Jack Pendleton fixed his eyes anxiously on Harry’s face. He feared that he would yield to the professor’s persuasion and leave him, but his anxiety was soon removed. “Thank you, professor,” said Harry, “but I don’t want to leave Jack. If I return in bad luck, I may look you up and see whether the offer still holds good.” “Do so. You will always find a friend in me. But that reminds me, Harry, of an important consideration. If you are to remain here, you will want some money.” “I have twelve pounds which I have saved up in your service.” “And how much have you, Jack?” The young sailor coloured, and looked a little uneasy. “I have only two pounds,” he answered. “That is, we have fourteen pounds between us, Jack,” said Harry promptly. “That is too little,” said the professor, shaking his head. “You must let me be your banker.” “On one condition, professor, with thanks for your kindness.” “What is that?” “A gentleman at home, Mr. Thomas Conway, has charge of fifty pounds belonging to me. I was fortunate enough to save a railway train from destruction, and this is the money the passengers raised for me. I will give you an order on him for the amount of your loan.” “That is unnecessary, Harry; I am willing to wait till you return.” “Something might happen to me, professor, and I shall feel more comfortable to think that my debts are paid.” “Have your own way, then, Harry. Shall I give you the whole amount?” “No, professor, I am afraid it would make me less enterprising.” “How much shall it be?” “Jack and I have fourteen pounds between us. Twenty more ought to be sufficient.” “As you please, Harry; but if you get into trouble, promise to communicate with me, and send for assistance.” “I will, sir.” At this moment a carriage drew up in front of the inn. “It is the carriage I ordered to take me to the lighter,” said the professor. “You and Jack must go with me to the ship and see the last of me.” “With great pleasure, sir. Come along, Jack.” The driver put the professor’s trunk on the carriage, and they set out. It was a new trunk, bought in Melbourne, for the professor’s trunk and clothing had been lost at the time of the shipwreck. His first care had been to get a complete outfit in Melbourne, and he was now as well provided as when he left home. The two boys found the trip down the river a pleasant one. The trip by land would have been considerably shorter, but the professor preferred the river. The distance to the mouth is nine miles. The city of Melbourne is situated chiefly on the north bank, and is a handsomely built and prosperous town. The country bordering the river is not particularly inviting, but it was new, and the two boys regarded it with interest. The soil was barren and sandy, and the trees, which were numerous, were eucalyptus or gum trees, which do not require a rich soil, but grow with great rapidity on sterile soil. Harry could not help feeling sad as he bade farewell to his good friend the professor.