On returning to the room, Mary laid a comfortable meal before the famished and almost worn-out travellers, after which Quandak, Maria, and Takawarrant were called in.
The joy which the latter manifested on seeing his generous and beloved Lindigo was most affecting, and all the company felt more gratitude and happiness than they had known for years.
A solemn and binding agreement was entered into by all, which was that the whole should be kept a secret from the public, until they had left the country, which was decided upon. Several reasons induced them to form this resolution, one of which was that Bella could not fancy herself secure while in the vicinity of the tribe, and amid scenes where she had endured so much suffering.
CHAPTER XXVI.
THE MAJOR HARD PRESSED.
On the first favourable opportunity, Charlie, accompanied by his incognito Bella, proceeded to Sydney, where they found Mr. McKay dangerously ill. The meeting which took place between him and his long-lamented niece was most affecting. An alteration in her favour was instantly made in his will, by which she was left all his wealth. A clergyman was sent for, and the marriage of Charlie and Bella, was solemnized at once.
The ceremony took place near the death-bed of the worthy man, giving the whole an unusually solemn appearance. The clergyman, immediately after the marriage, administered the last rites to the invalid, who after breathing a blessing on the young couple, passed away without a struggle.
After consigning Mr. McKay's remains to the tomb, Charlie returned to the new country for a short time to give delivery of his station to the new proprietor, having disposed of the whole when in Sydney. Having settled all his business, he again started for Sydney, taking with him Donald and Mary, with their family, as well as
