Dear Glenys, I had a quick look at the shipping records on line for arrivals in Melbourne in 1857 held by the Public Record Office Victoria (PROV). Under the Index to Assisted British Immigration 1839-1871 I found a James Smith arrival in Melbourne in November 1857: Name Smith, James Age 17 Month Nov Year 1857 Ship "Melbourne" Book 13 Page 68 There was another identical reference Book 11A Page 119. (I don't know why there are sometimes duplicate items in the Index, but I found that recently with one of my arrivals - in that case there were two different registers containing some duplicate information and some unique. Eg I recall that one register had information about future employment, address where the passenger would live in Victoria etc.) Also on the same ship were a few Whites: Name White, Janet Age 22 Month Nov Year 1857 Ship "Melbourne" Book 13 Page 66 (With duplicate Book 11A Page 118) Name White, Barbara Age 2 Month Nov Year 1857 Ship "Melbourne" Book 13 Page 66 (With duplicate "White Child" Book 11A Page 118) Name White, Elizabeth Age 22 Month Nov Year 1857 Ship "Melbourne" Book 13 Page 70 (no duplicate) One can inspect film of the ship's registers at the State Library in Melbourne and make copies. I go there from time to time and would be happy to assist if needed and if you are happy to wait for "a convenient time". An intriguing story, how wonderful to have a diary from that time. Best wishes in your "chase", Sincerely, Brian Wall Melbourne, Australia

Dear Brian, I am truly delighted that you have offered to get me a copy of this shipping record which sounds correct. It will be interesting to know if there are any other details available about James Smith. I the meantime I will re-read the diary and see if there is mention of a Christian name for Mrs White. No rush but many thanks. Glenys Kempshall New Zealand

Hello Are these records available online anywhere? I do not have an exact date only a four year period (definitely within the four years confirmed by a will) so realise a lookup is not possible. With thanks Anne Wiltshire Runaway Bay QLD Australia