He was in the War Office in England for seven years before emigrating to Van Diemen's Land in 1819 where he filled a number of roles in government.
On arrival, he received 1600 acres, with a larger lot at Ross and two smaller parcels of land near Hobart.
[4] Following the construction of 'Beauly Lodge' at New Town, he misappropriated fees collected by his office, a board of inquiry ordered repayment but exonerated him from deliberate dishonesty.
His financial situation further deteriorated despite career advancement, in 1833 he was appointed clerk of the peace and registrar of the Court of Requests, he misappropriated further funds from wine and spirit licences and was dismissed from office.
[4] He emigrated with his wife, Mary Thompson, née Townsend, and their six children arriving on Sullivan's Cove, Hobart, Van Diemen's Land, on 30 November 1819.