'That is probable,' said Dauntsey. 'What do you think, sergeant?'
'The best plan would be to surround the place to-night and attack them when there is light enough. If we can conceal ourselves, and they do not know of our presence, we might take them unawares. It is not probable, for they are sure to be on the watch, but it is just possible the rush could be made through the blacks' camp by four or five of us, and the remainder must ride straight for Dalton's house and the men's shanties. Of course, if they are prepared for the attack we can change our plans accordingly.'
'Constable Doonan and Dr Tom know the place very well,' said Jim Dennis. 'What do they think?'
'Sergeant Machinson's plan is all right,' said Dr Tom; 'but I think you may be quite sure they will be ready to receive us. Abe Dalton, when he considers it over, will know an attempt will be made to disperse his gang and he will not be caught napping.'
Constable Doonan agreed with Dr Tom and said,—
'When Rodney Shaw discovers Sal has escaped he may go to Barker's Creek to see Dalton. We might get him there, and if he is caught with the gang it will be the worse for him.'
'I cannot think whatever possessed him to commit such an act of criminal folly,' said Dauntsey. 'He can have hardly realised the consequences of his conduct.'
They finally resolved to go to Barker's Creek that evening and attempt to secure Dalton and his gang next day.
They had a tough task to accomplish, and they knew it, but they were all eager to match their strength against Dalton and his men.