another, "Why, this is Australia, too; why, they are all Australia, as
I am a living sinner." And he looked with a rueful curiosity into
Meadows' face.

Meadows colored, but soon recovered his external composure.

"I have friends there," said he hastily, "who tell me there are
capital investments in that country, and they say no more than the
truth."

"Do you think he will do any good out there?" asked the old man,
lowering his voice.

"I can't say," answered Meadows dryly.

"Tell us something about that country, John," said Merton; "and if you
was to ask me to take a glass of your home-brewed ale I don't think I
should gainsay you."

The ale was sent for, and over it Meadows, whose powers of acquisition
extended to facts as well as money, and who was full of this new
subject, poured the agricultural contents of a dozen volumes into Mr.
Merton.

The old farmer sat open-mouthed, transfixed with interest, listening
to his friend's clear, intelligent and masterly descriptions of this
wonderful land. At last the clock struck nine; he started up in
astonishment.

"I shall get a scolding if I stay later," said he, and off he went to