Biography

For six weeks, Mr Shepperd fought against the disease and, despite the best medical attention obtainable and the tenderest nursing his companions were able to give him, he expired on the 13th May. His parents, brothers and sisters had the sad consolation of knowing that though far away from home, strange but kind hands did all that was possible to soothe and alleviate his hours of pain.

Having known this young man for just a short while, his employer conveyed the following upon his death: "He was nearly six weeks ill. I stood near him and saw him pass away. No doubts or fears distressed him; he had a very peaceful end. I always felt greatly interested in him as he was just the sort of young man I needed here. He was straightforward in business and always helping me. He was greatly respected by all who knew him."

The deceased's parents were married in Queensland in 1867 (Marriage Registration 1867/C/120).