AustLit
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Notes
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Contents indexed selectively.
Contents
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Salutation to an Old Friend,
single work
column
(p. 3-4)
In its opening address to readers, the Melbourne Monthly Magazine of Original Colonial Literature declares its purpose as being the reproduction of 'the first-class magazine literature of London, the class of which Blackwood may be considered the type. This has hitherto, as far as we are aware, been unattempted in Victoria.'
The writer notes the existence in Melbourne of several daily newspapers, 'all conducted with a certain amount of ability and spirit', but offers the opinion that 'colonial journalism can scarcely cliam a standing in the literary world'. In contrast to the newspapers, 'the Melbourne Monthly Magazine will partake more of the character of a purely literary than of a political journal'.
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Sir Hawkwise; or the History of Modern Conquest : An Epic Balladi"A bold ship cruizing on foreign seas,",
single work
poetry
(p. 12-16)
Sir Hawkwise is shipwrecked on a 'stormy shore', but rescued and brought back to health by 'swarthy natives'. Sir Hawkwise settles, marries the King's daughter and gradually accrues land and property. Following a conflict with a local chief, violence breaks out and Sir Hawkwise is the victor. He proceeds to 'claim for his country's "flag," / the tract of land to the south, - / In payment and penalty of the wrong, / And expense of the war, for sooth!'
A final battle ensues. Sir Hawkwise captures the King and demands a ranson. Sir Hawkwise then 'pardons the people', 'extends a paternal wing' and the King 'pays an annual tribute in diamonds and corn, / For permission to kiss his hand.'
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Our Last Book Parcel,
single work
review
— Review of A Boy's Adventures in the Wilds of Australia, or, Herbert's Note-Book 1854 single work children's fiction ; (p. 28-38)Note: Review of and extracts from A Boy's Adventures in the Wilds of Australia, or, Herbert's Note-Book appear on pp. 29-32. - Summer Evening Conferences, single work drama (p. 38-40)
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The Chinese Puzzle,
single work
essay
(p. 41-43)The writer for the Melbourne Monthly Magazine counters the concerns of those worried about an influx of Chinese people.
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Tales of the Bush Fire : No. 1,
single work
short story
(p. 44-51)Following a preamble (set during an evening bush gathering in the Creswick - Daylesford area of the Victorian diggings), the tale of 'The Heir of Malverton' is told.
- A Fragmenti"Cast off at once these groundless fears", single work poetry (p. 52)
- The Red Cross Flagi"Unfurl that glorious banner, fling forth its glitterying folds", single work poetry (p. 52)
- Acknowledgmenti"Like the sun which discloses the beauties bound up", single work poetry (p. 57)
