The police hunt for the murderers of an English prostitute fanned anti-Chinese hysteria in the colony. The horrific crime was enveloped in mystery for months, until political pressure broke the silence of the Chinese and suspects were delivered up to the English. The Chief of Detectives schemed to ensure his investigation was a success, while honest men warned: "Justice seeks to arrive at Truth, the policeman aims at a conviction". At the sensational trial before hanging-judge Redmond Barry, the detectives star witness intoned: "I am Fook Shing. I must tell the truth. If I do not tell the truth may thunder kill me and fire come from heaven and burn me up". Two men were convicted on highly suspect evidence, while public disquiet remained about police methods and the fairness of the trial. Overall winner of the Victorian Community History Awards for 2009.

ISBN: 1740971647
Price: $34.95