HINTS TO EMIGRANTS.
[Image of page 63]
HINTS TO EMIGRANTS.
New Zealand is situated on the opposite side of the globe to England; hence, to reach it we must cross the Equator and pass through the tropical or hottest region
[Image of page 64]
of the earth, after which the voyager advances towards the south in order to round the Cape of Good Hope, and then sails for several weeks in an easterly direction.
Land is seldom seen on the voyage; sometimes, however, the islands of Madeira, the Cape de Verds, the Azores, the small island of Tristan d'Acunha or St. Paul's, and Van Diemen's Land are approached close enough to be visible.
It will therefore be evident that for a short portion of the voyage the emigrant is exposed to extreme heat, after which he is likely to feel the cold weather, particularly if (as some navigators prefer) the ship is made to stand well to the southward in order to shorten the length of the degrees of longitude, and thereby make a quick passage; in no case, however, does the cold become so intense as in England.
The average duration of the voyage to Hew Zealand is about sixteen weeks, a long period of idleness to those who may have been accustomed to regular labour at home, but offering good opportunity for reading, and learning many useful matters connected with the sea.
To lend a willing hand with the sails, to learn something of ships and rigging, steering, reefing, &c. afford amusement, and at the same time enable the attentive emigrant to acquire many valuable notions which may be extremely advantageous to him in a country like New Zealand, where boating and coasting form so large an item in all the transactions of the place.
We should advise the intending emigrant to dispose of all his furniture, because--the freight is high, he would have to pay an enormous duty upon its being landed, and it would then be an encumbrance to him, and to move it about would be very expensive, whereas the possession of its money value would at first be most important to him. When in a position to furnish a cottage, the requisites can always be purchased on the spot.
As many books as can be obtained will afford amusement and instruction on the voyage.
The ordinary clothes worn in England will answer every purpose, and a large stock need not be taken, as
[Image of page 65]
a very small quantity of luggage is allowed for each passenger, excess being charged with freight.
A good overcoat for men and a warm cloak for women against wet and cold weather are very desirable, and a pair of good stout ten quarter blankets we should advise, as being a sufficient covering during the voyage, and forming a very acceptable bed in the bush; both for the sea, and in such a warm climate as New Zealand a mattrass is to be preferred to a bed, being cooler and more wholesome.
The only articles with which an emigrant cannot be overstocked are boots; New Zealand is a rainy country, and there being a great deal of out-door work, boots are destroyed more quickly there than in any other country in the world.
The boots which are the most desirable are-- water-tights with fastened tongues and eyeleted, not heavy but strongly made, and bradded or lightly nailed; for the climate is warm although wet, and therefore boots should not be so heavy as to fatigue the wearer.
Pieces of plain calico and printed cotton may be advantageously taken by females to amuse and occupy their time in the making of apparel during the voyage, and for this purpose a good stock of tapes, needles, and sewing cotton should be provided.
For those who can afford it, a small filter in a wicker guard, and a few tins of small plain biscuits, will be found acceptable on the voyage.
Attention to cleanliness, and courtesy to one another will render the voyage pleasant and improving to the health.
Contentment also with the circumstances in which the emigrant is temporarily placed, and a hearty cooperation with the captain, officers and medical attendant will do a great deal to soften down the disagreeables incident to a sea voyage; and if emigrants would occasionally ask themselves what object the officers of the ship can possibly have but the safety, comfort, and well-being of all under their charge, it would change the little grumbles into a cordial sympathy and cheerful
[Image of page 66]
acquiescence in those regulations which are absolutely essential to the health of the whole body.
On arrival, we earnestly advise the acceptance of immediate employment, even if it should not exactly be what is desired, it puts the emigrant in heart, it saves expenditure; it gives hope and prevents repining and homesickness, and settles one at once. At first, an engagement should only be for a short period, until the "new chum" knows the place and people.
Do not carry any cash with you, but deposit it in the Union Bank of Australia or Oriental Bank Corporation, taking an order on the colonial branch, sending the duplicate by another ship; on arrival, leave as much as possible on interest at the bank in the colony for six months, and do not be tempted to draw it out or embark in any speculation of your own, but endeavour to work for wages, and at the end of that time you will be better able to judge what to do with yourself and your money, than the writer to advise you--so farewell and God speed.
HINTS ABOUT SHIPS, &c.
