Preparing for Departure

It was necessary to begin preparation for Francis’s departure straight away. Many family conferences were held, and finally groups were formed. Papa had his helper James, now nearly twelve years old. Between them they made up lists of outdoor implements and farm necessities. There were unwieldy things such as a single-furrow plough, harrows, cultivator, and numerous other smaller odds and ends of all descriptions.

Mama’s list contained a supply of clothing, kitchen and cooking utensils, an outdoor cooking oven, candle mould, kerosene lamp, and one of Mama’s recipe books. There was bedding, including a folding bed and small canvas tent. Next was a list of food supplies that would keep, and would supplement the meagre supply from the ship. There were ships’ biscuits, tinned milk, meat and other produce, dried fruit, and at the last minute, fresh fruit.

Annie was Mama’s assistant. Francis put priority on his rifle and ammunition. Next to this he listed seeds, seedlings, cuttings of trees — all that would go to make a nursery garden. His enthusiastic helper was eight-year-old Henry.

Lastly came the biggest job of all. For packing, very strong large cases were needed. The plough and other large things were taken apart for packing. Lists were checked over and over again, to make sure nothing had been missed. At last, almost all had been packed and the cases closed up.

During the weeks when everyone could think of nothing else but Francis’s departure, everything would go very well — but then a time would come when Mama would almost scream and say “Oh no”, and she would pull herself together and disappear into the house. Presently she would come back with a smile and hidden feelings.

Everyone was completely absorbed with one thing — Francis to get on his way, with the idea firmly in their minds that it would not be long before they too would be packing to follow him.

At last the day came. The whole family had been up and about long before daylight. What for, nobody knew, as all the larger cases and luggage had been sent to London almost a week earlier. Breakfast became an extended meal. Mama had made it extra special, as it would be the last meal Francis would have with them at ‘Brandon’.

Everyone spoke quietly and became quieter if Francis started to speak. Mama wanted to do such unnecessary things for Francis — as though she would never see him again.

Then the final move was made. All the little final things were done and smaller bags collected together. Papa went to bring the buggy and pair around to the door. It was indeed a sad few minutes, but all as Papa had quietly planned. Only he would accompany Francis to London and see him away.

Amid tears and misgivings at the door, all sorts of things were said, but as Papa hurried the horse on their way, the last-minute things that echoed in Francis’s ears were, “You will write often, won’t you?” and “We will come in less than a year.” A wildly excited Francis waved until out of sight of the home and farm he loved.