with such directions to
use force, in case of necessity, as left no room for those who were the
object of the order, but to remain peaceable, or perish by the bayonet.

As the straggling of the convicts was not only a desertion from the
public labour, but might be attended with ill consequences to the
settlement, in case of their meeting the natives, every care was taken
to prevent it. The Provost Martial with his men was ordered to patrole
the country around, and the convicts informed, that the severest
punishment would be inflicted on transgressors. In spite, however, of
all our precautions, they soon found the road to Botany Bay, in visits
to the French, who would gladly have dispensed with their company.

But as severity alone was known to be inadequate at once to chastize and
reform, no opportunity was omitted to assure the convicts, that by
their good behaviour and submissive deportment, every claim to present
distinction and future favour was to be earned. That this caution was
not attended with all the good effects which were hoped from it, I have
only to lament; that it operated in some cases is indisputable; nor will
a candid and humane mind fail to consider and allow for the situation
these unfortunate beings so peculiarly stood in. While they were on
board ship, the two sexes had been kept most rigorously apart; but,
when landed, their separation became impracticable, and would have been,
perhaps, wrong. Licentiousness was the unavoidable consequence, and
their old habits of depravity were beginning to recur. What was to be
attempted? To prevent their intercourse was impossible; and to palliate
its evils only remained. Marriage was recommended, and such advantages
held out to those who aimed at reformation, as have greatly contributed
to the tranquillity of the settlement.

On the Sunday after our landing divine service was performed under a
great tree, by the Rev. Mr. Johnson, Chaplain of the Settlement, in the
presence of the troops and convicts, whose behaviour on the occasion
was equally regular and attentive. In the course of our passage this
had been repeated every Sunday, while the ships were in port; and in
addition to it, Mr. Johnson had furnished them with books, at once
tending to promote instruction and piety.

The Indians for a little while after our arrival paid us frequent
visits, but in a few days they were observed to be more shy of our
company. From what cause their distaste: arose we ne