No Sugar

The family arrives at the Long Poole Camp, which is part of the Moore River Settlement. The trip was very hot and they are all exhausted. After arriving, they meet Billy Kimberley, a black “tracker” who works for the camp superintendent. He carries a whip. After telling them that they will soon meet the Matron, who will give them an “inspection,” he leaves them. Jimmy arrives and checks in with everyone. Then, he takes Sam to find provisions, intending to make their stay in the camp as comfortable as possible. Gran and Milly, too tired to talk, lie down to rest.

Joe, Cissie, and David take billy cans that they will use to fill up water bags. As they work, two girls approach: Topsy and Mary. David and Cissie want to go for a swim after they are done with their work, but Joe gives his attention to the girls. He seems especially interested in Mary. Joe learns that Mary and Topsy have the same uncle Herbie as he does, but it turns out that they’re not actually related. Herbie isn’t really married to the woman. The suggestion is that the relationship is purely sexual. The scene ends with Joe and Mary agreeing to meet the next day.