have been able in this way to repay your
kindness," said Harry.

"Don't speak of it, lad," said the shepherd, lapsing into his Scotch
mode of speech. "We shan't miss the bit sup we have given you."

At nine o'clock all retired for the night, for the shepherd must be up
early in the morning to look after his flocks. Harry and Jack slept in a
small room back. They were very tired, and fell asleep as soon as their
heads struck the pillow.

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 unendurable. Both of them had led lives of
activity and excitement, and neither felt prepared to settle down, but
they felt grateful.

"Jack and I thank you for your kindness, Mr. Campbell," said Harry, "and
consider your offer a good one. But it would be lonely for us here, and,
though we may change our minds, we would lik