They Lived, Loved And Conquered

1

AVENIA

They were all looking at her. Her mother, Jenny, sighed and and said that this silent one was always a diffcult one.

Her father, Sam looked at her sympathetically and said ‘Tut, tut’ while his eyes twinkled.at her.

Her sister, Serena looked pleased. She was the one who had complained that she(Avenia) was secretly going through an adult magazine. Avenia wanted to bawl and shout that she was feeling bored and neglected and wanted to be included in all their discussions, but she knew it was no use, rules were strictly followed in this house. ‘All ‘Meetings’ in the house took place without her as she was only seven years old. It was unfair, thought Avenia, to include Serena, who was only three years older, unduly pampered and silly into the bargain, in most of the meetings. They all thought that Avenia was too interfering, with too decided views that were not always kind to the elders. For example, when the family were planning to invite her mom’s (Jenny’s) sister’s (Penny’s) family on Sam’s birthday¸ they had not included their daughter, Pam’s pet rabbit, without whom Pam did not move anywhere. It was mean of them to exclude it just because it had once eaten the downstairs maid’s slippers, the silly girl! She had no business running barefoot in the garden to meet the Cook’s son. .Avenia was also annoyed that great Granny Jane had not been included in the Meeting. They did not wan’t her unduly worried, it seemed. What was this big silly worry about, Avenia wondered. So in all these family matters, Avenia felt lost and forlorn. So she had decided to disobey them and, in protest, had taken up that adult magazine to while away the time, when that disgusting sister of hers had discovered her. Avenia’s anger always landed on her mother and she soon stopped all her childish confidences in her, which was silly, really, as it hurt both of them and pleased Serena no end.

Avenia wandered off into the garden where she found Nancy, the kitchen maid, picking beans and lettuce for supper.

What was all that about? asked Nancy, who considered herself one othe family.

I wish I knew,.sighed Avenia. Have you heard anything?

Oh, Your uncle Jack is arriving from Australia., I guess that is what the meeting is about .replied Nancy shortly. Its all very hush, hush. Your granny Ursula had been crying Your mom and aunt are also looking very solemn and won’t say a word. Don’t you bother them now."

Avenia’s big dark eyes came alive with interest. I only want to help. What else do you know? Avenia asked with excierment. But Nancy had just spotted Tom, the Cook’s son at the gates, unloading the Wagon with kitchen supplies.

Another time’ Miss.’ She shot out and skipped out Don’t forget to wear your slippers" shot back Avenia, annoyed and cross She walked back slowly indoors, deciding to corner Serena after the meeting. The thought of Uncle Jack’s arrival drove all unpleasant thoughts from her mind. Wait till Pam hears of it, she pondered gleefully .Uncle Jack was a common favourite, and Pam was Avenia’s cousin and best friend.

2

SERENA

Serena entered her room thoughtly and did not see Avenia sitting on her bed, immediately.Though the sisters were very different, they spent long hours together and shared most of their thoughts. Serena could not keep any secrets and Avenia knew she would tell all in her own good time. Serena too, was sometimes banished from ‘Meetings’ and the two could sympathize with each other on that issue. Avenia was eating hot buttered croissants off a plate, while sitting royally on the bed, a sight that would normally annoy Serena, as she hated to see anyone eat on the bed, specially on her’s, but being a little absent minded and looking worried she pushed Avenia off the bed and into a chair,and said, Uncle Jack is comimg for fifteen days and has big plans. It is still all very hush hush. He has big plans. Mom, Granny and aunt Penny were wiping eyes while Grandpa John kept patting their hands helplessly. I don’t like it, Ave. The good news is that Great granny, Jane, will be staying with us during the entire duration of Jack’s visit.

I have been asked to leave while more important issues were being discussed, The ‘Meeting’ is still going on. I believe all our lives are about to be changed. I have my plans and will not let anything upset them Serena finished almost in a hysterical note.

Avenia was silent for a while, absorbing all the information. But why is uncle Jack not staying in his own home? I don’t know Ave, probably due to his dislike of uncle Peter.

Uncle Peter was Pam’s father. Avenia too disliked him heartily. Her mother(Jenny) too, she knew, disliked him it was a pity, really, because everybody loved Pam,s mother, Penny, very much. Serena pushed Avenia out of the room. Go away, I want to think. She said. Oh, that’ts a new one" and ducked when her elder sister threw a pillow at her. Avenia ran off in high spirits. She loved uncle Jack only next to her father, and she loved granny Jane too and thought her to be very wise. She was glad to have her staying with them for some time. She would be seeing a lot of Pam in the next few days and her heart was full. Her young mind made light of any fears of grief and change, hinted at by Serena.

