Page 177 - In A New World

Harry scrutinized the man's face, and he too recognized him as one of the
gang--but his face did not betray his suspicions.

"Were you robbed of much money?" he asked in a sympathizing tone.

"I had the value of a hundred pounds with me," said the other feebly.

"I suppose you came from Bendigo like ourselves?"

"Yes; have you been lucky?"

"We had some luck, but we are tired of mining, and are going back to

Melbourne. Would you like to have us take you along also?"

"Yes, if you would be so kind."

At this moment Obed's voice was heard.

"Come here, Harry; we'll make a litter to carry our friend there if he is

unable to walk."

"All right, Obed."

There might have been something in Obed's voice that betrayed him. At

any rate, the victim, looking up, eyed him keenly, and then, to the surprise
of the boys, gave a sharp whistle. Their suspicions were at once kindled,
and they started to run, but too late. From the underbrush there sprang out

three bushrangers, accompanied by Colson and Ropes, who covered the
boys with their weapons.

"Halt there!" exclaimed Fletcher in a tone of authority.

"Oh, it's you, is it?" said Obed with apparent coolness, though his heart
sank within him.