“The Yankee and the two boys have a good deal of gold about them,” suggested Colson. “Of course it isn’t much compared with the nugget, but it is better than nothing.”
“How much has the Yankee?” demanded Ring.
“Three hundred pounds at least.”
“That is something, but as he will travel with the government escort, we should have to attack the whole party.”
“Not necessarily. I have a plan that I think will work.”
“Detail it.”
Colson did so. What it was will appear in due time.
Meanwhile Obed and the two boys had started on their way to Melbourne. With a strong military escort they gave themselves up to joyful anticipations of the bright future that opened before them. They no longer entertained apprehensions of being waylaid, being secure in the strength of their party.
They travelled by easy stages, and at night camped out. A sentry was always posted, who stood guard while the rest were asleep, for, unlikely as an attack might be, it was deemed necessary to provide against it.
Often, however, after supper Obed and the two boys would take a walk together, in order to talk over their plans without interruption from others. On the third evening they unwittingly walked a little further than usual. Harry was the first to notice it.