NEW SOUTH WALES. 



269 



fine glossy black hair and whiskers, a good forehead, eyes not deeply 

 set, a nose that might be described as aquiline, although depressed 

 and broad at the base. It was very evident that M'Gill was accus- 

 tomed to teach his native language, for when he was asked the name 

 of any thing, he pronounced the word very distinctly, syllable by 

 syllable, so that it was impossible to mistake it. Though acquainted 

 with the doctrines of Christianity, and all the comforts and advan- 

 tages of civilization, it was impossible for him to overcome his 

 attachment to the CTistoms of his people, and he is always a prominent 

 leader in the corrobories and other assemblies. 



Mr. Threlkeld has a son, who is also engaged in missionary labours 

 near Darling river, about three hundred miles in the interior, and 

 who understands the language. A boy was sent down by the son for 

 the father to take charge of. There was no difference perceived 

 between him and the natives of the Hunter river. 



NEW HOLLAND BOY. 



Inquiries for their implements of the chase and warfare, caused 

 M'Gill, King Ben, and Shingleman, to set to work to furbish up their 

 arms, including spears, shields, boomerengs, clubs, &c. The natives 

 are seldom seen without arms, for they have not only to fear attacks 

 from other tribes, but assaults from their own. This not unfrequently 

 happens ; and it is not long since the brother of King Ben was speared 

 while asleep, for some private grudge, by Dismal ; and it is said that 

 Big-headed Blackboy, who has already been introduced to the reader, 

 has committed several murders, and not long since burnt his mother 

 nearly to death, in revenge for the loss of his brother, who died whilst 

 under her care. This was not because he had any suspicions of unfair 



vol. n. 68 