Emigrants about to embark for New Zealand feel a natural anxiety about the ship which is destined to be their home for a long period, and on this point a few hints may not be unseasonable. The Government exercise a supervision over all emigrant ships, and there is therefore a certain amount of security that mo flagrant dereliction of duty on the part of the shipowner will be passed over. At the same time, while one ship may be good enough to pass the Government ordeal, another may be much better, and its superior advantages may materially contribute to the welfare of all on board. Fortunately, the emigration trade to New Zealand has hitherto been in the hands of houses who have conducted it in a creditable manner; and while the emigrant will be none the worse for looking after himself, he may depend upon his agreement being carried out in a spirit of fairness if he selects any of the existing Lines of Packets.
[Image of page 67]
The ship selected should not be too small, not under about 300 tons register; 500 tons is better as a minimum, and she should be classed at Lloyd's as A 1, or first class. The height of the between decks is a material element in comfort. The range is from six to eight feet high. Perhaps the importance of height may be more forcibly fixed upon the reader's attention by directing his notice to the fact, that in between decks of eight feet, he enjoys 33 1/2 per cent. more air to breathe than in one of six feet only. Ventilation is strictly enforced by the Government Surveyors. The provisions, water casks, fittings, the equipment of the ship, the number of the crew, and the capability of the captain, officers, and surgeon, are also points which are subject to rigid Government investigation.
The duties of Government Surveyor for London, devolve upon Captain Lean, R. N., assisted by a numerous staff of naval officers. This gentleman has occupied his present post for many years, the duties of which he has discharged in a manner which has secured for him the high respect of all with whom he has been brought into contact.
To the patient attention which he bestows upon all matters where the real interests of the emigrant are concerned, may be largely attributed the fact that emigration business from London has hitherto been so free from reproach.
The emigrant will sometimes perceive, in Ship Brokers' advertisements, a great deal of credit assumed for the providing of medical comforts, and a variety of other alluring luxuries. The fact is, that the Government compel these things to be provided, and in such cases a necessity is exaggerated into a virtue. There is no very great amount of difficulty in making comfortable provision for emigrants on board ship. Practical experience and honesty of purpose, are all that are wanted. Every man naturally prefers his own particular interest, and therefore if we are asked to recommend any particular Line of Packets, we naturally recommend our own.
[Image of page 68]
THE PASSENGERS' LINE OF PACKETS.
The success which our efforts have hitherto met with is to some extent an assurance that we enjoy the confidence of the emigrating public. We are not, however, inclined to found our claim for support simply upon any success which we have achieved, or may now be achieving, nor to cite that success as evidence of our perfection. On the contrary, we are by no means satisfied that our line is free from faults, and any hints for improvement which our friends or passengers by our vessels may give us, will be most gratefully received and promptly acted upon if practicable. We know that the main difficulty to be encountered is to keep pace with the improvements which science and experience are continually suggesting. Our aim being to keep pace with these improvements we seek to approach the task in a teachable spirit, being satisfied that it is only by the adoption of such a course that we can hope to secure a continuance of the support we have already received.
Of the ships despatched under the auspices of our Line, many are destined to be regular New Zealand Traders; all are first class at Lloyd's, some of them of the highest class, and in all cases they are selected and equipped with as much care as can be bestowed upon them.
We subjoin a list of rates of passage and general hints as to passenger arrangements.
One feature to which we would advert, as distinguishing our ships from those of other Lines, is the finding of the cabin table. It has hitherto been the practice to place chief cabin passengers upon a restricted scale of dietary. By many persons this was found to be objectionable in practice, and we have abolished it, substituting an unrestricted cabin table, as in the first class Ocean Steamers.
We also make live stock, and fresh provisions generally, a more permanent item in the daily fare. The increase of expense is very considerable, but we are
[Image of page 69]
satisfied that it will materially contribute to comfort, and that we shall reap the benefit in the long run.
We are often asked by second and third class passengers, whether it is desirable for them to take a few extra provisions for their own use? The dietary scale for them will be found adequate fully to supply all absolute necessities; but where circumstances admit of it, a few additional luxuries will be a great relief from sea fare, which, at the best, is monotonous. We would advise those who can afford it, to take with them a small quantity of jams and jellies, ordinary fancy biscuits, a little sago, or arrowroot, and such like things which can be packed into small compass, and are prepared for use without much trouble. Preserved milk is also a valuable though somewhat expensive luxury. There is one modern preparation of it in the shape of a powder, a small bottle of which makes a quart of milk at a cost of a shilling. It possesses an advantage over milk preserved in a liquid state, inasmuch as it need not be all used at once. Where there are children, it will be found a very salutary change.
