Instructions For Relocation

PURPOSE

To outline the correct procedure for departure, transport, and arrival for an assisted emigrant departing Ireland for resettling in the Australian colonies.

Follow each step in sequence. Deviation is discouraged.

Step 1: Arrive at Point of Departure

Present yourself at the designated quay before sunrise.

Standing is preferable to sitting. Stone retains moisture. Place your bundle of belongings at your feet. Wrap it in cloth and tie with twine.

Bring only what can be carried unaided:

• Two shirts
• One pair of trousers
• A knife suitable for work (keep concealed)
• A tin cup
• Official papers

Do not bring additional clothing, bedding, or tools not explicitly permitted. These will delay processing.

When your name is called:

• Step forward immediately
• Place papers flat on the desk
• Answer only what is asked
• State occupation, such as 'labourer'
• Take your papers for boarding. Do not linger.

Step 2: Boarding

Proceed up the gangplank when directed.

Carry your bundle yourself. Do not ask for assistance.

Expect the plank to bend. This is normal.

On deck, follow directional commands without hesitation:

• Men will be assigned starboard.
• Women and children will be directed port.

Locate the hatch and descend carefully.

Below deck, identify your assigned berth by number. Lower bunks are standard. Store your bundle beneath the berth. Keep all possessions within this space.

Return to the deck if permitted. It is advisable to watch the vessel depart.

Step 3: Departure

Do not expect announcement or ceremony.

The ship will leave when loading is complete. The city will not acknowledge departure.

Remain near the rail, but do not obstruct crew movement.

Observe:

• Change in air quality.
• Coal smoke thinning.
• Salt air increasing.

Departure is complete when the ship enters the open ocean.

Step 4: Establish a Routine

Routine will prevent difficulty. Come onto deck in the time allotted. Eat at designated times. Food is as follows:

• Bread (most likely stale)
• Salted meat (portion-controlled)
• Broth (thin)

Water will be rationed.

Please note that below deck:

• Air will become stale.
• Lantern smoke will collect overhead.
• Condensation will form on hull.

Sleep when motion permits. Eat when food is issued. Speak only when necessary.

Procedure if a Weather Event Occurs

Storms will occur without warning.

When ordered below:

• Descend immediately
• Secure footing
• Brace against fixed structures

Expect:

• Rolling motion
• Loose objects
• Noise escalation
• Possible nausea

Stay below deck unless otherwise instructed.

Storms may last hours or days.

Resume routine when instructed.

WARNING

Sickness is to be expected. Avoid contact unless directed.

Bunk cleaning tasks may be assigned.

Step 5: Land Identification

Land appears gradually.

Indicators include:

• Vegetal smell
• Green or brown water
• Increased bird activity

Do not assume proximity based on birds alone.

When land is sighted, please maintain position and avoid pushing.

You will see:

• Sand
• Scrub
• Trees of unfamiliar structure
• The settlement

Step 6: Arrival and Inspection

The vessel will dock, and officials will board.

Remain still until called.

When your name is called:

• Step forward.
• Present papers.
• Answer questions.
• Accept stamp - Ink application confirms transition.
• Proceed to assigned line.

Step 7: Transfer to Assigned Labour

Carts will be provided. Rations and lodging included.

Listen for:

• Name.
• Assignment.
• Term length.

Climb into cart. Secure bundle between knees. Expect uneven roads.

Speech is unnecessary.

Step 8: Continuation

Once the cart departs:

• The ship becomes irrelevant.
• The city remains behind.
• The system continues.

Your position has changed. The process has not.

Remain seated.

The road will decide the rest.

END OF INSTRUCTIONS