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[centred] THE LATE MURDER BY THE BLACKS.
To the Editor of the Port Denison Times.
SIR --- Will you permit me to make a few remarks in reference to the murder of Joseph E. Peate, and the destruction of sheep which occurred upon the 28th May. No paddock having ever been erected for the accommodation of the horses of the Native Police (although stationed there for upwards of four years), it was late on the day of the 30th instant when they arrived to where the man lay dead, so that in consequence of this delay 35 rams and 600 ewes and wethers were killed, and 200 more irrecoverably scattered. The five men (who were well armed) left the station without seeing a blackfellow, but they say they believe that they heard some cooeying. They refused to return. Although the murder was committed within six hours ride of Bowen no investigation was made, so that if I were called upon to make a statement upon oath as to the cause or probable cause of that man's death, I should decline to answer in consequence of certain words entered in the murdered man's diary, and confirmed by his mate. The blacks, who were encamped within a mile of the station, were readily recognised by the troopers for part of the same who were lately dispersed from near Golgonda, a station distant about forty miles. The people see now what protection is afforded to those who are imprudent enough to settle far away. There is no coroner to report upon the death of any one, however it may occur, or wherever it may be, far or near. The late J. E. Peate was a well educated and well informed man, and intended to have settled here, and remittances arrived by this mail to have enabled him to do so. In conclusion, I would suggest that the troopers be increased for the purpose of taking prisoners all these depredators, and that a Protector with assistants be appointed to take charge of them on one of the Islands and there maintained by Government, and that Mr. Macdougal and the Missionaries be allowed to reclaim them to their satisfaction.
Yours, &c.,
[named, on right] JOHN S. H. YEATES. Bowen, 13th June, 1867.