With regard to the necessary outfit, authorities upon this point agree in giving the following as the minimum quantity which an emigrant should take, viz.:--
Mattrasses (which should be new, if possible, and of the following dimensions:--For Men, 6 feet by 20 inches; Women, 5 feet 9 inches by 18 inches; Married Couples, 6 feet by 3 feet; Children, according to size), Bolsters, Blankets, and Counterpanes; Canvas Bags, to contain Linen, &c.; Knives, Forks, Spoons, Metal Plates, Hook Pots, Drinking Mugs, Water Can, &c. Also, necessary clothing as under, viz.:--
FOR MALES.
6 Shirts.
6 Pair Stockings.
2 Warm Flannel or Guernsey Shirts.
2 Pair New Shoes.
2 Complete Suits Strong Exterior Clothing.
FOR FEMALES.
6 Shifts.
2 Warm and Strong Flannel Petticoats.
6 Pair Stockings.
[Image of page 70]
2 Pair Strong Shoes.
2 Strong Gowns, one of which must be warm.
FOR CHILDREN.
7 Shirts or Shifts.
4 Warm Flannel Waistcoats.
1 Warm Cloak, or Outside Coat.
6 Pair Stockings.
2 Pair Strong Shoes.
2 Complete Suits of Exterior Clothing, and a sufficient supply of covering for the head. Also, 3 sheets for each berth, and 4 towels and 2 lbs. Marine Soap for each person.
The cost of this will not exceed four or five pounds. Of course, where a passenger can afford it, there is no limit to the extent according to which he can provide himself. It is a great mistake, however, to think that a very large stock of clothing is indispensable for the voyage. Passing through the heat of the tropics, and often exposed to cold at the southward of the Cape of Good Hope, the passenger should, of course, be provided against both extremes. Both this can be done without preparation of either an elaborate or expensive character. We should advise all passengers to obtain their sea-going portion of their outfit from some one of the many respectable outfitters in London. These houses have much practical experience, and can give sound and reliable advice.
We will only further add, that being in constant communication with friends and correspondents in the colony, and being daily brought into contact with persons who have returned from thence, we have access to the newest and most authentic information. It at all times affords us pleasure to communicate that information, and any inquiries which may be addressed to us will, at all times, meet with prompt reply.
SHAW, SAVILL & Co.
Agents for the Passengers' Line of Packets, 34, Leadenhall Street, London, E. C.
1st December, 1858.
[Image of page 71]
RATES OF PASSAGE AND GENERAL ARRANGEMENTS.
Provisions included.
| CHIEF CABIN FARE.--For One Person, the whole Cabin
|
£60
|
| For Two Persons in the same Cabin
|
45 each
|
| Poop and Stern Cabins by special agreement.
SECOND CABIN FARE.--Enclosed Cabins.
|
25 "
|
| STEERAGE.--Enclosed Berths, separate Cabins for Married Couples
|
20 "
|
| Open Berths
|
18 "
|
Children under 12 years to pay one-half Passage Money.
Infants under 1 year no charge.
Chief Cabin Passengers supplied with an unlimited table, including Live Stock.
SCALE OF DIETARY FOR EACH ADULT PASSENGER PER WEEK.
| ARTICLES.
|
Second Cabin.
|
Steerage.
|
| Preserved Meats
|
1 1/2 lb.
|
1 lb.
|
| Soup and Bouilli
|
1/2 lb.
|
..
|
| York Ham
|
1/2 lb.
|
..
|
| Fish
|
1/4 lb.
|
..
|
| Prime India Beef
|
1 lb.
|
1 1/4 lb.
|
| Irish Mess Pork
|
1 1/2 lb.
|
1 lb.
|
| Biscuit
|
4 1/4 lb.
|
3 1/2 lb.
|
| Flour
|
4 1/4 lb.
|
3 lb.
|
| Rice
|
1 lb.
|
1/2 lb.
|
| Barley
|
1/2 lb.
|
..
|
| Peas
|
1/2 pint
|
1/2 pint
|
| Oatmeal
|
1/2 pint
|
1 pint
|
| Sugar, raw
|
1 lb.
|
1 lb.
|
| Lime Juice
|
6 oz.
|
6 oz.
