"The missus sick!" I heard him shout. "Thought she looked in prime
condition at the Springs." (Bush language frequently has a strong twang
of cattle in it.)
"So I am now," I called; and then the Fizzer and I held an animated
conversation through the walls. "I'm imprisoned for life," I moaned,
after hearing the news of the outside world; and laughing and chuckling
outside, the Fizzer vowed he would "do a rescue next trip if they've
still got you down." Then, after appreciating fervent thanks, he shouted
in farewell: "The boss is bringing something along that'll help to pass
some of the time - the finest mail you ever clapped eyes on," and
presently patient and bed were under a litter of mail-matter.
The Fizzer having brought down the walls of conventionality, the
traveller-guests proffered greetings and sympathy through the material
walls, after which we exchanged mail-news and general gossip for a day or
two; then just as these travellers were preparing to exchange farewells,
others came in and postponed the promised release. As there seemed
little hope of a lull in visitors, I was wondering if ever I should be
considered well enough to entertain guests, when Fate once more
interfered.
"Whatever's this coming in from the East?" I heard the Maluka call in
consternation, and in equal consternation his traveller-guest called
back: "Looks like a whole village settlement." Then Cheon burst into the
room in a frenzy of excitement: "Big mob traveller, missus.
Two-fellow-missus, sit down," he began; but the Maluka was at his heels.
"Here's two women and a mob of youngsters," he gasped. "I'm afraid
you'll have to get up, little 'un, and lend a hand with them."
Afraid! By the time the village settlement had "turned out" and found
its way to the house, I was out in the open air welcoming its members
with a heartiness that must have surprised them. Little did they guess
that they were angels unaware. Homely enough angels, though, they
proved, as angels unaware should prove: one man and two women from
"Queensland way," who had been "inside" for fifteen years, and with them
two fine young lads and a wee, toddling baby - all three children born in
the bush and leaving it for the first time.
Never before had Cheon had such a company to provide for; but as we moved
towards the house in a body - ourselves, the village settlement, and the
Maluka's traveller-guests, with a stockman traveller and the Dandy
looking on from the quarters, his hospitable soul rejoiced at the sight;
and by the time seats had been found for all comers, he appeared laden
with tea and biscuits, and within half an hour had conjured up a
plentiful dinner for all comers.
