| Description | Including references to Mr Calder, Mr Milligan, Henry Elliot. There is no indication that this was written specifically for Eleanor Franklin but it relates to the expedition which took place in April 1842.
Before this only had the odd ache or pain to complain of whilst travelling in the wet season in the Bush; however, on this occasion, one of the men (Mumford) was struck in the face by a branch and suffered total loss of sight and great agony. He was almost at the end of his two years service on the track under the employ of Mr. Calder, when this travesty occurred. The night was so dark and the track difficult to find, that Mumford had to grope his way using only a lantern from fire to fire. Everyone was distressed by the poor man’s suffering. The afflicted was resigned to his pains and grateful for the attentions given to him. He was offered transport for the rest of the journey but preferred to walk, with assistance where necessary. On route, mountain ranges were named in honour of the Infant Prince of Wales and their esteemed friend, Henry Elliot. Further back into the forest, Franklin realised the benefits of the previous labours of Mr. Calder’s party in their clearance of the route. Now, the path was worse. When the camp was pitched, all were happy to hear that Mumford had borne the journey well and was asleep in his tent. Although only a journey of 7 miles, the next day’s trek was arduous. They were not sufficiently furnished to give the men a whole meal. The men gave John and Jane Franklin three cheers, which they returned and John assured them that they would each receive the indulgences that were in his power to give. The supplies sent by Mrs. Payne were unfortunately partially off, and those component parts had to be thrown overboard. They determined to remain in good humour and compensated for the loss of meat with a glass of wine. After attending to dispatches and correspondence to do with the safety of the men, he thanks God for his divine interventions. Scenery was often picturesque. Mr. Milligan collected specimens of fine plants to box for conveyance. Eventually reached Macquarie Harbour. Obtained anchorage at settlement island. Was previously a Penal Station for the most hardened of criminals sent to V. D. Land. The dockyard furnishes the highest employment of the prisoners. Ended the days excursion by visiting a small rock some way out to sea where 100 of the most ‘disparate’ criminals were sent to sleep for the sake of security. Apparently many atrocities were carried out there. Franklin feels that improvement under such circumstances to be out of the question. |