«A cant name for a captive negro,or Polynesian, on board a slave or pirate ship.» (`O.E.D.') Butno instance is given of its use for a negro.
1871. `Narrative of the Voyage of the Brig Carl' [pamphlet]
«They were going to take a cruise round the islands`black-bird' catching.»
1872. `The Argus,' Dec. 21, Supplement, p. 2, col. 1 [ChiefJustice's charge in the case of the `Carl Outrage']:
«They were not going pearl-fishing but blackbird-hunting. Itis said you should have evidence as to what blackbird-huntingmeant. I think it is a grievous mistake to pretend toignorance of things passing before our eyes everyday. We mayknow the meaning of slang words, though we do not use them. Isthere not a wide distinction between blackbird-hunting and alegitimate labour-trade, if such a thing is to be carried on?What did he allude to? To get labourers honestly if they could,but, if not, any way?»
1881. `Chequered Career,' p.188 (`O.E.D.')
«The white men on board know that if once the `blackbirds'burst the hatches . . . they would soon master the ship.»