e was protesting against
an unjust tax."

"Say what you please, and welcome; but while you are under my command
you must obey my orders or else stand the chances of a court-martial. I
don't think that the miners agree with you," the military despot
continued, after a moment's consultation with the commissioner; "I
desire that you take command of the escort which is about to start for
Melbourne with the prisoners. You will lose not a moment, but report
yourself ready in an hour's time."

"I do not require even a moment's time," replied the young man; "I am
ready now, and am only too anxious to start."

"As for you, sir," the colonel said, turning to me, "you can see your
friend after he reaches Melbourne, but not before. He is charged with a
serious crime, and those higher in power than myself must deal with
him."

I left the apartment, uncertain what to do or where to go. Mr. Brown
joined me in the ante-room, but read the result of my mission in my
face.

"There's no hope?" he asked.

"None; he goes to Melbourne to-night."

"So much the better," answered Mr. Brown, promptly; "now we shall have a
fair chance for his freedom; for great things can sometimes be
accomplished in that city."

"But Fred will suffer on the route," I remarked, "and unless he is cared
for, will never reach the city alive."

"Don't give yourself any uneasiness on that score," Captain Fitz said,
he having heard my last remark; "I will take care that he is treated
with as much consideration as the circumstances will admit of, and see
that he wants for nothing."

I uttered a few hurried thanks, and the captain was about to pass, when
I detained him.

"Is there any means by which we can obtain an interview with my friend?"
I asked.

"I fear not," he answered, in a hesitating manner, which inspired me
with some hope.

"Only a few words," I pleaded.

"If the colonel or commissioner should know that I ever listened to the
suggestion, there would be a pretty row," muttered the captain, still
hesitating.

"But they need not know it," I repeated.

"Come, Captain Fitz, for old acquaintance sake, let us see the young
man. No harm will come of it, and you will be doing a good service,"
said Mr. Brown, who knew the officer while quartered at Melbourne.

"Well, I will see what I can do for you; but remember, I shall give you
only five minutes."

"That will answer our purpose," I replied.

"Then wait here a few moments, until I report m