Opening Chorus.

Air—"Chorus of Men," from Mikado."

"If you want to know who we are."

What is this which here we see!
There is very soon going to be
At our University,
Chair of Ancient History.

For the liberal Government
On "humanity" intent,
Has set up a little band
Seeking history of the land;
Who presently will expound
How this little plot of ground,
Originally was found, Oh!

"The Government has decided to set up a Commission to collect information from the fast diminishing band of pioneer colonists as to the events which occurred in the early days. For this purpose the Colony will be divided into districts, each of which will be in charge of a sub commis sioner. Special attention is to be paid to old whalers and old miners. It is hoped that much reliable and interesting information will be obtained."

—News Item.

"My knowledge though I'm plucky and adventury,
Has only been brought down to the beginning of the rentury."

—Pirates of Penzance.