importance of good counsel. We
had not much time to consider the matter, for the native informed us
that he and his brother had run with all their speed to the house, after
once making sure that the bushrangers intended to take the trail instead
of the road.

"Well, gentlemen, what is your opinion on the subject? Shall we sally
forth, like knights-errant of old, and rescue the women from the
clutches of the devils, or shall we sit here and finish our punch, and
then go to bed? I am ready to hear a few words on both sides of the
question, but no long arguments."

Our host meant work; I could see that by his flashing gray eyes.

"Can't we drink the punch after we return?" asked Mr. Brown.

"Ay, and as much more as you wish," promptly responded our host, rising
from the table, an example that we were not slow to follow.

Jackson, who had remained waiting in the room during the interview, now
stepped forward, as though aware that his services would be required by
his master.

"Bring me my pistols, and oil-cloth coat and cap, and be in a hurry,"
were the only commands that Mr. Wright issued, and Jackson, who knew the
man's impulses, did not delay an instant in executing the order, and
with the articles named he brought coats and water-proof hats for us,
while to our surprise, he placed upon the table the revolvers belonging
to Mr. Brown and myself, cleaned, oiled, and loaded.

"I supposed that you would want them in good condition when you left the
farm, so while you were at supper I took the liberty of attending to
them," Jackson said, in an apologetic tone, as though fearful that he
had exceeded instructions.

"You are deserving of a pardon, and hang me if I don't get you one
before six months are passed," cried my friend, enthusiastically, after
a slight examination of his weapon, which showed him that it was loaded
correctly and capped with great nicety.

The poor fellow started with surprise, and his face flushed with
agitation. I saw him turn away, as though ashamed to display his
weakness.

"There is no such joyful news for me, sir," he said, at length, in as
firm a voice as he could command.

"Don't you believe that story," cried Mr. Brown, heartily. "Plenty of
men have received pardons, and they didn't deserve them as much as you.
My word for that."

"Bushrangers get there before us," muttered the natives.

"Kala is right. We must be under way, or the fellows will slip through
our fingers. One drin