A hank of coarse, bristling white braid was also unearthed from among the
stores, and within three days the galatea had become a sturdy
white-braided blouse and skirt, that promised to rival the "staunch
little beast" in staunch-heartedness.
By the time it was finished, Johnny and the Dandy had all the flooring
boards down in the dining-room, and before the last nail was in, Cheon
and the Maluka had carried in every available stick of furniture, and
spread it about the room to the greatest possible advantage. The walls
were still unfinished, and doors and window frames gaped; but what did
that matter? The missus had a dining-room, and as she presided at her
supper-table in vivid pink and the pride of possession, Cheon looked as
though he would have liked to shake hands with every one at once, but
particularly with Johnny.
"Looks A1," the Maluka said, alluding to the stiff, aggressive frock, and
took me "bush" with him, wearing the blouse, and a holland riding skirt
that had also proved itself a true, staunch friend.
Dan, the Quiet Stockman, and the Dandy, had already gone "bush" in
different directions; for with the coming of the year's stores,
horse-breaking, house-building, trunks and waggons had all stepped into
their proper places--a very secondary one--and cattle had come to the
front and would stay there, as far as the men were concerned until next
Wet.
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