1st June 1787

Nearly a month into the journey now and I have never experienced such terrible conditions. Down below the deck is were us convicts live, the cells are cramped and there are often fights between the men and the officers and even each other. I got into an argument with a man in the cell to the left over a slice of bread. He thought the officer gave me an extra slice of bread with salted pork (which is untrue) and I told him to be quiet and eat his tea. He exploded with rage, jumping at the cell door and trying to get to me, I though his head was going to come off, he looked so mad. The officer on duty soon shut him up with a blow across the head, he had a big black, purple and yellow bruise above his right eye for weeks. I hope I never have to go on exercise with him.

Every coupe of days the officers allow us to come above deck and walk or run around the ship for exercise, this is my favorite time of the week as I can smell the fresh sea air and look up at the blue sky and remind myself that there is hope out there, I may not be able to see it but it is out there. When I think of Hannah and the kids it brings a smile to my face, to imagine that they are safe and well is what keeps me going strong, I must remain positive for them, if I cant be there for them then I must remain in high spirits if I am to return to them in seven years.

Until next time,

Samuel

13th May 1787 England

Today we left England forever. I do not ever remember being so sad, lost and scared in my life. To see the faces of my family and friends for the last time will haunt me forever. My dear wife Hannah and three children; Elizabeth, Thomas and baby John were the world to me but now they are lost forever.

This ship (The Charlotte) holds mostly men, about 88 and a few women, around 20. The cells are cramped and I can already smell things that are too foul to mention. I don't know when we will be fed, I am not expecting it to be any time soon, although they will have to give us some food it we are to stay alive throughout this journey.

I want to remain optimistic about this journey but it pains me too much to even think about anything other than my family, but it pains me more to even picture them. How will they survive? Elizabeth is only 10, Thomas 8 and baby John but 3 months old. They are much to young to work, who knows what will happen to them if they were out on the streets alone, yet if they do not work how will they eat? Oh dear, oh dear. How did I get into this mess. If only I had not stolen that material for Hannah!

The officers just announced meal time.

Until next time,

Samuel Barsby