Alexandra Times at KellyGang 19/8/1876 (4)

(see previous)

I was then invited by Mr Hall to visit another place of interest, Mr E G Robinson's coach factory. We proceeded to the works and I was introduced to Mr Robinson who, to my surprise, at once recognised me and kindly asked, after the welfare of myself and family. My reply was “They are first-rate, but really, Mr Robinson, you have the advantage of me, for I can't remember where I have seen you." He explained at once. About twelve years ago the same gentleman was boarding, at my hotel at Raspberry Creek, and following the occupation of a miner with very indifferent results. He left for New Zealand, and I often used to say to a friend, "That is a smart young fellow, and if he gets a claim he will leave his mark." My prophecy was right, he made a little money in New Zealand, came back to Victoria and got married (as till bachelors ought to do), and his now a fine family. He started his trade about five years ago in Albury, and now has an extensive factory and a large number of men employed in every branch. It is his private property, together with a nice brick house, his residence, situated a short distance from the works he invited me to spend an evening with him, which I accepted, and enjoyed myself very much, I was pleased to see one of our early mountaineers push out from the old track and make a name and position for himself as a manufacturer. It is another moral for us to accept and go and do likewise. After promising Mr Robinson that I would convey his respects to all his old friends, with a shake of the hand to himself, Mrs Robinson, and the little ones. I took my departure, fully impressed that wonders can be accomplished by perseverance.

This was my last day in Albury, and my friend Mr Hall invited me to take a walk near the bank of the river, where he would show me something of great interest, and I was glad I availed myself of the opportunity, as we found on the place a monument erected to the memory of Hamilton Hume, the first white man who saw the Murray River, 52 years ago. It is a beautiful piece of sculpture, with a fence about, 8 feet square, and on the tablet is inscribed:- This monument was erected by the inhabitants of the Hume River in honor of Hamilton Hume Esq, to commemorate the discovery of this river the 17th of November 1824."

Mr Hamilton Hume had a partner with him in his explorations named Hovell, who is supposed by some to have been the practical man of the party, for near the site of the monument is another fence also about 8 feet square, enclosing a fine large blue gum tree in a perfect state of preservation. The bark is carefully taken off one side of the tree about 2 feet square and the following letters distinctly cut in the solid wood with some sharp instrument:- "HOVELL, Novr'. 17 || 24." It is very interesting to look at these old landmarks. Much credit is due to the inhabitants of is district for preserving them so well, for although more than half it century old, they look as perfect as if only done yesterday.

Alter a fine walk during the afternoon, and wishing good bye to a number of acquaintances I had made during my stay, I returned to my hotel had a parting glass and hearty shake of the hand with my friend Mr Hall. 1 settled my account with Mr Powell, and retired to rest. The bus called at half-past 5 in the morning, I was up like a lark, and fixed myself on the box. At 6 15, as dark as pitch, I had made myself snug in a railway carriage and was on my journey home. I reached Longwood. at 10.30, had a little refreshment, saddled my horse, and 2 o'clock found, me Gobur again, improved in health and experience, alter as pleasant a five days' travelling as I ever enjoyed in my life. I shall remember with pleasure for years to come my trip across the border.

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