March the 9 1787
March with the detachment from the Barracks to the dock Yard at ten in the morning and Embark on board the Friendship Transport with Captain Lieutenant Meredith and 2d. Lieut Faddy 2 Sergeants 3 Corporals 1 Drummer 36 Privates 9 Woman and Children - never did a poor Criminal goe to meet the [unknown] with greater reluctance than I leave the best of Woman and Sweetest of Boys - god out of his gracious goodness my leaving them may turn out to our advantage - never did poor Mortal feel himselve So unhappy as I doe at this present moment - I wish to god that I was Returning home again to the best of her Sex - Oh What goodness dose She my belovd Betsey posses She is come on board to Stay with her fond Clark Untill Mr. Faddy Returns on board to Relieve me March the 12
Received on board Yesterday Male and Female Convicts with Children - can never forgive the Unkindness of Capt M[eridith?] in refussing me leave to Sleep out of the Ships last night - oh did he love as well as I doe he would never have Refused me March the 13 at Sea
Oh Gracious God What a task have I gone throu last night in taking leave of the dearest and best of Wives and not Seing my Boy - god grant them health and welfare is the most Sinceer wishes of ane affectioned husband and fond father - oh when ever I am Restord to them again will never leave them - Bless them Both
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