36 DAYS STOLEN FOR SPORT 



stupid asses that were gathered round, and she got 

 pushed into the sea. The fellows, I amongst them, 

 dived in like rats from off a rick of corn when the 

 ferrets are first put in. Fortunately a boat was at the 

 stern and we were all picked up. The captain seemed 

 much put out and made us stand in line while he walked 

 along our front with the dripping yet lovely girl. "Now, 

 my dear," said he, "the best thing you can do is to 

 take your choice." She passed us each in turn with 

 a sorrowing smile, and then chose the only fellow that 

 had feared to wet himself. Who do you think it was? 

 Why, smooth-tongued John Pengelly ! John was ever 

 a lucky fool, while I was broken-hearted and unfit 

 to leave this place, and here I have been ever since. 

 At last I have an opportunity of reaching the gold- 

 fields, but I need an outfit and tools to be equal with 

 my chimi. Fifty pounds is all I want, and I shall be 

 able to make my fortune; but do let me have it quickly 

 or I shall lose my chance.' 



'Phil, why do you smile? Poor Jack, he would 

 be the first to jump in.' 



'No doubt of it, Nell, but I am sorry he did not 

 send this letter sooner and get the help he so much 

 needed; besides, all the other fellows may have told 

 the tale by this time.' 



'What does that matter? I didn't think you 

 were so unfeeling, Phil. I don't beheve your heart 

 would break if I fell overboard and was drowned.' 



'What ! not break at the loss of you, little wife ! 

 Why ! if it didn't, I would tear the thing right out 

 and jump on it.' 



From Exford we fished the Exe to Lyncombe 

 without let or hindrance; the only objection came 

 from our shaggy friend, who considered the journey 

 unreasonable. From Withypool by the brook's side 

 to Bradley was another experience of making paths 

 through prickl}' furze and brambles to reach bends 



