
PREFACE.
CHAPTER 1. - COLONISTS.
CHAPTER 2. - ST. JAGO.
CHAPTER 3. - THE MUTINY.
CHAPTER 4. - THE PRISON-ISLAND.
CHAPTER 5. - FIRST ADVENTURES.
CHAPTER 6. - PERTH—COLONIAL JURIES.
CHAPTER 7. - BOATING UP THE RIVER.
CHAPTER 8. - FARMS ON THE RIVER.
CHAPTER 9. - THE MORAL THERMOMETER OF COLONIES.
This work opens with a thoughtful meditation on the uneasy relationship between Britain and its far‑flung colonies, framing the narrative as both a personal memoir and a subtle call for reform. The author, a seasoned bushman, shares vivid sketches of daily life—tracking kangaroos across endless plains, navigating the rugged terrain, and confronting the raw challenges of a new land—while pointing out how distant policies often ignore the realities on the ground.
Interwoven with these frontier scenes are sharp observations about the systemic flaws that keep the colonies dependent and restrained. By juxtaposing the energetic promise of the Australian outback with the stifling grip of outdated legislation, the book invites listeners to consider how a more supportive, forward‑looking approach could unlock the true potential of these emerging societies. The first act sets a tone of earnest curiosity and measured critique, promising a compelling blend of adventure and insight.
Language
en
Duration
~9 hours (559K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Sue Asscher
Release date
2004-12-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1811–1878
A sharp-eyed observer of colonial life in early Western Australia, he turned his experiences into one of the best-known firsthand books about the young colony. His writing mixes satire, travel, and social detail in a way that still feels lively today.
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