Set on a Lachlan station in 1848, the owner and his Irish man of all work 'Murphy' defend themselves from a combined force of bushrangers and blacks. A small friendly black boy, Jacky, meanwhile rides for help. Good action descriptions of the attack where the Irishman's sabre plays a part. Interesting treatment of the boy; and the Irishman's souvenirs of a bottled black hand and fingers. (PB)