Page:Last of the tasmanians.djvu/213

186 Their sufferings were severe, especially from their fear to light a fire to warm their bodies, or to cook their food. Children and weak persons rapidly sunk from fatigue and want, or were hurried by violence to a grave that would shield them from their implacable foes. Opposing craft to force, the men of the woods concealed themselves in chosen retreats, kept up a vigilant lookout, and knew how, at fitting times, to silence their faithful and obedient dogs. They were accustomed to indicate their way through the pathless wilderness by the Indian mode of breaking branches, or of pointing sticks in the ground, so that their fellows might track them to the camp. But, pursued by the Whites, these sticks, as previously agreed upon, were placed right in some places, and wrong in others. Sharp points and sharp stones were left just above ground to wound the feet of those following them; as many of these wore home-made moccasins, a severe laming would attend a misfooting.

The guides of the parties were either white Bushmen, or Natives. The latter were not to be depended upon, and some acknowledged, when on Flinders Island, having brought the leaders near the sought-for tribe, and then refused to go further, or lead off in another direction. Black Jack, who was out with Mr. Gilbert Robertson, told Mr. Jorgenson, that after he had been beaten by that gentleman, for some supposed fault, he was often upon the track of his countrymen, but would not trace. Black Tom, captured by Mr. Robertson near Little Plains, acted so plausibly, as to be recommended by his captor to the Governor, December 22d, 1829, with this character: "I believe Black Tom to be perfectly sincere in his wish to further the views of Government toward his countrymen, and that he fully appreciates the benefits they would receive by embracing the proffered protection of His Excellency."

Mungo was an intelligent lad, and did good service. He was the son of an influential chieftain, and accompanied both Mr. Robertson and Mr. Batman, but early died of disease. Mr. Jorgenson had him under training, and sought to preserve his morals by keeping the men from using bad words in his presence. But he had little faith in native guides; saying, "I have not found one that I could recommend, or seem fit to be a negociator between us and his countrymen. Eumarra, Black Tom, and Black Jack, three of the guides, possess much