Chapter 3 Summary

Father Ralph de Bricassart visits his elderly patron, Mary Carson, in his Daimler. The car, as well as the Father's expensive horse, is a gift from Mrs. Carson. She is the owner of Drogheda, the largest sheep ranch in New South Wales, since her husband died. The demanding widow is perennially unable to keep a station manager. When the most recent manager leaves in a huff, Carson summons her younger brother, an impoverished farmer and sometime sheep shearer in New Zealand.

In New Zealand, the Clearys continue to struggle financially. Fee's latest pregnancy has resulted in the birth of a sickly infant, Harold, whom everyone calls Hal. Doctor bills mount, as Fiona is confined to her bed. Fortunately, Meggie, at 9, is old enough to help with the household and the baby. Mary Carson's letter seems like a boon. The Clearys sell the farm...