William Rogerson volunteered for Service in
British Columbia. He and his wife traveled on board the Thames City,
arriving in the Colony on the 12th April, 1859.
The Moodys and the Grants took leave in the
Summer of 1861 and returned to the Camp in the middle of September.
| When we arrived
here (New Westminster) it was raining quite fast, and as we have
about 1 1/2 miles to Come from the Town in open boats "against the
stream" it was not a very cheering prospect. The only alternative
being a wet dark walk with 5 Children. However our dear little
Doctor (who had come down to Victoria to escort Mrs. Grant and
myself home) assured us we should manage very well. When we
arrived we arrived we found Captain Luard waiting for us with the
Men and boats, so we managed famously. The Men carried the
Children to and from the boat and we were only "dampish" when we
reached the house. Mrs. Rogerson, one of our Women, was
waiting for us. She and I soon made up the beds and popped the
Children into them before they had time to get chilled, we then
gave them their supper and they were soon fast asleep. The Doctor
sent me a good tea from "The Mess" and we were none the worse for
our uncomfortable voyage. I did not succeed in getting a female
Servant at Victoria, nor do I see any chance of one at present. However I have Mrs. Roberson now and sufficient unto the day is
the evil thereof.
Her Husband will not be in Camp for two months I expect,
and Miss Aspinwall, now Mrs. Nicol, has promised to "lend" her Servant
for some weeks while I am not well so I hope to manage nicely.
-- 12th September, 1861
from The Letters of Mary S. Moody
|
|
"One a blue skirt which I had when I married, the
other a striped which I had soon after. The latter was very much
spotted with the Voyage, so I was obliged to cover it with the plain
flounces, but it is really nice (by candlelight). I had an old lining
and Mrs.Rogerson made it for me - it will serve me all winter."
-- 23rd September, 1862
from The Letters of Mary S. Moody |
Returned to
England in November 1863 with his wife.
| As a
serjeant, Rogerson's Regimental Pay per Diem would have been 2s.
10 1/2d. plus Working Pay per Diem 3s. to 5s. |
|
