Page 206 - In A New World

Jack smiled at the idea of the elegant Mr. Clinton being transformed into an
outlaw and bushranger.

"I am awfully glad I did not go with you," he said, shuddering.

"Let me make you acquainted with my friend, Mr. Obed Stackpole, Mr.
Clinton," said Harry. "He was with us in all our trials and dangers."

Montgomery Clinton surveyed Obed with evident curiosity. The long gaunt

figure of the Yankee was clad in a loose rough suit which was too large for
him, and Clinton shuddered at the barbarous way in which he was attired.

"Glad to make your acquaintance, Mr. Stackpole," he said politely.

"Stackpole, if it's all the same to you, friend Clinton," corrected Obed.
"Glad to see any friend of Harry's and Jack's. You look as if you had just
come out of a bandbox."

"Ob, thank you," said the gratified dude. "You're awfully kind. My friends

think I have a little taste in dress."

"My friends never paid me that compliment," said Obed. "Say, how do you

like my fit out?"

"I--I don't think they have very good tailors in Australia," said Clinton
hesitatingly.

"Have you as many pairs of trousers as ever, Mr. Clinton?" asked Harry.

"I have only nineteen, Mr. Vane, but I shall order some more soon."

"Nineteen pairs of breeches!" ejaculated Obed in amazement. "What in the

name of Jehoshaphat do you want of so many?"

"Well, I don't want to have people get used to seeing me in the same
trousers, don't you know, so every day I wear a different pair."