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Rocks now poured in their spears in Abundance so that it was
with the utmost difficulty and the greatest good fortune that
no other hurt was rec'd in getting the Govr into the Boat.
As soon as they returned to this place, you may believe an
universal solicitude prevailed, as the danger of the Wound
could by no means be asertained [ascertained] untill the spear was extracted
and this was not done before his Excellency had caused some papers
to be arranged – lest the consequences might prove fatal which
happily it did not, for on drawing out the spear, it was found
that no vital part had been touched. the Governor, having a good
habit of Bodily health – the wound perfectly heal'd in the course of
a few weeks. Since that a Convict game keeper has been killed
by a Spear; but it seems in some measure to have been owing to
his own imprudence. Bannylong came many times to see the
Govr, during his confinement, and expressed great sorrow: but the
reason why the Mischief was done could not be learnt, since that
period the Natives visit us every day, more or less. Men, Women,
and Children they come with great confidence, without spears or
any other offensive Weapon. a great many have taken up their
abode entirely amongst us, and Bannylong and Coleby, with
their Wives, come in frequently, Mrs. Coleby, whose name is
Daringa, brought in a new born female Infant of hers for me
to see; about six Weeks since: it was wrapped up in the soft bark
of a Tree, a specimen of which I have preserved, it is a kind
of a Mantle not much known in England I fancy. I ordered
something for the poor Woman to Eat. and had her taken proper care
of for some little while. when she first presented herself to me
She appeared feeble and faint, she has since been regular in her
visits The Child thrives remarkably Well, and I discover a softness
and gentleness of Manners in Daringa truly interesting. We do not in
general encourage them to come to our houses. as you may conceive