|
| Tea
|
1 1/2 oz.
|
1 1/2 oz.
|
| Coffee
|
3 oz.
|
2 oz.
|
| Butter
|
1/2 lb.
|
6 oz.
|
| Cheese
|
1/4 lb.
|
..
|
| Currants, or
|
1/4 lb.
|
..
|
| Raisins, Valentia
|
1/2 lb.
|
1/2 lb.
|
| Suet
|
6 oz.
|
6 oz.
|
| Pickles
|
1/4 pint
|
1/4 pint
|
| Mustard
|
1/2 oz.
|
1/2 oz.
|
| Pepper
|
1/4 oz.
|
1/4 oz.
|
| Salt
|
2 oz.
|
2 oz.
|
| Potatoes, fresh, or
|
3 1/2 lb.
|
2 lb.
|
| Preserved ditto
|
1/2 lb.
|
1/2 lb.
|
| Water
|
21 quarts
|
21 quarts
|
For all children and infants an equivalent quantity of sago, flour, rice, raisins, suet, and sugar will be substituted for salt meat if required.
Provisions of the best quality are put on board according to the above scale for 22 weeks, together with an abundant supply of extra stores, as medical comforts for Passengers generally.
[Image of page 72]
The arrangements of these vessels are based upon long experience. Every improvement which, from time to time, suggests itself as conducive to the comfort of Passengers (without losing sight of economy in the rates of Passage) will be promptly adopted.
SHIP'S REGULATIONS.
PASSAGE MONEY.--Each Passenger is required to pay a deposit of one-half of the passage money on securing his berth, which deposit will be forfeited in case of non-embarkation. The other half to be paid, prior to embarkation, at the Office of SHAW, SAVILL & Co. On remitting deposit, particulars of Name, Age, Country, and Occupation of each Passenger must also be given.
CABINS are appropriated in rotation as the deposits are paid.
LUGGAGE.--Chief Cabin and Intermediate Passengers carry half a ton, and Steerage Passengers quarter of a ton measurement of Luggage only, free of charge; the remainder, if any, is paid for at the current rate of freight. What linen, &c., is required for the first week or two should be packed in a handy bag, and bedding should be clearly marked "Cabin."--Luggage forwarded from the country for shipment should be carriage paid. The name of the Passenger and the Port of his destination should be painted on each case or package; and then each should have a card tacked on bearing the direction:--"Care of SHAW, SAVILL & Co.," To be delivered at the St. Katharine Docks, per the New Zealand Ship "------," when, if a letter of advice be sent to SHAW, SAVILL & Co., at the time the articles are sent off, they will be duly shipped. All extra Passengers' Luggage and Goods, however, should be delivered at the Docks seven days before the sailing of the Ship. The Dock charges on Luggage amount to about 2s. per box or package, according to size.
N.B.--The Luggage packages most necessary to have in the Cabin should be marked "Cabin;" and those most likely to be "Wanted on the Voyage" should bear these words, so that they may be stowed in the Hold, where access can be had from time to time.
EMBARKATION.--Passengers embark at Gravesend day the following the Ship's leaving the Docks.
LIQUORS.--Wines, Beer, &c., of the best quality, are provided at the following prices:--Port or Sherry Wines, 4s. per bottle; Ale or Porter, 1s. per bottle; Brandy, 5s. per bottle; Spirits, for Chief Cabin Passengers, only 3s. per bottle; but for the better preservation of order in the Ship, the quantity so supplied will be under the regulation of the Commander. No private supply allowed to be taken into the cabins.
Chief Cabin Passengers provide their own furniture, bed places, and whatever else they may think requisite within their private Cabins. The Owners of the Ship supply everything
[Image of page 73]
that is required for the table, viz.--plate, linen, glass, attendance, &c.
SECOND CABIN AND STEERAGE PASSENGERS have berths built for them, but find their own bedding, and other fittings they may require. They must also provide themselves with the following utensils, viz.--knives and forks, table and teaspoons, one or two deep metals plates and dishes, a hook teapot, cups and saucers, or tin drinking vessels, and a water can. The Provisions are daily prepared by the Cook of the Ship, but Passengers must in other respects attend to their own arrangements for messing. They must be provided with a proper supply of Clothing and other necessaries for the voyage. Second Cabin Passengers receive only partial attendance in cleaning the Cabin.
The Agents effect Insurances on Baggage and Passage Money.
