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LETTER TWENTY-ONE
85

to see to its being cooked, to wash the dishes, &c. I am captain this week. We have a black cook. When we get out to sea where fresh beef cannot be obtained, we shall be victualled according to the scheme in Mr. Marshall's paper. I think that will suit me a great deal better. We have nearly all our passengers on board now. A boat load of Irish 'real emeralds,' as the surgeon called them, came last night. A young Jew from London forfeited his passage money and left the ship the other day, heartily tired of it. A man who was going out free also ran away last Sunday morning, as soon as we got here, and left all his clothes behind him. We have a clergyman going out with us, who came on board to-day.

They talk of our going direct to Sydney, and not touching anywhere. We have live stock on board for the use of the ship, A cow and calf, 24 pigs, 30 sheep, geese, fowls, etc. Not for us, though, mind you. Our united love to father, mother, and all of you. Give Clarinda's love to her father and brother, if you ever see them.

Your affectionate brother,

H. PARKES.

This letter will go to London by Mr. Marshall's agent.