“Yes, please.”

Nic said that twice; and a little while after, as a recollection came suddenly back:

“I say, father, are there any crocodiles or dangerous things in these rivers?”

“If there were, do you think I should have sent you to bathe?” was the reply.

“Oh no, of course.”

“There are plenty, I believe, up north, where the rivers are always open right to the sea; but never here.”

“But fish, father?”

“Oh yes, there are fish, principally what they call here the black-fish. You’ll have to try for them by-and-by.”

“Very big?” asked Nic, who was thinking of his bath.

“Oh no; small fish, but delicious eating. Now then, any more?”