his finger as a token of my esteem, he blushed like a young school girl,
and declared that he didn't deserve it.

At his house, then, I took up my abode; and while his family treat me
with respect, they possess none of the fawning which characterizes my
other friends. As the latter have frequently expressed their sorrow for
my sudden removal, and their anxiety to know what events befell me in
the mines of Australia, I have come to the conclusion that I would put
them in print; and now those who used to drink my liquor and feast at my
table will learn how I acquired my fortune, and then, if so disposed,
they can follow in my footsteps and gain a competence for themselves.

This much I have told the reader in confidence, and with the hope that
it will not be repeated, as my red-faced cousin, who every day is to be
seen on 'Change, might be seriously angry if he was suspected of
mercenary motives. With this introduction I will commence my narrative.




LIFE IN AUSTRALIA;

OR,

A GOLD HUNTER'S ADVENTURES.




CHAPTER I.