But to effect this, our present limits
must be greatly extended, which will require detachments of troops not
to be spared from the present establishment. And admitting the position,
the parent country will still have to supply us for a much longer time
with every other necessary of life. For after what we have seen, the
idea of being soon able to breed cattle sufficient for our consumption,
must appear chimerical and absurd. From all which it is evident, that
should Great Britain neglect to send out regular supplies, the most
fatal consequences will ensue.
Speculators who may feel inclined to try their fortunes here, will do
well to weigh what I have said. If golden dreams of commerce and wealth
flatter their imaginations, disappointment will follow: the remoteness
of situation, productions of the country, and want of connection with
other parts of the world, justify me in the assertion. But to men of
small property, unambitious of trade, and wishing for retirement, I
think the continent of New South Wales not without inducements. One
of this description, with letters of recommendation, and a sufficient
capital (after having provided for his passage hither) to furnish him
with an assortment of tools for clearing land, agricultural and domestic
purposes; possessed also of a few household utensils, a cow, a few sheep
and breeding sows, would, I am of opinion, with proper protection and
encouragement, succeed in obtaining a comfortable livelihood, were he
well assured before he quitted his native country, that a provision for
him until he might be settled, should be secured; and that a grant of
land on his arrival would be allotted him.
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