IV-"The Kanaka Labour Traffic" - J.D. Melvin - The Argus

"Our Representative on a Recruiting Schooner;The Natives Shy; Inspection by a Warship"

Byline: J. D. Melvin; 1892-12-07; The Argus; pages 5-6

Report: "The Kanaka Labor Traffic" - J.D. Melvin - The Argus

Tags: blackbirding, labor, Queensland, slavery, worked as sailor

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Meanwhile Mr. Mulhern had returned with his trade-box, and was calling for fresh recruits. No doubt different recruiters have different styles. I should imagine that Tom Gash used to be genial and demonstrative. I have been told of one who depended on grotesque antics and Cheap Jack oratory for his success. Mr. Mulhern is not demonstrative, and there is nothing of the buffoon in his manner.

Description:The third article in The Argus' series "The Kanaka Labour Traffic" by J.D. Melvin about his time spent as a crew member on the blackbirding vessel The Helena sent to recruit laborers from the the Solomon Islands.

Rights: Public domain.

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An article written as part of The Argus' series "The Kanaka Labour Traffic" by J.D. Melvin.