"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.
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