Kirstin. My father died five years ago, and I was left alone and I've run the farm ever since. Then I thought I'd come.
Merton. But how did you get here?
Kirstin. It was a business. I rode sixty miles from Banooga to the railroad, and then I got into the train and went to Brisbane and then on to a ship to London. Oh, we was such a long time on the sea. And then after I got off the ship in the river I asked the way here and I walked.
Merton. Walked!
Kirstin. Yes, it took me a good bit of time. I believe I've been wandering round and round. There's so many people and things everywhere that I was sort of mazed. At home I'd know my way by the stars [she smiles] but here they don't seem no use to me.
Merton. And you had those things to carry.
Kirstin. Oh, that's nothing. I'm strong, you know.
Merton. Well, now you must sit down. You must be very tired. [She is going to sit on a small chair]. No. [He motions her to an armchair]. That's more comfortable. [He draws forward the armchair].
Kirstin. Oh, I don't mind for that—I'm used to a wooden settle at home, you remember.
Merton. Yes, I remember. [With a sudden thought]. When did you have anything to eat?