Explores murders of five Japanese trepang fishermen at Caledon Bay, East Arnhem Land, by Yolngu men and of William Fagan and Frank Traynor on Woodah Island; investigations into murders, including patrol during which Constable McColl murdered by Tuckiar; questions raised by author about patrol's actions; looks at actions of those involved in murders and invesitgations; disputes, discussions, correspondence and government actions regarding a punitive expedition versus negotiation by missionaries; missionaries' role and actions; trials, sentences and Tuckiar's appeal; disappearance of Tuckiar; appraisal of tribal life and law versus British law and of actions taken by all involved.