Hello Kerry, This would explain why Christopher BURKE was a Mounted Policeman in 1854 (MC) and a Slaughterhouse Inspector in 1855 (daughter's BC) So it wasn't the vast change in occupation that I imagined. Looks like he 'rustled' up a promotion in a hurry. Friday, October 14, 2005, 4:31:20 PM, you wrote: KH> Hi Julie, KH> I am reading a book about Hartley NSW, and in the book it KH> says "the Chief Constable, was appointed inspector of slaughter KH> houses for the district. This appointment was made at the instance KH> of the Police Magistrate, not to assure a wholesome meat supply, KH> but in order to check the slaughter of stolen cattle!" KH> That may explain the occupation of Christopher BURKE, KH> regards KH> Kerry -- Best regards, Julie mailto:tropikkal@mytown.net.au