3

JANE

Lady Jane, Sir John’s mother, had still not been informed about John’s illness and the impending departure of the children. She was a gentle lady who had held the reins of the family for nearly fifty years. Her husband, General Hamilton, had been in the King’s service, in Scotland, and was seldom home.

From a very young age, she was used to commanding the household and such was her presence and authority, that she was known as The Icomparable Jane. in the county. Her beauty was renowned, and it was said that she stayed away from court because the Prince of Wales had had an eye on her, and and so the General had made excuses about an internal lung problem that needed open air, rest and quiet and Jane had quietly retired from court. She was immensely relieved and enjoyed her position in her county and family, immensely.

They had two sons, John and James. The General was deeply in love with her. Not only was she beautiful, but was the only daughter of a Baron and had inherited all his land and property. Her decisions were final in the house and the General, time and again, marvelled at her intelligence and insght. Her in laws were proud of her and always said that they had chosen their daughter in law, well. Their only remaining wish was that the generation of Hamiltons continue long and true. On her husband’s death, Jane was in a dilemma. Here she had two able sons, well educated, healthy and bright, one, John, a commander of a large fleet of ships and not interested in marriage, not because there was any shortage of willing girls, but because he did not have the time. Her other son, James, from a very young age, showed an inclination to join the Church.

The two brothers were very close, and had their normal share of fun and frolics with girls in their teens. Both were handsome devils, but James was the taller and had the most charm. His features were fine and roman, and his eyelashes so long that it was the envy of his girl friends. He laughed with the sheer joy of being alive and had a deep affection for his mother. Without any effort, he had topped the final exams at Havard, and confided in his brother that he was taking orders and joining the Church, but was deeply worried as to how Jane would take it. John, who by then, was busy with building a career of his own in the sea, supported him fully, as he had always known that his brother had a high mind and deep principles, and was for ever searching for a greater truth, always conversing with nature and religion. It was an inner calling for him and John did not pretend to understand much about it. His only worry was that more of the family responsibility would fall on his shoulders and he was too deeply engrossed by his career problems to be bothered much about anything else.

The General had left everything in order, and Lady Jane had only to consult their firm of lawers for any financial or property disputes, but she started spending sleepless nights as none of her sons showed any inclination to marry even after they had completed their graduation. Her pain was acute when her younger son took up the orders, and she started hunting for a suitable bride for John with a vengeance, .nor did she rest until she had gotten her elder son, John, married the same year .The bride, Ursula was the only daughter of Lord Blyton, Lord Blyton in his youth had had a soft corner for Jane, and he thought that this beautiful and rare daughter of his would do very well to form an alliance with such a noble family. Lady Jane thought that all the land and money of the Blytons was not to be sniffed at, though to be fair to her, the bride was chosen due to her own merits.Ursula was lovely, of rare grace and and poise, and with a royal bearing. She admired John not only for his gallantry and dedication to his job, but also for caring enough for his mother to give his consent to the marriage. It was lucky for John that he had consented, because their’s was one of the happiest unions on earth., and when, in the following year, Ursula gave birth to a baby boy, Jane’s joy was complete. She knew that she had fulfilled the last wishes of her husband and his family, and done justice to the trust they had placed in her She was content Ursula lost her heart once again, this time to Jack, her first born, and Lady Jane was amused to note how much Jack was like her other son ,James, in looks and manner. Lord Blyton had transferred all his money and lands to Ursula. He had made John the trustee, and retired to his house in the W. Indies with Lady Blyton, to enjoy the rest of his days in peace and harmony.

Soon the house was filled with laughter and happiness. Ursula was like the daughter Lady Jane had never had.and fulfilled her role in the county with dignity and grace. She adored Sir John and Jack was the centre of her Universe, The girls arrived much later and her life could not have been happier.

4

JACK

Jack grew from a lovable baby to an attractive boy, who doted on his mother and thought her to be like the fairy angel he had read in his boo, who turned everything right and bright with her light touch.

