Chapter XLVII.
Non Nobis, Non Nobis, Sed Pax Vobiscum.
It was eight o'clock. Drilling was going on as on the previous day. Father Smyth came inside the stockade: it was my watch. He looked very earnest, a deep anxiety about the hopelessness of our struggle, must have grieved his Irish heart. He obtained permission from Lalor to speak to those under arms, who belonged to his Congregation. Vern consented, and Manning announced it to the men. Father Smyth told them, that the government Camp was under arms, some seven or eight hundred strong; that he had received positive information, that government had sent other reinforcements from Melbourne, which would soon reach Ballaarat; warned them against useless bloodshed; reminded them that they were Christians; and expressed his earnest desire to see all of them at Mass on the following (Sunday) morning.
Father Smyth, your advice was kindly received; if it did not thrive, was it because you sowed it on barren ground?
The following document may in time help to bring forth truth to light:-
Colonial Secretary's Office,
Melbourne, lst December, 1854.
Rev. Sir,
In acknowledging the receipt of your letter of yesterday's date, I am desired by his Excellency to thank you for the earnest efforts which, in your professional calling, you are making to allay the disturbances. Unless the government enforce the laws which may be in operation, disorder and licentiousness must prevail.
You know a commission is issued for the purpose of inquiring into the state and condition of the digging population: until they make their report, the laws his Excellency found in force must be obeyed.
I have the honour to be, Rev. Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
J. MOORE, A.C.S.
The Rev. Patrick Smyth,
Catholic Priest, Ballaarat.