ditional pardon is granted to
convict No. 2921, subject only to the approval of the Home office, for
distinguishing himself in an encounter with a gang of desperate
bushrangers."

The old man knew his voice, and tears, which he had before suppressed,
now flowed freely. He grasped Fred's hands and pressed them
convulsively, and then fell upon me and nearly smothered me with his
embrace.

"Read it again," he cried, handing the pardon to Fred. "Let me once more
be assured that I am a free man."

Fred complied with his request, and was about to inquire concerning his
daughter, when she made her appearance at the door of the hut, and
appeared to be slightly astonished at seeing her father conversing with
strangers.

"Come here, Becky," he cried, "I have news for you--great news."

Followed by the hound, who had sought her out a few moments before, she
came to meet us; and being a more acute observer than her parent, she
readily recognized us in spite of our change of costume.

"Here, Becky," cried the old man, with childish eagerness, "read that
document that his excellency the governor has sent me. I am a free man,
Becky--a free man, and can travel to any part of the island, and not a
soldier or police officer can harm me, or lay the weight of his hand
upon me, and ask why I leave my flocks without permission. I shall yet
be rich, and instead of tending sheep I will own them, and have
shepherds who will look to me for orders. I'll not be known as the
shepherd convict, but the rich landed proprietor. O, I will show you,
Becky, if it pleases God, how I will work, and you shall be a lady, and
no longer dress in cheap stuff, but wear silks, and be waited upon. I
know a thing or two which you little suspect."

"I am contented as I am, if I can but be near you, father," she
answered, trying to check the old man's sudden energy.

"I know, I know; but we must bide our time, and remain poor for the
present, Becky--only for the present."

"Perhaps our visitors would like supper," the young woman suggested, in
hopes of turning the conversation.

"By all means; they shall have the best that we can give," replied the
stockman, emerging from his deep reverie, and playing the host to
perfection. "Cook them the hind quarter of the lamb I killed to-day, and
add whatever else you may have in the house."

"But we object to that," said Fred. "We did not come here to rob you of
your provisions, and while we have a full supply will