spangled with innumerable flowers. Objects could be seen moving in
the distance, and a short examination enabled Mr. Hardy to decide
that they were ostriches, to the delight of the boys, who promised
themselves an early hunt.

"Where have you fixed for the house, papa?" Hubert asked.

"There, where those three trees are growing upon the highest swell
you can see, about a mile and a half further. We will go on at
once; the others will see us."

Another ten minutes took them to the place Mr. Hardy had pointed
out, and the boys both agreed that nothing could be better.

At the foot of the slope the river which formed the eastern
boundary flowed, distant a quarter of a mile or so from the top of
the rise. To the right another stream came down between the slope
and another less elevated rise beyond. This stream had here rather
a rapid fall, and was distant about three hundred yards from the
intended site of the house. The main river was thirty or forty
yards across, and was now full of water; and upon its surface the
boys could see flocks of ducks, geese, and other birds. In some
places the bank was bare, but in others thick clumps of bushes and
brushwood grew beside it.

They now took off the saddles and bridles from their horses, and
allowed them to range as they pleased, knowing that the native
horses were accustomed to be let free, and that there was no fear
of their straying away. "Now, boys," Mr. Hardy said, "let us begin
by getting our first dinner. You go straight down to the water; I