dried bushes strewn about for such purposes; but Roland and The
Lifter took their guns and set out through the bush to hunt partridge.

'You saved my life to-day,' The Lifter said, as he looked in our
hero's face; 'and if ever the opportunity comes I will show you that,
wicked as I am, I can be grateful.'

'Peace. There is nothing to be said on that point. You saved my
life; and we are square.'

'Ah, but it was different. I did it among my friends; you among your
enemies.'

'I should like to ask you a favour in return for what you consider
my generosity, then,' Roland said, looking at his companion.

'Name it; and if the thing be possible, I shall do it.'

'I would not think of asking if I did not know it to be possible.'

'Well, the favour I ask is not for myself, but for an-f other.' His
eyes had sought those of the robber, and held them in their earnest,
entreating gaze.

'And who may it be that you ask this favour for?'

'For yourself.' The Lifter was exceedingly astonished; and he did
not interrupt by words. 'Yes; my greatest wish is now that you will
do me the favour of doing something for yourself.'