"It's A Ill Wind That Blows Nobody Any Good," The Maluka Said, Drawing
Attention To Jack's Sudden Interest In The Proceedings.
Apart from sterling worth of character, the Dandy was all contrast to the
Quiet Stockman:
Quick, alert, and sociable, and brimming over with quiet
tact and thoughtfulness, and the Maluka knew I was in good hands. But
the Dandy had his work to attend to; and after watching till the bush had
swallowed up the last of the pack-team, I went to the wood-heap for
company and consolation. Had the Darwin ladies seen me then, they would
have been justified in saying, "I told you so."
There was plenty of company at the wood-heap, but the consolation was
doubtful in character. Goggle-Eye and three other old black fellows were
gossiping there, and after a peculiar grin of welcome, they expressed
great fear lest the homestead should be attacked by "outside" blacks
during the Maluka's absence. "Might it," they said, and offered to sleep
in the garden near me, as no doubt "missus would be frightened fellow" to
sleep alone.
"Me big mob frightened fellow longa wild black fellow," Goggle-Eye said,
rather overdoing the part; and the other old rascals giggled nervously,
and said "My word!" But sly, watchful glances made me sure they were only
probing to find if fear had kept the missus at the homestead. Of course,
if it had, a little harmless bullying for tobacco could be safely
indulged in when the Dandy was busy at the yards.
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