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Back to Billabong

By Mary Grant

Summary of Back to Billabong

The book tells the story of Cecilia and Bob Rainham, who escape their difficult home life in London to start a new life in Australia. Cecilia's stepmother treats her poorly, and her brother Bob, who has been away at war, decides to take her away from the unhappy home. With the help of a lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, and a general, General Harran, they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Despite the challenges they face, including a grass fire that destroys their farm, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia. The Linton family, who become like a surrogate family to them, introduce them to the Australian way of life and help them to settle into their new home. Bob learns about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, but with the support and guidance of the Lintons, they are able to rebuild their home and start anew. The book follows their journey as they navigate the ups and downs of rural life in Australia and ultimately find happiness and success in their new home.

Chapter Summary of Back to Billabong

CHAPTER I

The chapter introduces the Rainham family, consisting of Mr. and Mrs. Rainham and their children, Avice, Wilfred, and Queenie, as well as Cecilia, Mr. Rainham's daughter from a previous marriage. The family dynamics are strained, with Mrs. Rainham being particularly cruel and manipulative towards Cecilia. Cecilia's brother, Bob, is a flying officer who has been away at war and is now returning home. The family's governess, Miss Simpkins, has left, and Cecilia has taken on her responsibilities. The chapter also explores the backstory of the Rainham family, including Mr. Rainham's previous marriage and the death of Cecilia's mother. Aunt Margaret, who raised Cecilia and Bob, has also passed away, leaving them with limited financial resources. The chapter sets the stage for Cecilia's desire to escape her difficult home life and start a new life with her brother.

CHAPTER II

Cecilia's life with her stepmother and half-siblings continues to be difficult, with her stepmother treating her poorly and the children being disobedient and rude. However, Cecilia finds solace in her meetings with her brother Bob, who is planning to take her away from the unhappy home. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob, and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER III

Cecilia's life with her stepmother and half-siblings continues to be difficult, with her stepmother treating her poorly and the children being disobedient and rude. However, Cecilia finds solace in her meetings with her brother Bob, who is planning to take her away from the unhappy home. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob, and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER IV

Cecilia's life with her stepmother and half-siblings continues to be difficult, with her stepmother treating her poorly and the children being disobedient and rude. However, Cecilia finds solace in her meetings with her brother Bob, who is planning to take her away from the unhappy home. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob, and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER V

Cecilia's life with her stepmother and half-siblings continues to be difficult, with her stepmother treating her poorly and the children being disobedient and rude. However, Cecilia finds solace in her meetings with her brother Bob, who is planning to take her away from the unhappy home. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob, and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER VI

Cecilia's life with her stepmother and half-siblings continues to be difficult, with her stepmother treating her poorly and the children being disobedient and rude. However, Cecilia finds solace in her meetings with her brother Bob, who is planning to take her away from the unhappy home. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob, and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER VII

The story continues with Cecilia and Bob settling into their new life in Australia. They are welcomed by the Lintons, a family who becomes like a surrogate family to them. Norah, the daughter, takes a particular liking to Cecilia and becomes her close friend. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Bob starts to learn about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle in, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons.

CHAPTER VIII

The story continues with Cecilia and Bob settling into their new life in Australia. They are welcomed by the Lintons, a family who becomes like a surrogate family to them. Norah, the daughter, takes a particular liking to Cecilia and becomes her close friend. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Bob starts to learn about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle in, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons. Meanwhile, the Lintons are preparing to return to their home, Billabong, after being away for five years. They are excited to reunite with their loved ones and to reintegrate into their community. The family's return is met with great fanfare, and they are welcomed back with open arms. As they settle back into their routine, they reflect on their experiences during the war and the challenges they faced. They also look forward to rebuilding their lives and creating a new future for themselves.

CHAPTER IX

Cecilia and Bob Rainham arrive at Billabong, the Linton family's home in Australia, where they are warmly welcomed by the family and their staff. The Lintons are delighted to have them stay and are eager to show them the ropes of Australian life. Cecilia is fascinated by the Australian landscape and the Lintons' way of life, and she quickly settles into her new surroundings. Bob, meanwhile, begins his education in running a station, learning about cattle and sheep from Jim and Mr. Linton. As they settle into their new life, Cecilia and Bob face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons.

CHAPTER X

Cecilia and Bob Rainham escape from their difficult home life and travel to Australia, where they are welcomed by the Linton family. Cecilia and Norah Linton become fast friends, and Norah shows Cecilia the ropes of Australian life. Meanwhile, Bob learns about farming and cattle management from Jim and Mr. Linton. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Cecilia and Bob are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons as they start their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER XI

Cecilia and Bob Rainham finally escape from their difficult home life and travel to Australia, where they meet the Linton family, who become like a surrogate family to them. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Bob learns about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons.

