"Yes, and my men also," answered Murden, heartily.
"Then let us commence work, for we have no time to lose. In the first place, collect all the powder that your men have, and cover it with dirt, a foot high, we want no explosion to dishearten the men, and encourage the enemy."
"Do you hear, men?" cried Murden; "bring to me your flasks without a moment's delay."
The policemen hastened to obey the order, and a few shovels full of earth secured our safety in that respect.
"Now, then, as many of you as can use shovels and pickaxes, dig away at that hole, which Steel Spring commenced. Do not spare your labor, for a gang will relieve you, when tired. Dig deep and wide."
"But I don't see of what use that is to be," remonstrated Murden.
"Remember that you have promised to be guided by me. Don't stop to question, but see that the men work with a will, while I attend to other important duties."
Murden no longer sought to fathom Fred's motives, but grasped a shovel, and set an example of energy which his men were not slow to follow.
"Now, Smith, you and the stockman and Jack help me. Rekindle the fire, which has almost died out, and burn every stick of timber within reach on the left side of us. We will catch the bushrangers in their own trap, if they are not quick."
"But vot is to 'come of me? Vho's to take care of me? Vhere's my friends?" yelled Steel Spring, making desperate efforts to break the bonds which confined him.