storeship proceeding to the Cape.
I have &a
(Signed) Chables Henbt Somerset.
[Ofllce Copy.]
Letter from Earl Bathurst to Sir Eufane Shawb Donkin.
DowmHO Stbxet, London, 31 May 1821.
Sir, — The Colonial Agent for the Cape having lately been under
the necessity of applying for considerable pecuniary grants from
His Majesty's Treasury in order to enable him to meet the
demands which are made upon him on account of the Colony, it
appears that such necessity has principally arisen from the
presence of the Governor in this country whose Salary has not
been provided for by Colonial Funds. Under these circumstances
I have to call your attention to the propriety of making it a rule
of remitting to the Colonial Agent such funds as may be sufiGlcient
to enable bJTn to pay the Salaries of those officers of the Cape
Government who repair to this Country on leave of absence.
I have &c.
(Signed) Bathurst.
Becords of the Cape Colony, 489
[Original.]
letter from JoHif Barrow, Esqrb., to Henry Goulburn, Esqre.
Admibaltt OrFiGE, Zltt May 1821.
Sir, — ^Having laid before my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty your letter of the 23rd Instant, stating, with reference
to a letter from Earl Bathurst to my Lords signifying His
Majesty's pleasure that a passage be provided for Lord Charles
Somerset and suite in a Ship of War to the Cape of (rood Hope,
that as Lord Charles is returning to his Government from leave of
absence, he has expressed his readiness to defray from his own
funds the regulated expence of his conveyance ; and that it should
therefore be understood that the remuneration of the officer of the
ship which may be appointed to carry him to the Cape is to be
made good by his Lordship himself, and not by the Lords Com-
missioners of the Treasury, I am commanded by my Lords to
request you will state to Earl Bathurst that having received from
his Lordship the signification of the King's pleasure to provide a
passage for Lord Charles Somerset, they will obey His Majesty's
commands; but as the feelings and regulations of the Kaval
Service render it impossible that remuneration from any private
channel for services of this nature should be received by His
^l^jesty's Naval Officers, their Lordships will feel obliged, if this
duty is to be performed, to recommend to the Lords of the
Treasury the payment of the usual allowance in the usual manner.
As, by the Begulations, one half of the estimated Sum would be
immediately payable to the Captain of the Ship, my Lords have
postponed naming a ship for the performance of the above service,
xmtil Lord Bathurst shall have been made aware of the only mode
of remuneration which can be admitted. I am &c.
(Signed) J. Barrow.
490 Beeords of the Cape Colony.
rCopy.J
Memorandum hy Snt Bufake Shawe Donein for
Mr, KruibePs gv/idance.
BATHUB0T, May Sia 1821.
3. Measure and extend Major Pigot's Location to the whole
extent of No. 4 in the plan of Locations, induding therefore the
Letters A and E.
4 Do. Do. Mr. Biddulph's location to the amount of 750
Moigens more for himself and sons.
6. Da Do. Mr. Thomlull's to the left of the Soad enclosing the
small yaUey as pointed out by me.
6. Do. Do. Mr. Bowker's according to his Memorial, provided
the Landdrost on inspection sees no objection.
N.B. Mr. Enobel will keep in mind my Opinion that almost
all the locations where the parties have really settied and are
employed will want extension, consequentiy in any arrangements
made in future for new Settiers, or otherwise, care must be taken
not to measure or grant lands lying between any two liocations
which are near each other, for such land may and probably will
be wanted for one or the other of them.
7. Add to Mr. Austen's Land according to his Memorial, subject
to previous inspection and report of the Landdrost.
8. Put George Watson, Francis Eccles, &c., &c. on a new
location according to memorial enclosed. The Landdrost's in-
spection and approval
9. John Aylifif to have 100 acres as per memorial
10. John Pratt to have 100 acres as per memorial.
11. Joshua Davis 100 acres of Land with Mr. Bradshaw's
party.
