"That may be, but if an opportunity offers no time should be lost, as they are soon snapped up." "Inquiry can be made of the agent when you are next in town to learn what he has on hand." "I saw to-day, when I was at M’Lean, a holding was for sale which would be likely to fit very well." "Where was it?" asked Fellows. "Close to Kinbrae, about eight miles from the Crescent Lake." "Did you take notice of the particulars concerning it?" said Fellows. "No, I did not; except that the owner is returning to the Old Country, and wants to sell." "Well, it might be worth while to inquire about it." "Yes, I’ll do so," replied Ranger. When the work of the day was over, Fellows lost no time in visiting Jessie at her father’s shanty to acquaint her with the receipt of his telegram, in order to relieve her of all fears with regard to the possibility of his being arrested. The way in which this was likely to affect his future was a question very naturally presenting itself. "I suppose you will want to return home?" she asked, with just a suspicion of anxiety in her voice. "No, I think not, Jessie." "But if your mother desires it?" "I shall wait and see what she says, but I don’t think it will make much difference." Jessie coloured slightly as she asked, "Why not, Ralph?" "For two reasons, Jessie," he added. "First, there’s your dear little self, whom I could not think of leaving even for mother, much as I should like to see her; then, if I returned I do not know what I should do; and as I have no desire to be a burden to those at home, I have very nearly decided to stay where I am at present." Not quite knowing how to reply, or what argument to urge against two such weighty reasons, Jessie, as most sensible women would have done under like circumstances, held her tongue without venturing to look up. Fellows was first to break the silence by saying, "Ranger, who has been more like a father to me than a master, is going to inquire about a homestead, and should the one in view be suitable in every way, I hope soon to be the possessor of a home, to which I shall ask you to accompany me, Jessie." "But what about father, Ralph? Have you thought of him?" "Yes, Jess, I have; and my idea is, if he and you are willing, that he should form one of our party,—an arrangement which would give rise to no separation, and he would be very useful." The conversation having arrived at this point, the entry of Russell himself was looked upon as rather opportune than otherwise, as Fellows at once acquainted him with the subject which was engaging their attention, adding, "Supposing the farmer raises no objection to your going, would you be willing to transfer your services to me and take the management of my farm?" "Well," he replied, "your proposal is a bit sudden, and I scarcely know what to say about it; but I suppose you don’t want a reply at once?" "Oh no, for I haven’t got the farm yet! You had better think about it." "I’ll promise to do that."