The Argus at KellyGang 29/4/1879
The ill success of the Victorian Government with the KELLY gang is a public misfortune, and not less the inability to sheet home to the sympathisers the proof of their guilt. These men were remanded from time to time, the Inspector of Police stating that he had evidence against them, although he could not tender it as some of his men were away on duty, and other of his wit- nesses were afraid to give evidence whilst the gang remained at large. Thus things went on week after week, and month after month, until the Police Magistrate, not seeing any probability of a conviction being obtained in any reasonable period of time, held that he was not justified in detaining them in prison any longer on mere remand, and discharged them. It is to be presumed that he did not take such an important step without taking the best advice he could obtain. The gravity of the issue can hardly be overstated.
If these men were KELLY sympathisers and aids when they went into prison, it is probable that they will be more active, and also more vigilant, after their liberation. The punishment they have endured of a few months' confinement will have had no deterring influence upon them. By their friends amongst the lawless of the population they will be received as heroes who have suffered in a good cause. If they should visit the haunt of the outlaws on the Strathbogie Ranges , NED KELLY will extend to them the hand of fellowship, and tell them that they are worthy to live and reign with him. Indeed, if they should turn bushrangers on their own account, there would be nothing surprising in the event. Another serious feature in the case is that, practically, the release of these men renders the law the Victorian Parliament passed last session for the apprehension and punishment of persons affording aid to outlaws nearly nugatory. Should the police effect other arresta there is the strong probability that the same difficulty about submitting evidence would arise.
The peaceable, orderly, and law-abiding portion of the settlers, too, residing in the district where there are many KELLY sympathisera live under a reign of terror. Mr MONK, a sawmill proprietor, who, from motives of pure humanity, went to assist in conveying to the town for burial the bodies of the murdered troopers, has received several threatening letters; some of his valuable property has been destroyed, and his family specu- late, when he leaves home, whether he will be permitted to return alive. According to a late telegram two shots have been fired at him, for- tunately without effect. It seems possible that nothing will effectually meet the case but a temporary suspension of the Habeas Corpus Act. This is a last resort, but it is a resort, and Government cannot afford to be beaten.
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