Jack, after finishing high school, was preparing to go to Havard to study engineering. His two sisters, Jenny and Penny, who were in the same high school as Jack, in their primry standards, were dismayed at the change in their elder brother’s schooling, and were drowned in sorrow at his leaving. They now payed more attention to their studies and began to take a lead in all school activities, as Jack had always urged them to do. Jack now came home only once a year, and his coming was the highlight of the lives of the family, as all get togethers still centered around him.

5

JENNY

Penny had been the Commodore’s major concern, Jenny thought, as she quietly worked in her kitchen, and he had arranged all the legal papers, accordingly. Why was Penny so special?

Peter had come to know that none of Hamilton off springs could draw any money from the trusts without Jack’s permission,.as he the trustee of all the monies, This was to ensure that the money was not taken advantage of, by opportunistic husbands and relatives. For Penny’s further security. he had made Jack promise to see that Penny always lived in this house.

Jenny pondered over all this, while she cut herbs for the turtle soup, one of Marmee’s specialities, Not that Jack needed any prodding in the matter, she thought.He had always had a very soft corner for Penny, and had objected strongly to Penny’s marriage to Peter so early and without inquiring properly about his background. He had approved of Jenny’s marriage, though.

Samuel Blackwell was the most suitable bachelor in the County and Lord Blyton had recommended him as a most suitable groom for Jenny. No one reall ojected to the suit as Sam met all the criteria required to marry one of the richest, most beautiful and accomplshed girl among all the debutantes presented that year.He had Title, Land and a fortune in oil, inherited from his Irish ancestors. who had earlier settled in Egypt and later moved on to California.

Jenny had seen him at a party given by Lady Abigail, a leading pioneer in Dallas society. He had been pointed out to her and she followed his movements across the room with curiosity. Sam had turned suddenly and caught her eyes on him. Her eyes had widened, but she could not move her gaze away from him. It had been love at first sight for both of them, which was to last a lifetime. Jenny smiled at the thought of the new life growing inside her, and thought how lucky she was She knew that Jack loved Penny more, but it did not cause her any pain as she had her Sam. She did not know that both Ursula and Sir John had, at separate times, asked Jack to show special consideration to Penny.

Her father had hinted at big changes to be bought aboutand. by Jack, on his arrival next week. She was apprensive, though excited at seeing jack again. She told Marmee that dinner was to be served at one, and went to find Tom, who was now in charge of the garage and also doubled up as kitchen boy. He was the gardener’s son, and was very friendly with the kitchen maids, specially Nancy. He was very useful, and Jenny did not want to loose him. Jenny wanted him to fetch the flowers she had selected this morning Avenia could not be seen anywhere. Jenny felt that she had been harsh to the child this morning and wanted to sooth her.She called the housekeeper and asked her to air the Blue Room and get it ready for Jack. He always stayed there on his visits to her house. She was proud of her home and always applied little touches here and there, that made all the difference, between a house and a home. The rooms were was light, airy and spacious due to light floral shades of curtains, big french windows, light colored furniture and plants placed in places all over the house to give it freshness and beauty.

6

JACK

After his graduation, Jack had come to Australia, travelling with the Waughs.Tthe latter had come to England to attend their son, Tim’s graduation ceremony and also to visit their relatives who had settled in England. They were now returning on the same ship as Jack. Tim Waugh had graduated in the same year and the same school as Jack Jack had studied engineering and had emerged with flying colours while Ttm had graduated in agriculture and forestry and was going to join his father’s firm in Brisbane. He had asked Jack to join too, but Jack had declined. Instead, he was going to look over his father’s vast property in Melbourne, and do a little prospecting in and around Australia.He was going to stay at the family Ranch house and invited Tim to stay for a few days. The two were good friends and Jack had a special liking for Tim as he had seen the boy excel in cricket and win many medals for the School, in swimming, and other sports. Jack was the Captain in the cricket team and and felt proud when his team won the Trophy in the intervarsity competions. Tim was again and again ‘Man of the Match’ in these competitions, and was given many facilities, like elite Club memberships, free time to practice, fewer classes,(which he took advantage of, to a an excess level}), free lunch and breakfast coupens, which his friends took advantage of, as he was known to be super rich, etc, etc. Tim missed his family and often stayed at Jack’s Georgian family mansion named ‘RoverHouse’. He was in awe of Lady Jane and was bowled over by Ursula. He had never met Jack’s sisters as they were always away at school, but he enjoyed Marmee’s french and english cooking and invited himself over and over again. Tim promised to visit Jack’s home in Melbourne soon, and after bidding the Waughs a warm goodbye, Jack looked forward to his first sight of Australia with excitement and awe.