12. John Smith to be located near the Kowie, 100 acres, not at
the landing place. He has mentioned a place to Captain Trappes
who will communicate with Major Jones.
13, 14, 15, 16, &C., &c.
17. Mr. Elnobel to set the subject of Mr. Shaw's Memorial
right.
18. &c.
19. i&c.
Records of the Cape Colony. 4&1
20. Measure for Captn. Trappes the Land asked for in Ids
Memorial to the amount of Morgens 1000 more or less.
21. Mr. Bailie's Memorial to be complied with, that is the
whole of No. 10 to be allotted to him, there being no one else
on it.
22. Mr. Centlivres Chase to have the Land he asks for in his
MemoriaL
23. 24, 25, 26, 27, &c. &c.
Most of this is founded on Memorials presented by Individuals,
which will be handed with this instruction to the Landdrost, and
when he has inspected, &c. he will report and forward them to the
Colonial Office.
(Signed) K. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Lobd Chables Somerset to
Henby Goulbubn, Esqbe.
Pabk Lanb, June lit 1821.
Sm, — ^The continued encrease of the Lnports at the Cape of
Grood Hope compared with the Exports induces me to suggest a
small addition to the Import Duty on all articles the produce
or manufacture of the United Kingdom brought to the Cape in
British Vessels. The duty exacted at present is 3 per Centum,
and I wish to propose to Earl Bathurst to obtain an Order in
Council to fix the Duty on the abovenamed Articles at 3^ per
Centum ad valorem or according to a Colonial Tariff, whichever
may be deemed most convenient.
His Lordship is aware that a duty of 10 per centum is levied on
aU Articles of Foreign Produce or Manufacture brought in British
Vessels, and of 15 per centum if brought in Foreign Vessels.
I have &c.
(Signed) Chables Henby Somebset.
492 [ Becords of the Cape Colony.
[Original.]
Letter from T. P. Courtenay, Esqre., to
Henby Goulburn, Esqre.
Oahhon Bow, June 1st 1821.
Sib, — I have the honor to enclose the copy of a letter which
I have received from Lord Charles Somerset directing me to
obtain Earl Bathnrst's authority for the purchase of two South-
down rams, two boars and two sows of the large Hampshire or
Berkshire breed, and two bulls and two heifers of the Tees-water
breed, for the use of the Colony of the Cape of Good Hope ; and
to request that you will lay the same before Lord Bathurst, and
also to move his Lordship to direct these animals to be received on
board any Government store-ship proceeding to the Cape.
I have &c.
(Signed) Th. Peb. Coubtenay. •
[Copy.]
Proclamation by SiB EuFANE Shawb DONKIN.
Whereas it has been represented to me, by various Heads of
Parties located in Albany, that many of their Followers have
absented themselves, without any authority or leave being granted,
either by such Heads of Parties, or by any Magistrate ; in con-
sequence of which, such Heads of Pa^rties, and the District at
large, are not only deprived of the labor of these Persons, but
the cost of Stores and Bations, drawn by the Lidividuals so
absenting themselves, has been thrown as a debt on those who
remain on their Locations, and on the Land itself, which is
mortgaged for the same : — ^Now, this is to call upon and direct,
and I do hereby call upon and direct the Landdrosts of Uiten-
hage and Graaff Beinet, and all Deputy Landdrosts, Field Comets,
and others in authority in the above-named Districts, to seek for,
and cause to be apprehended, all British Settlers, lately located
Records of the Cape Colony, 493
Ib, and belonging to, the District of Albany, whom they may find
within their Limits, without Passes from a Magistrate, or with
Passes which have expired, and to send them back to Bathurst,
or Graham's Town according as either Place may be nearest to
the Place or Location of the Settlers so sent, where Orders have
been given for their further disposal; but no violence or im-
prisonment is to be used in the apprehending, or sending back
of such Settlers, to Albany, unless in case of resistance or
attempt to escape, or under other circumstances, requiring in-
terference on the part of the Magistrates, when the usual mode
of keeping the Peeuje, and enforcing Obedience to the Laws, is to
be resorted to.
