Dear All, I seem to have inadvertently solved a long-running mystery whilst researching James Mitchel, the first post-master in VDL. Elizabeth Thompson came to Van Diemen's Land as the servant of James Mitchel and his wife in August 1813. Here are the relevant newspaper articles: "MR. JAMES KELLY, Commander of the Brig Mary and Sally, being about to depart the Colony, requests all Claims against him may be presented forthwith."and "Mr. and MRS MITCHELL, intending to leave the Colony in the Brig Mary & Sally, request all Claims may be presented. - Also, their Servant, Elizabeth Thompson." - The Sydney Gazette and New South Wales Advertiser 7 August 1813 When I googled for her I found numerous emails asking when and how she arrived in the colony and now you all know. Thanks again go to the wonderful NLA for sending so many brickwalls crashing down! Best wishes, Carol Brill, Old Beach, Tas.