Ferdinand von Mueller

A letter to the Editor from 'Justitia' was published in the Argus on 27 November: 'In answer to the numerous complaints that have reached you with regard to refreshments for the general band, I wish to contradict the statement that the 40th band received refreshments last summer. In 1858 and 1859, they did receive refreshments; but they were supplied by Dr. Mueller, expecting at the same time to be remunerated by the Government; but the Government objected, therefore the 40th had no refreshments last summer, but unfiltered water. And considering that the 40th had to play as a duty, and those musicians play there for pay, I think they have a deal of presumption to complain of not receiving refreshments. For the truth of my statement, you can refer to Mr. Johnson, bandmaster 40th Regiment' (Argus, 27 November 1860, p. 5).

The response to ‘Justicia’ by the Bandmaster of the Volunteer Band, Henry Johnson, was published immediately after M’s letter: 'My band have requested me to state, in reply to the numerous letters which have appeared in your columns and in those of your contemporaries, and for the information of those gentlemen who take such a friendly interest in its welfare, that the suggestion, that the band be supplied with refreshments during their Saturday afternoon's performance in the gardens, did not emanate from them, nor do they know to whom to attribute it. They, however, wish it to be distinctly understood, that they do not require any refreshment at the expense of the public, or any private individual, but, should they require it, can pay for it themselves. The inference drawn from the voluminous correspondence, and from the frequent remarks in the public papers, is, that the band are "cadging" for as much as they can possibly get. By inserting this in your columns, you will disabuse the public mind of such an impression, and confer a great favour on the band.' (Argus, 28 November 1860, p. 5).