Tuesday 10th [10 January 1905] The Wynn Finch boy introduced
himself to me. He is travelling with the Andersons, with whom I made
acquaintance. Mr Anderson is going to Australia in the matter of the
mail contract which expires shortly. They carry Lascars in the engine
room having found no white man of any good - hence some difficulty.
They say the P&O have determined to hold out about the Lascars
and if necessary not to run to Australia. The Australians charge duty
on every ounce of provisions used while ships are in their waters.
Seems to me that all the people who have to deal with em hate em.
The Captain and the Purser are rabid on the subject. Talked to Mr
Osborne about Free Trade. He grows sheep and wants a preference
on his silly wool. Hasn't an idea that his own private interests do not
weigh heavy in the big scale of English commerce and is persuaded
that we can't do without the colonies. Told me however some curious
things about his sheep run, which is up in the waterless country. They
get 4 or 5 to 7 inches a year of rain and that's enough. Sheep can
travel 6 miles a day - they must be tedious companions. Played in a
Bridge Tournament and lost. After dinner played Bridge with Mrs
Ewart and her sister and a man.