But, as there may be cases, where Individual Settlers, without
Passes, have, by great industry and exertion, as well as by laying
out capital, established themselves in the two above-named Dis-
tricts, the sudden deracination of whom would be attended with
individual injury, disproportionate to any general good to be
looked for, I hereby authorise the Landdrosts of those Districts,
to suspend the execution of this Proclamation, at their own
discretion, in behalf of certain Individuals, in such before-men-
tioned peculiar cases and circumstances, (but they are required
to use this discretionary power very sparingly,) sendiog a List,,
at the same time, to the Landdrost of Albany, of such Persons,
as they may have temporarily exempted from the operation
of this Proclamation, in order that enquiry may be made of
the Heads of Parties concerned, and whether or no, a com-
promise may, or ought to be made for the debts, or on account
of the loss of the services of such Settlers, so withdrawn from
their Parties.
And whereas it is supposed, that several of the British Settlers,
whether originally located in Albany, or near the Sub-Drostdy of
Clan WiUiam, ai'e wandering about the other five Districts of this
Colony, without Passes, the Landdrosts, Deputy Landdrosts, Field
Comets, and others, are directed to search for, and the Landdrost
shall take down the names of, and report to the Colonial Secretary,
all such, and the Avocations they may be following, in order that
final directions may be given relative to them, and that they may
be either furnished with Colonial Passes, or be sent back hereafter
to the Parties to which they belong.
Lastly, nothing contained in this Proclamation, is to afiect any
494 Becords of the Cape Colony.
British Subject, who landed in this Colony prior to the 17th
March, 1820.
And that no Person may plead ignorance hereof, this shall be
published and affixed as usuaL
Gk)d save the King !
Given under my Hand and Seal, at Bathurst, this 1st Day of
June, 1821.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from the East Indu Company to Earl Bathurst.
East India Houbb, ike Isl June 1821.
My Lord, — The Court of Directors of the East India Company
have lately received information from the Company's Agent at the
Cape of Good Hope of the seizure by the Officers of His Majesty's
Customs there, of all the goods imported from China into that
Colony on the Company's ships Marchwaess of Ely and General
Hewitt.
This seizure was made in consequence of the ships having
brought no manifests as required by Law, and the Court regret
extremely the omission on the part of the Company's Servants in
China to furnish the Commanders with those Documents.
We beg leave however to submit to your Lordship that the
Commanders were furnished with Livoices of the Cargoes signed
by the President of the Select Committee at Canton who would
have authenticated the Manifests had they been made out : and
it is scarcely necessary for us to add that no possible intention
of acting illegally could have existed on the part of the Company's
Servants.
We have the honor to transmit to your Lordship copies of the
papers which the Court of Directors have received upon this
subject; and to request that your Lordship will be pleased to
issue directions to the Officers of the Colonial Government at the
Cape, to relieve the Company's Agent from the obligation of the
Records of the Cape Colony. 495
Bond, which he was required to execute for the value of the gooda
in the event of their having been condemned by the Local Court
to which he had appealed. We have &c.
(Signed) I. Eeid,
Jas. Harrison (?)
[Copy.]
Address to Sir Eufanb Shawe Donkin.
To His Excellency Major General Sir Eufane Shawe Donkin,
K.C.B., Acting Governor and Commander in Chief, &c., &c.,
&c.. Cape of Good Hope.
We the undersigned Heads of Parties, and other British Settlers
in Albany, beg leave to address Your Excellency, to express our
gratitude for the liberal manner in which we were provided and
sent to this Colony, for the precautions which were previously
taken, and for the ample Supply of Stores of all sorts which were
furnished by the Government at Home, to ensure our success and
future stability on our several Locations.
We further beg leave to convey the expression of our thanks to
Your Excellency, to the Officers of this (Government, and to the
local authorities here, for the zeal and kindness with which the
intentions of the Government at Home have been carried into
effect, and for the constant care and attention with which our
wishes have been met and our wants even anticipated.
We feel it particularly incumbent on us to acknowledge our
gratitude to your Excellency for kindly continuing to us the issue
of Bations, after the total failure by Blight of all our Crops,
thereby assuring us a subsistence, until our endeavours by tiie
blessings of Providence may procure us such necessaries as may
render our situation easy and independent.
In conclusion we are cheered and encouraged by feeling and
knowing that in transplitnting ourselves to the Shores of Southern
Africa we have not been removed beyond the fostering influence
and protection of His Majesty's Paternal care and Government,
496
Eeeords of the Cape Colony.
and we hope Your Excellency will be pleased to convey these our
Sentiments most dutifully to our Sovereign.
(Signed) Duncan Campbell,
Gkorgk Pigot,
Alexander Biggab,
Gboege Dyason,
D. P. Francis,
John Smith,
Henry Lloyd,
Wm. Boardman,
Charles Hyman,
Edward Ford,
Samuel James,
Arthur Barker,
WiLLLAjff Griffiths,
Alexander Bisset,
J. H. Greathead,
Thomas Philipps,
Miles Boweer,
James Bichardson,
W. CURRIE,
Bathurst, June 1st 1821.
W. Shaw,
Geo. Southey,
Wm. Watt,
Wm. Holder,
D. O'Flinn, M.D.,
Geo. Watson,
Thomas Henson,
Geo. Anderson,
Thomas Mahony,
Samuel Bbnnet,
Geo. Smith,
Josh. Ehodes, Cock's Party,
John Jarman,
J. Centlivres Chase,
Peter Campbell,
Samuel Harper Bradshaw,
C. T. Thornhill,
John Bailie,
Isaac Dyason.
Note on this by Sir E. Donkin.
I beg leave respectfully to observe that this entirely voluntary
address is a complete refutation of the complaints of certain dis-
appointed Individuals at Cape Town who say they were deceived
in England, and have been neglected here.
E. S. D.
Records of the Cape Colony. 497
[Copy.]
Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Willshire to
Captain M. J. Sparks.
Gbaham's Town, June 3rd 1821.
Sir, — My successor's appointment to the Command of the
Frontier, being dated 24th ulto., of which I was not aware till the
27th ultimo, rendering it impossible for me to convey, (as was my
wish) in a Frontier order, my Sentiments to the Ofl&cers, non-Com-
missioned Officers, and Soldiers, I have had the honor to Command,
for the space of Two years and Three months ; but it is impossible
I could leave the Frontier, without availing myself of this means
of expressing my warmest acknowledgements to you, and the
Officers under your Command, (I am sorry in justice to the service,
to feel it necessary to except Lieutenant Adamson) for the ready
support and assistance I have at all times received, in Carrying on
the complicated duties of this Frontier, and my best thanks are due
to the Non-Commissioned Officers and Soldiers, who by the manner
in which they have performed their Military duties, under their
respective officers, and their unceasing exertions at the works,
upon which they have been employed, have enabled me to preserve,
for the Period I have had the honor to Command, a degree of
Peace and security to the Colony, from the Caflfres, hitherto
unknown, and to erect buildings for the Government, which never
could have been completed within the Period they have, had it not
been for the unparalleled exertions of the Officers, Non-Commis-
sioned Officers, and Soldiers in carrying my views into effect, and
I take this opportunity to acknowledge myself entirely indebted
to them, for any mark of approbation I have received from the
Commander of the Forces. I hope you will do me the honor, to
insert this letter in the Order Books of your Corpsy as a Memorial
of my grateful feelings, to the Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers
and Soldiers composing it. I have &c.
(Signed) Thomas Willshire,
Lt. Colonel Comdg. the Frontier.
xtii. 2 K
498 Rtomrds of ilu Cape Colony.
[Copy.]
Letter from Sot Bufahb Shaws Dohkdt to Caftadt Trafpss.
BATHDBir, Jwm Uk 1821.
