33054-006477

17 Abstract of the Commissioner's Report on the State of the Aborigines in the District of Maranoa.

The greatest hostility towards the whites has been exhibited. No less than nine persons killed be the Blacks during the past year - and the losses of Cattle &c are almost incalculable. Out of 4000 head brought into the district by Mr. Hall only 1100 can be recovered. The Blacks here assemble in usual numbers and with more than their wanted audacity. They

[Margin note] [...] 50/3931

They seem determined to resist the occupation by the whites of the "Balonne" that being the only large River left to them of those falling into the Darling. Hence the Balonne is made their rallying point. They cannot proceed Northward or Westward, for there are no large waters known to them and already their Sable fellows an receeding from Wide Bay and Moreton Bay on the East. The Squatters use every endeavour to conciliate them. Some of the aged and infirm are to be found at almost every Station. Great numbers

19 numbers had recently come into the Stations and promised to desist from further depredation - But their promises are to be depended on the formation of a Body of Native Police would effect great good. 2 May