The Darkie Analysis

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Thank you for taking the time to read the article but from historical research, I feel I have to respond and as such I do so without rancour, The term 'The Darkie' and in particular by using the narrative of one who knew Francis Christie intimately, one John MaGuire and the many historical newspaper accounts where there is direct reference by locals in the use of that nickname for the bushranger. The origin of 'The Darkie' for Gardiner himself still eludes most who attempt to cover his activities and as for being his horse's name, well they changed regularly and were often the best thoroughbreds available in the district. Here is an example of 'The Darkie' as a nickname; "...I hurried back to my own place (Sandy Creek station, adjoining Wheogo), …show more content…

Indeed, he joined me in wishing "The Darkie" far away. Next morning three mounted police from Cowra, accompanied by a black tracker, came up to my house and asked what I knew concerning the whereabouts of Gardiner..."-John MaGuire. It should also be noted that Christie used the alias Clarke as well and prison documents available on my website illustrate their use, to say Gardiner was never known as the Darkie is the same as saying Ned Kelly never said "Such is Life"......... which he didn't, his final words before justice was done, were noted in the reports of the day, inaudible, and one reporter claimed they were said but there is no categorical evidence of that word passing Kelly's villainous mouth. The reporter from 'The Argus' a witness stated; "...it was his (Kelly's) intention to make a speech, but his courage evidently failed him, and he merely said-"Ah, well, I suppose it has come to this" as the rope was being placed around his neck...". Another witness from the 'Illustrated Australian News' wrote "...Kelly was visibly impressed by the awful nature if his position, but he stood firmly on the drop..., he had intended to make a speech but he uttered no audible sound..., the cap was drawn over his face, and the signal given and he went to his

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