tions[1] which gave in full detail the objects of his inquiry. He was first to direct his attention to ascertaining "what alteration in the existing system of the Colony can render it available to the purpose of its original institution, and adequate for its more extended application. With a view to this you will examine how far it may be possible to enforce, in the Colonies already established, a system of general discipline, constant work, and vigilant superintendence; the latter must necessarily be understood to comprise complete separation from the mass of the population, and more or less of personal confinement, according to the magnitude of the offence. … Should it appear to you, as I have too much reason to apprehend will be the result, that the present settlements are not capable of undergoing any efficient change, the next object will be the expediency of gradually abandoning them altogether as receptacles for convicts; and forming on other parts of the coasts, or in the interior of the country, distinct establishments for the reception and proper employment of the convicts, who may hereafter be sent out."
In such a case the annual charge must be carefully inquired into, "in order to enable His Majesty's Government to decide whether it is advisable to continue or to alter or to abandon the system which for near forty years has been pursued. …"
Lord Bathurst concluded with a vigorous description of transportation as it should be and as it had become "… you will in the whole course of your inquiries constantly bear in mind that transportation to New South Wales is intended as a severe punishment, applied to various crimes, and as such must be rendered an object of real terror to all classes of the community." This it had ceased to be. "For mere expatriation is not in these days an object of considerable terror. The intercourse which it breaks is readily re-established; and the mystery which used to hang over the tale of those condemned to it can never long exist. … If, therefore, by ill-considered compassion for the convicts, or from what might, under other circumstances, be considered a laudable desire to lessen their sufferings, their situation in New South Wales be divested of all
- ↑ P.P., XIV., 1823. Instructions to Bigge, 6th January, 1819.
