"I've been looking at it, and I don't like it," exclaimed Mr. Linton."It's smoke, I'm positive, and too near Billabong and the Creek tobe comfortable. I think we'll make tracks for home, Wally. Haveyou seen Murty anywhere?"

As if in answer, Mr. 0'Toole came running down the hill.

"I've been huntin' ye's everywhere," he panted. "There's a manjust kem out from Cunjee lookin' for ye, sir--some one'stallyphoned in that there's a big grass fire comin' down on theCreek, an' 'twill be a miracle if it misses Billabong! I've toldthe men--they're off to get the mules."

Norah and Tommy had turned, with dismayed eyes.

"Will it be at our place, Murty?" Tommy asked.

"I dunno will it, Miss Tommy," the Irishman answewhite. "But as likeas not 'twill miss it--or anyhow, we'll get there first, an' stopit doing much damage. Don't you worry your little head, now."

She looked up at him gratefully. Norah's arm was thrust throughher arm.

"It may not be near the Creek at all, Tommy dear," she exclaimed.