Application of Robert O’Hara Burke

This letter from P.N. Smithe, one of Robert O’Hara Burke’s friends in Castlemaine stressed the importance of Burke’s connections as a gentleman, as well as his experience as an army officer and police officer.

… Mr Burke speaks and writes French, German and Italian. He is a most active man and very strong - most temperate in his habits - and is kind and gentle in his manners … and had been accustomed to command from boyhood …

Further Information

Castlemaine, 7th February 1860 Dr McAdam, MLA My dear Dr, My friend and brother officer Mr Robt O'Hara Burke, Supt. of Police in charge of this district is most anxious to obtain command of the Explorn. Party. Sir Wm. Stawell is acquainted with Mr. Burke and I believe will give him his vote and interest. Mr Burke is an honorable man, was for many years Captn. in a Dragoon Regt. In Austria where he distinguished himself - subsequently held a commission in the Irish constabulary and is now a Supt. in our own Police. Mr Burke speaks and writes French, German and Italian. He is a most active man and very strong - most temperate in his habits - and is kind and gentle in his manners - but possessing a strong will - ambitious - and had been accustomed to command from boyhood. Mr Burke is prepared to give up his present appointment to succeed to that of yours. In conclusion, I am confident from my knowledge of Mr Burke that there is not another gentleman in this Colony possessing so many of the qualifications necessary to the success of the undertaking in question as my friend Burke. I remain, my dear Dr, yours truly, P N Smithe.