The family ranch was deep in the woods. His lands spread over 20,000 acres. It enclosed vast forests, water bodies and villages and open terrains that were a beaughful sight. The foreman who received him from the dockyard was vague in his answersand was dismayed when Jack said that hw was going to settle in the farmstead.for now.Jack noted the sorry state of the road and house of his estate and thought that the foreman could not be very efficient if he could not organize any better with the generous funds available fo the upkeep of the lproperty.When he saw the dry forests, the dilapidated state of the ranch, the the unattendant gardens and farms with only a few live stock, the filth and the unkept villagers, his dismay turned to anger, and he decided to take matters in his own hands. He would forget his prospectng dreams and let his friends, the Rourke brothers, Tom and Jim take care of his projects. He would settle here and put things right. Tom and Jim O’Rourke had been with Jack through out school, and then followed him to college and graduated with him. The Irish twins were poor but fun loving .kids and were better than any in verbal and fist fights, than any other in the villageand their fame had spread. Jim the elder by a few hours, had a fiery temper, and Tom was never far behind.But to be fair to the brothers, they never fought except when their or Jack’s honour was at stakeSir John had payed for their education, and the brothers thought themselves to be Jack’s body guards, though Jack could take care of himself very well. The twins were sent delectable meals to school, prepared by Marmee and supervised by Ursula, for, everybody loved them. Their tall athelitic forms, abundant reddish hair and bluish green eyes made them naturally attractive, added to which, their charm made them adorable. They had lost their mother at an early age. Their father was a carpenter, who had married again. Though their stepmother was kind to them, they were eager to leave home, and would be happy at the, chance to join Jack in Melbourne.

The housekeeper at the ranch had taken to coming once a week, as none of the Hamiltons had come to the ranch in years.There was only one maid. The house had twenty six rooms,all of which were closed and covered with dust sheets. Jack’s room was prepared for his stay. Jack asked the housekeeper to prepare ten more rooms,. He asked her to take in four more maids, two gardeners and and call a carpenter.The cook was told to order all that was necessary to feed a full house Jack called Tim and reported to him the state of affairs. He asked him to send ten good men who understood farming, could look after cattle, and were also good horsemen.

7

THE ROURKE BROTHERS

The ‘Rourke’ brothers wasted no time and were with Jack the following week. They were headstrong men and refused to budge from the ranch, telling Jack that he should sack the foreman for neglecting his responsibilities, and make the brothers his foremen.and to hell with prospecting. Jack laughed out loud and said that he had missed the brothers and, yes. as of today, the two were his new foremen, since, they would be as bad at this job as they would be at prospecting for minerals, they might just as well use the ranch as lazy good for nothings, God knew, he had enough space to offer. At that, the two bristled up and said that the Irish loved the soil and that farming was in their blood. They were also good soldiers and would take good care care of Jack. Jack told them to shut up and take orders seriously, or they would be sacked the first day of their joining as new foremen of the ranch. At that the brothers roared with laughter and said that it was Jack who needed some ordering about as he knew nothing about farming. Jack secretly agreed with them and was very glad to have his friends with him. So now he had two new foremen( As the two brothers would not be separated)They took up two rooms in the house and did justice to the heavy meal prepared for them.They mended the Jeep, two Landrovers and the three cars they found in the garage the next day. Jack told them to take charge of the farmstead, the gardens and the orchards. and order seeds, tools and live stock .He told them to hire as many men as they required and sack anyone who did not earn his worth.The brothers took to their jobs with heart and soul, and repaid, many times over, the kindness shown to them over the years by the Hamiltons. They saved all their money, and after a few years, were rich men in their own right.

