“That’s true; but about the gold I’m thinkin’ you’ll be disappointed. At any rate I’ll make you an offer—the two of you. Stay here and help me tend sheep. I’ll give you your living and clothes, and when you are twenty-one, I will make you a present of a hundred sheep each to start in business for yourselves.”
The proposal took Harry and Jack by surprise. They could not but observe that Lucy’s face brightened with hope as she awaited their answer. It was clear that she hoped it would be favourable. It must be acknowledged that this made a considerable impression upon them. Lucy was a pretty girl, and they felt flattered by her desire that they should remain. But their resolution was only shaken, not changed. They had but to look about them at the unbroken solitude to feel that life under such circumstances would be unendurable. Both of them had led lives of activity and excitement, and neither felt prepared to settle down, but they felt grateful.
“Jack and I thank you for your kindness, Mr. Campbell,” said Harry, “and consider your offer a good one. But it would be lonely for us here, and, though we may change our minds, we would like to try the goldfields first.”
“It’s only natural, lads,” said the shepherd. “You are young, and you crave excitement. When you are as old as I am, you won’t mind the quiet. But if you have bad luck at Bendigo come back here, and you shall be welcome to stay as long as you like, and to accept my offer if you feel like it then.”
“I am sorry you won’t stay,” said Lucy, with a shade of sadness.
“I wish we could be contented to do so,” said Harry. “You may be sure we won’t forget your kindness, Miss Campbell.”
“Do you mean me?” asked Lucy, smiling. “I never was called Miss Campbell before.”
“I will say Lucy, if you will allow me.”
“I would rather you did.”
“Then good-bye, Lucy. We shall always remember you.”