CHAPTER XII

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. The chapter ends with the group enjoying each other's company and looking forward to their new life in Australia.

CHAPTER XIII

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

CHAPTER XIV

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

CHAPTER XV

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

CHAPTER XVI

The chapter describes the peaceful autumn evening at Billabong, with the Linton family and their friends enjoying each other's company. The conversation turns to the Rainhams, who have been helped by the district after their farm was destroyed in a fire. Bob and Tommy are grateful for the support and are excited to start their new life in their rebuilt home, Creek Cottage. The chapter also mentions the improvements made to the new house, which has been built with modern labor-saving devices. Meanwhile, Bob receives a letter from Mr. M'Clinton, informing him that he has sold some of his late aunt's investments and is remitting the money, over nine hundred pounds, to help Bob and Tommy reduce their liabilities. The news brings great joy to the group, and they celebrate Bob's good fortune.

LANCASTER GATE, LONDON, W

Cecilia Rainham, a young woman, lives with her stepmother, Mrs. Rainham, and her half-siblings in a house in Lancaster Gate, London. Her stepmother treats her poorly and makes her do all the household chores. Cecilia's brother, Bob, who has been away at war, returns home and discovers the poor treatment of his sister. He decides to take her away from the unhappy home and start a new life with her. With the help of a lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, and a general, General Harran, they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. However, their stepmother is also planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, where the Nauru will be sailing from, which complicates their plans. Despite the challenges, Cecilia and Bob are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia.

THE RAINHAMS

Cecilia Rainham, a young woman, has been living with her stepmother, Mrs. Rainham, and her half-siblings in a house in Lancaster Gate, London. Her stepmother treats her poorly and makes her do all the household chores. Cecilia's brother, Bob, who has been away at war, returns home and discovers the poor treatment of his sister. He decides to take her away from the unhappy home and start a new life with her. With the help of a lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, and a general, General Harran, they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. However, their stepmother is also planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, where the Nauru will be sailing from, which complicates their plans. Despite the challenges, Cecilia and Bob are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia.

PLAYING TRUANT

Cecilia Rainham lives with her stepmother, Mrs. Rainham, and her half-siblings in a house in Lancaster Gate, London. Her stepmother treats her poorly and makes her do all the household chores. Cecilia's brother, Bob, who has been away at war, returns home and discovers the poor treatment of his sister. He decides to take her away from the unhappy home and start a new life with her. With the help of a lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, and a general, General Harran, they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. However, their stepmother is also planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, where the Nauru will be sailing from, which complicates their plans. Despite the challenges, Cecilia and Bob are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia.

COMING HOME

Cecilia Rainham is struggling with her life in London, where she is treated poorly by her stepmother, Mrs. Rainham, and her half-siblings. Her brother, Bob, who has been away at war, returns home and discovers the poor treatment of his sister. He decides to take her away from the unhappy home and start a new life with her. With the help of a lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, and a general, General Harran, they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. However, their stepmother is also planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, where the Nauru will be sailing from, which complicates their plans. Despite the challenges, Cecilia and Bob are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia.

THE TURN OF FORTUNE'S WHEEL

Cecilia's life with her stepmother and half-siblings continues to be difficult, with her stepmother treating her poorly and the children being disobedient and rude. However, Cecilia finds solace in her meetings with her brother Bob, who is planning to take her away from the unhappy home. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob, and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

SAILING ORDERS

The chapter begins with Cecilia, who has been living with her stepmother and half-siblings in a difficult home environment, receiving a note from her brother Bob, saying he has been demobilized and is planning to take her away from their unhappy home. Cecilia has been treated poorly by her stepmother, who makes her do all the household chores and belittles her in front of the other children. Bob visits their father's lawyer, Mr. M'Clinton, who informs him that their aunt had left them a significant amount of money, which will be available to them when Cecilia turns 21. Mr. M'Clinton offers to give Bob £3,000 to help him start a new life with Cecilia. Bob also meets with General Harran, who offers to help him and Cecilia emigrate to Australia. Cecilia makes secret preparations to leave with Bob and they plan to sail to Australia on the Nauru. Meanwhile, Mrs. Rainham is planning to visit her sister in Liverpool, which coincidentally is where the Nauru will be sailing from. Cecilia and Bob must navigate their plans carefully to avoid detection by Mrs. Rainham, who is determined to keep Cecilia in her control. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia.

THE WATCH DOGS

The story continues with Cecilia and Bob Rainham's journey to Australia. They face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. The Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives. Meanwhile, Bob receives a letter from Mr. M'Clinton, informing him that he has sold some of his late aunt's investments and is remitting the money to help Bob and Tommy reduce their liabilities. The news brings great joy to the group, and they celebrate Bob's good fortune. The chapter ends with the group enjoying each other's company and looking forward to their new life in Australia.

