that the establishment of any foreign power on that part of the coast
might, in the event of hostilities, greatly interrupt the communication
with Port Jackson, and materially endanger the tranquillity and security
of our possessions there." . . . .
"It has on these considerations been
determined by His Majesty that a settlement should be immediately formed
at Port Phillip, and that as soon as a detachment can be sent from thence
a subordinate establishment should be made at King's Island."
Lt. Col. Collins, on account of his experience in New South Wales, had been chosen to found the new settle- ment; but "the intended settlements are considered as dependencies upon your government, and the Lt.-Governor is placed under your orders." H.M.S. Calcutta, and the ship Ocean, would convey the expedition. The detailed instructions to Collins were sent also to King.
About thirty women were allowed to accompany their convict husbands, and ten children were permitted to go with their mothers. Amongst the children was one who was in after years to become an active politician in Victoria. Forty-six free persons, including children, were permitted to settle at Port Phillip or elsewhere. Port Phillip was represented as the most eligible situation, and Collins was therefore directed to form the first establishment there. "You are to endeavour by every means in your power to open an intercourse with the natives, and to conciliate their good will." Violence against them was to be punished according to the degree of the offence."
Elaborate instructions for promoting agriculture and grazing were given to Collins, and "the clandestine introduction of spirits" was to be vigilantly prevented. If "any quantity of this pernicious liquor should be discovered" in any person's possession, "it will be your duty to seize, and, if necessary, to destroy the same." Religious observances were to be promoted. Though Port Phillip was,
"according to the best information, the most eligible place for the intended settlement," "nevertheless you are not positively re- stricted from giving the preference to any other part of the southern coast of New South Wales, or any of the islands in Bass's Straits which, upon communication with the Governor of New South Wales, and with his concurrence and approbation, you may have well-grounded reason to consider as more advantageously situated."
Collins was nevertheless to disembark at once at Port Phillip, and not to search beforehand for any more eligible place. "As soon as possible" after overcoming "the first
