"Unloose me first, and I won't harm you," said the other, trying to struggle to his feet.
"I don't mean you shall. Good-by, my friend. I can't say I wish to meet you again. I will take the liberty to carry off your stick, as you won't need it with your hands tied."
Obed and the boys started off, followed by the most fearful execrations from their late acquaintance. They had scarcely gone a quarter of a mile when they met two mounted police, who halted their horses and inquired: "Have you seen anything of a man, tall and spare, dark hair and eyes. We have traced him to this neighborhood, and think he must be near."
"What has he done?" asked Obed curiously.
"Murdered a man at the mines, in a drunken brawl."
"We've just parted company with him," said Obed. "I found him experimentin' on my young friend here, but come up in time to block his game."
"Put us on his track, and we will share the reward of a hundred pounds with you."
"I'll do it. Boys, stay here and I'll go back with these gentlemen. I'll join you in an hour."
Obed was as good as his word. Within an hour he was back again, with the two policemen, followed by the man whom we have called the tramp.
His hands were more securely fastened now by a pair of handcuffs.