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82 "But where are you going?"

"Any where to avoid falling into the hands of those who know me. Whatever may become of me," he said, lifting his skull-cap, "I shall ever remember the sympathy and kindness I have experienced at your hands. God bless you for it." As he spoke he moved away, and his figure was soon lost amongst the trees.

"I declare," said Slinger, as they commenced their day's journey, "I had no idea bushrangers were such confidential, penitential, and highly respectable characters. I fancy our acquaintance must be an exception to the general rule; but that won't save him—if taken he will not be spared."

"I fear not," said Hugh; "I have heard that colonial authorities know but of one remedy for crime—hanging."