Page:Lindigo.djvu/146

146 to the following effect:—that on lying down for the night before the fire according to bush custom, the parson was to fasten the end of his horse's tether round his own leg, then, should the animal possess any inclination to stray, his owner would have full and ample warning. In conformity with this suggestion, the parson and Donald stretched themselves on the earth, placing, their saddles under their heads, having their feet towards the large fire, which was constantly replenished by the man on watch. The ex-minister fastened his horse's tether to his leg, and considering that all was perfectly secure, was soon fast asleep.

His long and weary ride, together with this being the first time he had slept on such a hard bed, caused him to have fearful dreams.

Donald, who expected to have some amusement from his invention, never closed his eyes, when at last the horses, belonging to them came round; on seeing them the stranger's horse made one bound towards them, dragging the unfortunate parson through the fire.

Donald was somewhat alarmed at the scene, and was unable for a short time to arrest the animal or liberate his visitor, who, after all, got off with merely having his clothes and hair singed. The parson took some little time to be convinced that he was still in the land of the living.

The task of forming the new station, and of holding possession against the attacks of savages, now devolved upon Charlie, and many skirmishes took place between his men and the aborigines, who appeared determined to drive the white-fellows from their hunting ground. Every day fresh tracts of splendid country were discovered, and many places he took great pleasure in naming after favourite spots in his own country.

Many settlers followed in his track, and took possession of the vast plains and pastures, which soon formed a strong party to resist the savages.

Charlie had by this time built a pleasure-boat, in which he made many excursions among the lakes, accompanied by some of the neighbouring settlers and Donald. The first of these took place one beautifully calm day, when Donald, having his bagpipes with him, was desired by his