As Archie and his companion came upon the plain where—near the top of the creek on a bit of table-land—Craig's "castle," as he called it, was situated, the owner looked anxiously towards it. At first they could see no signs of life; but as they rode farther on, and nearer, the shepherd himself came out to meet them, Roup, the collie, bounding joyfully on in front, and barking in the exuberance of his glee.
"All right and safe, shepherd?"
"All right and safe, sir," the man returned; "but the blacks have been here to-day."
"Then I'll go there to-morrow."
"I don't think that's a good plan."
"Oh! isn't it? Well, I'll chance it. Will you come, Mr. Broadbent?"
"I will with pleasure."
"Anything for dinner, George?"
"Yes, sir. I expected you; and I've got a grilled pheasant, and fish besides."
"Ah, capital! But what made you expect me to-day?"