Page:The Aborigines of Victoria and Riverina.djvu/116

111 villainous blacks came in sight, and just as they were about to enter it, one of the troopers discried the renegade creeping away from the camp through the tall saltbushes, like some great emu. Pursuit was soon given by the troop, which, when the renegade perceived, he stood up from his bounding position and ran, as only an aboriginal can run, when dear life is the guerdon; but his running, swift as it was on this occasion, availed him but little, as the foremost trooper, even though going at full gallop, took aim across his bridle arm, and sent a bullet crashing through the skull of the dastardly savage. As he reeled to the earth a victorious shout from the troop echoed again amongst the trees as they rushed up pell mell to their prostrate foe; they threw themselves in a crowd from their horses, and with flashing sabres smote the carcase of the villainous renegade until it was reduced to pieces not larger than a hand's breadth, deeming that proceeding, butchery though it was, but a fitting caution to all coveters of other people's kidney fat.

When a trial for murder has resulted in the condemnation of the criminal, the capital ordeal follows immediately upon the passing of the sentence, in the presence of all the assembled tribe, including sexes as well as children. In short, it takes the form of a high holiday spectacle, wherein much delight is experienced; much criticism, laudatory and the contrary, obtains as a well or ill-thrown cast is made. Remarks also on the dexterous use of the shield by the culprit are freely interjected, culminating in a spontaneous shout, when a well-aimed spear is caught and smashed on the shield.