Soon after Tim arrived with his sister, two cousins and ten tall, sturdy men. Four of the senior men were married and were were given the Manager’s outhouse. It had six rooms, and its own kitchen and garden. They could bring their families, and make their own arrangements.Their women could work at the big house in situations that suited their capabilities. The others were all accommodated at the big house. After having a late lunch of Lamb Wellington, roast duck and apple pie, they all settled down in the large drawing, and got introduced to each other. Jack allotted each of them their work and they discussed their roles over coffee and cigars.Tim’s sister, Jean, was a slim tall girl with golden hair and forget me not blue eyes. She appeared to be very frail and ethereal, which, Tim said, was an illusion, as she had been head of the law department in her father’s firm. Jack was surprised that he had brought her to work at Jack’s place. Tim explained that she had always, hankered for an outdoor life, and this seemed a good opportunity. She could look after the books, and the legal side of things, like land rights, forest rights, tenant’s rights ete, ets, he said. Tim’s two cousins, Harry and Henry, were allotted Managers’ posts, and were told to look after the farm and the welfare of the tenants and thei houses on the estate., most of which were in a dilapidated state and unheigenic. All that had to be put right and fast. Four of the men were told to take charge of the cattle trade and increase sheepheads to 30, 000, the first year.Four of the senior most men were told to take charge of the forest land and timber factory. These men had tbeen put in charge of things and had to be responsible and dedicated to their jobs. They could hire and fire men at their discretion, had to report to the Rourke brothers, who would then report to Jack any change they recommended. Jack would have the final say. in all matters Jack discussed the wages with Tim and the issue to everyone satisfaction. All the men grunted their approval at the efficient and suave handling of the meeting. Later on, their approval and admiration for Jack and the Rourke brothers were total and the Hamilton property prospered in their united efforts.

8

JACK

The house had been painted yellow with chocolate borders.The garden had been replanted with som rare trees like Cyptomeria,Junipers Firs, Eucalyptus, and other conifers that afforded shades over the many marble. seats and thrrones placed artistically all over the garden.and were a character of the ranch. Flowers of all colours filled the garden and their fragrance filled the house.The orchards bloomed with the seasons, and cherries rashberries apples., plums and peaches, seeds of which were sent from England, were never bigger or sweeter.

Recipes from ‘Roverland’ arrived, from Marmee, and the Cook, Mrs Wilson, excelled in preparing jams and jellies and other preservatives. puddings, pies. tarts and icecreams found their way into the dining tables, dressed by Jean, who had a special flair for it and loved to create new mouth watering garnisings, that were a marvel! She also filled the rooms with flowers, foliage and fruit arrangements, that were a delight to behold, and Jack was reminded of his home in Dallas.The silver and crystal dishes gleamed. The walls boasted, rare oil paintings, the bright but sober green and white matching curtains, covers and carpets doing every bit to add to the tastefully decorated rooms, making them warm and welcoming. Jack was atlast satisfied that his mother would be happy with his house. He had taken charge of the stables and had two boys to groom the dozen or so horses that were still left.

Slowly, the measures he had taken began to pay. Jack spent liberally on repairs and maintenance and soon, the tenants began to respect his governance. He rode out every morning on his estate and spoke at length with the Rourke brothers. The three often roamed over to the sheds, pens, stables, kennels and sties to check that everything was clean and dry and functioning properly. They visited the water bodies to check the water levels and the animals resting there. They visited the woodlands to see that the trees flourished and the forest floors were clean. They tested places where the timber was unusually dry and in danger,of forest fires. Such trees would be felled and sent to the factory. He would talk to the factory managers and order replacements of old machines, which they were loath to discard, in spite of slowing down the rates of manufacture, and order new ones with all recent technologies. Yes, the investments were beginning to pay. The boys that were hired knew their jobs and the poultry had multiplied by thousands and supplied the ranch and half the village. The ducks, geese and pigs did, likewise.The diary was responding well to new breeding methods, but it would take time to multiply the herd. Jim reported that cattle head far exceeded their estimates aand were flourising forty miles away in a pen as big as a city, near a waterbody that supplied fresh water and though fresh grass was abundant, fodder supply had to be doubled, was that O.K.?. Jack had replied cheerfully that it was perfectly alright. The supply of meat had taken a gallop and customers were demanding more. Tom reported that though thirty cowboys had been hired, they would need more, for, counting, rounding and shearing of sheep were tiring jobs and the guys had to be worked in shifts. Jack told him to go ahead and take care of it.

The vegetables were not doing too well as the soil was not fertile to many of the crops, the seeds of which were imported from England. Jack reported that fertilizers were arriving from California and that some hybrid seeds with high yield were being imported from Japan.

The timber factory, too repored that more men had to be hired though fifty men and women were alreaded employed. Houses were being built for the workmen near the factory, so that their families could take care of meals and the children. The wood for houses, furniture, poles, ships, tools, etc etc. had to be to be cut, sorted out, and sent to builders all over Australia. The factory was turning out to be hugely profitable’ beyond his expected dreams, and, soon, he had to be thinking about spreading out and export wood to U.K. and France, and U.S.A., as the Rourke brothers were suggesting. Jack was thinking of opening another factory to build ships and yatchs from the profits. Tom and Jim had now become partners and entitled to 10% of the profits. It was their pioneering efforts that had breathed new life into these wild, beautiful and untamed lands.