Dear Sib, — ^The late airangementB for uniting the Civil and
Militajy Authority in the hands of one p^son will necessarQy
remoTe yon £rom the Provisional Magistracy of this plaoe» but I
cannot allow you to qnit that office withont expressing to you my
sadsfietction and approbation of the manner in which yon have
conducted tlie duties of it. I am quite aware of the difficulties
you have had to contend with, and of tlie impossibility that any
Magistrate could content every body, particularly under the
circumstances of anxiety and fermentation which prevailed amongst
the Settlers on their first going to their locations; but after a
residence of above a fortnight in Albany and a pretty general
communication with the Settlers, it is but justice to you to say
that there is an uniform and general Testimony in favor of the
uprightness and impartiality of your administration here.
It will be satisfactory to me if by any arrangement I can make
within this Colony I can again avail myself of your assistance.
In offering to you my thanks and approbation for the manner
in which you have discharged your duties at Bathnrst, I b^ to
assure you that I am, Dear Sir, with great truth, your faithful and
obedient Servant,
(Signed) B. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from Sir Eufanb Shawb Donkin to Eakl Bathurst.
Bateiibst, June bfh 1821.
My Lord^ — Your Lordship will observe fipom the date of this
Dispatch that I have carried into execution the intention I had the
honor of mentioning to your Lordship before I left Cape Town of
visiting the Settlers in Albany, and it is with great satisfaction
that I have to report that I find the best spirit and feeling
Records of the Cape Colony, 49d
generally prevalent amongst them, and a much greater progress
made in their buildings and improvements than I could have
hoped for after the severe Calamity of an universal blight in their
Crops.
!nie general Health of the Settlers is quite unexampled I believe
in any other instance of Colonization. The District Surgeon here
tells me that within his knowledge the deaths do not exceed a
Dozen in the last year, whereas tiie Births have been considerably
more than one hundred.
This Town, as a Central point for the Locations has far out-
stripped my expectations. Above twenty houses are already built
and nearly finished since I last had the honor of addressing your
Lordship from this Spot, this time last Year, when I fixed the Site
of Bathurst, and at a sale of building lots, which took place here
on the 1st Instant, they averaged in price near £50 Sterling an
acre. In consequence of this demand, I have ordered Six more
lots to be sold in about a month.
On Sunday last, the 3rd of June, Divine Service was performed
here, for the first time, in public, on the spot intended for the
Church.
Your Lordship is aware that the Town of Bathurst is near the
Kowie River. I have great satisfaction in reporting to your
Lordship that, having lately visited the mouth of the River, accom-
panied by seafaring and other experienced People, I have every
reason to hope, both from my own inspection and from all the
Reports I have received, that the mouth of the Kowie will prove
to be safely accessible to Small Vessels, and thus become a place
for Export for the Com and other productions of Albany. It is
impossible to describe to your Lordship the effect this prospect has
had on the Settlers, and the additional Value it has conferred upon
Bathurst. One characteristic of the Mouth of the Kowie is
remarkable, and perhaps not elsewhere to be found in this Colony,
which is, that from the shortness of its course and the gentleness
of its declivity, a great Volume of Water is not disembogued at
once into the Sea, and consequently no obstacle properly called a
Bar is thrown up, thus in fact the Mouth of the Kowie is rather an
Inlet of the Sea, nmning several miles up into the Cotmtry, than
the debouchure of one of those Torrents which usually empty
themselves from this Continent.
I am making all necessary and possible arrangements while I am
500 Records of the Cape Colony.
on the spot to give activity and efficacy to a trade between Bathurst
and Cape Town, by means of the Kowie.
In a Dispatch I had the honor of addressing to your Lordship
before I left Cape Town, I submitted my conviction of the necessity
of uniting the Civil and Military Authorities on this Frontier in
the hands of one person, and that I proposed to place Major Jones
(an Officer whose Talents and Character I have long known and
can answer for) in the Offices of Landdrost and Military Com-
mandant. The necessity of this measure became more and more
obvious every day ; the difficulty was to find a Military Man of
Sufficient Bank who had some knowledge of CivH administration.
