o his rheumatism and a light freight, was allowed to ride, struggled to
his feet, and gave us a parting salutation.

"Look out for the snakes," he yelled; "they is apt to enter the 'ouse
during the night and if you value your dog you'd better tie him on to
the roof, or he'll be swal--"

The balance of the wretch's remark was lost in the distance, but we knew
its meaning, and almost wished the same might befall the late proprietor
of the building, before he reached Melbourne.

Our feelings were not very lively during the day, yet we went to work
and made many improvements in our future home, and even got hold of a
few boards,--remnants of boxes,--which we nailed on the roof; and by
purchase and favor, were enabled to complete it in the course of a week,
so that by spreading tarred sail cloth upon the boards, we flattered
ourselves that we should be comparatively protected from the heavy rain
storms which comprise the winter months.

We cleaned out our store, and arranged the few articles which we owned,
and got ready for commencing business when Smith returned. Then we began
painting a huge sign on strong sail cloth, and acting on the inspector's
suggestion, called our place the "International Store."

By night time we were thoroughly tired, and were ready to thank fortune
that our usual number of patients was not present to demand our
_professional_ aid. The inspector dropped in to see us for a short time,
after supper; but he did not stop long, as a large meeting of the miners
was to take place that night, and he expected quite a stir would be made
in regard to the mining tax. We were therefore left alone to pass the
night, and after an inspection of the horses, and finding that they were
doing well, we "turned in," as the sailors say, and slept soundly for
three or four hours, when I was awakened by a low growl from Rover, who
was lying at my feet.

I started at the sound, and listened, but could discover no cause for
alarm. Still, I saw that the hound was restless, and through the
darkness observed that his eyes burned like coals of fire, and that he
appeared to be watching for further signs of danger.

Thinking that the noise of some brawler had disturbed him, I again lay
down; but as I did so the dog uttered another low growl, and crept near
my face, as though fearful of something that was invisible to my eyes.
I patted his neck, and to my surprise I found he was trembling as I had
never known him before. He