pots were slung at the
side, and they were at last ready to start.

"I'll christen my colt Wyck," said Hil, as they turned in for the night.

"And mine shall be Liffe," said May.

Daylight the next morning saw them on the track of the two conveyances.

CHAPTER XXIII.

CAMPING OUT.

When Hil mounted her colt the next morning, that fractious animal could
not resist having another set-to, just to convince himself that his
master was really on his back. Hil was quite agreeable and having
satisfied the creature on that point, she and May started at a brisk
canter along the road, following the wheel-tracks, which were still
clearly defined. Hil was not disappointed in either purchase, for both
horses settled down to their work admirably, and by eight o'clock they
considered they were twenty miles away from Dalby. They therefore pulled
up at Jimbour Creek, dismounted, hobbled their horses, and let them roam
for a feed, while they prepared breakfast. Both had excellent appetites
after their ride, and did full justice to the meal their own skill had
prepared. During the repast, they heard horses' hoofs approaching, and
shortly were joined by two young men of the bush type, probably
shearers.

"Good-day, mates," called out one, as they came near.

"Good-day to you," said May. "Have a cup of tea, the water's just
boiling."

It sounded more like an invitation in a lady's boudoir than from the
bush, but putting them down as new chums, the pair dismounted and
accepted the offer.

"Where are you young fellows making for?" asked one.

"Going along the river. Did you come that way?"

"Yes, we've come in from Condamine station."

"See anything of a buggy along the road?"

"Well, I'm blowed! Yes, we did. Why?"

"We are trying to catch up to one," said Hil.

"We camped alongside two fellows with a buggy last night, and they told
me they were after two other fellows, and now I suppose you fellows are
after them?" said the stranger, with a laugh.

"Are there two buggies ahead?"

"Yes, one is broken-down at Campbell Camp, and the other ought to be
there by this time. Are you policemen after them?"

"No, not at all. They are friends. We have missed one another. That's
all."

"Well, come along, matey," said the younger of the two to his companion.
"Good-day to you, and much obliged," and they mounted and disappeared.

"Time to get on, Hil," said May.

"Yes, I think so," and a few minutes later they were on