I can assure your Lordship that if I had not believed Major Jones
properly qualified, I should never have placed him here; and I
hope he will answer the expectations I have formed of him, but
whether or no that particular Officer fulfils my expectations, I
have no hesitation in submitting my opinion tiiat the union of
the Civil and Military Authorities on this Frontier is absolutely
necessary for some time to come, for the well being of the Settlers
and for the eflfectual protection of themselves and property.
While addressing your Lordship, I have the honor of receiving
your Lordship's Dispatches of the 29th of October and 2nd of
December 1820. As these Dispatches relate to the Settlers and to
the Country I am now in, I shall here submit to your Lordship
whatever may be necessary in reply to them.
The first dated October 29th conveys your Lordship's instructions
for me to carry on the Two Frontier Works formerly planned by
Lord Charles Somerset, and an impression seems to be made on
your Lordship's mind that I had wholly suspended their progress.
This I have not done, but instead of allowing a ponderous Fortress
of Stone, cannon proof, to be erected under the name of Fort
Willsbire at an immense expense, and which would not have been
near finished at this day, I caused a Fortified Barrack, perfectly
adequate to every defence against the Caflfers, to be constructed in
its stead, which has long been completed, and occupied by 250
men, the number originally intended for Fort Willshire.
The Second Fort has not yet been begun upon, because when I
was last here, the Chief Engineer and myself in reconsidering the
ground, both concurred in thinking that instead of placing it where
first proposed, it might be placed more advantageously nearer the
Sea, but I have had it in contemplation to locate a body of the
Records of the Cape Colony, 601
disbanded AMcan Corps in that direction, and if I can accomplish
this, it will afford a fortified Village as a Right Flank to the
Colonial Frontier line of defence.
Should this proposed location of part of the African Corps prove
impracticable, I shall not fail to give orders for placing a fortified
Barrack, similar to the one I have placed at the Keiskamma, on
the best Military point I can select.
Your Lordship's Despatch of December 2nd relates to the Rations,
and I am relieved by finding from the general tenor of it, that in
case of aggravated distress the issue of Rations to Settlers, to he
ultimately paid foTy would not be disapproved of by your Lordship.
That case has arisen, from the universal destruction of the Crops,
and Rations liave accordingly been issued, with a distinct and clear
understanding, that they are to be paid for hereafter, for which
payment the Heads of Parties are to be personally answerable, and
their lands mortgaged.
I take this opportunity of suggesting that perhaps it will be
advisable, as a matter of future consideration and favor, that the
several Heads of Parties shall be allowed to pay back their Rations
to the Commissariat in kind. This would be holding out a near
and palpable encouragement to Industry, and would be opening a
certain Market for all the Cattle and Produce they may have to
dispose of for some time to come.
I have adopted this principle in regard to Seed Com which has
been ordered up hither, and which is now distributing. I have
told the Settlers that they may repay that Corn hereafter in kind.
So that this Government will furnish them Seed Com now, when
its price is exceedingly high, on condition of receiving hereafter
an equal quantity at whatever rate the Market may be.
I beg leave now to express my acknowledgments to your Lord-
ship for having made me the organ of communication to convey to
the Settlers the additional aid afforded them by His Majesty's
Government in regard to Waggon hire. I shall do this imme-
diately, and I am sure great gratitude will be felt by them all.
For the favour and aid they have already received, they are
really grateful, as Your Lordship will perceive by the address which
all the Heads of Parties near this, who could assemble, presented
to me soon after my arrival at Bathurst, and of which I take the
liberty of enclosing a Copy. Whatever there may be in it flattering
to myself, I can have merited only by acting upon and by obeying
502 Records of the Cape Colony,
Your Lordship's Instructions. I regret that Your Lordship^s
Despatch did not reach me before the address was presented to me,
as I am sure that the very great indulgence extended by it to the
Settlers in regard to waggon hire would have been specifically
noticed by them in Expressions of warm and grateful acknowledg-
ment. I have &c.
