This was done, and the bag again fastened securely.
The Enooma accompanied them, and left them about a couple of days’ journey from the ranges.
At this point Edgar and Will bade them farewell, and Yacka promised to return and travel with them further north. The black had explained to them all that had taken place in the caves, and they did not care to remain longer in that district.
Yacka led them safely through the [MacDonnell] Ranges, and they reached Alice Springs, where they had a hearty welcome.
‘We never expected to see you alive again,’ said Walter Hepburn. ‘You have been away close upon six months, and we thought you were gone for good. I hope you are satisfied with your experiences.’
‘We are,’ said Edgar. ‘We have seen many strange and wonderful sights.’
‘You must tell me about your adventures to-night,’ said Hepburn. ‘I have kept your horses safe, and they will be ready for the journey.’
It was a relief to Edgar and Will to obtain fresh clothes, for those they wore were almost in rags.
The night of their arrival they related to Walter Hepburn all that had befallen them, and he was amazed. He could hardly credit the account Edgar gave of the wealth found in the cave of Enooma; but when he saw the precious stones and gold spread out before him, he was completely overwhelmed.
‘This is pure gold,’ he said, as he handled a large lump of the precious metal. ‘And these rubies are exceedingly rich in colour, and worth a heap of money. We have found rubies in the creeks here, but nothing to be compared to these. Of course, you will return with a properly equipped expedition, and carry the bulk of it away?’