2011 - Theses - Flinders University

Gerard does not seem to notice. ‘I’ve got a number of jobs of work for you. Requires aman who can travel, footloose and all that. A fellow in the field, eyes and ears for us stuckback in Adelaide. Yes, we’ve sorely needed this before now. A lot to do, you know, a lot.’Jim has regained some composure. ‘But I will be returning to Oodnadatta before long,won’t I? We’re keen to get this next expedition under way, Sir.’‘Ah, of course. Yes. Oodnadatta will be your base, yes, technically.’ Gerard breaks off totake a long draught of his coffee. Jim sees the President’s eyes avert and wonders if hisposition at Oodnadatta has been compromised by Mrs Wade’s complaints at having to‘manage the four men at Oodnadatta’ while Mrs Sachse was indisposed recently. 126 BeforeJim can say something, Gerard has hurriedly taken up his theme again.‘Of course you’ll remain nominally appointed to Oodnadatta. But for the time being, theneed is covered there. Mr Hayman can complete preparations with Mr Wade for the nextcamel trip. No point wasting your stories and talent over camel boys and saddlebags,’ Gerardsays, grinning and holding Jim’s eye. ‘In the terms of the new Constitution, it is a matter ofgreat ‘urgency’ that the need of our sable brethren reach as many ears as possible, and youare the man of experience and passion to deliver just such a diplomatic mission.’ 127 Gerardclaps Jim on the shoulder again. ‘I’ll let Mr Wiltshire know you might need some provisionsto start you off. But after that, it’s all prayer, m’boy!’Gerard sails away through the knots of conversation, while Jim frowns at the tea sloshingin his saucer. Two days later the second edition of The United Aborigines Messenger bearsthe news of Jim’s commencement of a series of deputation meetings throughout SouthAustralia, particularly the country district. 12873