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182 only let me take care of the home station when you are away I show you how I'd manage."

"I daresay you would," said Mr. Hammond. "I'm sure if your mother was not so set on your education being properly completed I should be only too glad to leave you some charge here; for I can trust you, my boy, and you really have a talent for country life and stock."

"Mr. Lufton could advise me a little, and I could always get a hint from Allan Lindsay," said Louis, eagerly. "Do, mamma, le me stay?"

"It is absolutely impossible that I should consent to such an arrangement," said Mrs. Hammond. "When I go to England I take with me all that is dear to me in South Australia."

"I begin to hate the name of England," said Louis.

"And so do I," said Fred.

This sentiment was echoed by all the young people who were seated at table.

"Poor ignorant children," said Mrs. Hammond; "you little know what you despise."

It was not altogether smooth work for George Copeland in this attempt a settling down and trying to make and to save money in this out-station of Gundabook. The restlessness and roving habits of ten years' growth were not to be calmed down all at once. It was not nearly