‘I am very fond of the game,’ said Edgar, ‘and was captain of my school when I left.’
‘We must give you a trial here,’ said Captain Fife, ‘but in the meantime I must try and find you something to do.’ He thought for a few moments, and then said: ‘How would you like to go up country for a time? I have an interest in a station in the West, and I think you would enjoy the life. It is very quiet, but the change would in itself be a novelty to you.’
‘I should like it immensely,’ said Edgar; ‘I do not care much for a town life.’
‘I believe you lost everything in the wreck?’ said Captain Fife.
‘Yes,’ replied Edgar. ‘Wal Jessop has sent a cablegram to my father, stating I am safe, and also that I lost all, so I have no doubt he will send me out a draft by an early mail to cover expenses. I do not wish to draw upon my father continually, and I came out here to earn my living if possible.’
‘Glad to hear it,’ said Captain Fife. ‘We have too many young fellows out here who live upon money sent them from home. It is a mistaken kindness, as it causes them to rely upon others instead of themselves, and self-reliance a man must have to get on in this world.’
Edgar was much impressed with what Captain Fife said, and knew it was sound advice he gave.
‘My father always taught me to hold my own,’ said Edgar, ‘and to do what is right. Of course I got into scrapes sometimes at school, but I never shirked the consequences. I fought a lad called Bully Rakes, and beat him, the first week I was at Redbank. I was in the right, and therefore I felt confident of success, although he was a much stronger lad.’
‘So you can box as well as play cricket,’ said Captain Fife, smiling; ‘you’ll get on all right here, I can see. Can you ride well?’
‘Fairly well,’ said Edgar. ‘I followed the hounds during the holidays when I had an opportunity. I should like to have a chance in the cricket-field here.’