," Fred exclaimed, drawing up his form to its
full height. "I mean Boston near Bunker Hill."

A sudden change came over the lieutenant's face. The dark frown passed
away, and a smile crossed his sunburnt countenance.

"You are Americans?" he asked, with an air of politeness.

"We claim that land as our home," Fred answered.

"I might have guessed as much, for you both carry an emblem of your
country."

He pointed to our rifles and smiled. We saw that he was disposed to be
rational, and therefore laid aside our reserve.

"There are but few of our people," I said, "but know how to handle these
weapons; and it's rare that they venture into an unknown country without
one for a companion."

"I think so; for I have met a number of Americans in Australia, and yet
every one clings to his rifle. But, while we are talking, the woman is
suffering. Maurice, assist to take her into the hut, and open a vein if
you think it necessary."

The man addressed as Maurice gave his bridle to a companion and
dismounted. The convict and the stranger raised her in their arms, and
removed the unfortunate beneath the rude roof, where at least she could
be screened from the sun.

"Well, Smith, what is there new in these parts?" inquired the
lieutenant, carelessly. "Seen any thing of Black Darnley and his gang,
lately? I understand that you have been seen conversing with him a
number of times recently. Take care--I give you fair warning; if I
report you, your ticket of leave is withdrawn."

"But you wouldn't do that?" cried Smith, his face showing the alarm
which he felt at the threat.

"I don't know but that it will be my duty to do so before long," cried
the officer, shaking his head like a petty tyrant, who wished to inspire
fear.

"I have been two days on the road," he continued, "searching for his
gang. If you can give me any information, Smith, that is of real value,
why, perhaps--"

"But I can give information," cried Smith, who, awed by the great man's
presence, appeared to have forgotten all about the death of Darnley.

"Ah! of the scamp's gang?" the officer asked, with eagerness.

"Where are they?" demanded the lieutenant, leading Smith one side.

"Six of them are dead--and with them, Black Darnley," cried Smith.

"You are trifling with me," said the officer, sternly.

"No--upon my word; but ask the Americans, they will tell you all."

"Is it so?" asked the policeman, turning towards us with an air entirely
changed