one of which Donald was to break open at the expiration of four weeks. This contained all necessary instructions for Donald's action; the other package was addressed to Mr. McKay, in Sydney, and which was to be forwarded to him by Donald at the expiration of the four weeks, did Charlie not return in that time.
Donald was very much against his master's strange and perilous undertaking, and strenuously endeavoured to dissuade him from taking such a course, arguing that sufficient country had already been explored and although he might possibly extend his discoveries, the fruits of his toil would only fall into other people's hands, who would not even thank him for his philanthropy.
These arguments, although stamped with truth, did not alter Charlie's determination, and Donald was obliged to relinquish his task, muttering to himself, on taking leave of his master:—"I knew the Cu Glas had some particular business in coming to Australia."
Charlie and Quandak, after great fatigue and hardship in penetrating steep gullies and ranges, came upon some good grazing country fit for a settlement, and having satisfied themselves with its extent and capabilities, they commenced their homeward journey.
Quandak was greatly disappointed at not meeting with or perceiving any traces of the Warrigals, with whom Maria was a captive.
One evening, however, they came to an old encampment among the ranges, where they intended to pass the night, when, just as they were about to light the fire, the quick ear of Quandak heard some indications of an approaching tribe, who by the sound were evidently on their way to the Alps. His countenance at once brightened up; he told his master that they must at once look out for a place of concealment, from which they could with safety reconnoitre.
The judgment with which Quandak conducted any case of emergency, and his indisputable experience in the habits of his own countrymen, led his master to be guided by his counsel; but the only cover or place of refuge within a short distance of the encampment (where Quandak said the tribe would stop for the night) was a
