He had not
intended to prolong his visit over two days, and he proposed to
conclude it now; for his leisure was limited, and he had undertaken
to be back in Brennerstadt for the occasion of the diamond draw
which he himself had organized, and which was to take place at the
end of the week. But at Burke's request, as they rode upon their
way, he promised to return to Blue Hill Farm for that night and the
next also if Burke could not return sooner. He did not mean to be
absent for more than two nights. His own affairs could not be
neglected for longer, though he might decide to send Schafen over
to help the Merstons if necessary.
"My wife can't look after Guy single-handed," he said. "It's not a
woman's job, and I can't risk it. I shall feel easier if you are
there."
And Kelly professed himself proud to be of service in any capacity.
If Mrs. Burke would put up with him for another night, sure, he'd
be delighted to keep her company, and he'd see that the boy behaved
himself too, though for his own part he didn't think that there was
any vice about him just then.
They did not visit the hut or the sand whither Guy had betaken
himself. The sun was getting high, and Burke, with the Kaffir boy
who had brought the message running at his stirrup, would not
linger on the road.
"He's probably having a rest," he said.
Pages:
282
283
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306