t at all like the cumbersome vehicles which are known
under that name in England. They were merely large, strongly-built
carts on two wheels, drawn by three, four, or five horses, as the nature
of the country might require; though, on a smooth road, one could drag
them. Old Bolter might have suspected that he would be wanted when he
ran off, for he was put into the heaviest. They were now chiefly loaded
with wool and other produce, and with a few articles the travellers
required for their journey. On the return journey they would be fitted
in a very different way--with canvas tilts to keep out the sun or rain,
while in the inside goods were to be packed, easy chairs, or piles of
bedding, and cushions for the accommodation of the ladies and young
children. Besides the horses for the drays, four others were taken, in
case the new arrivals should wish to ride. They were steady animals,
not addicted to following Old Bolter's example. The drays having been
sent on ahead, the captain and Harry, wishing the loved ones at Stratton
good-bye, mounted their horses, and quickly overtook them. The captain
felt no anxiety about the blacks, as Sandy had given notice to the
police of their threatened attack on the young Berringtons, and a party
had been sent out, under an experienced officer, to drive them away.

Now that her husband was fairly off to meet his brother's family, Mrs
Hugh Berrington began to realise the fact that they were coming, and
actively commenced making preparations for their reception. She was a
motherly, active, cheerful little woman, who never, by any chance, lost
her temper, even under the most vexatious circumstances, and always saw
things on the bright side.

Her girls were very like her in many respects--hearty, merry creatures,
with plenty of good sense, not only ready to work, but absolutely hating
idleness. Mary, who was older than Paul, took somewhat after her
father, a tall, handsome girl, though she did not think about the
matter; nor did any one else, because they loved her for her good
qualities. Janet and Lizzie were very like their mother; and Effie was
a fair-haired, blue-eyed little damsel, not yet five years old, though
she, like her sisters, could assume a sedate air, and help in household
matters in all sorts of ways, besides looking after the pet animals.
Rob, who came next to Janet, was a sturdy little chap, courageous as a
young lion. No pain could make him cry out, and he coul