Terence and his sister were left in charge with full instructions, and the boys left for their hotel, where they found all their friends awaiting them.
"Father, I've kept my word," said Reg, taking Whyte's hand.
"Amen," said the old man.
"Kiss me," said Mrs. Whyte, coming to him with tears in her eyes.
"And shake hands with us," said Hil and May.
Goody also came forward and gave him a hearty hand-clasp.
"I thank you all," said Reg, much affected. "But here is the man to whom the success is due. He offered his services to me, a complete stranger, and all these months he has been my constant companion. Hal, old boy, give me your hand."
"I only helped a friend in need," answered Hal.
"As any Australian would do," said the doctor.
The girls and Goody took to the Whytes at once. Goody and old Whyte had many opinions and pursuits in common, while the girls openly called Mrs. Whyte, mother. Amy's death had left its mark on both the old people, and the Mia-Mia had become intolerable to them, so that when an opportunity occurred of selling it they accepted it eagerly. Whyte had had enough of England. It held only one small spot sacred and dear to him, which was Amy's grave.