Excursion to Port Arthur . 
277 
75 shoemakers were equally assiduous in their vocation. 
Every scrap of old iron is turned to account in the 
blacksmith’s shop, where the boys were converting 
fragments of hoops into nails, rivets, and the like. 
At the carpenters’ they were framing doors and window- 
sashes, and preparing boards. The bookbinders were in 
full employ, having several of Mr. Man ton’s volumes in 
hand. The turners alone were inactive. I must here 
remark, that any of the boy or adult mechanics, or 
labourers, performing work for any of the civil or 
military officers, a record of the amount of such services 
is kept and charged against the employer: some £500 
a year thereby finds its way into the military chest. The 
stone-masons were next visited: they have a great 
variety of material prepared and preparing for the 
purpose of erecting a large and substantial barrack, 
together with an extensive range of improved workshops. 
At the bakery, a large supply of goodly provender, the 
production of sundry juveniles, met our eyes ; whilst the 
savoury steams of the cook-house induced us to take a 
peep at the excellent fare, the boys being allowed an 
equal ration with the adult. Before dinner the boys are 
taught a habit of cleanliness, by being obliged to wash. 
A short space is also allotted to play; and every after¬ 
noon, half of the youngsters attend school in town. 
Although the origin of this establishment be founded in 
guilt, it is one of deep interest; for, from the very core 
of crime, there springs the cherished hope of fairer, 
happier days. Infamy may be lost in industry, sin give 
place to grace, and transportation itself may, through 
the blessing of God, be the balsam of the reckless. 
Such consummation is within the power of all: many 
no doubt have, and will again, clutch the offered gift; and 
I earnestly hope, as I sincerely believe, that many will 
bless the hour they saw Point Pucr, which, under Pro- 
