This next is my first on Ballarat, and is an introduction to the "Ex Officials Lament", Dr. Dewes P.M. who was suspended for his complicity in the affair of the death of James Scobie.   He in his capacity of coroner having held the inquest privately, refused to let the truth be told; and then used his influence to get a congratulatory address published in the 'Ballarat Times", signed by the principal storekeepers etc. exonerating "Mr. Bentley from any blame in connexion with the death of the unfortunate James Scobie"and then vainly thoght he had set it at rest.  But, shortly afterwards, a public meeting was held on the spot, at which thousands attended, when resolutions were passed condemning the proceeding, and, also to petition the Government to offer a reward sufficient to induce any one who could give sufficient evidence to convict the murderer.  

The meeting had scarcely concluded and the people began to disperse, when the whole strength of government and police arrived, thinking, no doubt to intimidate the diggers;  who immediately closed round them, and the Hotel;  which I think intimidated them; for they instantly sent for the military (for they had soldiers there).  That was the signal!   Bentley slipt out at the back door took horse and rode to the camp for protection, but too late;  the infuriated diggers, determining that men should not be made away with like dogs, at once set fire to the place before the authorities and burnt it to the ground;  after having first removed the property of a few respectable people clear into a safe place, to prevent its destruction.   They also burn out an auctioneer at the same time, named Maurice Linquist, who was in league with horse thieves; selling stolen horses and keeping no accounts of them.  When all these things became known at head quarters Mr. Dewes was turn'd out of office;  then I wrote the following: