a common man would a walking stick, he struck at the
hound, who still held the kangaroo dog by the throat, and growled at his
slightest movement as though he feared that one of the parties concerned
in his master's murder would escape.

I held my breath while the huge club was suspended in the air, wielded,
I knew full well, by the strong arms of Black Darnley. Twice I raised my
rifle to my shoulder; and thought to interpose against what I considered
certain death to the brute, but a fear that Smith and the convict were
not at their stations prevented me.

I almost shouted a warning to the dog as the club descended, but my
fears were vain; for the animal sprang aside, and the stick fell heavily
upon the sharp-nosed dog of the bushrangers. He gave one yell, and was
crushed into a shapeless mass.

The ruffian uttered an oath of rage; but before he could renew the
attack the hound flew full at him, and fastened his long fangs into
Darnley's throat. The latter staggered back, surprised at the sudden
attack, but only for an instant. His stout hands were quickly raised,
and then his grasp encompassed the dog's throat so tightly that his eyes
nearly started from their sockets, and he was glad to unclinch his
teeth, and gasp for breath.

Full at arm's length did Darnley hold the animal, and we could see a
grim smile steal over his face as he thought of the pain he was
inflicting. The gang started forward to assist the ruffian, but with an
oath he bade them keep back and let him alone. I feared the dog's life
was short, and determined to save it, but I was anticipated.

I heard the sharp crack of Fred's rifle close by my side, and following
the direction of his aim, I saw Darnley loosen his hold of the dog,
stagger back, press one hand upon his side as though he felt a sudden
pain; but still he kept his feet, and waved to his gang encouragement,
while his voice exclaimed,--

"The beaks are upon us, d----n 'em; show no quarter or mercy; fight till
you die, or you'll all be hanged."

He staggered towards the hut as he spoke, but in trying to keep his
balance, removed his hand from his side. A torrent of blood gushed
forth, and dyed the ground a scarlet hue; he strove to keep upon his
feet, but his strength was ebbing fast, and with a reel and lurch, like
some strong ship before foundering, he fell to the ground, never to rise
again.

His gang had rushed into the hut upon the first discharge, leaving their
leader alone, u