Walter Bates relates that his group of Connecticut Loyalists was approached by Reverend John Sayre with the news that “the King had granted to all Loyalists who did not incline to return to their homes, and would go to Nova Scotia, two hundred acres of land to each family, and two years provisions” as well as transportation to their grants and land for church and school.  This was deemed a good offer by Bates’ party and they resolved unanimously to try their luck in a new colony.  Embarkation thus commenced on April 11, 1783 and was completed within five days. The Spring Fleet, which consisted of thirty-two vessels, departed from Sandy Hook for Nova Scotia on April 26. The voyage took fourteen days to complete, and although some passengers of other ships suffered from sickness and malaise, Bates reports that his ship, the Union, had a smooth and uneventful voyage.