I had learned what wealth was, and a great deal about production and exchange for myself in the early history of South Australia - of the value of machinery, of roads and bridges, and of ports for transport and export.

Probably my mother's life was prolonged beyond that of a long-lived family by her coming to Australia in middle life; and if I ever had any tendency to consumption, the climate must have helped me.

My brothers went to the parish school, one of the best in the county.

After the break up of the municipality and the loss of his income my father lost health and spirits.

A glass of whisky in Scotland in the thirties cost less than a cup of tea.

Our South Australian farmers left their holdings in the hands of their wives and children too young to take with them, but almost all of them returned to grow grain and produce to send to Victoria.

Drinking habits were very prevalent among men, and were not in any way disgraceful, unless excessive.