"Don't be too hard on the lad," the lieutenant said, "for he helped us convict half a dozen of the worst bushrangers in the country, a few weeks ago, and he saved his own life by—"
"Turning government evidence, I'll be sworn," cried the inspector, eagerly.
The lieutenant nodded, and continued, "Two or three of the fellows tried to get clear, on the ground that they were prisoners in the hands of the bushrangers, and I'll confess that the plea was having a telling effect on the jury; but when Steel Spring opened his mouth, he brought them."
"And didn't you tell me how to swear, and didn't I do it?" the wretch exclaimed, triumphantly.
"Silence, you fool!" and Steel Spring, obedient as a dog, held his tongue.
"The fact of it is," Murden said, after a pause, "the government has granted the fellow a full pardon, and I have taken him into my service for the present, in hopes that his reformation will be complete."
"I know that it will," chimed in the lank wretch, but a look silenced him.
"And now suppose you should tell me why you have paid Ballarat a visit?" the inspector inquired.
"I'm on business connected with the government, and to consult with you in relation to the mining tax."
"Will government send the troops?" asked the inspector, eagerly.