This was quite true. Just after the fatal shot had been fired, and the attention of all had been taken up by the tragedy, Harry had whispered to Jack, “Now’s our time to escape, Jack. Follow me!”
“I’m with you,” responded Jack promptly, and no one noticed the two as they vanished among the trees.
“Shall I go after them, Captain Ring?” asked Fletcher in excitement. “I’ll take another man, and scour the woods for them.”
“It is not necessary,” said Ring indifferently. “Let them go! They would only be in our way.”
“But,” protested Fletcher, “Captain Stockton meant to take them into the band. They are bright and smart boys, and would grow up into useful members.”
“Heaven forbid!” said Ring earnestly. “Our lives are spoiled already, and we have no chance but to continue. Leave them to grow up innocent.”
“This is strange talk for a captain of bushrangers,” said Fletcher, disappointed.
“Remember that I am your captain,” retorted Ring sharply, “and don’t attempt to interfere with me! Go, I would be alone.”
Fletcher slunk away, mortified and disappointed. It was well for the two boys that he had not been elected captain.