Brian Condon: Diary of James Alipius Goold, 1848-1886

Tuesday 1st June. This evening I received the gratifying intelligence of the election of Dr. Brownless, a good Catholic, to the Vice-Chancellorship of the University.

Friday 4th June. Left with the Archbishop for Kilmore, where we arrived rather late, one of the horses being done up.

Saturday 5th June. Left for Melbourne where we arrived a little before 4 p.m. The Bishop of Hobarton arrived yesterday.

Thursday 10th June. At 4 p.m. laid the foundation-stone of a House of Mercy adjoining the present convent. Though the weather was cold and misty, a good number of the clergy and laity attended. The subscription was generous.

Friday 11th June. The Archbishop left at 1 for Sydney.

Sunday 13th June. Presided at a meeting in reference to St. Patrick's Church. The Bishop of Hobarton was present, and kindly delivered a short but appropriate address. The collection made on the spot exceeded £1000.

Tuesday 15th June. Visited the convent and took my leave of the nuns and children; received in the presbytery deputations from the laity and clergy, who presented valedictory addresses. At 5 p.m. went on board the steamer accompanied by a few of the clergy, when I took my leave of them. At night I missed two small bags which contained all my money and some papers of great importance; sent for them; they were delivered on board during the night.

Wednesday 23rd June. Anchored in the harbour of George's Sound. The village of Albany looks well from the ship. The tea tree grows here, and its fruit is used for making tea. I have not tasted it, but those who have say that it is a very agreeable drink. The water is good, and the bay is full of excellent fish. Landed about 11; the village is not regularly laid out; everyone seems to have consulted his own engineering ability in selecting the site of his house. The streets, if the space between the houses deserves the name, are very sandy. The Catholics commenced a church, but allowed it to go to ruins. The Protestants have a church and minister; the parson intends opening a school. The Catholic children will no doubt be sent to it.