But these were faults rather than qualities. It was many years before he became aware of the latent genius of the popular tongue; the raciness of its images, its poetic crudity, its wealth of legendary wisdom.
The slightest live idea appeared a crudity. In spite of the prevailing good form, perfect politeness, and desire to please, ennui was visible in every face.
One noted that " flies, dirt, and outside lavatories" were on the list of complaints from British immigrants, and added that many people also complained about " the crudity, bad manners, and unfriendliness of the Australians" .