24 September 2025
Wednesday. A young man with an inhaler asked whether there would be smoke. I said certainly not; this is a study, not a smoking room, and the Doctor gave up his pipe in 1898.
There is no smoke in either study, in Manly or in Perth, nor down in the newer workings, and there never will be while I hold the duster. The air is dry, as befits a desert, but it is clean.
What there is, I must admit, is the dark. The Caller is fond of turning the lamps out, and when he is cross the lights flicker in a manner I would describe as showing off. Anyone who minds flashing light should know that before they come, and should choose a quieter room. I have said so to the management, and the management agrees, which is refreshing.
The young man did splendidly. When the lamps went out he was the one who said, quite calmly, “Well, he’s here, then.” I have offered him a position.
— H. Plumb (Miss), Expedition Secretary
