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An adaptation of Marcus Clarke's novel.
According to contemporary reviews of the opening-night performance:
though somewhat weak in points as compared with its predecessors, it scored a distinct success. In the first two acts there was a certain want of continuity displayed in the telling of the story, for which the adapter was responsible, and here and there the drama dragged a little–no doubt in consequence of this being its first representation: but afterwards the action of the book was followed more closely. The incidents were worked up with considerable effect, and some of the situations were decidedly telling and elicited enthusiastic applause from the audience
Source:
'His Natural Life', Brisbane Courier, 30 July 1888, p.5.
Performed at the Theatre Royal, Brisbane, from 28 July 1888, by the Marian Willis Dramatic Company.
Cast members included Marian Willis (Sarah Rex), Virginia Clayton (Lady Devine), Miss Lambrette (Sylvia Vickers–adult), Dora Keogh (Sylvia Vickers–child), Mr Douglas (Captain Frere), Mr Taylor (Mr Meekin), Mr Edwards (John Rex), Mr Osbourne (Rufus Dawes), and H. Saville (Mat Gobbitt).
Mr Osbourne was a late replacement as Rufus Dawes, 'as Mr. Roy Grenfell was unable to appear due to an injury which he received during the first part of the season by falling down a trap' ('His Natural Life', Brisbane Courier, 30 July 1888).
