In November 1838 MacDonald published a notice 'To the Australian Public' in the advertising columns of Sydney newspapers. The notice appeals 'for succour and support' and ends with the postscript: 'My last publication, containing a History of my Life with a Prose Essay, entitled the Fate of a Genius, with four Original Songs, may be had at Mr. Tegg's, Bookseller, George-street, price 1s. 6d. I humbly request that each of the Editors of the Australian Newspapers will give the above article a place in their columns. Persons desirous of befriending me may send their donations, addressed to the Australian Office.'