Choosing Honor over Money

In The True History of the Kelly Gang, we see a pattern in which the characters choose honor over money. We first see this after Ned saves Dick Shelton from drowning. On page 30, Shelton's father tries to give Ned "1/2 a crown" but he "wouldn't hear of such a thing". Ned specifically told Mr. Shelton that there was nothing he wished for (though, he admits he would have liked a dress for his mother, but that is still a very selfless request). Instead of getting any monetary compensation for his heroic act, which is the one thing that his family was in desperate need of, Ned receives a green sash, proclaiming his courage. This was a symbol of honor and heroism, which was of greater value to Ned than any amount of money.

Another incidence when we see this preference is when both Ned and his mother refuse to give information about Harry Powers, even when bribed with 500 pounds. Mrs. Kelly even claims that Hare and Nicolson are “as ignorant as a heap of dog manure” (144) for thinking she would compromise her standards of loyalty and honor. She speaks words of integrity when she tells them “nothing is as low as trading a man’s life for money” (145). Ned does the same, enduring cold, sleepless nights in prison, harsh beatings and insults from the officers rather than succumb to the pressures of the constables and commissioners. His honor and reputation for not being a traitor were more important that the money and freedom offered. Ned writes to his daughter that “though Harry Power used [him] v. poorly [he] could not betray him” (151). I think it is the strength and dignity that Ned and Mrs. Kelly demonstrate that makes me feel more sympathetic towards them. Ned’s integrity and desire for honor seem to outweigh the bad things he has done, such as steal or shoot Bill Frost.