9

JEAN

After her arrival at Jack’s ranch and her first meeting with jack, Jean felt happy and free. She had a lot of time in her hands in those first few days, but was never really idle. She was always adding little touches here and there, that was making a huge difference to the homestead. Tim had left the very next day and when he heard from her and learnt that she had taken to life in the outback like a duck to water, he was immensely relieved. Jean had been unhappy at home because one of the managers at the home firm, the son of wealthy parents, had fallen in love with her, and that created complications, as Jean did not return those feelings, And so she was removed from the premises at the first opportune moment. Jean had been chased by boys ever since college, one of the disadvantages of having that rare, ethereal fairy like beauti. Tim was very fond of his sister and protected her fiercely since her childhood. Jean had been very apprehensive when she first came to Jack’s ranch, but the presence of an aged sensible housekeeper and the presence of her cousins in the same house had reassured her to some extent. She watched and studied Jack secretly and liked what she saw. She agreed with Tim that he was trustworthy and a good friend. She knew all about Jack’s rich and royal family, and was glad that he was untouched with all that. Jean wanted to rent a house of her own, but everyone dissuaded her, including her cousins, who were happily settled at the ranch and did not want any extra worries.She had gradually taken over as solicitor of all Jack’s property and worked her way into everybody’s trust. Her soft beauty, her thoughtful nature and her sharp mind found their way into everyone’s heart and she soon became everyone’s favourite. She was called the ‘princess of the ranch’ due to her heavenly looks and Jack began to acknowledge that he had won a gem of a girl in his team.

10

JEAN

On this bright, sunny morning, Jean, who had her office in one of the front rooms with a view to the stables and the front lawn, saw Jack with his horse, preparing to ride out to the timber factory.

"Jack, Jack,’, she shouted and ran after him, grabbing her jacket and hat on the way. Jack turned with surprise and grinned when he saw her.

Hello pet. Are you going to farmer Palmer’s house? I heard that Mrs. Palmer is not well.. said Jack. Jean shook her head and her blond curls danced around her face.

No, I had been to see her this morning and took some hot soup and two blankets with me I. want to visit the timber factory with you. she replied.

Jack looked at her fresh and lovely face and said, Don’t wander? alone in these parts, someone might carry you away. Your beauty is mesmerizing, my dear."

Jean blushed and replied Rubbish. I know everyone and will anybody dare, with you and the Irish twins and my cousins and our formidable housekeeper keeping eyes on me all the time?.

True, my pet. I was only joking.Anyway, I was looking for you to tell you that you and Harry will look after the houses and tenants from today. Henry will look after the horses. I have just bought a score more, and they are the best, I can tell you. said Jack with pride. Jean knew how much Jack was fond of the horses.

Well, am I glad! I wanted to be more involved with the houses. She answered and looked with pride at the tall man with the handsome chiselled features, and knew that she could come to love him, but he only treated her like a little sister.

Jack, what do I have to do? asked Jean, as she rode out beside him on the roan lent to her, as nobody could get anywhere without a horse in the outback.

‘Oh, you will see to the complaints of the workers, and in general, see to their welfare, wether they are keeping their houses clean and maintaining them, wether they are using the garden space allotted to each house,that if they have enough medicines, eggs, butter, fruits and vegetables, which they could order from our farm, Tell them to make a list every week, See to the repair of their houses ete, etc. Henry will explain all, but these are the things I wanted you specially to do." Jack told her.

She saluted and said Yes, boss. Jack looked at her fondly. She had no idea what an alluring picture she made.

They were now approaching the woodlands. Jack was now lost in his own thoughts and absentmindedly turned to Jean to warn her of the ditch at one side of the road when ther was a loud tearing and grinding noise and he saw a large branch of the giant Metasequoia tree descending directly over Jean’s head. He shouted and summersaulted and and ran about ten yards to catch and hold her, where she had been airborne after her horse threw her to a distance of thirty yards or so, in fright, and bolted. That had probably saved both of them. Jean looked dazedly around her, and then let her head fall like a dead weight on Jack’s chest and fainted away. Jack sunk to the ground. He too felt glazed and his back hurt terribly.

