The morning sun revealed to the astonished Hopkins family the embattled plain beyond, with its armed sentries.

Only then did Jim hooker condescend to explain the reason of his warlike occupation, with dark hints of the outlying "squatters" and "jumpers," whose incursions their boldness alone had repulsed.

The effect of this romantic situation upon the two women, with the slight fascination of danger imported into their quiet lives, may well be imagined.

Possibly owing to some incautious questioning by Mr.Hopkins, and some doubts of the discipline and sincerity of his posse, Jim discharged them the next day; but during the erection of his cabin by some peaceful carpenters from the settlement, he returned to his gloomy preoccupation and the ostentatious wearing of his revolvers.

As an opulent and powerful neighbor, he took his meals with the family while his house was being built, and generally impressed them with a sense of security they had never missed.
Meantime, Clarence, duly informed of the installation of Jim as his tenant, underwent a severe trial.