Austral English / A dictionary of Australasian words, phrases and usages with those aboriginal-Australian and Maori words which have become incorporated in the language, and the commoner scientific words that have had their origin in Australasia

by Edward Ellis Morris

"I knew Redcap when he'd think more of duffing a red heifer than all the money in the country."

1891. Rolf Boldrewood, `A Sydneyside Saxon,' p. 95:

"As to the calves I'm a few short myself, as I think that half-caste chap of yours must have `duffed.'"

<hw>Duffer</hw>, <i>n.</i> a cattle stealer, i.q. <i>Cattle-duffer</i> (q.v.).

1890. Rolf Boldrewood, `Colonial Reformer,' c. xxv. p. 352:

"What's a little money . . . if your children grow up duffers and planters?"

<hw>Duffer</hw>2, <i>n</i>. a claim on a mine which turns out unproductive, called also <i>shicer</i> (q.v.). [This is only a special application of the slang English, <i>duffer</i>, an incapable person, or a failure. Old English <i>Daffe</i>, a fool]

1861. T. McCombie, `Australian Sketches,' p. 193:

"It was a terrible duffer anyhow, every ounce of gold got from it cost L 20 I'll swear."

1864. J Rogers, `New Rush,' p. 55: