Page:While the Billy Boils, 1913.djvu/256



was a very mean station, and Mitchell thought he had better go himself and beard the overseer for tucker. His mates were for waiting till the overseer went out on the run, and then trying their luck with the cook; but the self-assertive and diplomatic Mitchell decided to go.

'Good day,' said Mitchell.

'Good day,' said the manager.

'It's hot,' said Mitchell.

'Yes it's hot.'

'I don't suppose,' said Mitchell; 'I don't suppose it's any use asking you for a job?'

'Naw.'

'Well, I won't ask you,' said Mitchell, 'but I don't suppose you want any fencing done?'

'Naw.'

'Nor boundary-riding?'

'Naw.'

'You ain't likely to want a man to knock round?'

'Naw.'

'I thought not. Things are pretty bad just now.'

'Na―yes―they are.'

'Ah, well; there's a lot to be said on the squatter's 226