“He must learn at once to keep a sharp look-out for them. I suppose there were plenty of adders on the common at school?”
“Plenty, father.”
“But the blacks, my dear. I have not got over that scare.”
“They’re gone, my dear. That man came back last night and said that he saw them, and hid because he was afraid. The party hung about after the waggon for about an hour, and then went right off across the river.”
“But they may come back.”
“Oh yes,” said the doctor tenderly; “but don’t be afraid. Nic will not go very far—eh, boy?”
“Oh no, father; I’ll really take care.”
“And you will be very careful, my dear?”
“Of course he will,” said the doctor.
“I will really, mother,” said Nic. “I’ll only go to-day and have a look round.”