"They are not slaves, these natives?--they are paid?"
"Paid in what we call trade," replied Jack. "They hire themselves out for three years as a rule, and when their service is ended we take them back again, with the value of what they have earned in goods. Oh, it's square enough. The Australian Government appoints agents to see that all is above board."
"Does it pay?"
"You bet, uncle--pays well. Let me have that five hundred, and I'll soon give it to you again."
"I must take a week to think over it," said Carwell, still unconvinced.
Finland bit his lip, and very nearly committed the indiscretion of rapping out a nautical oath. But as, in that religious household, such language would at once have put an end to all chances of his getting the money, he was wise enough to restrain himself.
Shortly after this, Rachel arrived with Tera, in full possession of the whole story. The recital of it had excited her not a little, and during dinner she talked of nothing else.
"I suppose you will go back with Jack to your own island," she said.
"Yes," replied Tera, "as soon as we are married by Mr. Johnson."
"Johnson? Oh! he won't marry us," said Jack, laughing. "I don't see how you can expect him to, Tera."