2011 - Theses - Flinders University

White Lives in a Black Community: The lives of Jim Page and Rebecca Forbes in the Adnyamathanha communityTracy SpencerVolume One Creative Writing Component: Excerpted Chapters from Volume Three Appendix One‘There have been significant set backs. I understand the well … ?’ he looks to Jim. Jimholds himself carefully in the chair. He has resolved to say less rather than more, and let whatthe party will observe between himself and the natives speak for him. But tonight he must beseen to be cooperative, he knows.‘It is unseasonably dry, Sir, and I fear this has had quite an effect on our wells. We aregetting by with the well by the creek, but it is not sufficient, and requires boiling. The menand I’ – he hopes the inference that Mr Wyld has not been invited into these conferences isclear – ‘the men and I have discussed matters, and they are continuing to try new sites. It isback-breaking work without gelignite. And it pains me to watch the women and childrencarting their water each day. It is at least half a mile to the well from their houses.’ He stopshimself. That is enough.‘That certainly must be a priority, I think we are all agreed on that,’ says Reverend Brown.Jim is aware of Mr Wyld shifting a little in his seat. So far so good. ‘And what of the industryhere?’‘Well, when I came there was nothing, absolutely nothing,’ burst Mr Wyld, and ReverendBrown lets him speak for some time of his frustration, his plans, and his barely veiledaccusations against Mr Page. He glances at Mr Page from time to time, but Jim’s expressiondoes not change. He appears to be pleasantly listening. ‘Mr Page, did you have anything toadd?’ he asks, at last.Jim smiles. ‘No, I think Brother Wyld has given a fulsome account.’Mr Wyld grinds his teeth quietly, wondering if he can say something more, but thenReverend Brown is speaking again.102