The governor therefore, early in February, ordered the 'Sirius' to prepare for a voyage to China; and a farther retrenchment of our ration, we were given to understand, would take place on her sailing.
But the 'Sirius' was destined not to reach China.

Previously to her intended departure on that voyage, she was ordered, in concert with the 'Supply', to convey Major Ross, with a large detachment of marines, and more than two hundred convicts, to Norfolk Island, it being hoped that such a division of our numbers would increase the means of subsistence, by diversified exertions.

She sailed on the 6th of March.

And on the 27th of the same month, the following order was issued from headquarters.
Parole--Honour.
Counter sign--Example.
The expected supply of provisions not having arrived, makes it necessary to reduce the present ration.

And the commissary is directed to issue, from the 1st of April, the under-mentioned allowance, to every person in the settlement without distinction.
Four pounds of flour, two pounds and a half of salt pork, and one pound and a half of rice, per week.
On the 5th of April news was brought, that the flag on the South-head was hoisted.