He was not sure what to do, when he heard Jim O’ Rourke’s cheerful voice, I say old fellow, what’s up? Need any help? I heard the branch crash. Could have killed a dozen people! I ran to see if any remains of your bodies were left to carry back to the farm, hey, hey. He stopped short as he came in sight of Jean. Was she with you? What is she doing on your lap? I say, you do have all the luck, I declare! Stop fooling. She has fainted away and I seem to have broken my back. Good thing you were near. Get help from the farm immediately.’ Jack muttered, obviously in pain.

Jim came to realize the seriousness of the situation. I say, old fellow, do not move, I shall get help immediately. He looked at Jean and said, She looks like a dream, doesn’t she? I hope she will be alright."

Jim looked concerned and said worriedly, Let me feel your back. He pressed a spot on his back and Jack grimaced in pain. Oh, that does look bad, he said.

He looked at Jean again and asked fearfully, Will she be alright, do you think. ? Jack said drily, I think so.

I seem to have buffered and absorbed her shock and pain by catching her before she touched ground. Sprinkle some water on her face. Jim sprinkled some water on Jean’s face and said,Her limbs seem to be O.K. Don’t worry, we ‘ll sew everything new. he continued cheerfully.

Just then Jean fluttered her eyes open and looked on Jack bewilderedly., then at the giant fallen log with shock and turned her face away and buried it in Jack’s neck After some time she looked up again. Her face registered a number of expressions.as she remembered, first joy, that they were still alive, then admiration at Jack’s olympian effort at rescue, gratitude, and then love finally dawned on her face. She blushed a deep rose at finding herself still in Jack’s arms .and jumped to her feet. ‘I am alright, really."

But it was the fun loving Jim, who, after witnessing all the changing expressions on her lovely face, had helplessly fallen in love with her.

He said jovially, I say old fellow, will you not kiss her for being so brave, or shall I do the kissing, while you go get the stretcher?

Jack aimed a blow at Jim and said,Nobody is going to do any kissing. Don’t you know, she ran away from her own home to avoid just these sort of scenes?she is ‘hands off property’, untill she says otherwise, She relies on us to protect her, and that is what we will do. So get that wagon and stretcher here fast, Dear Mr. Sir Gallant. said Jack.

O.K, O.K., you don’t ro rub it in.mumbled Jim. He winked at Jean and smiled reassuringly, then jumped on his horse and disappeared fast.

The doctor examined Jean and pronounced her unhurt. Just hot nourishing drinks and a lot of pampering will do. she is suffering from shock, he pronounced... He ordered hot packs and rest. for Jack. Nature will do the rest", he said. Luckily, Jack had not broken any bones, but had only sprained his back.

Jean was soon up and about. She started work as estate manager and soon, all the tenants were singing her praises.She saw to it that every house was repaired, old useless doors and windows replaced by new ones,(though at greater costs), that the children attended school regularly. She opened a ‘Ladies Club’, that had all the women learning sewing, baking,gardening, tailoring, decorating interiors,health and beauty treatments,first aid,etc, etc. the trainers were the more educated, talented and experienced ones among their neighbours, Jean spotting and choosing herself.She introduced indoor games like cards, carom, chess, tambola, housing etc and held regular competions and exhibitions.Within a year houses boasted trim gardens.The farmers, after a hot tiring day at their jobs were treated to well cooked meals by their more cheerful wives and daughters, thanks to a more eventful existence. As they were earning better, their sons and daughters could be trained for jobs in the cities, The weekly list of orders had grown longer, with seed catalogues, medicines, silk and chiffons, books etc making their first appearance on the list. Not all were enthusiastic, and those who brought disorder and bad ways to the peaceful surroundings, were soon asked to find other lodgings. The citizens could now afford higher rents, and for the first time, pride found place on their faces.They were hardworking, good men and women,and many of their sons and daughters later on became supervisors, foremen and managers in the estate.

11

JACK

Jack was proud of Jean’s achievements and gave Tim a glowing account of his sister. Jean, meanwhile, blossomed and became more beautiful, if that was possible. and kept her love for Jack a secret, as he did not show any change in his feelings towards her.She spent very little time with him, as both of them were always busy around the estate.

The heat and the flies were a constant bother in the outback, but they were getting accustomed to it. Jack was becoming engaged in the social scene and had started attending meeting in the town hall, where all important decisions of the legislature were taken, and