Page 173 - In A New World

CHAPTER XXXI.

TAKEN CAPTIVE.

The new recruits, on being introduced to the captain of the bushrangers,
were subjected to a searching examination by the chief, a suspicion having

arisen in his mind that the two were spies sent out by the government to
lure the outlaws into a trap. He was convinced after a while that they were

acting in good faith, and a conference was called to decide what should be
done in the matter. On this point opinions differed. The nugget, of course,
would be a valuable prize, but it would be impossible to dispose of it in

Melbourne, as the fact of its discovery would have been published, and any
person attempting to sell it would be instantly arrested. This view was held

by Captain Ring himself.

"That objection is easily met," said Fletcher.

"In what way?"

"One of the band could be sent to America to dispose of it. He could carry
it in his trunk as ordinary luggage."

"Perhaps you would like to undertake the commission," said Captain Ring.

"I should be very willing," said Fletcher eagerly.

"I don't doubt you would," returned the captain, in a sarcastic tone. "Who
would insure your making over the proceeds to us?"

"I hope you don't doubt my integrity," said Fletcher, with an air of virtuous
indignation.

"Perhaps I had better say nothing on that subject, Fletcher. The band are

unwilling to subject you to the temptation--that's all. Many good men go
wrong."