HOW TOMMY BOARDED A STRANGE TAXI

Cecilia and Bob Rainham finally escape from their difficult home life and travel to Australia, where they meet the Linton family, who become like a surrogate family to them. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Bob learns about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons.

THE WELCOME OF AUSTRALIA

Cecilia and Bob Rainham finally escape from their difficult home life and travel to Australia, where they meet the Linton family, who become like a surrogate family to them. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Bob learns about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons. The Lintons take Cecilia and Bob under their wing, teaching them the ways of the Australian bush and helping them to settle into their new life. Cecilia and Bob are introduced to the Lintons' friends and family, and they begin to feel a sense of belonging in their new home. As they become more confident in their new life, they start to make plans for their future, with Bob considering taking up farming and Cecilia looking forward to helping him with the household chores. The story follows their journey as they navigate the ups and downs of rural life in Australia, with the Lintons providing a supportive and loving environment for them to thrive in.

BILLABONG

The story continues with Cecilia and Bob Rainham's journey to Australia. They face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. Bob learns about farming and cattle management, while Cecilia helps with household chores and learns to cook Australian-style meals. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including a grass fire that threatens their farm. However, with the help of the Lintons, they are able to rebuild their home and start anew. Meanwhile, Bob receives a letter from Mr. M'Clinton, informing him that he has sold some of his late aunt's investments and is remitting the money to help Bob and Tommy reduce their liabilities. The news brings great joy to the group, and they celebrate Bob's good fortune. The chapter ends with the group enjoying each other's company and looking forward to their new life in Australia.

COLONIAL EXPERIENCES

The story continues with Cecilia and Bob Rainham's journey to Australia. They face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons. The chapter describes the peaceful autumn evening at Billabong, with the Linton family and their friends enjoying each other's company. The conversation turns to the Rainhams, who have been helped by the district after their farm was destroyed in a fire. Bob and Tommy are grateful for the support and are excited to start their new life in their rebuilt home, Creek Cottage. Meanwhile, Bob receives a letter from Mr. M'Clinton, informing him that he has sold some of his late aunt's investments and is remitting the money to help Bob and Tommy reduce their liabilities. The news brings great joy to the group, and they celebrate Bob's good fortune. The chapter ends with the group enjoying each other's company and looking forward to their new life in Australia.

ON INFLUENZA AND FURNITURE

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

THE HOME ON THE CREEK

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. The Lintons introduce them to the Australian way of life, and they begin to learn about the country and its customs. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

THE CUNJEE RACES

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As they settle into their new life, they face various challenges, including adjusting to the harsh Australian climate and learning to navigate the complexities of rural life. Despite these challenges, they are determined to make a new life for themselves in Australia and are grateful for the support and guidance of the Lintons. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

HOW WALLY RODE A RACE

The chapter begins with a conversation between Jim and his father, Mr. Linton, about Bob Rainham's potential as a farmer. They discuss Bob's quick eye and keenness, and how he has picked up a lot of knowledge about stock. Mr. Linton decides to help Bob by buying a farm and stocking it, and they start making plans for the farm's improvement. Meanwhile, Norah and Tommy are preparing to go to the hospital in Cunjee to help with the influenza outbreak. The story then shifts to the Rainhams' new home, Creek Cottage, which has been furnished with homemade furniture made from packing cases and timber. The family and their friends gather at the cottage for a celebratory dinner, and they discuss their plans for the future. Bob is determined to make a success of his farm and is grateful for the help and support of the Lintons. As the day of their departure approaches, Cecilia and Bob are filled with excitement and anticipation for their new life in Australia. The chapter also describes the Cunjee races, where the Billabong party is in attendance, and Shannon, a horse owned by Murty, wins the Hurdle Race. However, the celebration is cut short when a grass fire breaks out, threatening the Rainhams' farm. Wally rides Shannon across country to warn Bob and Tommy, but arrives too late to save the house, which is burned to the ground. Despite the devastation, the stock is safe, and the Lintons offer to help the Rainhams rebuild their home and their lives.

BUILDING UP AGAIN

The chapter describes a peaceful autumn evening at Billabong, with the Linton family and their friends enjoying each other's company. The conversation turns to the Rainhams, who have been helped by the district after their farm was destroyed in a fire. Bob and Tommy are grateful for the support and are excited to start their new life in their rebuilt home, Creek Cottage. Meanwhile, Bob receives a letter from Mr. M'Clinton, informing him that he has sold some of his late aunt's investments and is remitting the money to help Bob and Tommy reduce their liabilities. The news brings great joy to the group, and they celebrate Bob's good fortune. The chapter ends with the group enjoying each other's company and looking forward to their new life in Australia, with Bob and Tommy feeling grateful and relieved to have their debt eased and a chance to start anew.