Listers I have two research challenges regarding the convict, JOHN BATES who arrived on the Marquis of Hastings in July 1827. 1) I have seen the fishe of the Bound Indents for his arrival (fishe 665) but it is extremely difficult to read. His age could be either 26 or 21, his native place might be Shropshire, his trade might be farmman and his crime, possibly housebreaking. However, the writing is almost illegible. Could anyone with access to this fishe critique my transcription? Also 2) The Indent also says he was "disposed of " to John Lawson Esq. This is corroborated by the 1828 Census which says Bates was a servant of "Mr. Lawson" of Bathurst who was aged 25 and "born in the colony". Additionally, The 1837 General Return of Convicts says his master was "W. Lawson." Both sources place BATES and these Lawsons in Bathurst. I wonder if this is the explorer William Lawson, who had extensive landholdings at Bathurst and perhaps John is a son. However, I can't find if any of Lawson's sons was actually called John. What should I do next to explore this Bathurst assignment? Cheers Greg