Report written by George Caley titled 'A Short account, relativeto the proceedings in New South Wales, from the year 1800 to 1803,with hints and critical remarks', ca May 1803 (Series 18.045) - No. 0040

[Page 40]

 Before I conclude I shall observe, that it is not unlikely but what many objections may be made against what I have stated, and that in all new colonies unforeseen difficulties will arise, which could not have been avoided, or pointed out by the wisest and best of politicians   And moreover, in a colony peopled in general with such a description of individuals as the present, must still cause a greater probability.  Such obstacles I am well aware will happen.  But whenever they are perceived, they should be immediately eradicated, for though at first they may appear of but little detriment, yet in course of time they increase to such an height, that their effects are found to be hurtful.  The same may nearly be said in conducting labor, for when any method is carried on for a series of years, it of course becomes a custom.  But admitting a better and more expeditious method is found out, it will perhaps take a long time before it is adopted, and probably its real utility will not be generally known but by rising generations.  Instances of the like are very common in England, and may be noticed even within the distance of a few miles.  But it is to be lamented, that there will be many hardships and sufferings to be born, which is beyond human wisdom to prevent, in a place like the present, and which must be alleviated, only but in time.