They were now on their way back to the colony.
The only other single lady among the passengers of the Paramatta was going out, under the charge of the captain, to fill a place as governess in a family in Sydney.

Miss Furley was somewhat quiet, but a friendship had naturally sprang up between her and Miss Hudson, as the only two young women on board the ship; and the life and high spirits of the young colonist, and the musical acquirements of Miss Furley, helped to make the voyage pass pleasantly for the passengers in the Paramatta.
Captain Wilson had a good tenor voice, and sang well; and one of the other passengers was able to furnish a bass.

Almost every evening, as the ship was running down the tropics before a gentle favouring breeze, the sound of solo and glee singing rose from the little party gathered on the poop; and even the convicts, on deck forward, ceased their talk and listened to the strains.
Although the passage had been a pleasant one, there was a general feeling of satisfaction when the ship dropped her anchor in Table Bay.

Most of the passengers went on shore at once, to take up their quarters at the hotel till she sailed again.

The captain said that it would take at least a couple of days to fill up the water tanks, and take in a supply of fresh provisions.
On the afternoon of the second day, Reuben asked permission of the first mate to go ashore for a few hours.
"Certainly, Whitney," the officer said.