Corporal Larnach’s Report 28 January 1833

To Sgt. Brickley,

Sir, we have arrived and are progressing with our investigation into Mr. Bigge’s disappearance.

Robert E Bigge, husband to Ms Bigge, landowner, and master of twelve convicts. According to Ms. Bigge, her husband and ten male convicts set out on the 12 January in the year of our lord 1833, and did not return when promised.  The group has presently been missing for twelve days. Privates Stubs, MacDougall and myself set out in pursuit. I regret to inform you that a scene of what must have been a most gruesome struggle was then discovered, located some five miles east of the homestead. Where it appears the men had been at clearing the land for grazing, found there were tools bloodied and abandoned. The camp of the troop was a shambles. Though an extensive search of the surrounds was made no bodies were to be seen. There was no evidence of attack from the natives.

Ms. Bigge tells us there had been tension this past season when the farm expanded east. A tracker and translator has been sent for and I shall interview the savages.

Also according to Ms. Bigge their assignment of convict labour were of no meaner disposition than any other they have had in the past. They had been clearing the land this past quarter without serious incident. And she was assured that their rations of rum were being limited.

What does give us concern is the rations of food, water, and most surprisingly, rum, were left behind to rot, now taken to by flies, grubs, and ants. If it were not the savages, we figure those convicts for taking what they could before absconding. This goes double for the horse, which has turned up at the house by its own accord.

In conclusion, we believe Mr Bigge to be dead, but putting aside the grizzly scene described, we have no way to be sure. It is possible that the river to the south could carry the body away. I suggest we send word along the river for those to be mindful. I shall send another report once the translator has arrived.

Sincerely,

Corp. H Larnach.