y incompetent men had died, and their places had been filled by
their betters. Every day brought the Rains nearer. They had put out the
famine in five of the Eight Districts, and, after all, the death-rate
had not been too heavy--things considered. He looked Scott over
carefully, as an ogre looks over a man, and rejoiced in his thews and
iron-hard condition.

"He's just the least bit in the world tucked up," said Jim to himself,
"but he can do two men's work yet." Then he was aware that Mrs. Jim was
telegraphing to him, and according to the domestic code the message ran:
"A clear case. Look at them!"

He looked and listened. All that William was saying was: "What can
you expect of a country where they call a bhistee [a water-carrier] a
tunni-cutch?" and all that Scott answered was: "I shall be glad to get
back to the Club. Save me a dance at the Christmas Ball, won't you?"

"It's a far cry from here to the Lawrence Hall," said Jim. "Better turn
in early, Scott. It's paddy-carts to-morrow; you'll begin loading at
five."

"Aren't you going to give Mr. Scott a single day's rest?"

"'Wish I could, Lizzie, but I'm afraid I can't. As long as he can stand
up we must use him."

"Well, I've had one Europe evening, at least. By Jove, I'd nearly
forgotten! What do I do about those babies of mine?"

"Leave them here," said William--"we are in charge of that--and as many
goats as you can spare. I must learn how to milk now."

"If you care to get up early enough to-morrow I'll show you. I have to
milk, you see. Half of 'em have beads and things round their necks. You
must be careful not to take 'em off; in case the mothers turn up."

"You forget I've had some experience here."

"I hope to goodness you won't overdo." Scott's voice was unguarded.

"I'll take care of her," said Mrs. Jim, telegraphing hundred-word
messages as she carried William off; while Jim gave Scott his orders for
the coming campaign. It was very late--nearly nine o'clock.

"Jim, you're a brute," said his wife, that night; and the Head of the
Famine chuckled.

"Not a bit of it, dear. I remember doing the first Jandiala Settlement
for the sake of a girl in a crinoline, and she was slender, Lizzie. I've
never done as good a piece of work since. He'll work like a demon."

"But you might have given him one day."

"And let things come to a head now? No, dear; it's their happiest time."

"I don't believe either of the darlings know what's the matter with