Peter Martin, 30, a tanner, was originally from Dublin. He might have moved to Gloucester for economic reasons, as it was the centre of the leather trade, but there was a dramatic slump in trade and unemployment was rife. He was able to read and write well, and had two young daughters.

Martin was caught forging Benjamin Mayo’s handwriting on a bill and receipt, with intent to defraud Elizabeth Welsh. He was tried and convicted at Gloucester Assizes and was sentenced to transportation for life. He sailed for New South Wales on the Prince George on 20 December 1836, arriving 8 May 1837. He received his ticket of leave in 1845.