72 ON DR. NOETLING S CONCLUSIONS. 



and in the dissection of the aboriniginal words and the 

 collation of their parts, a scientific process is begun 

 which may lead to more satisfactory results than are 

 attainable to-day. Conjectures there must be, for we 

 cannot seek unless we know what we hope to find. 



In conclusion, I desire to lay stress on the fact that 

 the available records are in a very unsystematic form. 

 As a curious illustration, I would mention the transla- 

 tion of the first dhapter of Genesis, attributed to Mr. 

 Thos. Wilkinson. Ling Roth's book gives a very dif- 

 ferent rendering from that contained in the J. B. Walker 

 Memorial volume, although G. W. Walker's MS. Journal 

 is quoted ; and, again, even that quotation is different 

 from its counterpart in the Memorial volume. 



Further, not only does Ling Roth mention some 

 records which have apparently disappeared — viz., those 

 of Wilkinson and Sterling — but it is quite probable that 

 other manuscripts exist which are of no other than 

 sentimental value to the present possessors, and would 

 no doubt be obtainable for transcription. If the Royal 

 Society were to make a public appeal for the gift or loan 

 of such records, some valuable material might be saved 

 from oblivion. 



I would finally mention that I have heard that 

 t'here exist some phonographic records of the actual 

 aboriginal speech ; if these could be found, they would 

 be of the greatest value. As far as I am able to advance 

 the study of that speech I shall do my utmost, and feel 

 confident that the Royal Society will encourage my 

 efforts. 



