Page 184 - In A New World

"I shall have to talk it over with my partners here," returned Obed. "They're
equally interested with me."

"Better do so now."

"I won't till evenin', when we have more time."

Fletcher rode away under the impression that Obed was favorably disposed
to his plan.

"When I get the money," he said to himself, "I can decide whether to let the
fellow go or not. I don't care for the boys, but I'd like to give this Yankee a

good flogging, he's so confoundedly sarcastic. Plague take it, the fellow
doesn't know when he's down, but talks as if he was on equal terms with

me."

Meanwhile, though Fletcher did not know it, the train of bushrangers had

steadily advanced to the neighborhood of the place where the government
escort were encamped.

In fact, he was ignorant that they were so near. But Obed knew it, and he
was watching his opportunity to apprise his friends of his situation. Harry

had noticed the same thing. Lest he should make a premature revelation,
Obed placed his hand to his lips, as a sign of silence. Harry understood, and

seemed indifferent, but his heart was beating fast with excitement.