Obituaries Australia

Our obituary on Tuesday recorded the decease of Mrs Gibson, sen., of Pleasant Banks, at the ripe age of 78. A correspondent has supplied the following:— The deceased lady arrived in the colony with the first batch of settlers from Norfolk Island in the year 1808, and shortly after married the late Mr. David Gibson, of Pleasant Banks. Together "they fought the battle of life," rearing a numerous family, and in due time reaping the reward of persevering industry. "The liberal soul shall be made fat," was truly exemplified in them; for as riches increased they set not their hearts upon them, but exercised the most unbounded hospitality to all, rich and poor. Many a tale of bygone times has the old lady related to grand and great-grand children; among others of how the Governor-in-Chief (Macquarie) with his amiable lady would sojourn at Pleasant Banks, on their travels to the North, and delight the young people by riding their donkeys and joining in their other amusements. To Pleasant Banks the aged, infirm, and helpless wended their way, sure of relief for their necessities, alleviation for their sufferings. The venerable lady has finished her work, gone to her rest. Daughters of her house come forward and imitate her noble example.