(Signed) E. S. Donkin.
[Original.]
Letter from John Babrow, Esqre., to Henry Goulburn, Esobe.
Advibaltt Offiob, ^ih June 1821.
Sir, — In reference to Earl Bathurst's letter to my Lords Com-
missioners of the Admiralty of the 23rd of last month, signifying
His Majesty's pleasure that a passage be provided on board a Ship
of War proceeding to the Cape of Good Hope for General Lord
Charles Somerset, his Daughter and Aid de Camp, and Servants, I
am commanded by my Lords to request you will acquaint Lord
Bathurst that they have appointed His Majesty's ship Hyperion for
the performance of that service. I am &c.
(Signed) John Barrow.
[Original.]
Letter from the Transport Ojfflce to the Commissioners of the Navy.
Tbahspobt Offigb, Deptfobd, 7 Jwm 1821.
Honorable Sirs, — In obedience to your directions of the 5th
instant desiring me to enquire and report the rate at which convey-
ance to the Cape of Good Hope can be obtained for two rams, two
boars, two sows, two bulls, and two heifers ;
I beg leave to acquaint you I have made several enquiries, but
cannot find any suitable vessel now loading for the Cape of Good
Records of the Cape Colony, 503
Hope, but the probable expence may be from one hundred to one
hundred and twenty pounds. I will make further enquiries on
the subject and inform you as soon as the particulars can be
ascertained.
Eetuming Mr. Gpulbum's letter to the Comptroller of the Navy,
I am &c.
(Signed) W. Young.
[Copy.]
Instructions for Mr. Khobd.
June 7th 1821.
1. Enlarge the Location of Messrs. Hyman and Ford according
to the memorandum I have made on Mr. Hyman's Memorial and
the instruction given to the Landdrost.
2. Add the upper square part of the allotment measured for
Mr. Andrews to Mr. Hyman, the Eoad being the South Boundary
of t?iat square, and then add the remainder to Major Jones's former
grant as marked by me in the Diagram given to Mr. Knobel.
(Signed) R S. Donkin.
[Copy.]
Letter from the Fiscal Denyssen to Sir Rufane Donkin.
Gaps Town, the Sth J%tne 1821.
Sib, — I lately was informed by Mr. Abraham Faure, who is the
Agent here of Mr. G. K. van Hogendorp, that his Employer, said
Mr. 6. EL van Hogendorp, had signified to him an Intention to
resign his right to a certain piece of Land situated in the Hout
Bay's Valley, which was granted him by Government on the
27th March 1818.
504 Records of the Cape Colony.
As in consequence of such an Abandonment that Piece of Land
would become unoccupied, I have obtained Mr. Faure's consent
previous to the same taking place, not to let this opportunity
pass away without making application to Tour Excellency, for
Your Excellency's gracious permission to have Mr. Van Hogen-
dorp's grant of Quit Bent transferred to me, subject to the same
conditions, and annual quit rent, as the same is actually subject
to, and likewise to my paying all arrears thereon.
The manner in which I am 'situated will make the possession of
Mr. Van Hogendorp's said piece of Land most desirable for myself,
and my large, and still growing family, nor do I believe applica-
tions of this nature have been unfrequent on the part of public
Servants, similarly situated with myself, and as such applications
can never be better founded but on the Constant benevolence of
Gk)vemment in promoting the reasonable views, and thereby
increasing the Comforts of its well deserving Servants, I feel
myself encouraged to hope Your Excellency will not disdain
disposing favorably on my present application. I have &c.
(Signed) D. Denyssen.
LONDON : P&INTKD BT WILLUK OLOWBS AND SONS, UXHID,
DUKB STREET, STAMFORD STREET, S.E., AND GREAT WINDMILL STREET, W.
THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
DATE DUE
AUG 1 4 1995
3 9015 03142 7555
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