SHIP CAROLINE.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume XI, Issue 17, 18 January 1876, Page 2

SHIP CAROLINE.

To the Editor op the ' Evening Mail.' Sib —l would feel much obliged by your inserting in your journal this statement concerning the ship Caroline, because in justice I wish to show how different the treatment of the immigrants on the passage was from what we were led to believe we would receive, and to remove a wrong impression which prevails on that subject. "We had a very pleasant and comfortable passage, I may say no very bad weather throughout, and we sighted the coast of New Zealand on the 90th day from Plymouth. The main hatches were only closed one night) and then only to prevent the spray from getting down. On that occasion we were told it blew a strong gale of wind, and still below in the married people's compartment the ship felt so steady that we could hardly believe it was more than an ordinary breeze. We spent Christmas and New Year's Days on board. On the former day every one on board had a slice of thoroughly good plum pudding —plenty of it —and a glass of wine or beer to wash it down. In the evening several of the sailors and young immigrants gave us a negro entertainment quite in the Christy Minstrel style, and the same on New Tear's night. The singing and instrumental performances, as well as the jokes, were as good as might be heard at a much more pretentious entertainment on shore, and as the duties and discipline of the ship were carried on at the same time, the whole passed off well and to the delight and entertainment of us all. I can with confidence state that the ship was well found, strong, and comfortable; that the berthing of the immigrants was all that could be expected or desired where so many were to be accommodated; that the food and water were ample and good; that the children had extras, such as milk, soup, eggs, &c, suitable to their years; that the passenger decks were thoroughly cleaned, and afterwards inspected by the surgeon every day ; that the captain was strict, kind, and attentive; that the surgeon performed his duties skilfully and -efficiently ; that the officers were obliging, and the. crew well behaved. In fact all was done that could be for our health and comfort, and I can with confidence say to intending immigrants that if they are treated as well as we were on board the Caroline, they need have no dread of the long sea voyage. . I am, &c, Thomas Ceaig, Immigrant by ship Caroline. Nelson, Jan. 18, 1876.