The two “swipers,” as they were called, soon after made their appearance; and, as they drew near, I could perceive that another recognition had taken place.
On seeing the new partner, both turned sharp round; and then started off, at a brisk pace, in the opposite direction!
For a moment Oakes appeared surprised—as if uncertain what to make of it. All at once, however, his comprehension became clearer; and, calling to me to follow him, he set off in pursuit of the fugitives.
The two had diverged from each other in their flight; and, as they had already got a good start of us, both were successful in making their escape. When Oakes and I came together again, he informed me, that the men were his old mates, who had robbed him on the Bendigo diggings!
We repaired to the police encampment; and, after procuring a force, proceeded to the tent of the runaways.
As a matter of course, we found that the birds had flown; and could not be discovered anywhere upon the diggings.
We were no more troubled with them, as “sleeping partners” in the claim.