o the Merstons' farm. He had not
intended to prolong his visit over two days, and he proposed to
conclude it now; for his leisure was limited, and he had undertaken
to be back in Brennerstadt for the occasion of the diamond draw
which he himself had organized, and which was to take place at the
end of the week. But at Burke's request, as they rode upon their
way, he promised to return to Blue Hill Farm for that night and the
next also if Burke could not return sooner. He did not mean to be
absent for more than two nights. His own affairs could not be
neglected for longer, though he might decide to send Schafen over
to help the Merstons if necessary.

"My wife can't look after Guy single-handed," he said. "It's not a
woman's job, and I can't risk it. I shall feel easier if you are
there."

And Kelly professed himself proud to be of service in any capacity.
If Mrs. Burke would put up with him for another night, sure, he'd
be delighted to keep her company, and he'd see that the boy behaved
himself too, though for his own part he didn't think that there was
any vice about him just then.

They did not visit the hut or the sand whither Guy had betaken
himself. The sun was getting high, and Burke, with the Kaffir boy
who had brought the message running at his stirrup, would not
linger on the road.

"He's probably having a rest," he said. "He won't be fit for much
else to-day. You'll see him to-night, Donovan?"

And Donovan promised that he would. He was in fact rather proud of
the confidence reposed in him. To treat him as a friend in need
was the highest compliment that anyone could pay the kind-hearted
Irishman. Cheerily he undertook to remain at Blue Hill Farm until
Burke's return, always providing that Mrs. Burke didn't get tired
of him and turn him out.

"She won't do that," said Burke. "You'll find she will be
delighted to see you to-day when you get back. She hasn't been
trained for solitude, and I fancy it gets on her nerves."

Perhaps it did. But on that occasion at least Sylvia was thankful
to be left alone. She had her house to set in order, and at that
very moment she was on her knees in the sitting-room, searching,
searching in all directions for the key which she had dropped on
the previous day during the dust-storm, before Kelly's arrival.
Burke's reference to the matter had recalled it to her mind, and
now with shamed self-reproach she sought in every cranny for the
only thing of any