Page 100 - In A New World

CHAPTER XVIII.

A DANGEROUS ACQUAINTANCE.

Though the boys were very much fatigued they were up in time for an early
breakfast the next morning. It consisted of muttonchops, potatoes, bread,

and coffee, and they were prepared, notwithstanding their hearty supper of
the night before to do full justice to it.

The shepherd had got over his first impression, and nothing could be more
friendly than his manner toward them. He gave a still stronger proof of his

confidence and friendship.

"So you think of going to the mines, my lads," he said.

"Yes, sir."

"I don't know about the wisdom of your plans. It isn't all that find the gold

they look for. Are you expecting to come back with fortunes?"

"They would not be unwelcome, sir," said Harry, "but we shall at any rate

like the advantage of it, and we are young enough to try experiments."

"That's true; but about the gold I'm thinkin' you'll be disappointed. At any
rate I'll make you an offer--the two of you. Stay here and help me tend
sheep. I'll give you your living and clothes, and when you are twenty-one, I

will make you a present of a hundred sheep each to start in business for
yourselves."

The proposal took Harry and Jack by surprise. They could not but observe
that Lucy's face brightened with hope, as she awaited their answer. It was

clear that she hoped it would be favorable. It must be acknowledged that
this made a considerable impression upon them. Lucy was a pretty girl, and

they felt flattered by her desire that they should remain. But their resolution
was only shaken, not changed. They had but to look about them at the
unbroken solitude to feel that life under such circumstances would be