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Newspaper
Toodyay Herald
Location
Toodyay, Western Australia, Australia
Date
Dec 20, 1940
Page
5
In early white settlement Australia, Christmas was grim and violent under convict rule. Rum currency, rough bush life, and heavy social control gave way to a democratic, regional culture as squatters and pioneers built a new social order. Christmas evolved from hardship to communal, seaside celebrations reflecting a developing Australian identity.
A mixed list from Alberts Bookshop highlights notable non fiction titles and fiction offerings. Entries include Georgette Heyer selections, P G Wodehouse, Earthly Paradise by Forester, The Pool of Vishnu, and The Art of Andre Maurois, with additional notes on authors such as Buchan and Lin Yutang. Includes pricing cues and childrens titles like Wooden Heakers and Sailormen's Ghosts, plus shipping and subscription terms.
Fragmentary tender notice announces purchase of the Imperial Hotel holdings with references to Lemoore and Calin names, suggesting a formal offer or auction process. Details are unreadable, but the document implies a formal procurement event and potential party involvement.
A verse fragment contrasts longing for a tranquil valley with the duty of venturing beyond hills. The speaker would trade peaceful streams and greening pastures for practical calls and distant journeys, hoping for future contentment when dreamlike rest replaces wandering.
A letter replies to a request for payment, arguing a bleak bank balance caused by numerous laws and social obligations. The author cites numerous licences from business to dog, and mocks the reach of government and unions, claiming tax-like brain strain from these constraints.
A reader reflects on taxes including school, gas, sales, and war levies, noting a desire for a real Australian Christmas despite the wartime mood. The letter laments government controls, insurance demands, and ongoing financial pressure, while celebrating freedom, fellowship, and the Deep Red Cross. The writer jokes about resisting forced donations and concludes with a personal financial gesture and sign-off.
In the Nor-West I meet Ali Kismet from Bagdad, a merchant withBagdad customs, pride in his lineage, and a claim that two uncles held notable local positions. He boasts about a great Bagdad uncle on the Road Board and a respected fire brigade member. I reflect on Wise Men of the East and seek his advice on an issue involving horse and cart arrangement.
A narrator recalls attempts to move a stubborn horse with whip and voice, noting Ali Kismet’s view of Allah's will as the horse’s refusal. The piece shifts to Ali’s Turkish Army past, a Baghdad anecdote, and plans to visit Perth to buy a metropolitan poultry farm, with the author willing to help and introduce him around Hay Street.
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