46 



IN AUSTRALIAN WILDS 



the interior. There were some stiff pinches, too, and 

 sloping tracks agleam with water. At one stage the 

 horses had literally to climb among rocks, and break 

 a path through barriers of creepers and dead boughs. 

 But we had a glorious gallop across the heathy upland, 



LOADING THE PACK - HORSE. 



nor cared to stop when wildflowers beckoned. A 

 glimpse of cattle was obtained. They were feeding 

 far above us, on a grassy flat, and looked no bigger 

 than sheep. It must be exciting work mustering 

 cattle in the ranges. Presently we won clear of the 

 rougher country, and halted for lunch beside a creek. 

 The horses, especially the poor pack animal, were glad 

 to rest, like their riders. Late in the afternoon we 



