The University of Adelaide, like many large modern organisations, frequently uses contractors to undertake work of various kinds. However, it is doubtful that the notion was prevalent in 1898. Or was it ??
A recent discovery amongst 1890’s applications for a clerical position at the Elder Conservatorium revealed the following piece of correspondence……
Balhannah
2nd February /98 C.R. Hodge Esq University North TerraceSir,
I am obliged to you for your kindness in forwarding me particulars of duties required from applicants for position of attendance clerk and typewriter for the Conservatorium.
I find you require a short hand writer, & a knowledge of music is needful.
As I have no knowledge of music & am not a short hand writer, it is useless my trying to obtain the appointment.
The difficulty about type writing I thought might be overcome by my paying a typist to do that part of the work for me.
Again thanking you for your courtesy.
I am Yours faithfully Eliza Thrupp.
