n, and
which would keep off the spears of the natives.

"A very good idea," said Paul; and they all three set to work, trusting
to Bruce to give them timely notice should strangers approach. They
chose only small trees, which quickly yielded to their axes, and they
were thus soon enabled to form a breastwork on the only accessible side
of the rock. Although it was not capable of withstanding a determined
rush of the enemy, yet as long as their ammunition lasted the blacks
were not likely to come to close quarters.

They had made some progress in the work, when Bruce suddenly rushed
partly down the hill, uttering a loud bark. The lads instantly sprang
behind the breastwork, ready for action; but directly afterwards Bruce
came back, wagging his tail, and, almost following him, Bendigo
appeared.

"Black fellows all about," he said, looking approvingly at the
fortification, the object of which he at once understood. He told them
that they need not expect an attack for some time, though he was certain
that the black fellows would surround them should they venture down into
the plain on foot.

"But how are we to get back our horses?" asked Reggy; "and if we do not
get them back, how are we to return home?"

Bendigo said that he hoped to recover them, as they were not very far
off.

"If he does not, we must make up our minds to trudge back on foot. It
will be a long journey, but he will not let us want for food," said
Harry.

Bendigo, faithful to his promise, again left them, and soon returned,
bringing a 'possum and several combs of honey. He also filled their
water-bottles; so that they had sufficient provisions to stand a siege
of some hours, at all events. He had gone on a second expedition, when
he was seen hurrying back up the hill.

"Black fellows come!" he exclaimed, as he sprang behind the breastwork.

The boys got their rifles ready.

"We must not fire unless the natives show a determination to attack us,"
observed Paul; "their blood will then be on their own heads if they do
so. We must get Bendigo to tell them that we wish to be at peace; and
that if they will bring back our horses we will part on friendly terms."

Paul explained to Bendigo what he wished. The black laughed, as if he
did not consider there would be any use in attempting to come to terms
with his countrymen but merely patted his rifle, as though he considered
that it contained the best argument they could employ.

They waite