"No, he has gone to stay at Government House for a few days. He shewed me a most pressing invitation."
"When was this, Mr. Goodchild?"
"Last night. He told me he knew a lot of the Governor's friends, and that the Governor had asked him almost as a favour to go, as he complained of being bored."
"Did he tell you this?"
"Yes, he seemed to sympathise with his friend."
"Poor devils, how badly we treat them," said Reg, with mock commiseration.
"Now I don't agree with you there, Mr. Morris. I think we treat the Governors right royally;" said Goody, mistaking his tone.
"You try to do so in your straightforward, honest way, and such are the thanks you get for it. But good-bye for the present, I have some work to do."
Reg hurried away to Blue Gums where he produced the telegram, which the girls read with surprise. All agreed that nothing could be done until Hal returned.
"You'll keep your appointment with Mrs. Montague," said Reg, rising to go: "but you must excuse me. I want to look round."